Why File Handler is Required?
Devices from Xiaomi (MIUI, HyperOS), Huawei, Honor, Tecno, and Infinix use a Theme system that stores files inside the Android/data directory. Starting from Android 11, access to this directory is restricted for security reasons.
To apply custom fonts on these devices, zFont 3 needs permission to access the Android/data directory. This is where file handlers come in.
Available File Handler Methods
zFont 3 supports different methods to access restricted directories:
| Method | Difficulty | Compatibility | Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legacy | Easy | Android ≤ 10 | Limited |
| Storage Access Framework | Easy | Android 11-12 | Limited |
| Shizuku | Medium | All devices | ✅ Best Choice |
| zFile | Easy | Varies by device | Unreliable |
| Root | Hard | All devices | Advanced users |
Quick Recommendations
✅ Recommended: Shizuku
- Works on all devices and Android versions
- Most reliable long-term solution
- Requires one-time setup with computer or wireless debugging
- Stays active until reboot
- View Setup Guide →
⚠️ Alternative: Storage Access Framework
- Easy setup, no computer needed
- Only works reliably on Android 11-12
- Limited or no support on Android 13+
- View Setup Guide →
❌ Not Recommended: zFile
- Unreliable and inconsistent
- May stop working after updates
- No way to predict compatibility
- Use only as last resort
- View Setup Guide →
🔓 Advanced: Root
- Most powerful access
- Requires technical expertise
- Not suitable for average users
- If rooted, use Shizuku instead
- View Setup Guide →
📱 Legacy (Android 10 and below)
- No special setup required
- Direct file access available
- View Guide →
Need Help Choosing?
If you're on Android 11+: Use Shizuku (best option) or try SAF if you want something simpler.
If you're on Android 10 or below: Use Legacy method (no setup needed).
If nothing else works: Try zFile as a last resort, but expect inconsistent results.
If you have root access: You can use Root, but Shizuku is still recommended for better security.
Remember
Shizuku requires one-time setup but provides the best experience for applying custom fonts on theme-based devices.