Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is a necessary feature for users who want to install APK-This may be necessary for testing beta versions of programs, using regionally blocked services or installing modified applications, but the manufacturer by default blocks this option for security reasons: The risk of infection with viruses or installation of malware increases significantly.
In this article, we will discuss in detail all the ways to activate this option on the Redmi Note 8 (including the Note 8 Pro and Note 8T models), explain the nuances of working with MIUI 12/13/14, and provide a security checklist to minimize risks.
Important: the procedure takes no more than 2-3 minutes, but requires care. Errors when changing security settings can lead to unstable system operation or even locking Mi Account if you suspect a hack. All steps are tested on current versions of MIUI (as of June 2026).
Why is Xiaomi blocking the installation from unknown sources?
Xiaomi manufacturer by default disables the installation option APK-Files from third-party sources not for whims, but for objective reasons:
✅ Virus protection: According to Kaspersky Lab, more than 60% of Android malware is spread through fake malware. APK-files masquerading as popular apps (such as modified versions of WhatsApp or TikTok).
✅ Compliance with Google Policy: To ensure that Xiaomi devices are certified by Google Mobile Services (GMS), The company is obliged to limit the installation of uncertified applications, which applies to all smartphones with preinstalled Play Market.
✅ Controlling ecosystems MIUI. Xiaomi is actively promoting its own app store, the Mi App Store, where all programs are moderation. By allowing installation from unknown sources, the user deprives the company of the ability to control the quality of content on the device.
However, the lock is not absolute. MIUI provides flexible settings that allow you to temporarily or permanently unlock APK installation for specific applications (such as browsers or file managers).
Preparing a smartphone: what to do before changing the settings
Before you start installing from unknown sources, follow the mandatory preparatory steps to avoid errors and failures:
🔹 Update. MIUI Outdated firmware may contain vulnerabilities or may not support up-to-date security settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI. If an update is available, install it.
🔹 Back up your data. Use the built-in Settings tool. → Additionally. → Backup and reset or third-party utilities like Titanium Backup (requires root) will protect your data in case of possible failures.
🔹 Check the vacant space for installation. APK-Files require a minimum of 500 MB of free space on the internal drive. → Warehouse.
🔹 Turn it off. VPN Some services (e.g. NordVPN or Psiphon) may block access to system security settings.
If you are planning to install APK-files from the memory card, pre-format it in format FAT32 or exFAT via storage settings. Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 does not support installation with NTFS-accumulator.
☑️ Preparation for unblocking of the installation APK
Step-by-step: how to enable installation from unknown sources
The activation procedure depends on the MIUI version and regional firmware. Below is a universal algorithm that runs on the global and European versions of the Redmi Note 8 (including the Note 8 Pro). For Chinese firmware (MIUI China), additional actions are required - see the next section.
📌 Step 1. Open Settings (cog icon on the home screen or in the app menu).
📌 Step 2 Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
📌 Step 3. In the upper right corner, press three dots (⋮) and select Special Access.
📌 Step 4: Install from unknown sources (in some versions – Install unknown applications).
📌 Step 5: You will see a list of applications that you can allow to install. APK. Select the right one (such as Chrome, File Manager, or Mi Browser) and activate the switch.
⚠️ Attention: permission is given separately for each application. APK You use Chrome, but you try to install it through the File Manager, the system will block the process. Make sure the switch is on for the application you open through. APK-file.
📌 Step 6. Confirm the action in the dialog box by clicking Allow or OK.
After that, you can install it. APK-files downloaded through the selected application. Repeat the steps for other programs if necessary.
What if the item "Installation from unknown sources" is not on the menu?
Features for Chinese firmware (MIUI China)
If your Redmi Note 8 runs on the Chinese version of MIUI (it is only officially distributed in China), the standard way to enable the APK installation will not work.
🔧 Option 1: Install global firmware. The most reliable method, but requires unlocking the bootloader and firmware through the Mi Flash Tool. 4PDA or XDA Developers. ⚠️ Warning: This will result in a complete data reset and may void the warranty.
🔧 Option 2: Use ADB-Connect the phone to the PC, activate Debugging. USB (Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Tap 7 times, then return to the additional → For developers) and execute the command:
adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 1After restarting the device, the option will appear in the menu.
