Hiding apps on Xiaomi Redmi 9C is a challenge that users face for a variety of reasons, from wanting to remove unnecessary system utilities to having to hide personal information from prying eyes. Unlike iOS, where functionality is limited, MIUI firmware offers several built-in mechanisms for masking programs. However, not all of them are obvious, and some require additional manipulation of settings.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods, including standard MIUI 12/13/14 tools, third-party launchers and even hidden shell functions that are not mentioned in the official documentation. We will pay special attention to the nuances associated with the Redmi 9C model (codename angelica), since its hardware limitations and the firmware version affect the availability of certain options. For example, this device does not have the Second Space (Dual Apps) feature, which is on Xiaomi flagships, but there are alternative solutions.
Before you get to the instructions, keep in mind that hiding applications is not the same as removing them. System utilities (such as Mi Browser or GetApps) will remain in the device's memory, and some methods may temporarily reduce performance due to background processes. If your goal is to free up space, you'd better use the browser uninstallation manual.
1.Dual Apps Hiding β Does the Redmi 9C work?
The second space (or Dual Apps) feature in MIUI allows you to create an isolated copy of the system with a separate set of applications. In theory, this is the ideal way to hide programs: you transfer them to the βsecond spaceβ and the main screen remains clean. However, on the Redmi 9C, this option is not available by default due to hardware limitations (the Helio G35 processor and 2/3 GB of RAM).
But there's a workaround: activation through ADB.
- Enable USB Debugging in Settings β About Phone β MIUI version (click 7 times, then go back to Additional β For Developers).
- Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command: adb shell pm install-create --user 0 -r -f
- Reboot the device. Second space will appear in the settings.
β οΈ Note: This method requires skills in working with ADB And it can cause disruption if you interrupt the process. 9C 2 GB of RAM "second space" works unstable - possible slowdown.
Alternative: Use third-party launchers (Section 3) that emulate similar functionality without risk to the system.
2. Standard Hiding via MIUI Settings (without root)
The safest and easiest method is to use the built-in Hide Apps feature in MIUI, which is available on all firmware versions, including Redmi 9C, but has limitations: it hides only from the app menu, without blocking notifications and background activity.
Step-by-step:
- Open Settings β Applications β Application Management.
- Slip on the three dots in the top right corner and select Hide Apps.
- Tick the programs you want to remove from your sight and click Ready.
To bring the apps back:
- π Enter the phrase βhidden applicationsβ in the search for settingsΒ».
- π± Or scroll down the app menu and click Show Hidden (appears after the first hide).
| Advantages of the method | Deficiencies of the method |
|---|---|
| No need to root. | Applications remain in memory |
| It works on all versions of MIUI. | Notifications keep coming. |
| Instant application | Not hiding from search on the system |
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If the hidden app continues to send notifications, go to its settings and turn off the βShow Notificationsβ option manually.
3.Using third-party launchers: Nova Launcher and Apex
Third-party launchers like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher offer advanced customization options, including app hiding, a method that works if you want to not only remove icons from the screen, but also block access to programs through search.
Instructions for Nova Launcher:
- Install a launcher from Google Play.
- Press your finger on the free desktop space β Settings β Hiding applications.
- Select programs from the list and save the changes.
Advantages of the method:
- π‘οΈ Complete concealment from the interface (including search).
- π¨ Additional customization options (gestures, themes, icons).
- π It's easy to undo changes.
β οΈ Note: Some launchers (such as Microsoft Launcher) do not support hiding Xiaomi system applications due to restrictions MIUI. Before installation, check compatibility in the description.
Make sure that the device has enough memory (minimum 200 MB)
Disable battery optimization for launcher in MIUI settings
Make a backup of the current desktop (screenshots)
Check out the reviews on the stability of the launcher on the Redmi 9C-->
4. Hiding through folders and gestures (without installing software)
If you just need to remove the icons from your eyes, but do not block access to applications, you can use the standard MIUI tools:
Method 1: Folders on the desktop
- π Drag the app icon to another icon to create a folder.
- π Name the folder neutral (such as Tools) and move it to the second screen.
- ποΈβπ¨οΈ For additional camouflage, install a transparent folder icon through themes MIUI.
Method 2: Swipe up gesture
In MIUI 12+, you can hide apps in the βboxβ (application menu), leaving them available through search:
- Open the application menu (swipe up from the bottom panel).
- Press the application icon β Remove from the screen (do not delete!).
- The program will now be available only through a search system.
These methods do not provide complete privacy, but are suitable for basic organization of the workspace.
5. Advanced methods: ADB and packet disabling
For advanced users willing to work with ADB, there is a way to completely disable system applications without root rights. It's not concealment, it's deactivation, but the result is similar: programs disappear from the interface and do not consume resources.
Instructions:
- Install ADB Tools on your PC.
- Connect Redmi 9C to USB and execute a command to view the packet list: adb shell pm list packages
- Find the name of the application package you want (e.g. com.mi.browser for Mi Browser) and disable it: adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.mi.browser
To return the application, use:
adb shell pm enable com.mi.browserβ οΈ Note: Disabling system packages (e.g., com.xiaomi.mipicks or com.android.quicksearchbox) may cause malfunctions MIUI. Before experimenting, back up through Settings β Additionally. β Backup.
List of safe to disable packets on Redmi 9C
6.Alternative solutions: application password and Safe Folder
If your goal is not so much to hide as to block access to apps, consider the following options:
1. Built-in function "Application Lock"
- π Go to Settings. β Passwords and security β Application lockdown.
- π± Select programs and install them PIN/graphical.
- π Applications will remain visible, but you will need a password to open.
2. Safe Folder (MIUI 13+)
The Safe Folder feature allows you to store files and application shortcuts in an encrypted container:
- Open Files β Safe Folder (if not, upgrade MIUI to 13+).
- Create a folder with a password.
- Move the application shortcuts to it (via βAdd files β Applicationsβ).
Restriction: Redmi 9C with MIUI 12 Safe Folder may not be available, in which case use third-party solutions, such as AppLock or Vault.
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For maximum privacy, combine methods: hide applications through the launcher + block access with a password.