How to Enable Unknown Sources on Xiaomi: Instructions for MIUI 12, 13 and 14

Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a necessary feature for users who want to download APK-files outside of Google Play or the official Mi App Store. MIUI This measure protects against malware, but also limits freedom of action: you can not install beta versions of programs, modified applications or software from independent developers.

In this article, you will find the most current ways to unlock the APK installation on Xiaomi in 2026, including nuances for different versions of MIUI (12 to 14), as well as solutions to typical problems – from the absence of an item on the menu to installation errors.

Why do you need “Unknown Sources” on Xiaomi?

By default, MIUI only allows you to install apps from trusted sources: Google Play Market, Mi App Store or pre-approved stores (such as APKMirror via browser).

• 📱 Beta testing: many applications (including system ones from Xiaomi) are distributed in the form of APK tester.
• 🔧 Modified versions: for example, YouTube Vanced, Spotify Premium or patch games.
• 🌍 Regional restrictions: some programs are not available in your country through official stores.
• 🛠️ Backup: Restore applications from backup (e.g., via Titanium Backup).

It is important to understand that unlocking unknown sources disables some of the protection of MIUI. Malware can get into the system if you install files from unreliable resources. For example, in 2023, researchers at Kaspersky discovered more than 200 infected APKs masquerading as popular games and utilities for Xiaomi.

⚠️ Attention: If you download APK From torrent trackers or little-known sites, be sure to check files through VirusTotal or Malwarebytes. Even legitimate applications may contain advertising modules or spyware.

Official method: enable via MIUI settings

The easiest and safest method is to activate the option in the settings menu. The instructions are suitable for MIUI 12, 13 and 14, but may vary slightly depending on the model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T, etc.).

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
3. Select Special Permissions (in some firmwares – Application Permissions).
4. Slip on Install Unknown Applications.
5. In the list, select the application you will install APK through (for example, File Manager, Chrome or Xiaomi Browser).
6. Activate the switch Allow installation from this source.

After that, you can open it. APK-For example, if you have allowed installation for Chrome, the files downloaded through it will be installed without additional confirmation.

Note: Some devices (e.g. Redmi 10C with MIUI 13.0.6) may not have Install Unknown Applications. In this case, try the alternative methods described below.

Alternative Incorporation Methods (if the Standard Method Fails to Work)

If your version of MIUI does not have the Unknown Sources option or is blocked (for example, on corporate devices), use one of these methods:

1. via ADB (for advanced users)

The method requires connecting the smartphone to a PC and using Android Debug Bridge (ADB). Suitable for MIUI 14 and later, where some settings are hidden.

adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 1

Once you have completed the command, restart the device, which unlocks the APK installation globally, but may not work on all firmware.

2. Through the Developer Mode

Activate Developer Mode (7 times tap the MIUI version in Settings → About Phone), then:

1. Go to Additional Settings → For developers.
2. Find the Debugging by USB and turn it on.
3. Connect your phone to your PC and use it ADB-top-down.

Installation via TWRP (for unlocked bootloader)

If your Xiaomi has custom recovery installed (TWRP), You can sew it up. ZIP-file-unlocking:

• 📁 Download the Magisk module to disable signature verification APK.
• 🔄 Reboot to TWRP and sew ZIP.
• 🔄 Reset the device.

⚠️ Attention: Use TWRP Unlocking the bootloader resets all data and may disqualify warranties. 12S Ultra, Redmi K50 Pro) it also blocks data encryption.

Table: Compatibility of methods with MIUI versions

Typical errors and their solutions

Even after you turn on Unknown sources, users are facing problems, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

1. "Installation locked" error

Reason: MIUI blocks installation due to:

• 🔒 Untrusted certificate APK (For example, modified applications).
• 📱 Manufacturer restrictions (on some models for China).
• 🛡️ Antivirus (built-in Mi Security or third-party).

Decision:

• Turn off Mi Security in the settings.
• Try installing APKs through another application (e.g. SAF instead of File Manager).
• Use adb install path/to/file.apk via PC.

2.The "Install" button is inactive

The reason: APK is designed for a different processor architecture (e.g. arm64 instead of arm) or a newer version of Android.

Decision:

• Check the compatibility of APK on the developer’s website.
• Download the version for armeabi-v7a (if you have an old Redmi).

3.After the MIUI update, the settings reset

Reason: Updating your firmware can reset permissions for unknown sources.

Decision:

• Re-enable the option in the settings.
• Use Magisk to unlock permanently (requires root).

Security: How to minimize risks

Installing apps from unknown sources increases the likelihood of malware infection. Follow these rules to protect your Xiaomi:

• 🔍 Check the sources: Download APK Only from trusted sites (APKMirror, APKPure, official developer sites).
• 🛡️ Use antivirus: Install Malwarebytes or Bitdefender to scan files before installation.
• 🔄 Update. MIUI: In new versions of the firmware, protection against vulnerabilities is improved (for example, in the case of the MIUI 14 added scanner APK real-time).
• 📋 Read permissions: Before installing, check what rights the application requests (e.g. access to the app). SMS geolocation without cause - a sign of a virus).

Additional measure: Back up your data before installing unknown APKs. Use Mi Cloud or Google Drive to save contacts, photos and settings. If infected, you can quickly restore the system.

💡

If you install APKs frequently, create a separate user on Android (via Settings → System → Multiplayer) and test the software there.

Frequently asked questions

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The inclusion of Unknown Sources on Xiaomi is a trade-off between convenience and security: Always assess the risks and use reliable APK sources to avoid infecting the device.