Xiaomi: Set Up Switch Access for External Switch Devices

Touch input alone does not work for everyone. If tapping the display is difficult or impossible, Switch Access lets you control a Xiaomi phone with one or more external switches connected via USB or paired over Bluetooth instead.

The feature sits inside the accessibility framework under the physical input category and works alongside standard touch controls rather than replacing them. Once active, a switch can move focus between screen elements, select an item, scroll through lists, and enter text - actions normally handled by taps and swipes.

To turn it on, go to Tap on Settings ➔ Tap on Additional settings ➔ Tap on Accessibility ➔ Tap on Physical ➔ Tap on Switch Access ➔ Enable or disable Use Switch Access ➔ Tap on Allow ➔ Choose USB switchor Bluetooth switch ➔ Tap on Nextand follow the instructions on screen.

Granting the permission prompt is required; without it, the switch cannot take over navigation. If you only need larger tap targets or slower touch response, other accessibility options solve that with less setup. Switch Access changes how scanning and selection behave system-wide, so apps may feel slower to navigate at first. Turn the toggle off again in the same menu to return to normal touch-only operation.