Where is the second space on Xiaomi Redmi 9C: detailed instructions with pictures and tips

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

Second Space is a unique development by Xiaomi that allows you to create two completely isolated user profiles on a single smartphone, essentially like two phones in one with separate apps, settings, files and even passwords, especially for those who want to share work and personal data or give the device to a child without risking losing important information.

The Xiaomi Redmi 9C (M2006C3LG for the global market) uses MIUI, but with some limitations compared to the flagship models, for example, there is no support for dual applications (cloning messengers), but there is complete isolation of data between spaces, which means that photos, messages and files from one profile will not be visible in another – even if you know the password.

It's important to understand that the second space is not the same as the guest mode or the kid mode, the latter just restricting access to certain features, whereas Second Space creates a complete environment with its own:

  • πŸ“± Desktop and settings for those;
  • πŸ”‘ Unlock password (you can set a separate one);
  • πŸ“‚ Memory (files do not overlap);
  • πŸ“Ά Accounts (for example, you can log in to another Google or Mi Account).

But where do you look for this feature on Redmi 9C? The answer is not as obvious as it might seem β€” it depends on the MIUI version and regional firmware.

Where is the second MIUI space setup on Redmi 9C?

On the Xiaomi Redmi 9C, the path to activating the second space may vary depending on the shell version, and in most cases, the feature is hidden in the menu of special features or additional settings.

1. Classical Path (MIUI 12 and later):

Settings β†’ Special Opportunities β†’ Second Space

2. Alternative path (for global firmware):

Settings β†’ Accounts and Synchronization β†’ Second Space

3.For Chinese firmware (if the smartphone is purchased in China):

Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Laboratory β†’ Second Space

If neither path worked, it might be disabled at the firmware level, and it might help:

  • πŸ”„ Update MIUI last-minute;
  • 🌍 Change of region (for example, to India or Europe);
  • πŸ› οΈ Install custom firmware (for example, Xiaomi.EU).
πŸ“Š You found a second space on your Redmi. 9C?
Yeah, first way.
Yeah, but on a different menu.
No, I didn't.
I haven't looked yet.

If you do find the second space but it is inactive (grey), it could mean:

⚠️ Note: Some of the firmware for Redmi 9C The smartphone must have at least 1.5 GB of free space on the internal drive, otherwise the system will not allow you to create a second profile.

Step-by-step: how to turn on the second space on Redmi 9C

Once you have found the right partition in the settings, you just need to activate the function and customize it to your needs.

  1. Go to the found menu Second Space and click Create Second Space.
  2. Set a password for a new profile (it may differ from the main one). It is recommended to use a combination of numbers and letters.
  3. Select an icon to switch between spaces (this is the default icon in the notification bar).
  4. Wait until the setup is completed (it can take 1-3 minutes).
  5. After creating, restart the smartphone - this will help avoid possible glitches.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for the second space

Done: 0 / 4

Once activated, you can switch between spaces:

  • πŸ”” Through the notification panel (swipe down) β†’ Second Space icon);
  • πŸ”‘ Through the lock screen (swipe left/right on some firmware);
  • βš™οΈ Through settings (Section Two Space) β†’ Reverse).

Importantly, when the second space is first run, the system creates a copy of it with basic applications, and all additional programs (such as WhatsApp or Telegram) will have to be installed again.

The limitations and problems of the second space on the Redmi 9C

While useful, the second-space feature on Xiaomi’s budget smartphones has a number of limitations, and here are the most common issues that Redmi 9C users face:

Problem.Reason.Decision
Lack of memory to create second spaceOn the Redmi 9C only 32/64 GB of memory, of which the system reserves ~10 GBClear cache, delete unnecessary files, or use a memory card (but not for apps!)
Apps fly out when switchingCache conflict between spacesRestart your phone or clear the cache of a problematic app
No way to clone apps (such as WhatsApp)Dual applications are not available on budget modelsUse third-party launchers (e.g. Parallel Space)
Notifications do not come in the second space.Restriction of background activity in MIUIEnable auto-run for the desired applications in the battery settings

Another important thing is that the second space is not encrypted by default, which means that if someone gets physical access to the phone, they can bypass the security via Fastboot or Recovery.

