Where to find and how to enable installation from unknown sources on Xiaomi: a detailed guide

Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a frequent necessity for users who want to download APK-files outside of Google Play or Mi App Store, but the manufacturer hides this option in the depths of settings MIUI (or a new HyperOS), and its location varies depending on the firmware version and device model. If you are trying to install an app, but the system blocks the process with the message “Installation is locked” or “Unknown sources are disabled”, this article will help you understand where to look for the desired switch and how to activate it.

It’s important to understand that permission to install from unknown sources is not a global setup for the entire device, but an individual resolution for each application that an APK can install. For example, if you downloaded a file through the Chrome browser, it should be the permission of the file manager, and we will look at all the current methods for modern versions of MIUI 14 and HyperOS, and point out the typical errors that users make.

Warning: Enabling this option reduces the security of your device. Install APKs only from trusted sources to avoid viruses or spyware. If you are unsure about file security, use services like VirusTotal to check.

Why is Xiaomi hiding the installation option from unknown sources?

The manufacturer deliberately complicates access to this feature for several reasons:

• 🛡️ Security: Xiaomi follows Google’s policy to minimize the risks of installing malware: Statistics show that more than 60% of Android device infections occur through third-party devices. APK.
• 📱 Ecosystem Control: The company promotes its own Mi App Store, where all programs are moderated (though not always high-quality).
• 🔄 Updates MIUI/HyperOS: In new versions of firmware, the path to settings can change so that users do not turn on dangerous options “out of habit».

For example, in MIUI 12, the option was in the Applications section, and in MIUI 14 it was moved to Special Permissions. In HyperOS (which replaces MIUI), the logic remains similar, but the interface becomes more minimal, which further confuses users.

Interesting fact: on devices for the Chinese market (with China ROM firmware), installation from unknown sources is often blocked at the system level and requires unlocking the bootloader or using workarounds. If your Xiaomi is bought in China, this guide may not work - you will need Global ROM firmware.

Method 1: Through application settings (MIUI 12–14, HyperOS)

This is the most versatile method that works on most modern Xiaomi devices, including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13 and other models with MIUI 12–14 or HyperOS. The instruction is suitable for cases when you are trying to install APK through a browser, file manager or other application.

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
2. Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
3. In the top search bar, type the name of the app you downloaded from APK (e.g. Chrome, Files, Telegram).
4. Slip on the app you found, then select Permissions → Install Unknown Apps (or Special Access in HyperOS).
5. Activate the switch Allow installation from this source.

Then try to open the download again. APK-The system no longer has to block the installation.

Is the app correctly selected (e.g. Chrome for downloaded files) |

Is the firmware updated to the latest version (older versions of MIUI may not have an option)|

Is there an active antivirus that blocks changes (e.g. Mi Security)|

Whether the APK is fully downloaded (damaged files are not installed even with permission)

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If there is no application in the list (for example, you downloaded a file via Telegram, but it is not in Application Management), try:

• 🔍 Open up. APK Directly from the chat Telegram – the system itself will offer to issue permission.
• 📁 Save the file to the Download folder and open it through the standard File Manager.

Method 2: Through special permissions (MIUI 14/HyperOS)

In the latest firmware versions, Xiaomi moved the APK installation management to the Special Permissions section, which is relevant for devices with MIUI 14 (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Redmi K60) and the new HyperOS (for example, Xiaomi 14).

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Special permissions.
2. Select Install Unknown Applications.
3. In the list, find the application you want to install APK through (such as the Browser or File Manager).
4. Activate the switch next to it.

HyperOS may have a slightly different interface: instead of "Special Permissions," look for "Application Permissions" → "Additional." If you don't have an option, upgrade to the latest version of the firmware, which in older builds may have been removed.

Important: In HyperOS on some models (e.g. Xiaomi 14 Ultra), the installation option from unknown sources may be hidden behind additional authentication.

Method 3: Through Security Settings (older versions of MIUI)

If you have a device with MIUI 11 or earlier (e.g. Redmi Note 8, Xiaomi Mi 9), the path to settings will be different.In these firmwares, the option was brought to the security section and worked as a global switch (rather than for individual applications).

1. Open Settings → Privacy (or additionally → Privacy).
2. Select Special Permits → Install Unknown Applications
3. Activate the switch at the top of the screen.

