Xiaomi’s current smartphones, which use MIUI and HyperOS, offer users a wide range of customization options. One of the most popular features is the ability to clone apps, allowing two accounts to be used in the same program at the same time. This is especially true for instant messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram, when you need to separate personal and workspace without buying a second device.
The process of creating a clone on Redmi and Poco devices does not require installing third-party software or obtaining root rights. Built-in shell tools ensure stable operation of duplicates, but there are nuances that should be considered when setting up. The cloning function is only available for system applications and some programs from Google Play that are marked by the developer as supporting multi-account. Understanding the principles of this technology will help avoid synchronization conflicts and notifications.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods for running a second instance of the app, including standard cloning and creating a second space. You will learn how to properly configure notifications to avoid confusing messages, and what restrictions the Android security system imposes on this process.
Principles of operation of the function of cloning applications
The clone technology on Xiaomi devices is based on the process isolation mechanism inside the operating system. When you activate the cloning function for a particular application, the system creates a new user profile with a unique identifier. For the operating system, it looks like installing a completely different program, although it actually uses the same executable file. This allows you to store independent data, cache and authorization tokens for each instance.
It's important to understand that a cloned application consumes additional device resources. RAM is used to maintain the background processes of the second copy, and the processor processes tasks in parallel. On modern models with enough memory, this is almost invisible, but on budget devices with a small amount of RAM, you can see more aggressive closure of background applications by the system to save energy.
⚠️ Note: Clone applications may not work properly with deep battery optimization features. If you notice that notifications in the second account are late, you need to manually change the energy saving settings for the cloned version of the program.
System restrictions on MIUI and HyperOS prevent you from cloning any program, and social media, banking and popular messaging apps are usually on the list of available apps. Trying to circumvent these restrictions through third-party launchers can lead to unstable system operation or a breach of the security of your data, so it is recommended to use only regular tools.
Standard Method: Creating a Clone Through Settings
The easiest and most common way to run a second app is to use a built-in shell settings menu, which is suitable for most users who just need to have two accounts on the same social network. The settings interface in Xiaomi may vary slightly depending on the Android version and regional firmware, but the logic of action remains the same for all models.
To start, you need to go to the main menu of smartphone settings. Find a section that can be called “Apps” or “Additional Features.” In newer versions of HyperOS, this item is often placed in a separate category or integrated into the “Apps” section with the subitem “Cloning applications.” Here you will see a list of programs that support the creation of duplicates.
☑️ Pre-cloning testing
Once the switch is activated next to the app, a new icon will appear on the desktop, which will be visually different from the original by having a small icon or yellow thread, indicating its clone status. Now you can launch it, enter the second account data and use both profiles simultaneously. The system will automatically separate the notification streams, allowing you to adjust different sounds and vibrations for each instance.
If the standard method doesn't work or the application you want isn't on the list, you can use an alternative way by looking for settings. Type a "clone" or "duplicate" request into the settings search bar, and the system will suggest you go to the desired section, which is especially useful if you've updated your firmware and the menu interface has changed beyond recognition.
Second Space: Complete Data Segregation
Second Space is a more advanced tool that creates a completely isolated environment inside your smartphone, and unlike simple cloning, it creates a separate desktop with its own apps, files, gallery, and even Wi-Fi settings, ideal for those who want to divide their work and personal lives, or for handing the phone to children without the risk of accessing personal data.
Switching between the main and second spaces is instantaneous through a special shortcut in the notification curtain or with a fingerprint. You can assign a specific finger to enter the Second Space, which will make the process as convenient and secure as possible. All data in this space is encrypted separately, and even when you connect the phone to your computer, files from the Second Space will not be visible without unlocking.
| Parameter | Apps clone | Second space |
|---|---|---|
| Data isolation | Partial (Annex data only) | Complete (whole system) |
| Memory expenditure | Low. | High-pitched |
| Independent settings | Only inside the app. | All system settings |
| Difficulty of use | Low. | Medium |
To activate Second Space, go to Settings → Special Features → Second Space, and the system will suggest setting up a profile, select wallpaper, and set the unlock method. Once created, you will have a clean smartphone that can re-install any apps or migrate them from the main profile, creating the effect of having two physical devices in the same enclosure.
How to transfer files between spaces?
Set up notifications and work in the background
One of the common problems with cloned applications is the lack of timely notifications: the aggressive MIUI and HyperOS energy saving system tend to freeze the background processes of the second instance to extend battery life.
Go to Settings → Applications → All apps and find the cloned version of the program (it will be marked with a special icon). Go to Energy Saving and select No Limits mode. This will prevent the system from killing the application process even if you haven’t opened it in a long time. It is also recommended to enable auto-start for important messengers so that they start working immediately after you turn on the phone.
⚠️ Warning: Unlimited mode increases battery consumption. Use this setting only for applications where instant messaging is critical, such as work chats or delivery services.
To separate the audio notifications, go to the sound and vibration settings. Select Notification Sound and find a cloned app in the list. Assign it a unique tune that is different from the main account, which allows you to hear whether the message has arrived at a personal or work number without taking the phone out of your pocket.
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Use Locked Screen Notifications separately for each clone to hide the contents of your work account messages from prying eyes, leaving personal notifications visible.
Solving common problems and errors
Users may encounter a number of common problems when using cloned apps, most often with updating the apps themselves or changing the security policy of Google Play Protect. If the clone stops launching or crashes immediately after opening, try clearing its cache through the application management menu.
Sometimes the system does not allow you to install an update for a cloned version via Google Play, which may require a temporary shutdown of the cloning function, updating the main application and re-activating the clone, and problems may arise when using banking applications that are sensitive to changes in the system environment.
If you are faced with a situation where the clone of the application disappeared from the desktop, but remained in the list of installed programs, check the settings for displaying shortcuts. In some design themes, the clone icon can merge with the background or be hidden. Switching to a standard theme or resetting the launcher often solves this problem.
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Most cloning problems are solved by resetting the settings of a particular application or updating the firmware of the smartphone to the latest version.
Security and privacy when using clones
Using two accounts increases the security requirements of the device, and cloned applications have access to the same permissions as the originals, including the camera, microphone and geolocation, and it is important to regularly check what rights are granted to cloned versions, especially if they are applications from unknown developers.
When transferring your phone to another person or when you are repairing, remember that data in the Second Space or cloned applications can be accessed if the device is unlocked, it is recommended to use guest mode or completely close the Second Space before transferring the device.
To maximize the protection of sensitive information, use App Lock, which allows you to set an additional password or biometric verification when you log into a cloned application, which creates an additional barrier even for someone who has physical access to an unlocked smartphone.