  • πŸ” Set a complex password (at least 8 characters);
  • πŸ“± Enable device encryption in security settings;
  • 🚫 Do not store sensitive data (such as banking applications) in a second space.

πŸ’‘

If you only need to share messengers (like two Telegrams) but don’t want to create a full-fledged second space, try the Island app from Google Play, which allows you to isolate individual programs without duplicating the entire system.

How to remove the second space on Redmi 9C (if you don’t need it)

If you stop using the second space or it takes up too much space, you can delete it, but be careful: all data from the second profile will be permanently erased.

  1. Copy important files (photos, documents) to the main space or on the PC.
  2. Export your contacts and messages (if any).
  3. Make sure you remember the password from your main profile.

For removal:

Settings β†’ Second Space β†’ Delete Second Space β†’ Confirm

It takes a few minutes, and when you're done, the phone will restart, and all traces of the second profile will disappear.

  • πŸ“‰ No free memory added – clean the cache manually (Settings) β†’ Warehouse β†’ Clear the cache);
  • πŸ”„ The phone started to brake - reset to factory settings (but this will erase everything, including the main space!);
  • πŸ”‘ Unlocking does not work – restart the device.

⚠️ Note: If you deleted the second space but left a switch icon in the notification panel, this could mean a failure in the user experience. MIUI. To remove it, go to Settings. β†’ Notification panel β†’ Edit icons and remove unnecessary item manually.

Alternatives to the Second Space: What to Use Instead

If your Redmi 9C has a second space feature that is not available or is not running smoothly, you can consider alternative ways to share data:

Applications for insulation (containerization):

  • πŸ“¦ Island – creates a β€œsandbox” for selected applications;

Guest mode and profile for children:

  • πŸ‘Ά Mode for children (Settings) β†’ Special facilities β†’ Mode for children – restricts access to settings;
  • πŸ‘€ Guest mode – temporary profile without data storage.

3. Doubles SIM-map + two accounts:

If you only need to share the phone calls and SMS, two-way SIM-cards and link each account Google/Mi. For example:

  • πŸ“ž SIM 1 - working number + Google Account 1;
  • πŸ“± SIM 2 - personal number + Google Account 2.
How to turn on the mode for children on Redmi 9C
Go to Settings β†’ Special Features β†’ Children Mode. Set a password and select the apps that will be available. In this mode, the child will not be able to change settings or install new programs.

Each of these methods has its pros and cons. Island, for example, is more secure than Parallel Space, but requires root rights to work properly, and guest mode is easier to set up, but does not store data between sessions.

Frequent questions about the second space on Xiaomi Redmi 9C

Can I transfer applications from the main space to the second?
No, apps are installed separately in each space, but you can download them from Google Play or migrate them. APK-File Manager (but this does not guarantee correct operation).
Will the second space work after resetting?
No, hard reset, the second space is removed along with all the data, and you have to recreate it to recover it.
Can you use the same app (like WhatsApp) in both spaces?
On the Redmi 9C, this is not possible without third-party utilities (like Parallel Space).Unlike the flagship models, there is no built-in dual-app feature.
How much memory does the second space take?
The minimum size is about 1.5 GB, but as you install applications, it will grow, for example, with 10-15 programs it can take up to 5-7 GB.
Can I turn on the second space if the phone is rooted?
Technically, yes, but this can cause the system to run in an unstable way. If you use Magisk, it is recommended that modules associated with the modification of MIUI be disabled before creating a second space.

πŸ’‘

The second space on Redmi 9C is a useful but resource-intensive feature, and if you just need to split messengers, consider alternatives like Island or Parallel Space that are less stressful.