MIUI (Mi User Interface) Overview
MIUI is a heavily customized Android-based operating system developed by Xiaomi, designed for its smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Since its launch in 2010, MIUI has become one of the most popular Android skins, known for its feature-rich interface, frequent updates, and deep customization options.
Key Features of MIUI
1. Customizable UI & Themes
- Icon packs, fonts, and always-on display (AOD) customization.
- Themes app with thousands of free and paid designs.
- Super Wallpapers (dynamic, interactive wallpapers).
2. Performance & Optimization
- Game Turbo Mode (enhances gaming performance).
- RAM expansion (uses storage as virtual RAM).
- Battery optimization (AI-based power management).
3. Privacy & Security
- App Lock & Second Space (separate profiles for work/personal use).
- Privacy Protection (shows which apps access mic, camera, location).
- Secure Folder (hidden encrypted storage).
4. Xiaomi Ecosystem Integration
- Mi Share (fast file transfer between Xiaomi devices).
- Xiaomi Cloud (backup, sync contacts, photos, notes).
- Smart Home Control (for Xiaomi IoT devices).
5. MIUI-Specific Apps & Tools
- Mi Video, Mi Music, Mi Browser (Xiaomi’s own apps).
- Quick Ball (floating shortcuts for navigation).
- Dual Apps (run two instances of WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.).
MIUI vs. Stock Android
| Feature | MIUI | Stock Android (Pixel OS) |
|---|---|---|
| UI Design | Heavy customization, iOS-like | Clean, minimal |
| Bloatware | Pre-installed Xiaomi apps | Fewer pre-installed apps |
| Updates | Monthly security patches, but slower major Android updates | Fastest Android updates |
| Customization | Themes, icons, always-on display | Limited theming |
| Performance | RAM management optimizations | Smoother, less aggressive background killing |
| Ads | Shows ads in system apps (can be disabled) | No ads |
MIUI Versions & Timeline
- MIUI 1 (2010) – Initial release (based on Android 2.2).
- MIUI 5 (2013) – Major redesign, improved performance.
- MIUI 7 (2015) – Added Dual Apps, Quick Ball.
- MIUI 10 (2018) – Full-screen gestures, AI pre-loading.
- MIUI 12 (2020) – Super Wallpapers, improved privacy.
- MIUI 13 (2022) – Faster performance, new widgets.
- MIUI 14 (2023) – “Lightweight” OS, fewer pre-installed apps.
MIUI vs. HyperOS (Xiaomi’s New OS)
| Feature | MIUI | HyperOS |
|---|---|---|
| Base OS | Older Android versions | Android 14 (newer) |
| Performance | Can be bloated | Optimized, faster |
| Ecosystem | Limited device sync | Better Xiaomi ecosystem integration |
| AI Features | Basic | Advanced (on-device AI) |
| UI Design | Traditional MIUI look | Smoother, more modern |
| Availability | Older Xiaomi phones | Newer devices (Xiaomi 14, Redmi K70, etc.) |
Pros & Cons of MIUI
✅ Highly customizable (themes, icons, AOD).
✅ Feature-packed (Dual Apps, Game Turbo, Second Space).
✅ Frequent security updates (but slower Android upgrades).
❌ Ads in system apps (can be turned off manually).
❌ Heavy skin, sometimes laggy on budget phones.
❌ Bloatware (Xiaomi apps can’t always be uninstalled).
Will MIUI Be Discontinued?
- Yes, gradually. Xiaomi is replacing MIUI with HyperOS starting from 2024.
- Older devices will keep MIUI, while new flagships (Xiaomi 14, Redmi K70, etc.) get HyperOS.
How to Disable Ads in MIUI?
- Go to Settings > Passwords & Security > Authorization & Revocation.
- Disable “MSA” (Miui System Ads).
- Turn off recommendations in Mi Video, Mi Music, App Store, etc.
Would you like a step-by-step guide to MIUI customization or a list of best MIUI hidden features?