How to clone applications on Xiaomi Redmi 9A: 5 proven ways

Xiaomi Redmi 9A remains one of the most popular budget smartphones even in 2026, but its functionality is limited to 2 GB of RAM and a simple processor. App cloning is a great way to separate work and personal accounts, test beta versions or use multiple profiles in instant messengers. However, the standard MIUI features on this model are greatly reduced: there is no built-in dual apps available on flagships.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the working methods for duplicating applications on Redmi 9A, from official workarounds to third-party tools, and learn how to clone WhatsApp, Telegram, games and other programs without risking the system, even if you have the latest version of MIUI installed. Importantly, some methods require preliminary preparation, so read the warnings carefully before you act.

Why is Redmi 9A not equipped with dual apps?

Dual Apps (or App Cloning in newer versions of MIUI) is not available on all Xiaomi devices, and is not available on Redmi 9A for three key reasons:

• 📱 Limited hardware resources: 2 GB of RAM and Helio processor G25 Not physically designed to run two copies of heavy apps at the same time (e.g., two instances of Facebook or Instagram).
• 🔒 Xiaomi: The company artificially restricts the functionality of budget models to encourage the purchase of more expensive smartphones (for example, Redmi Note or the Redmi Note). POCO).
• 🛡️ Security: App cloning can be used to circumvent restrictions (e.g., creating multiple accounts in games), which is contrary to some service policies.

However, we can bypass this limitation, and below we will look at all the current methods, starting with the safest ones.

Method 1: Using the built-in Guest Mode (without root)

The easiest and safest way to do this is to use the guest mode feature, which is even available on the Redmi 9A. It allows you to create a separate profile with your own applications and data.

How to turn on:

1. Open Settings → System and device → Additional → Guest Mode.
2. Activate the switch and set the password (optional).
3. After the reboot, a user icon will appear in the notification panel - tap it to switch to guest mode.
4. In guest mode, install the desired application again (it will be isolated from the main profile).

⚠️ Note: In guest mode, you can not use some system functions (for example, Google Pay or Mi Account), and applications do not sync between profiles - they will have to be configured separately.

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If you need to clone a messenger (such as WhatsApp), first deactivate the main account in the main profile, then install the app in guest mode and log in under a different number.

Method 2: Cloning apps from Google Play

There are several apps on Google Play that can create virtual copies of programs without root rights. Redmi 9A works best:

• 🔹 Parallel Space is the most popular solution with support for most applications.
• 🔹 2Accounts — lighter analogue, optimized for budget smartphones.
• 🔹 Island (Sandbox) is an advanced tool, but requires activation through the ADB (guideline).

The following is a step-by-step guide for Parallel Space:

Note: If the app is not added to Parallel Space, check if the "Install Unknown Applications" option for Parallel Space is enabled in the security settings.

⚠️ Note: Some applications (e.g., banking or two-factor authentication) may block virtual space, and cloners may conflict with Google Play Services, leading to sync errors.

Method 3: Cloning through ADB (for advanced users)

If you're willing to dig a little deeper, you can activate the hidden cloning function through ADB (Android Debug Bridge), a method that doesn't require root rights, but requires a connection to a computer.

What you need:

• 💻 Computer with installed ADB Tools.
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• 📱 Included debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Tap 7 times, then go back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB).

Instructions:

1. Connect Redmi 9A to your computer and confirm debugging permission.
2. Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Mac/Linux) in the folder with ADB.
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices must appear serial number of your device.
4. Execute the command to activate the hidden cloning function: adb shell settings put global multi_app_clone_enabled 1
5. Reboot your smartphone. Once you turn on the app settings, the option to clone will appear.

Important: This method only works on MIUI 11 and 12. On MIUI 13+, Xiaomi blocked this feature and the team won't work.

Method 4: Manual cloning via APK (for technical users)

If you need to clone one particular application (e.g, VK or TikTok, you can manually install its second copy through APK-File: This method is suitable for applications that support multiple accounts in the same client (e.g., Telegram or Discord).

Algorithm of action:

1. Download. APK-file of the desired application from a trusted source (for example, APKCombo or APKPure).
2. Rename the file by adding a suffix (for example, telegram_2.apk).
3. Install the renamed APK on your smartphone (allow installation from unknown sources in Settings → Applications → Special Access → Install unknown applications).
4. Sign in under another account.

⚠️ Note: Not all apps support two copies simultaneously, for example, WhatsApp will block a second account if it is tied to the same phone number, and updates to such clones will have to be manually installed.

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Manual cloning via APK is the only way to run two copies of an application that is not supported by virtual spaces (such as some banking programs or enterprise messengers).

Method 5: Alternative launchers with cloning support

Some third-party launchers (like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher) allow you to create duplicate application shortcuts. This is not full-fledged cloning, but can help in some cases (for example, for quick switching between accounts in the browser).

How to set up:

1. Install Nova Launcher from Google Play.
2. Press your finger in the free space of the screen → Widgets → Nova Actions → Activity Shortcuts.
3. Select the app you want to create a duplicate for (e.g. Chrome).
4. Create a shortcut with a different profile (if the app supports multiple accounts).

This method is suitable for:

• 🌐 Browsers (Chrome, Firefox)
• 📧 Mail (Gmail, Outlook)
• 🎮 Some games with guest mode support

Cons: It doesn’t work for instant messengers and social networks, where complete data isolation is required.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of cloning method depends on your goals and technical skills.

For most Redmi 9A users, Parallel Space or Guest Mode is the best solution.If you need to clone one particular app (like WhatsApp Business next to regular WhatsApp), try the method with ADB or manually install APK.

FAQ: Frequent questions about cloning on Redmi 9A