On some devices (e.g., POCO F1 with MIUI 10), the path may look like this: Settings → Security → Installation from unknown sources. If you don’t find this section, search by settings (the magnifier icon in the upper right corner).

If your model is running Android One (e.g. Xiaomi Mi) A2), The logic will be like on “pure” Android: Settings → Annexes → Application settings (⚙) → Special access → Installation of unknown applications.

Method 4: Through ADB (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work (e.g., the option is blocked by the device administrator or firmware), you can enable installation from unknown sources via ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which is suitable for advanced users and requires connecting the smartphone to the computer.

You'll need:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB-driver.
• 📱 Included Debugging by USB on a smartphone (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI → 7 times to tap the assembly number → return to → For developers → Debugging by USB).
• 🔌 USB-plug-in.

Instructions:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and open the command line (or Terminal on macOS/Linux).
2. Enter the command to check the connection: adb devices If the device appears in the list, go further.
3. Grant permission to install from unknown sources for all applications: adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 1
4. Reboot the device: adb reboot

After restarting, try installing the APK again. If it doesn't work, try giving permission for a specific package (e.g., Chrome):

adb shell appops set com.android.chrome INSTALL_UNKNOWN_APP_SOURCES allow

💡

If ADB does not recognize the device, try reinstalling drivers or using another USB-On some Xiaomi models, for example, POCO X3) Additional permission may be required in the Debugging Menu USB (safety settings).

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many users have problems turning on the installation from unknown sources, and consider the most common errors and their solutions:

⚠️ Note: If you have the option enabled APK It still doesn't install, check if the built-in Mi Security antivirus is blocking the installation. → Annexes → Application management → Mi Security → Permits and temporarily disable protection.

• 🔴 Error: "Installation locked" after you turn on the option Reason: You gave permission to the wrong application. APK Chrome, but the file manager got permission. Solution: Repeat the steps for the right app.
• 🔴 Option not available in settings Reason: Outdated firmware or modified build (e.g. custom firmware).Solution: Update MIUI before the latest version or use it ADB.
• 🔴 After updating MIUI Reset the option Reason: Reset permissions on major updates Solution: Reset the option.
• 🔴 On Chinese firmware (China) ROM) Option blocked Reason: Manufacturer restrictions for the Chinese market Solution: go through Global ROM or use a workaround (for example, through ADB magisk).

Another common problem is damaged. APK-If you see a "Parse Error" or "App not installed" error when you install it, try it:

• 🔄 Download the file again (it may be interrupted).
• 📂 Make sure the file has a.apk extension (sometimes browsers save it as.zip or.bin).
• 🛠️ Use a different file manager to open APK.

MIUI 14|

HyperOS|

MIUI 12–13|

MIUI 11 or older |

I don't know.

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How to minimize risks when installing an APK

Allowing installations from unknown sources opens up potential vulnerabilities for your device, and follow these guidelines to mitigate the risks:

• 🔍 Check the sources: Download APK Only from trusted sites (e.g., APKMirror, official developer sites) Avoid torrents and suspicious forums.
• 🛡️ Use antivirus: Install reliable antivirus software (such as Malwarebytes or Bitdefender) and scan APK before installation.
• 🔄 Update your firmware: Check for updates regularly MIUI/HyperOS — They often close vulnerabilities that malware exploits.
• 📋 Read the permissions when installing APK The system shows what permissions the application requests. SMS geolocation without reason is a reason to be wary.

If you frequently install APKs from unknown sources, consider the following precautions:

• 🔐 Turn off permission after installation: Return to settings and deactivate the option for the application you installed through APK.
• 📱 Use the second user profile: B MIUI You can create a guest profile (Settings) → System system → Multiple users) and install questionable applications there.
• 🛑 Block installation via Mi Security: In security settings (Settings) → Annexes → Mi Security → Settings) enable the option “Block the installation of malicious applications».

Remember, even legitimate ones. APK-If you notice suspicious activity after installing the application (such as fast battery discharge or strange notifications), delete it and check the device for viruses.

- The file is downloaded from a site without HTTPS (the address starts with http://).

The file size is suspiciously small (e.g., the game weighs 2MB instead of 100MB).

The app requests unnecessary permissions (for example, a flashlight asks for access to contacts).

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FAQ: Frequent questions about installing APK on Xiaomi