MIUI Quick Settings on Any Android: How-To

MIUI Quick Settings can be added to any Android phone by installing a third-party launcher or a standalone quick settings app that mimics Xiaomi’s control center style. The exact steps depend on your Android version and whether you want the full toggle layout or just a similar look.

What MIUI Quick Settings Actually Are

MIUI, Xiaomi’s custom Android skin, uses a two-pane control center instead of the stock Android notification shade. The first swipe shows notifications, and a second swipe (or a diagonal swipe from the top-right corner) reveals the quick settings panel with large, rounded toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and other shortcuts. Many users like this layout because it shows more toggles per screen and groups related controls. On stock Android, the quick settings area is a single column that expands when you swipe down twice. The MIUI design is not a standard Android feature, so it does not exist on other phones out of the box.

Why You Might Want It on Another Phone

People switch from Xiaomi to other brands but miss the familiar control center. The MIUI panel is also praised for its one-hand reachability and the ability to rearrange toggles in a grid. On stock Android, you are limited to the default toggle order and cannot add as many shortcuts without root or a custom ROM. If you want that specific look and feel, you have a few options that do not require rooting your device.

How to Get MIUI-Style Quick Settings Without Root

The most reliable method is to install a launcher that includes a custom quick settings panel. Launchers like Nova Launcher or Action Launcher do not replace the system quick settings, but they can add a widget or a gesture that opens a floating panel with MIUI-style toggles. However, the truly faithful approach is to use a dedicated app that draws its own overlay. Here is a general step-by-step that works with most such apps:

Install a quick settings app from the Google Play Store, such as “Quick Settings” or “Control Center.”
Open the app and grant the required permissions, usually “Display over other apps” and “Notification access.”
Choose the MIUI theme or layout from the app’s settings.
Add a shortcut to the app on your home screen or set a gesture in your launcher to open it.
Tap the shortcut to see the MIUI-style panel appear over any app.

This method works on any Android 8.0 or newer, and it does not require root. The toggles control the same system settings as the stock panel, but they are presented in the MIUI visual style.

Using a Custom ROM for the Real Thing

If you want the actual MIUI quick settings, not a lookalike, you would need to install a custom ROM based on MIUI or a ROM that ports the control center. This is a more advanced process that involves unlocking the bootloader, flashing a recovery, and then installing the ROM. Custom ROMs like Pixel Experience or LineageOS do not include MIUI’s control center, but some MIUI ports exist for specific devices. The risk is that you may lose warranty, and the process can brick your phone if done incorrectly. For most users, the overlay app is safer and sufficient.

Common Problems and Workarounds

One frequent issue is that the overlay app does not show the correct status of toggles (e.g., Wi-Fi appears off when it is on). This happens because the app cannot read the system state without proper permissions. Granting notification access usually fixes this. Another problem is that the panel does not appear over the lock screen, which is a security restriction on Android. If the app crashes, try clearing its cache or updating to the latest version. Some apps also require a battery optimization exception to run in the background.

Comparing MIUI Style to Stock Android

Stock Android’s quick settings are more compact and integrated with notifications. MIUI’s panel is larger and uses a full-screen overlay, which some find more thumb-friendly. The stock panel allows you to edit the tiles by dragging them, but you cannot change the grid size easily. MIUI lets you choose between a 3×3 or 4×3 grid. The overlay apps often replicate this grid flexibility. However, the stock panel is more reliable because it is part of the system, while overlays can be slow to open or miss taps.

Costs and Safety Considerations

Most quick settings overlay apps are free with ads, or cost a few dollars for the pro version. There are no recurring costs. Safety-wise, avoid apps that request unnecessary permissions like SMS or location. Stick to well-reviewed apps from the Play Store. Custom ROMs are free but carry a risk of data loss and voiding warranty. Always back up your data before attempting any system modification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get MIUI quick settings on Samsung or Pixel?

Yes, you can use an overlay app to get the visual style on any Android phone. The toggles will control the same system settings, but the look and layout will be MIUI-like. It is not a perfect replica, but it is close enough for most users.

Do I need to root my phone?

No, the overlay app method works without root. Root is only needed if you want to replace the system quick settings entirely, which is not recommended for casual users.

Will the overlay app drain my battery?

Most overlay apps are lightweight and only run when you open the panel. They do not run constantly in the background, so battery impact is minimal. If you notice high battery usage, check the app’s settings for background activity.

Can I use MIUI quick settings on Android 14?

Yes, as long as the overlay app is updated for the latest Android version. Some older apps may not work with the new notification permission changes, so check the app’s compatibility before installing.

Is there a way to get the exact MIUI control center without a Xiaomi phone?

The only way to get the exact control center is to install a MIUI-based custom ROM, which is only available for specific devices. For other phones, the overlay app is the closest you can get without major system changes.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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