Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T is still a popular smartphone due to its balanced specs and support for MIUI. But even in 2026, users are faced with a typical problem: how to hide unnecessary applications from prying eyes? Someone wants to remove system debris like Mi Pay or Mi Video, someone β hide personal messengers, and someone just tired of seeing rarely used utilities in the menu.
In this article, weβll look at all the current ways to hide applications on the Redmi Note 8T, from built-in MIUI features to advanced methods using ADB and third-party launchers. Importantly, not all methods are equally safe, and some can lead to resets or blocking Google Pay (due to changes in system files).
Letβs get to practice β choose a method depending on your goals and level of training.
1. Hiding applications through the βSecond Spaceβ (dual apps)
The simplest and most formal way is to use the Dual Apps feature in MIUI, which allows you to create a separate user profile with your own set of applications, and this method does not remove programs, but simply makes them inaccessible in the main space.
How it works on the Redmi Note 8T:
- π Cloning of applications: you can create a duplicate of the messenger (for example, WhatsApp or Telegram) and hide the original.
- π€ Sharing data: each space has its own accounts, notifications and settings.
- π Password protection: the second space can be blocked PIN-code-print.
Instructions:
- Open Settings β Applications β Second Space
- Click Create a Second Space and follow the hints.
- Once created, go to the main space and remove unnecessary apps from the home screen (they will remain in the second space).
β οΈ Note: some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online) may block the second space due to security policies.
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If you only need to hide one app (like TikTok) rather than create a whole second space, skip this method and move on to the next section.
2.Using a Hidden Folder in MIUI Launcher
The standard MIUI launcher has a built-in feature for hiding applications in a secure folder, which is suitable for temporarily hiding 3-5 programs without using third-party utilities.
How to hide applications in the folder:
- Press your finger in the free seat of the main screen and select the screen settings.
- Go to the Hidden folder and turn on the function.
- Ask. PIN-code or graphical key for access.
- Drag the desired applications into the created folder (it will appear on the screen as an icon with a lock).
Limitations of the method:
- π± The folder is visible on the screen (it can not be removed completely).
- π Apps remain in the menu All applications (hidden only from the main screen).
- π After resetting the folder disappears, and the applications return to place.
What to do if the hidden folder does not appear?
3. Disable system applications without root
Many pre-installed programs on the Redmi Note 8T (e.g. Mi Browser, Music, Game Turbo) cannot be removed by standard means, but they can be disabled.
Step-by-step:
- Open Settings β Applications β Application Management.
- Select an unneeded app (such as Mi Pay).
- Click Disable (button will appear if the program is system).
- Confirm the action in the dialog window.
What's important to know:
- βοΈ Disabled applications are not updated or not notified.
- π You can return them to Settings. β Annexes β Disconnected.
- β οΈ Donβt turn off Google Play Services, MIUI System or Security β this will lead to unstable operation of the smartphone.
| Annex | Can I turn it off? | Effects of consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Mi Browser | Yes. | It will not open by default for links |
| Mi Video | Yes. | Disappears from the gallery and player |
| Game Turbo | Yes. | Gaming notifications and optimizations will be turned off |
| Security | No. | Reset to factory settings |
| Google Play Market | No. | Loss of access to application updates |
Mi Browser|Mi Video|Mi Pay|Game Turbo|Others-->
4. Hiding through ADB (no root, but with risks)
For power users, there's a method of hiding applications through ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which allows you to completely remove system programs or make them invisible without superuser rights.
- π₯οΈ Requires a computer with installed drivers Xiaomi and ADB-tools.
- π§ The wrong command can disrupt the system.
- π΅ Some applications (such as Google Services) cannot be removed.
Instructions for Redmi Note 8T:
- Enable USB Debugging in Settings β About Phone β MIUI version (click 7 times, then go back to Additional Settings β For Developers).
- Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer.
- Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) and type:
adb devices(A device with a serial number must appear).
To hide an app (such as Mi Browser), use:
adb shell pm hide com.android.browserTo get him back:
adb shell pm unhide com.android.browserβ οΈ Note: After using pm hide some features (e.g. Google Pay or Widevine) L1 for Netflix HD) They can stop working, and it doesn't work on firmware that's disabled. ADB (For example, some versions MIUI Europe).
Install Xiaomi drivers|Enable debugging on USB|Download ADB-tools|Make a data backup|Check the list of packages (adb shell pm list packages)-->
5. Third-party launchers with application hiding
If standard methods don't work, you can install an alternative launcher with a concealment feature.Popular options for the Redmi Note 8T:
- π Nova Launcher: Supports Hiding Apps from the menu (in App & widget drawers settings) β Hide apps).
- π Apex Launcher: Allows you to block access to programs with a password.
- π POCO Launcher: has a built-in βHidden Appsβ function (similar to the same one) MIUI, but with greater flexibility).
How to set up a cover in Nova Launcher:
- Install a launcher from Google Play.
- Hold your finger on the screen. β Settings.
- Go to App & widget drawers β Hide apps.
- Check the boxes for the programs that you need to hide.
Pros of the method:
- β Does not require rooting or ADB.
- β It works on any version. MIUI.
- β You can get visibility back in two clicks.
Cons:
- β Applications remain in the system menu (Settings) β Annexes).
- β Some launchers consume additional RAM.
π‘
Third-party launchers are the safest way to hide applications, but they don't physically remove programs. ADB root.
6. Root access: Complete removal of unnecessary applications
If you're willing to take drastic measures, unlocking the bootloader and getting root rights will give you full control of the system. On the Redmi Note 8T, this allows you to:
- ποΈ Remove any system applications (including Google Play Services, but at risk!).
- π§ Use Titanium Backup to Freeze Programs.
- π¦ Install modified firmware (e.g. LineageOS) where there is no pre-installed garbage.
Step-by-step instruction (briefly):
- Unlock the bootloader through Mi Unlock Tool (requires a Xiaomi account binding and a wait of 7-15 days).
- Install custom recovery (TWRP).
- Sweep through Magisk to get root.
- Use Root Explorer or Titanium Backup to uninstall applications.
β οΈ Warning: After unlocking the bootloader on the Redmi Note 8T All data is dropped and the warranty is cancelled, and some banking applications (such as Tinkoff or VTB Online) can block work on rooted devices.
List of safe to remove system packages (for experienced users):
com.miui.browser (Mi Browser)
com.miui.video (Mi Video)
com.miui.player (Music)
com.xiaomi.gamecenter.sdk.service (Game Turbo)
com.miui.analytics (Collection of statistics)