Many Xiaomi smartphone users, when purchasing a device, are faced with intrusive functionality that is built into the shell of MIUI or HyperOS by default. We are talking about the so-called “widget tape” or “Google Discover”, which opens swipe to the right of the main screen. This interface element is designed to provide quick access to news, weather and frequently used applications, but in practice it often only consumes RAM and interferes with navigation.
Device owners often wonder how to remove this element to speed up the system and free up space on the desktop.Standard methods of setting up are not always obvious, and in some versions of firmware, the option of turning off is hidden or requires additional actions. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to deactivate the widget tape, including the use of ADB-teams and third-party launcher, if the staff funds do not help.
Disabling unnecessary services is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a way to extend the battery life of your smartphone. The widget tape constantly updates data in the background, which puts a strain on the processor. We'll look at how to safely and efficiently get rid of this component, returning the device to the clean interface.
The main reason users are looking to disable widgets is to optimize system performance. Google tape or Yandex works as a separate process that consumes RAM resources. On budget models like the Redmi Note or the entry-level Poco, this can cause micro-latency when switching between desktops.
Also, the constant synchronization of news feeds and weather widgets increases battery consumption. While the contribution of one widget may seem small, when combined with other background processes, it has a tangible effect. By disabling unnecessary functions, you make the interface work smoother.
⚠️ Note: Complete removal of system components through ADB This can cause the device to be unstable if critical services are turned off.
Also annoying is the intrusiveness of the content that the feed offers: Advertising articles and recommendations often don’t match the user’s interests, and by removing this element, you save yourself from visual noise and only access the applications that you installed yourself.
📊 Do you use Google Widget Ribbon on Xiaomi?
I use it constantly, very conveniently.
Sometimes I watch the weather.
No, I just turned it off.
I don't know how to clean it up.
The easiest and safest way to remove the widget tape is to take advantage of the built-in capabilities of the MIUI shell. In most modern versions of the firmware, developers have left the ability to disable this component without root rights.
Press and hold your finger on an empty part of your desktop to make the edit menu appear. At the bottom of the screen, select Settings. In the menu that opens, find the section that is responsible for additional screens or left screen. You may need a Google or Widget Tape switch.
If the switch is active, simply turn it to the off position. The changes will take effect immediately, and when swiping to the right, the tape will no longer appear. In some cases, the system may require confirmation of actions or reboot the interface.
It is important to note that menu layouts may vary depending on the Android version and regional firmware. For example, in global versions of HyperOS, the path may be slightly changed. If you do not find the right switch, try updating the Google app or system launcher through the Play Market.
Setting up the left screen in MIUI and HyperOS
The MIUI shell and the new HyperOS have their own workspace organization features, and the left screen is often reserved for Mi Video, Mi Music, or Xiaomi’s news aggregator, and you need to be careful when choosing options to manage this space.
In some regions, the left screen is called "App Vault" or "App Store." Going to the settings in this section, you can see the list of available widgets, and you can not only turn off the tape, but also choose what content will be displayed if you decide to leave it partially.
| Function | Location on the menu | Impact on the system |
|---|
| Google Discover | Settings → Main screen | Medium (background synchronization) |
| App Vault (Mi) | Settings → Main screen → App Vault | Low (local widgets) |
| Yandex.Rent | Settings → Yandex | High (constant traffic) |
| Glance (locking) | Settings → Wallpaper and personalization | Average (advertising content) |
If a standard launcher does not allow you to turn off the left screen, this may be a limitation of a particular firmware version, in which case it is recommended to check for system updates in the Settings → About phone section. Often developers add or return customization features in security patches.
What is App Vault?
App Vault is Xiaomi’s own development, an analogue of Google Discover, but with the integration of Mi services. It can contain pedometer widgets, voice recorder and other system applications.> Use of the ADB To remove system widgets If the software shutdown is not available or does not work, you can use a more advanced method - debugging by ADB (Android Debug Bridge. This method allows you to remove or freeze the system applications responsible for the widget tape, even if they do not appear in the list of installed programs. → About the phone and quickly press 7 times on the item "Version" MIUI» or "Version" OS». After that, a new section “Additional” or “Extended settings” will appear in the settings menu, where you need to find “For developers” and turn on “Debugging by” USB». adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox This command disables the Google app that most often handles Discover tape. Once you run the right swipe command, it will stop calling widgets. If you want to get it back, use the command to replace disable-user with enable. ⚠️ Attention: When in use ADB-Make sure you know exactly the name of the package you're disabling. Removing critical system components can lead to a cyclic bootloop. ADB You'll need a computer (Windows, macOS or Linux) and installed drivers for your device. Connect your smartphone with a cable, select File Transfer mode, and confirm the debugging request on your phone's screen. It's a powerful tool that gives you complete control over system processes. Replacing the launcher as a radical method The most effective way to get rid of any widget tape imposed by the manufacturer is to install a third-party launcher. Xiaomi’s standard launcher is tightly integrated with the system, but it can be bypassed by installing an alternative, such as Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher or Lawnchair. Once a new launcher is installed, the system will ask which application to use as default for the home screen. Select the launcher installed and press Always. From that moment on, the interface will completely change, and swipes tied to the standard shell will stop working or will perform other actions. 📱 Nova Launcher – provides maximum flexibility in customizing gestures and appearance. 🔵 Microsoft Launcher – integrates well with the Windows ecosystem and has a clean interface. 🌿 Lawnchair – a lightweight launcher in the style of pure Android, the fastest possible. 🚀 Smart Launcher — automatically sorts apps and has a unique design. Using a third-party launcher also allows you to customize swipe gestures yourself. You can assign a swipe to the right to open a particular application, calendar widget or leave it empty. This gives you complete freedom from restrictions. MIUI. In the process of disabling widgets, users may encounter a number of difficulties, for example, after updating the system, the settings may go wrong, and the tape will appear again. There is also a bug where the left screen stays but turns white or black. If the voice assistant or screen search stops working after turning off the Google feed, it means you have turned off too many components. In this case, you should use the enable command or reset the launcher settings through Settings. → Annexes → All applications → Android system. ⚠️ Note: You should not remove Google completely if you use the company's services (Play Market, Gmail, Maps), just disable the Discover or Ribbon component. Another problem is the appearance of advertising in recommendations, even if the feed seems to be disabled. This may be related to the Explorer or Security app. Check the settings of these apps and turn off the Receive Recommendations feature». 💡Replacing the standard launcher is the only way to get rid of all system restrictions and Xiaomi advertising tapes 100% guaranteed (FAQ) Can I remove the widget tape without root rights? Yes, in most cases, standard screen settings or usage are sufficient. ADB-Root rights are only required for deep deletion of system files, which is not recommended for regular users. Why does the tape reappear after a reboot? This can occur after a system update or reset. Also, some system applications can force the reactivation of Google services. Repeat the shutdown procedure or use a third-party launcher. Does disabling widgets affect the warranty? No, changing the interface settings, installing launchers or using the service? ADB To disable user functions is not a breach of warranty obligations unless you flash the device. How to disable recommendations in folders on the home screen? Go to the settings of the home screen, find the item "Recommendations" or "Wallpaper Carousel" and turn it off. Often this option is in the same menu as the left screen setting.