How to make a folder shortcut to the Xiaomi desktop: 5 working ways for MIUI

By default, the MIUI interface on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO smartphones doesn’t allow you to add folder shortcuts to your desktop as easily as it does on Windows or macOS. Many users face this problem when trying to quickly access frequently used directories — whether downloads, documents, or media files. The reason lies in the MIUI file shell architecture, which is initially focused on working with applications rather than directly with the file system.

However, there are workarounds, both built-in and third-party. In this article, we will examine 5 proven methods, including hidden MIUI features, file manager settings and specialized utilities. We will focus on the nuances for different versions of the shell (from MIUI 12 to MIUI 14) and smartphone models – from the budget Redmi Note to the flagship Xiaomi 13 Ultra.

It's important to understand that not all methods are equally effective. For example, on Android 13+ and MIUI 14 devices, some methods may require additional permissions due to tighter security policies. On older versions (such as MIUI 11), some features may not be available at all. We tested each method on current firmware and specified limitations so that you can choose the best option for your model.

Before you start, make sure that on your smartphone:

• 📱 The latest version has been installed MIUI (Check in the settings → The phone. → Updating the system)
• 📁 Uses a standard File Manager (non-third-party applications like Solid Explorer)
• 🔒 Enable permissions to work with files (if you plan to use third-party utilities)

1. Method: Files Widget – Official Solution from Xiaomi

The most reliable and versatile method is to use the Files widget built in, which is available on all devices with MIUI 12+, which does not require superuser rights (root) and works on even the most secure firmware.

To add a widget:

1. Press and hold the empty space on the desktop with your finger.
2. In the menu that appears, select Widgets.
3. Scroll through the list to the Tools block and find the Files widget (document folder icon).
4. Drag the widget to your desktop and select a folder from the list offered (such as Downloads, Images, or Documents).

Advantages of the method:

• ✅ It works without additional applications
• ✅ Supports quick viewing of folder contents
• ✅ Updates automatically when files are changed

Limitations:

• ❌ You can’t add an arbitrary folder – only system directories from the list.
• ❌ In some models (for example, POCO F4) The widget may not appear correctly after the update

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If the Files widget is not listed, update the File Manager app via Google Play or App Gallery. Sometimes Xiaomi hides widgets in older versions of the app.

2. Method: Shortcut through "File Manager" (hidden feature)

Few people know, but Xiaomi’s standard File Manager has a hidden ability to create shortcuts for any folder, a technique that works on most devices but requires precise steps to be followed.

Instructions:

1. Open the File Manager application.
2. Go to Categories (bottom of the screen) and select Internal Memory or SD-map.
3. Find the folder you want (like DCIM/Camera for your photo) and click on the three dots next to the name.
4. In the context menu, select Add to the main screen (on some firmware, the item may be called Create a shortcut).
5. Confirm the action - the label will appear on the desktop.

If there is no item Add to the main screen:

• 🔄 Try to update the File Manager to the latest version.
• 📌 On some models (e.g. Redmi 10), this feature is only available for folders in the Categories section, not for arbitrary directories.
• 🛠️ If the shortcut is not created, check if permissions for the application are disabled in Settings. → Annexes → File manager → Permits.

Update the File Manager to the latest version|

Check the permissions to access the memory |

Make sure the folder is not hidden (no point at the beginning of the title)|

Reboot your smartphone if the function is not displayed-->

Method 3: Third-party launchers (Nova Launcher, Apex)

If the built-in methods don’t work, alternative launchers like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher can be used, providing advanced desktop customization options, including creating shortcuts for any folder.

The following is a step-by-step instruction for Nova Launcher:

1. Install Nova Launcher from Google Play and make it the default launcher.
2. Press and hold the empty space on the desktop, then select Widgets.
3. Find the Activities widget (from Nova Launcher) and drag it to the screen.
4. In the application list, select File Manager (or Files), then search for an activity called.FileExplorerActivity or the like.
5. Select the folder you want to create a shortcut for.

Advantages of third-party launchers:

• 🌟 Full freedom of setting up the desktop
• 📂 Ability to add shortcuts to any folder, including custom folders
• 🔄 Flexible settings for the appearance of labels

Disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Requires the installation of additional software
• 🔋 May increase battery consumption (due to the operation of the background launcher process)
• 📱 On some Xiaomi models (for example, Mi 11) when using third-party launchers, system widgets (weather, steps) may disappear).

4. Method: Shortcut Maker app for advanced users

For those who are ready to go for small technical tricks, Shortcut Maker is suitable. It allows you to create shortcuts not only for folders, but also for specific files, system settings and even hidden MIUI functions.

How to create a folder shortcut:

1. Install Shortcut Maker from Google Play.
2. Open the app and select the Activity tab.
3. In the list, find File Manager (or com.android.documentsui for standard Android Explorer).
4. Deploy the activity list and find a title item that contains FilePicker or Directory.
5. Click on activity, then select Create a shortcut and specify the path to the desired folder (e.g. /storage/emulated/0/Download).

Important: On devices with MIUI 14 and Android 13+, Shortcut Maker may need to enable the option to Allow shortcuts in special feature settings (Settings → Special Options → Shortcut Maker).

Warnings:

⚠️ Note: Not all activities in Shortcut Maker are safe. Avoid shortcuts for system components with names like com.miui.securitycenter, which can cause disruptions. MIUI.

Examples of useful activities for labels:

5. Method: File Manager with support for shortcuts (Solid Explorer, FX File)

Some third-party file managers, such as Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer, have a built-in shortcut feature for folders, a method that is suitable for users who already use alternative explorers.

Instructions for Solid Explorer:

1. Open Solid Explorer and find the folder you want.
2. Press and hold the folder, then select Add to the home screen in the context menu.
3. Confirm the creation of a shortcut - it will appear on the desktop.

Comparison of popular file managers:

Warning:

⚠️ Note: When using a root-access file manager (e.g, FX File Explorer: Never create shortcuts for system folders like this /data/ or /system/. It could disrupt the job. MIUI and lead to bootloop (a looped reboot of the device).

Problem Solving: Why is a label not created?

If none of these methods worked, check the following points:

Frequent causes and solutions:

• 🔒 No permissions: Go to Settings → Annexes → File manager → Permissions and enable access to Warehouse and Management of all files.
• 📱 Outdated firmware: On MIUI 11 and below some features may not work. Update via Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🗑️ Damaged Application Data: Clear the File Manager Cache in Settings → Annexes → File manager → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
• 🛡️ Antivirus blocking action: temporarily disable Security MIUI Add a file manager to the exceptions.

If the problem persists, try resetting the launcher settings:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Silence → Launcher.
2. Select Reset Settings (or Clear Data for the current launcher).
3. Restart the device and try again to create a shortcut.

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On Android 11+ and MIUI 12.5+ devices, folder shortcuts require a Manage All Files resolution, and without it, no method will work, even with root access.

FAQ: Frequent questions about folder shortcuts on Xiaomi