The feature “above other applications” on Xiaomi: what it is, how it works and why you need it

If you’ve ever gone into special permissions settings on a Xiaomi smartphone, you’ve probably come across the cryptic “Allow display on top of other apps,” a feature known as Overlay Permission that often raises questions among users about why it’s needed, what apps are asking for it, and whether it’s safe to grant permission. In this article, we’ll look at what’s behind the option in MIUI’s firmware, how to manage it, and what pitfalls can be waiting for careless users.

At first glance, the ability to display content on top of other programs seems useful — and indeed, without it, many utilities like on-screen recording applications, floating-window chatbots or game overlays would not work. However, in MIUI, this feature is closely related to security and resource management, so its improper configuration can lead to crashes, data leaks or even locking the device.

What is “above other apps” and how does it work?

Display over other apps is a special resolution in Android that allows the program to create windows that visually overlap the interface of other applications. In MIUI, this option is implemented with the features of the shell in mind: it is integrated into the rights management system and can be automatically limited for resource savings or security.

Technically, the overlay works through the TYPE_APPLICATION_OVERLAY mechanism in Android, which allows the app to draw over the current active window.

• 🎮 Gaming overlays (e.g., floating control panels in Game Turbo or streaming utilities).
• 💬 Chatbots with fast responses (like Facebook Messenger or Telegram X floating windows).
• 📹 Screen recording programs (e.g., AZ Screen Recorder or embedded tool MIUI).
• 🔍 Utility for displaying system information (monitors CPU, networks, batteries).

It is important to understand that this permission does not give the application access to data from other programs, it only allows you to display your elements on top of them. However, attackers can use it for phishing (for example, simulate a password window on top of a legitimate application), so Xiaomi imposes additional restrictions on uncertified utilities.

Why do apps need this permission?

The main purpose of the feature is to allow multitasking and easy interaction, and without it, many tools simply would not be able to work correctly.

However, not all requests for this permission are justified, for example, if a browser or gallery requires it, it is a reason to be alert. In MIUI 14+, the system automatically blocks suspicious requests and prompts the user to confirm the action manually.

⚠️ Warning: If an application asks for permission to overlay but its functionality does not explicitly require it (e.g., a regular calculator or flashlight), deny access. This may be a sign of malware masquerading as a legitimate program.

How to enable or disable the overlay on Xiaomi

The resolution is managed via the Special Access menu in the MIUI settings. Instructions are relevant for MIUI 12-14 devices (including Redmi, POCO and Black Shark):

1. Open “Settings” → “Applications” → “Application Management”.
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select "Special Access".
3. Tap “Display on top of other apps.”
4. In the list, find the desired application and switch the slider.

For MIUI 14 and newer, the path may be slightly different:

Settings → Applications → Permissions → Additional → Display on top of other applications

If the required application is not listed but it requests permission, try:

• 🔄 Restart the application.
• 📥 Update it to the latest version.
• 🔧 Clear the cache through Settings → Apps → [Application Name] → Clear the cache.

The official source of the app (Google Play/Mi App Store)

Does the function really require overlay?

No suspicious reviews about the program?

Is permission requested only at the first launch?

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Limitations and problems with MIUI

While useful, the feature has several key limitations, especially on Xiaomi devices:

1. System optimizations block, MIUI aggressively closes the background, causing floating windows to disappear, even legitimate utilities.
2. Gesture conflicts: Overlaid elements can interfere with swipes (e.g., in Redmi Note 12 or POCO F5), resulting in random taps.
3. Restrictions for uncertified applications: Xiaomi blocks overlays for programs installed from APK if they fail to pass security checks.

Common mistakes and their solutions:

⚠️ Warning: On HyperOS devices (the new Xiaomi shell), the overlay logic has changed. Now some system utilities (such as Game Turbo) automatically get priority, and third-party applications can require additional confirmation through Settings → Memory → Special Access.

Security: Risks and How to Avoid Them

The main threat associated with the permission to overlay is phishing attacks. Attackers can create fake windows on top of legitimate applications (for example, banking) to steal data. MIUI has built-in protection mechanisms:

• 🛡️ Certificate verification. Apps from Google Play or Mi App Store are automatically verified.
• 🔍 Activity monitoring: The system monitors suspicious overlay usage (e.g. frequent display requests over bank applications).
• ⚠️ Warnings. MIUI shows a notification if an application tries to overlay a window on protected areas (such as a lock screen).

How to minimize the risks:

1. Do not grant permission to applications from unknown sources.
2. Regularly check the list of programs with access to the overlay (Settings → Special access).
3. Use MIUI Security App to scan for malware.
4. Turn off overlays for unnecessary utilities (for example, after using screen recording).

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If you notice that a floating window interferes with work (for example, blocks swipes in games), try to reduce its size or transparency in the application settings. Many utilities allow you to adjust the position and appearance of the overlay.

Features on different models Xiaomi

The implementation of the function may vary depending on the model and firmware version.

On devices with AMOLED- screens (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi K60 Pro), floating windows can cause pixel burnout if they are displayed in one place for a long time. To avoid this, set up automatic overlay hiding or use dark themes.

Alternatives to the imposition: when it can be done without it

If you are worried about safety or are experiencing bugs, consider alternative ways to:

• 🔄 Quickly switch between apps. Instead of floating windows, use the Double Press Home gesture (configured in Settings → Additional → Buttons and gestures).
• 📱 Separate screen. MIUI has a built-in multi-window feature: hold the app icon in the recent menu and select "Separate screen."
• 🔔 Notifications: Set up important alerts so that they appear in the curtain, not over the screen.
• 🎛️ Widgets: Some utilities (like network monitors) offer home screen widgets instead of overlays.

For game overlays (e.g. Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile), you can use the built-in MIUI tools:

Settings → Special features → Game Turbo → Floating windows

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If you need to temporarily disable all overlays (for example, to record a screen without interference), use the "Distractless Mode" in MIUI. It automatically blocks floating windows for all applications except system ones.

FAQ: Frequent questions about overlaying on Xiaomi