Creating a clone of an app on Xiaomi smartphones is a challenge faced by users who need multiple accounts of the same service (messengers, social networks, games). The standard dual application feature in MIUI allows you to duplicate only two copies, but what to do if you need a third? This guide reveals all the working methods of 2026, from official workarounds to system modifications, taking into account the features of the firmware MIUI 14 and MIUI 15.
It's important to understand that the procedure varies depending on the model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T) and the firmware version. Somewhere there are enough hidden settings, and somewhere you will need to unlock the bootloader and manually install modules. We will analyze each option with step-by-step actions, risk warnings and ways to roll back changes. Particular attention will be paid to data security - improper manipulation can lead to locking the device or loss of warranty.
Why the standard MIUI function is limited to two clones
MIUI's Dual Apps (or Dual Apps in Global Firmware) feature uses a User Space Virtualization mechanism, which creates each clone as a separate Android profile with isolated data, but limits the number of such profiles to two for several reasons:
- ๐ Performance: Each clone consumes additional RAM and CPU resources. On budget models (Redmi) 10A, POCO M5) third clone can cause lags.
- ๐ก๏ธ Security: Google limits user profiles on Android to protect against abuse (e.g. multi-accounting in games).
- ๐ฑ Storage Fragmentation: Clones take up space in internal memory, and on 64GB devices it is critical.
But the limitation can be circumvented: Xiaomiโs maker leaves loopholes for enthusiasts in the form of hidden settings and modular architecture support. MIUI. For example, in the firmware for Xiaomi 12S Ultra and POCO F5 There's an undocumented parameter. persist.sys.miui_dual_app_limit, which can be changed through ADB.
โ ๏ธ Note: Change of system parameters through ADB Google Play may crash. Create a backup to Settings before experimenting โ Google โ Backup.
Method 1: Using Hidden MIUI settings (without root)
This method is suitable for devices on MIUI 14/15 with an unlocked bootloader, but does not require root permissions. We will edit the system parameter through ADB (Android Debug Bridge).
Steps:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings โ About Phone โ MIUI version and tap 7 times on the build number.
- Enable USB debugging in Settings โ Additional โ For developers.
- Connect your phone to your PC, install Xiaomi USB Drivers drivers, and open the command line in the adb.exe folder.
- Adb shell settings put global settings miui_dual_app_limit 3
- Reboot the device. After that, the dual app menu will allow you to create a third clone.
If the command doesnโt work, try an alternative setting for new firmware:
adb shell settings put global dual_app_limit 3Developer mode activated
Installed drivers Xiaomi USB
USB debugging enabled
Backup of important data is made
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List of supported models (tested by users):
| Model | MIUI 14 | MIUI 15 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13 Pro | โ | โ | It's working without rebooting. |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | โ | โ ๏ธ | Requires a reboot. |
| POCO X5 Pro | โ | โ | Only on global firmware. |
| Xiaomi Pad 6 | โ | โ | Limitation on 4 clones |
โ ๏ธ Note: On some devices (Redmi) K60, Xiaomi Civi 3) after changing the setting may disappear access to Google Play Market in clones.Solution: clear the cache of Google services in Settings โ Annexes โ Application management โ Google Play Services.
Standard Dual MIUI Applications
Cloning Apps (Parallel Space, 2Accounts)
Manual editing through ADB
Modified firmware (Custom ROM)
Never tried.-->
Method 2: Parallel Space (2Accounts)
If the system methods didn't work, you can use third-party virtualization applications, which create an isolated sandbox that runs a copy of the original APK.
- ๐ Parallel Space supports up to 4 clones, but shows ads.
- ๐ฅ 2Accounts โ optimized MIUI, It does not require root, but it can conflict with Google Play Protect.
- ๐ก๏ธ Island (requires root) โ creates a full-fledged working Android profile, like in Samsung Knox.
Instructions for 2Accounts:
- Download APK from the official website (not from the Play Market, itโs an outdated version).
- Install the file by allowing installation from unknown sources in Settings โ Privacy โ Special Permits.
- Run 2Accounts, select a cloning app, and confirm the copy.
- In the clone settings, turn off Battery Optimization for stable operation.
Important: Cloning apps may cause suspicions of anti-cheats (e.g., PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact). If you use clones for games, turn off virtualization notifications in the app settings.
๐ก
Before installing the cloner, check its hash amount on VirusTotal โ some modified APKs contain malicious code to steal account data.
Method 3: Modified firmware (Custom ROM)
For advanced users, the most reliable way is to install custom firmware that supports unlimited cloning.
- ๐ฑ LineageOS + MultiUser module allows you to create up to 8 user profiles.
- ๐ง Pixel Experience โ has a built-in Work Profile function that can be adapted to clones.
- ๐ ๏ธ MIUI EU โ unofficial firmware from Xiaomi.eu with lifted cloning restrictions.
Installation process:
- Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool (requires waiting 7-168 hours after the account is linked).
- Install. TWRP Recovery for your model (for example, for Redmi Note) 11 fitting twrp-3.7.0_12-vili).
- Sweep the selected firmware and MultiUser module (if required) through TWRP.
- In the settings of the new firmware, activate the Multiplayer mode.
Advantages of the method:
- โ There is no limit on the number of clones.
- โ Better performance compared to virtualization.
- โ Possibility of updating through OTA.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Installing custom firmware voids warranty and may result in blocking data encryption (FBE โ File-Based Encryption on some models 12T, POCO F4 GT) After the firmware stops working Widevine L1 (no HD Netflix).
How to return Widevine L1 after the firmware Custom ROM?
Method 4: Manual APK Duplication (for experienced)
This method involves manually installing a modified APK with a changed packet ID, suitable for applications that do not verify the integrity of the signature (e.g. Telegram, VK).
Algorithm:
- Download the original APK from APKPure or APKMirror.
- Use the APK Editor (or JADX for decompilation) tool to change the package="com.example.app" line to package="com.example.app.clone3" in the AndroidManifest.xml file.
- Reassemble the APK, sign it with a uber-apk-signer.
- Install the modified one. APK via adb install: adb install modified_app.clone3.apk
Limitations of the method:
- โ Does not work with apps linked to Google Play Services (WhatsApp, Facebook).
- โ Requires manual updates when new versions are released.
- โ Account blocking risk for an โunofficial customerโ (relevant to Instagram, TikTok).
๐ก
Manual editing of APK is only suitable for applications without server-side signature verification. For instant messengers and social networks, use virtualization methods (Parallel Space, Island).
Risks and how to avoid them
Creating a third clone of the application is fraught with potential problems:
| Risk | Effects of consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Account lockdown | Freezing profiles in social networks or games | Do not use clones for cheating or mass mailings. |
| Loss of data | Deleting the clone will cause the loss of its data. | Export backups regularly through ADB backup |
| Conflict with Google Play | Errors in updating applications | Turn off auto-update for clones |
| Overheating of the device | Virtualization is loading the processor | Limit background clone activity in battery settings |
Security advice:
- ๐ Do not enter bank card details in app clones.
- ๐ต Disable notifications for messenger clones to avoid information leakage.
- ๐ Regularly check clones for viruses through Malwarebytes or Dr.Web.