Using two WhatsApp accounts on a single Xiaomi device is a challenge that millions of users face. The reasons can be different: separating personal and work correspondence, managing multiple business accounts, or simply wanting to keep privacy. Fortunately, Xiaomiβs MIUI-based smartphones offer several built-in and third-party solutions for this task, from the standard dual app feature to advanced ADB methods.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working ways to install the second WhatsApp on Xiaomi, including their pros, cons and nuances of customization. Particular attention will be paid to compatibility with the latest versions of MIUI (14-15) and the limitations that the messenger itself imposes on multi-accounting. If you are the owner of the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 or Xiaomi 14 flagship, the instructions below will suit your model.
1. Built-in dual application function in MIUI
The easiest and safest way is to use the proprietary Dual Apps feature (aka βDual Appβ), available on all Xiaomi smartphones with a single app. MIUI 8 and later: This method does not require superuser rights (root) and works stably, but has a limitation: the second account will be linked to the same phone number as the main one (unless you use an additional one). SIM-map).
To activate the function:
- π± Open the Settings. β Annexes β Double annex
- π In the list, find WhatsApp and turn on the switch next to it.
- π Wait for a copy of the application to be created (the icon will appear on the desktop marked "Double")
- π Register a second account using a different phone number or virtual account. SIM
Important: On some models (POCO F5, Redmi 10C), the feature may be called App Cloner or Second Space. If the settings do not include "Dual App", update the firmware to the latest version of MIUI via Settings β About Phone β System Update.
β οΈ Note: When using the Double App, both WhatsApp accounts will receive notifications at the same time. If you want to divide them by importance, turn off alerts for one of them in the app settings.
2 Parallel Space and similar launchers
If your version of MIUI doesnβt have dual-app functionality (like the older Redmi 4X or Mi A1 models with pure Android), you can use third-party launchers like Parallel Space, 2Accounts or Island, which create an isolated sandstone where you can run a second instance of WhatsApp.
Instructions for Parallel Space:
- Download the app from Google Play or AppGallery.
- Launch Parallel Space and add WhatsApp to the list of cloned apps.
- Click on the WhatsApp icon inside Parallel Space and register a new account.
- Set up notifications in the Parallel Space menu β Settings β Notification management.
| Launcher | Support for MIUI | Requires root. | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parallel Space | Yes (all versions) | No. | Advertising, high battery consumption |
| 2Accounts | Yes (MIUI 12+) | No. | Restriction on 2 accounts in the free version |
| Island | Yes (requires settings) | Yes. | A complex setup for beginners |
The advantage of this method is the ability to run not only WhatsApp, but also other messengers (Telegram, Viber) in an isolated environment, but Parallel Space consumes additional resources: weak smartphones (Redmi 9A, POCO M3) can be slowed down.
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If Parallel Space doesnβt run WhatsApp, clear the appβs cache through Settings β Apps β Parallel Space β Storage β Clear the cache.
3. Cloning through ADB (for advanced users)
Using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to create a full copy of WhatsApp without third-party launchers, this method works on all versions of MIUI, but requires a computer connection and basic command line knowledge, the main advantage is that there is no limit on the number of clones (you can create 3, 4 or more accounts).
Step-by-step:
- Turn on Developer Mode on Xiaomi: Go to Settings β About Phone 7 times click on the MIUI Version (notification will appear βYou are a developerβ) Return to Settings β Additional β For Developers and enable Debugging on USB
File transfer
ADB Tools
Win + R β cmd
adb shell pm install -r --user 0 com.whatsappThen, to create a clone:
adb shell cmd package install-existing com.whatsappβ οΈ Attention: When in use ADB-Do not update WhatsApp via Google Play, it can break the clone. APK-file.
Developer mode is on|USB-debugging activated|ADB Tools downloaded on PC|Phone connected in "File Transfer" mode"|Backup copy of data created-->
4. Use of Second Space (Second Space)
The MIUIβs Second Space feature allows you to create a completely isolated user profile with separate desktops, apps and settings, ideal if you need not only two WhatsApps, but also a complete separation of personal and work data.
How to set up:
- π§ Go to Settings. β Special facilities β Second Space (on some models, the path may be different: Settings) β Accounts. β Second Space).
- π Click "Create Second Space" and follow the instructions (you need to set a password).
- π₯ After creation, switch to a new space (swipe down the notification panel) β Icon of Second Space").
- π² Install WhatsApp again via Google Play and register a second account.
The benefits of Second Space:
- π Complete data isolation (files, contacts, messages do not overlap).
- π± The ability to use different wallpapers, settings and even MIUI-topic.
- π Quickly switch between spaces (no need to log out of your account).
Disadvantages:
- π΄ Double battery consumption (both spaces run in parallel).
- π¦ Apps take up space twice (for example, WhatsApp will be installed in both spaces).
How to delete Second Space without losing data?
5 WhatsApp Business as a second account
If you don't need two full personal accounts, you can install WhatsApp Business next to a regular WhatsApp. Both apps can run simultaneously on the same Xiaomi phone without any further manipulation, a method officially supported by Meta and does not require cloning.
How to set up:
- Download WhatsApp Business from Google Play.
- Register using the second phone number.
- Set up a business account profile (you can skip steps with the address and working hours).
- Include notifications for both applications in Settings β Notifications.
What is WhatsApp Business different from the usual business:
- π’ The ability to create a catalog of goods/services.
- π Communication statistics (read/delivered).
- π€ Automatic Answers and Greetings.
- π Business Account tag next to the name in chat rooms.
This is a method that works for small business owners or freelancers, but it doesnβt work for those who need two personal accounts. Also note that WhatsApp Business has the same multi-account restrictions: one number is one account.
6. Rooting and modules Xposed/Magisk
For power users willing to sacrifice the warranty, there is a radical way to get root rights and install modules to clone applications. On Xiaomi, this can be done through Magisk or Xposed Framework, but the process requires caution: wrong actions can lead to a βbrickβ of the device.
Popular modules for multi-accounting:
- π§ App Cloner (requires root) β allows you to create an unlimited number of clones.
- π XPrivacyLua β Blocks Checking the Uniqueness of the Device in WhatsApp.
- π± Island (with root) β isolates clones in a separate profile.
Warnings:
- π« Rooting resets warranty on Xiaomi.
- π Some banking applications (SberBank Online, Tinkoff) stop working on rooted devices.
- π After updating MIUI It may be necessary to re-install Magisk.
β οΈ Note: If you use WhatsApp for two-factor authentication (like logging into Facebook or a crypto exchange), don't clone it through Magisk.This may result in your account being blocked due to suspicious activity.
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Rooting is an extreme method, and before using it, assess the risks: loss of warranty, security issues, and possible account locks.
Comparison of all methods: which one to choose?
| Method | Difficulty | Root is required. | It's working at MIUI 14/15. | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double annex | β | No. | Yes. | Only 1 clone, SIM binding |
| Parallel Space | ββ | No. | Yes. | Advertising, high battery consumption |
| ADB-cloning | βββ | No. | Yes. | Need a PC, the risk of errors when updating |
| Second Space | ββ | No. | Yes. | Double memory consumption |
| WhatsApp Business | β | No. | Yes. | Business account only |
| Root + Magisk | ββββ | Yes. | Yes. | Resetting the guarantee, the risk of blocking |
Selection recommendations:
- π For most users, the best method is Double App or WhatsApp Business.
- π§ If you need more than two accounts, use them. ADB Or Parallel Space.
- π Second Space is suitable for complete data isolation.
- β οΈ Root and Magisk β Only if you are prepared for the risks.