Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones often face unusual behavior of the MIUI shell and the new HyperOS when working with the file system. The standard algorithm of actions, familiar to users of other Android devices, often does not work here, causing confusion. Renaming folders is a basic feature that in the Xiaomi ecosystem is implemented with a number of restrictions dictated by security policy and interface features.
The main difficulty is that Xiaomi’s standard Explorer does not offer the default renaming option by simply clicking on a folder in the root directory of internal memory. It is not a bug, but a design feature designed to protect system files from accidental change by inexperienced users. However, the Android file system remains open and can be accessed using the right methods.
In this guide, we will look at all the current ways to change directory names, from built-in tools to third-party solutions, and learn how to bypass interface constraints and manage your storage as you like, without losing data or disrupting the system.
Why the standard method doesn’t work for Xiaomi
Many users try to change the folder name with a long press, waiting for the context menu to appear, but in Xiaomi’s standard Explorer app, this gesture often only leads to the highlight of an object or the opening of the Copy/Move menu, which is due to the fact that MIUI developers prioritized the speed of moving files over editing them in the basic interface.
In addition, in recent firmware versions, especially with the transition to Android 11, 12, 13 and 14, Google has implemented strict restrictions on access to root directories (Android, OBB, Data folders).
Why is the Android folder secure?
It is important to understand the difference between user folders (created by you or apps like Telegram, WhatsApp) and system directories: the former can be renamed almost always, the latter only if you have Root rights or through a computer.
Using the built-in Xiaomi conductor
Despite the limitations, the standard tool still allows you to change names if you know the correct algorithm of actions, and unlike other brands, you need to use the “More” menu, not direct action.
Open File Manager and go to folder viewing mode. Find the directory you want to rename. Make a long tap on the folder icon to highlight it (a tick will appear). A toolbar will appear at the bottom of the screen or in the top corner (depending on the MIUI version).
☑️ Algorithm of renaming in MIUI
Click on the "More" button (usually indicated by three dots or the word "More" in the menu). In the drop-down list, select "Rename" will open a dialog box where you can enter a new name. Please note that for some system folders this item may be inactive (shadowed in gray).
⚠️ Note: When renaming application data folders (such as the com.whatsapp folder or the game folder), the application may stop seeing its files.
Application of Third-Party File Managers
If the standard tool doesn't work or the interface seems inconvenient, the best solution is to install a specialized application. Third-party file managers have more functionality and less restrictions on the shell interface.
One of the most popular and reliable solutions is Files by Google or the classic Total Commander. These applications request the necessary permissions on the first run and allow you to manage files more flexibly. In Total Commander, for example, a long click on a folder immediately calls the menu, where the renaming option is always available.
Another great option is the Solid Explorer or X-plore app, which offers dual-panel mode and cloud storage support, and in Solid Explorer, you just click on the folder and select Properties or use a swipe to find the Rename feature.
- 📂 Files by Google: Minimalist, safe, perfect for cleaning up garbage.
- 🛠️ Total Commander: Classic, supports plugins, works with FTP/SMB.
- 🔒 Solid Explorer: Modern design, folder encryption, work with archives.
- 🌲 X-plore: Tree-like structure, convenient for deep navigation.
💡
Install file managers only from the official Google Play Store. APK-Files may contain malicious code that accesses all your photos and documents.
Managing Files via Computer (USB)
The most reliable and quick way to rename a lot of folders or change the names of directories that are “locked” at the interface level of the phone is to use a computer. When connected via USB, the smartphone works like an external drive (MTP mode).
Connect your device to your PC or laptop using a USB cable. On your smartphone screen, select USB mode: File Transfer. On your computer, open My Computer, find your device, and log in to internal memory.
Now you can use all the features of Windows or macOS. Right-click on the folder and select Rename (or F2). Changes apply instantly, which is especially useful if you need to rename hundreds of folders or change the directory structure before transferring data.
| Method | Difficulty | Risks. | Speed. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in conductor | Low. | Minimum | Medium |
| Third-party App | Low. | Minimum | Tall. |
| Through PC (USB) | Medium | Absent. | Very high. |
| ADB / Root | Tall. | Tall. | Instant. |
Working with the system limitations of Android 11+
Starting with Android 11, access to /Android/data/ and /Android/obb/ folder for third-party applications is closed. If you try to rename a folder inside that directory through the file manager, the system may issue an access error or simply not save the changes.
To bypass this restriction, newer versions of MIUI and HyperOS can use the built-in access function. When the file manager asks for permission to access the Android pack, click "Allow", then select "Use this folder" in the system window that opens and confirm the action with the "Allow" button at the bottom of the screen.
If a standard Explorer still doesn’t give you access, you can use the Files app (from Google), which can request special permissions through the system API, and there is a method through the Activity Launcher app, where you can find a hidden system file manager (com.android.documentsui) and run it directly.
⚠️ Note: Do not rename the folders inside /Android/data/, if not sure 100% This can lead to loss of progress in games or reset the settings of installed applications.
Advanced level: ADB and Root rights
There are virtually no restrictions for users with Root rights or ADB (Android Debug Bridge) skills, a method that allows even protected system partitions to be renamed, but requires caution.
To use ADB, you need to enable USB Debugging in the Developer menu, and by connecting your phone to your PC, you can send commands directly to your file system, a powerful tool that ignores the MIUI GUI.
adb shell pm grant com.android.documentsui android.permission.MANAGE_EXTERNAL_STORAGEThis command (example) compulsorily grants full rights to standard document flow. To rename through the terminal on the device itself (requires Root), the mv (move) command is used. For example: mv /storage/emulated/0/OldName /storage/emulated/0/NewName.
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Using ADB and Root rights gives you complete control over the file system, but one wrong step can lead to a device building or cyclical reboot.