🔧 Option 3: Install APK through TWRP. If your Redmi Note 8 has custom recovery installed (TWRP), you can stitch APK-files directly through it, bypassing restrictions MIUI. For that:
- Download APK to the memory card.
- Load to TWRP (Hold Power + Volume Up).
- Select Install and specify the path to the file.
⚠️ Note: Using unofficial firmware or modified recovery deprives you of the right to warranty service.In addition, Chinese firmware may contain built-in restrictions (for example, blocking Google services), which can not be avoided without a complete flashing.
| Unlocking method | Difficulty | Risks. | You need a PC? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard settings (global MIUI) | ⭐ (simple) | Minimum | No. |
| ADB-team | ⭐⭐ (middle-of-the-road) | Resetting settings in case of error | Yes. |
| Firmware for Global MIUI | ⭐⭐⭐ (difficult) | Data loss, risk of "brick" | Yes. |
| Installation via TWRP | ⭐⭐⭐ (difficult) | Loss of security, instability | No. |
How to check if an installation from unknown sources is enabled?
After changing the settings, make sure that the function is working correctly.
🔍 Method 1: Testing APK-Download a harmless application (e.g. APKMirror Installer from APKMirror) and try installing it. If the process is error-free, the settings are correctly applied.
🔍 Method 2: Check the settings. Go back to Settings. → Annexes → Special access → Install from unknown sources and make sure the switch next to the desired application is active (slider shifted to the right, color blue or green).
🔍 Method 3: System Log. Use Logcat Extreme (requires root) or enter into the Logcat Extreme app. ADB team:
adb logcat | grep "package_install"If the log appears lines with "INSTALL_NON_MARKET_APPS allowed" - function enabled.
⚠️ Note: Some antiviruses (e.g. Avast or 360 Security) may block installation APK Even with the settings allowed. During installation, turn off the protection in these programs.
1. delete the previous version of this application (if any).
2. Clear the cache in Settings → Apps → Google Play Market → Storage → Clear the cache.
3.Reboot the phone.-->
How to minimize risks when installing an APK
Permission to install from unknown sources opens up access to potentially dangerous content, so to protect your device, follow these rules:
🛡️ Download. APK only from verified sources:
- 🔗 APKMirror – the official mirror site with hash checking.
- 🔗 Aptoide – an alternative store with moderation system.
- 🔗 Official developer sites (such as Telegram or Telegram) VK offer APK direct loading).
❌ Avoid torrent trackers, file sharing sites (Zippyshare, Mediafire) and little-known forums.
🛡️ Check the hash sums of files. Compare before installing. MD5 or SHA-1 hash APK Use a reference (usually listed on the developer's website) utility like Hash Droid (available on the Play Market).
🛡️ Use a sandbox (SandBoxie for Android) and apps like Shelter or Island let you run untrusted apps. APK in an isolated environment without affecting the main system.
🛡️ Scan your device regularly. Install an antivirus with a signature base for Android (like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender) and check after each installation. APK.
🛡️ Revoke permissions after installation. If you have enabled installation from unknown sources for Chrome, but no longer plan to use it, disable this option in the settings.
💡
Even if APK-The file is downloaded from a reliable source, always check permission requests when installing. SMS geolocation without reason - this is a reason to refuse installation.
Frequent mistakes and their solutions
When trying to enable installation from unknown sources or install an APK, Redmi Note 8 users often encounter problems.
❌ "The installation is locked when the permission is on. APK Solution: Go back to settings and activate the option for the application you open the file through (for example, File Manager or Total Commander).
❌ "Parse Error in the installation APK. An error occurs when:
- 📱 The file is corrupted (download it).
- 📱 APK is intended for a different processor architecture (e.g., for arm64, Your Redmi Note 8 is used for armv8).
- 📱 There is not enough memory in the system (free up space).
❌ "The app is not supported on your device. This means that APK It is designed for a newer version of Android. 8 It works on Android 9/10/11 (Check compatibility on the developer's website.
❌ There's no "Install from unknown sources" in the settings. You probably have Chinese firmware (MIUI Use the methods in section 4 (ADB or firmware of the global version).
❌ "I couldn't analyze the package. Signature error APK. Try it:
- Delete the old version of the app.
- Clear the Google Play Services data in the settings.
- Install APK via ADB: adb install path/to/file.apk