On which models Xiaomi has a second space: full list + setup instructions

The dual app feature on Xiaomi smartphones allows you to create an isolated copy of the system with separate applications, settings and data. It is the ideal solution for those who want to separate work and personal accounts, test applications without risk to the main system or provide additional privacy. But not all devices of the brand support this option – its availability depends on the model, version of MIUI and hardware capabilities.

In this article, we will take a closer look at which Xiaomi models (including Redmi and POCO) officially support the second space in 2026, how to activate it, and what limitations to consider. You will also find a device comparison table, answers to frequent questions, and practical tips for optimizing the function, and if you are planning to buy a smartphone with this capability or have tried to customize it, this guide will help avoid typical errors.

What is the second space on Xiaomi and why is it necessary?

Second Space is Xiaomi’s proprietary technology, which creates a full-fledged, isolated copy of Android on the device with a separate desktop, apps and data. Unlike the standard guest mode, you can:

• 🔄 Set duplicate apps (for example, two Telegram, WhatsApp or Instagram with different accounts).
• 🔒 Store confidential data (photos, correspondence, passwords) in a secure space, access to which is closed PIN-code-print.
• 🧪 Test beta versions of software or doubtful APK-Files without risk to the main system.
• 👔 Separate work and personal profiles (for example, for corporate messengers and social networks).

It's important to understand that the second space is not just an app folder, but a full-fledged virtual machine that consumes additional resources. On weak smartphones, this can lead to slowdowns, so the feature is not available on all models.

Official list of Xiaomi models with support for second space (2026)

Second Space is available on flagship and some mid-budget Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models released after 2019. Below is the current list of devices confirmed by the manufacturer and users. Please note that even if your model is on the list, the feature may not be available on MIUI Global or MIUI for Russia (in this case, you will need MIUI China or EEA firmware).

The full list of supported devices can be clarified on the official MIUI website by selecting your model in the "Features" section. If your smartphone is not in the table, this does not mean that the function is precisely missing - sometimes it is hidden in the developer's settings.

💡

Before buying a smartphone, check for second space on the 4PDA or XDA-Developers forums – they often post informal activation methods for unsupported models.

How to Enable Second Space: Step-by-step Instruction

Activation of the function takes no more than 5 minutes, but requires compliance with several conditions:

1. Make sure the device has the latest version of MIUI installed (check Settings → About Phone → System Update).
2. Free disk space is at least 5 GB (the second space creates a separate virtual memory).
3. The device should not be rooted or unlocked (on custom firmware, the function may not work stable).

If the conditions are met, follow the instructions:

1. Open the Settings. → Special facilities.
2. Scroll down and select Second Space (some firmwares call it Dual Apps or Second Space).
3. Click Create a second space and follow the system prompts (you need to ask). PIN-code).
4. After rebooting the device, a switching icon between spaces will appear in the notification panel.

If the second space is not on the menu, try:

• 🔍 Enter the search for settings query "Second Space".
• 📱 Install MIUI China (requires unlocking the bootloader).
• 🔧 Activate through Developer Settings (enable Developer Mode by pressing Version 7 times) MIUI, Then find the Second Space option in the advanced settings).

Limitations and nuances of using the second space

Despite the obvious advantages, the feature has several critical limitations that you should know about in advance:

⚠️ Note: The second space does not support Google Pay, high-security banking applications (SberBank, Tinkoff) and some anti-cheat games (e.g, PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact: When you try to install such applications, the system may give an error: "Device not certified".

Other important points:

• 📱 Performance: On devices with 4 GB of RAM or less, the second space may be slowing down — 6 GB RAM and Snapdragon processor 7xx/Dimensity 900.
• 🔄 Synchronization: Data between spaces is not automatically synchronized (e.g. contacts or files need to be manually transferred).
• 🔒 Security: PIN-The second space code must be different from the main one, otherwise, an attacker will have access to all the data when he learns your password.
• 📲 Updates: When resetting settings or updating MIUI The second space can be removed (it is recommended to make backup copies).

It’s also worth considering that some system features (like the Game Turbo or Ultra Battery Saver) only work in the main space.If you use a smartphone for gaming or power saving, this can be a problem.

💡

The second space is not a replacement for Android’s full-fledged multiplayer mode; it is designed to isolate data, rather than multiple users (like on tablets) simultaneously.

Alternatives to the second space on Xiaomi

If your model doesn’t support Second Space or the feature isn’t running smoothly, consider alternative solutions:

For most Xiaomi users, the best solution is the built-in second space, but if it is not available, Shelter or Island will be a worthy replacement, and the main thing is to remember that third-party virtualization applications can collect data or conflict with MIUI.

How to optimize the second space

To ensure that the function works stably and does not brake the device, follow these tips:

• 🧹 Clean the second space cache once a week (via Settings) → Warehouse → Clear the cache).
• 🚫 Do not install resource-intensive games or applications (e.g. AutoCAD, Lightroom) in both spaces).
• 🔋 Turn off background activity for unnecessary apps in the second space (saves battery life).
• 🔄 Update. MIUI Both spaces to avoid conflicting versions.

If the second space starts to slow down, try:

1. Reset the device.
2. Remove unused applications from the second space.
3. Reset the settings of the second space (without deleting data) through Settings → Second space → Reset.

⚠️ Warning: When you reset the second space, all the applications and data installed in it will be deleted! → System system → Backup.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the second space on Xiaomi