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Xiaomi

Xiaomi: Set the Default System Launcher

Installed a new launcher on your Xiaomi phone but the home screen still opens with the MIUI launcher? Android keeps using the previous launcher until you tell the system which app should manage your home screen, widgets and app shortcuts. Without changing the default app assignment, your new launcher stays installed but inactive.

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Step 1 of 7: Tap on **Settings**

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Android 11 · MIUI
Set a Default Launcher on Xiaomi – MIUI: step 1 – Tap on Settings
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Xiaomi

Set a Default Launcher on Xiaomi auf Xiaomi

On Xiaomi phones running MIUI, the launcher app controls your home screen, app drawer, widgets and shortcuts. If you install a third-party launcher, Android does not switch to it automatically. The system keeps using whichever launcher is currently set as default, usually the built-in MIUI launcher.

This happens because MIUI treats the launcher like any other app category with a default assignment, similar to your default browser or messaging app. Installing a new launcher only adds it as an option; you still need to select it manually in the system settings.

To change it, open Tap on SettingsTap on AppsTap on Manage appsOpen the MenuTap on Default appsTap on LauncherSet the default Launcher app. Once selected, your device applies the new launcher immediately without a restart.

If the new launcher does not appear in the list, confirm it is fully installed and not just downloaded. Some launchers also require you to open them once before they register as a selectable option.

Switching back to the stock launcher works the same way: repeat the steps and choose the MIUI launcher instead. This is useful if a third-party launcher causes crashes, missing widgets, or slower app drawer performance.

Frequently asked questions

Open the launcher app at least once after installing it. MIUI only lists launchers as selectable options after their first launch, so a freshly installed app that was never opened will not appear under Tap on Default appsTap on Launcher.