How to hide the application on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: all the ways from standard to hidden

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 remains one of the most popular smartphones among users who value balance of price and functionality. However, even in the MIUI firmware, it is not always obvious how to hide applications from prying eyes — whether it is personal messengers, banking programs or games that you do not want to show to others. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods, from built-in MIUI tools 12-14 to little-known tricks with archiving and alternative launchers.

It’s important to understand that hiding apps isn’t like deleting or blocking them. The app will continue to run in the background, receive notifications and updates — just disappear from the home screen and menu. If your goal is complete privacy, additional measures will be required (which we’ll discuss below).

All methods are tested on the Redmi Note 9 with MIUI 12.5 and MIUI 14 firmware. On newer versions (for example, HyperOS), some of the functions may work differently - we will make separate notes about this.

1. Hiding through the built-in MIUI function (without third-party programs)

The easiest and safest method is to use the standard Hidden Apps tool in MIUI settings. It does not require superuser rights and works on all firmware versions for the Redmi Note 9.

To activate this function:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Slip on the three-point menu in the upper right corner and select Hide apps.
3. Enter a password or pattern lock (if not configured, the system will prompt you to create).
4. Tick the apps you want to hide and click Ready.

After that, the icons will disappear from the main screen and from the app menu.

• 🔍 Through search by system (swipe down on the main screen).
• 🔐 In the Settings section → Annexes → Hidden applications (requires password entry).
• 📱 Through Second Space (if it's configured - more on that below).

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If you forgot the password from hidden applications, you can reset it only through a complete reset settings (Settings → About the phone → Reset settings).

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ Does not hide notifications from apps (they will still be displayed in the curtain).
• ❌ Apps remain on the list Recent (if open).
• ❌ Does not work for system applications (such as Settings or Phone).

2.Use of Second Space (Dual Workspace)

Second Space is a feature built into MIUI that creates a second isolated profile on your phone, which is designed to separate personal and work data, but is also great for hiding apps.

How to set up:

1. Go to Settings → Special Options → Second Space.
2. Click Create Second Space and follow the instructions (you will need to create a separate password or pattern lock).
3. Once created, reboot your phone and select Second Space when you log in.
4. Install or transfer the desired applications to it (they will not be visible in the main space).

Advantages of the method:

• 🔒 Complete isolation: applications, files, and settings do not overlap with the main profile.
• 📱 You can quickly switch between spaces (swipe on the lock screen or through the notification curtain).
• 🛡️ It works even if someone knows your primary password – you need a separate key to log in to Second Space.

Disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Takes up extra space on the phone (each space has its own cache and data).
• ⚠️ Some system features (such as Google Pay) may not work properly.
• ⚠️ When resetting Second Space is removed without recovery.

⚠️ Note: If you use Second Space for banking applications, make sure it has cloud sync turned off (Settings) → Accounts. → Synchronization: Otherwise, data may be duplicated between spaces.

3. Archiving of applications (hiding without deletion)

A little-known trick is archiving apps through Google Play, which doesn't delete the program, it just freezes it by removing the icon from the screen.

• ✅ The app does not receive notifications.
• ✅ Not automatically updated.
• ✅ Does not take up RAM.

Instructions:

1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Go to Profile → Application and Device Management → Archive.
3. Click Archive next to the desired application.

To return the app:

1. In the same section of the Archive, find the program and tap Install.

Limitations:

• ❌ Does not work for system applications (e.g. Camera or Gallery).
• ❌ Does not hide applications from search by system (they can be found through Settings) → Annexes).
• ❌ Some programs (such as WhatsApp) may require re-authorization after recovery.

4. Hiding through third-party launchers (Nova, Apex, POCO Launcher)

If the built-in methods don't work, you can use alternative launchers, which not only hide applications, but also customize the appearance of the interface.

• 🌟 Nova Launcher (paid version supports app hiding).
• 📱 POCO Launcher (free, with the function "Hidden applications").
• 🔧 Apex Launcher (supports gestures and hiding icons).

Instructions for Nova Launcher:

1. Install the launcher from Google Play and make it the main one (Settings → Home Screen → Select Launcher).
2. Click the free space on the home screen and select Nova Settings.
3. Go to App Settings → Hide Apps.
4. Check the programs you need and save the changes.

Advantages:

• 🎨 Flexible interface setting (themes, icons, gestures).
• 🔒 Ability to hide applications from search by system (in some launchers).
• 📁 You can create folders with a password (for example, in Nova Launcher Prime).

⚠️ Note: When using third-party launchers, battery consumption increases (on the 5-10%) If autonomy is critical, it's best to go back to the standard launcher. MIUI.

5. Hiding through ADB (for power users)

For those who are willing to work with Android Debug Bridge (ADB), there is a way to hide applications at the system level, which is the most reliable method, but it requires a PC connection and basic command line knowledge.

What you need:

• 🖥️ A computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and ADB.
• 📱 Included debugging by USB on the phone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times tap; then Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).

Instructions:

1. Connect the phone to the PC and confirm the debugging permission.
2. Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) and type:

adb shell pm hide com.example.app

Where com.example.app is the batch name of the application (you can find it through adb shell pm list packages | grep "keyword").

Examples of packet names of popular applications:

To return the application, use the command:

adb shell pm unhide com.example.app

⚠️ Warning: Don't hide system applications (e.g. com.android.settings) - this can cause the phone to malfunction and need a complete reset. MIUI esoteric ADB Apps may appear again.

6. Additional security measures: how to hide traces of use

Hiding the app icon is only half the battle, and if the goal is total privacy, pay attention to:

• 📵 Notifications: Disable them for hidden apps in Settings → Notifications → Management of notifications.
• 🔍 Search for the system: Nova Launcher or POCO Launcher can disable the display of hidden applications in search results.
• 📊 Recent annexes: B MIUI There is no built-in cleanup feature for the recent list, but you can use the swipe up and hold gesture" → basket-mark.
• 🔒 Application Blocking: C Settings → Blocking applications can set a password to start (works even for hidden programs).

For maximum protection, combine methods.

1. Hide the app through Second Space.
2. Turn off notifications in the main space.
3. Use Nova Launcher to hide icons in both profiles.

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No method offers 100% concealment warranty: When physically accessing a phone, an experienced user can find hidden applications through ADB, file manager, or backups. For critical data (such as banking), use a separate device or hardware encryption.

FAQ: Frequent questions about hiding apps on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9