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 β 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:
- π± Desktop and settings for those;
- π Unlock password (you can set a separate one);
- π Memory (files do not overlap);
- πΆ 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 Space2. Alternative path (for global firmware):
Settings β Accounts and Synchronization β Second Space3.For Chinese firmware (if the smartphone is purchased in China):
Settings β Additional β Laboratory β Second SpaceIf neither path worked, it might be disabled at the firmware level, and it might help:
- π Update MIUI last-minute;
- π Change of region (for example, to India or Europe);
- π οΈ Install custom firmware (for example, Xiaomi.EU).
If you do find the second space but it is inactive (grey), it could mean:
β οΈ 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.
- Go to the found menu Second Space and click Create Second Space.
- 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.
- Select an icon to switch between spaces (this is the default icon in the notification bar).
- Wait until the setup is completed (it can take 1-3 minutes).
- After creating, restart the smartphone - this will help avoid possible glitches.
βοΈ Preparation for the second space
Once activated, you can switch between spaces:
- π Through the notification panel (swipe down) β Second Space icon);
- π Through the lock screen (swipe left/right on some firmware);
- βοΈ 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 Xiaomiβs 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 space | On the Redmi 9C only 32/64 GB of memory, of which the system reserves ~10 GB | Clear cache, delete unnecessary files, or use a memory card (but not for apps!) |
| Apps fly out when switching | Cache conflict between spaces | Restart 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 models | Use third-party launchers (e.g. Parallel Space) |
| Notifications do not come in the second space. | Restriction of background activity in MIUI | Enable 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.
- π Set a complex password (at least 8 characters);
- π± Enable device encryption in security settings;
- π« Do not store sensitive data (such as banking applications) in a second space.
π‘
If you only need to share messengers (like two Telegrams) but donβt 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 donβt 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.
- Copy important files (photos, documents) to the main space or on the PC.
- Export your contacts and messages (if any).
- Make sure you remember the password from your main profile.
For removal:
Settings β Second Space β Delete Second Space β ConfirmIt takes a few minutes, and when you're done, the phone will restart, and all traces of the second profile will disappear.
- π No free memory added β clean the cache manually (Settings) β Warehouse β Clear the cache);
- π The phone started to brake - reset to factory settings (but this will erase everything, including the main space!);
- π Unlocking does not work β restart the device.
β οΈ 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):
- π¦ Island β creates a βsandboxβ for selected applications;
Guest mode and profile for children:
- πΆ Mode for children (Settings) β Special facilities β Mode for children β restricts access to settings;
- π€ Guest mode β 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:
- π SIM 1 - working number + Google Account 1;
- π± SIM 2 - personal number + Google Account 2.
How to turn on the mode for children on Redmi 9C
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?
Will the second space work after resetting?
Can you use the same app (like WhatsApp) in both spaces?
How much memory does the second space take?
Can I turn on the second space if the phone is rooted?
π‘
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.