How to create a folder on the Xiaomi Redmi desktop: instructions for MIUI 12-14

Creating folders on the Xiaomi Redmi desktop is a basic feature that helps organize applications and files. However, many users face difficulties: the standard MIUI interface hides some options, and in newer versions of the firmware, the logic of the work has changed. This article will help you understand how to quickly create a folder on the home screen, even if you are a beginner.

We’ll look at three working methods, from the simplest (drag and drop icons) to the most advanced (through file manager and third-party launchers), and we’ll focus on the nuances for different versions of MIUI (12, 13, 14) and popular Redmi models (Note 10/11/12, 9A/9C, K50, etc.).

Method 1: Create a folder by dragging icons (the fastest)

This is a standard method that works on all Xiaomi Redmi smartphones regardless of the firmware version, suitable for grouping applications – for example, to combine all messengers or games into one folder.

Algorithm of action:

• 📱 Press and hold the icon of any app on your desktop (not in the app menu!). 1-2 It'll just be off the screen.
• 📂 Drag it to another icon you want to put together in a folder, and the second icon should light up slightly.
• 🏷️ Release your finger – the system will automatically create a folder with the category name (for example, "Tools" or "Games).

If you have MIUI 14, the interface may be slightly different: when you drag and drop, you will see a translucent circle with the prompt "Create a folder." In older versions (before MIUI 12), the animation is less smooth, but the logic is the same.

Make sure that apps are not hidden in the menu|Make sure there is enough space on the screen (minimum) 2×2 cell)|Turn off Easy Mode in the settings (it blocks folder creation)|Update. MIUI Up to the latest version if the function is not working-->

Method 2: Manual creation through file manager (for files and documents)

If you want a folder not for apps, but for storing files (photos, documents, music) right on your desktop, this method works better. It works through the standard Xiaomi File Manager, but requires a little preparation.

Step-by-step:

1. Open the Files app (the icon with the folder on a blue background).
2. Go to Device → Internal Memory → Download (or another section where you want to create a folder).
3. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Create → Folder.
4. Enter the name (for example, Desktop) and press OK.
5. Return to the home screen, click and hold the empty space → select Widgets → Files → Folder shortcut.
6. Please indicate the path to the newly created folder.

⚠️ Note: If you are using Redmi with MIUI 13/14 If you don't see the folder shortcut in widgets, update the Files app through Google Play. In older versions, this widget was called Quick Access.

Method 3: Use of third-party launchers (for advanced users)

If you don’t like standard methods (for example, you want to customize folder icons or add a password), you can install an alternative launcher.

• 🎨 Nova Launcher – flexible settings, gesture support, folder backup.
• 🔒 Apex Launcher – allows you to hide folders and set a password on them.
• 📱 Microsoft Launcher - Windows integration, cloud backup folders.

How to set up folders in Nova Launcher:

1. Install the launcher from Google Play and select it as the main one in the default settings of the App.
2. Click and hold the blank space on the screen → Widgets → Nova Actions → Folder.
3. Drag the widget onto the screen, then add apps or files to it.
4. To change the folder icon: click on the folder → Edit → Icon.

Important: When using third-party launchers, folders created through them can disappear after resetting to factory settings or changing the launcher back to standard MIUI. To avoid this, make a backup of settings in the launcher itself (in Nova Launcher, this is the option of Backup in Settings).

Standard. MIUI|Nova Launcher|Apex Launcher|Microsoft Launcher|Other-->

Why folders disappear from the desktop and how to fix it

Redmi users often complain that after updating the firmware or rebooting the folder disappears.

⚠️ Note: If you use the function of memory optimization in MIUI (is in the settings → Annexes → Optimization, it can automatically "clean" rarely used folders. Disable this option for stable operation.

If folders disappear systemically, try resetting the launcher settings:

Settings → Applications → Application Management → Launcher (or “Home Screen”) → Storage → Clear Data

After that, all folders and widgets will be reset, but the problem should disappear.

How to rename a folder or change its icon

The standard folders in MIUI are boring, but they can be customized.

Rename:

1. Open the folder on your desktop.
2. Click on the name at the top (for example, "Tools").
3. Enter a new name and press Ready.

Change of icon (only for MIUI 13/14):

• 🖼️ Open the folder and click on the three dots in the upper right corner.
• 🎨 Choose Change the icon.
• 📁 Choose one of the suggested icons or upload yours through the Gallery.

In MIUI 12 and earlier, you can only change the folder icon through third-party launchers (see Method 3). Also note that some design themes (such as Dark Mode or Super Wallpapers) can reset folder icons to standard ones.

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If you need unique folder icons, download the icon pack from Google Play (such as “Icon Pack Studio”) and apply it through the launcher settings.

Hidden folder capabilities in MIUI: what you didn't know

Xiaomi Redmi folders are more than they seem. Here are some life hacks:

• 🔍 Search inside the folder: Open the folder and swipe down the screen – a search bar will appear that searches only among the apps in that folder.
• 🔒 Hidden folders: B MIUI 14 you can hide the folder from prying eyes. To do this, drag it to the Secret Space folder (located in Settings). → Confidentiality).
• 📊 Usage statistics: Click on folder → three-point → This is how many times you opened the folder and what apps are the most popular in it.

FAQ: Frequent questions about folders on Xiaomi Redmi

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Creating folders on Xiaomi Redmi boils down to three main methods: drag and drop icons (for applications), file manager widget (for documents), and third-party launchers (for advanced features). If folders disappear, check your optimization and launcher settings.