Installation of applications from third-party sources on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is blocked by default by the security system MIUI. This measure protects the device from malware, but often prevents users from installing it. APK-files from trusted sources, such as betas, modified apps, or software not available on Google Play, and in this article we will look at where the Unknown Sources setting is located in different versions. MIUI, How to activate it correctly and what nuances it is important to consider so as not to put the phone at risk.
The procedure differs depending on the firmware version: MIUI 12/13 has one path to settings, while MIUI 14 (and later) has changed the interface, and after the system update, the parameters can be reset, so we will show you how to check the current status of the resolution and, if necessary, turn it on again.
Why is Xiaomi blocking the installation from unknown sources?
The third-party APK blocking feature is introduced for a reason, and the manufacturer has three key objectives:
- 🛡️ Virus protection: Most malware is spread through files APK, downloaded from unverified sites. MIUI By default, only Google Play and Xiaomi GetApps Store are allowed to install.
- 🔒 Google Policy Compliance: To certify Android devices, manufacturers are required to restrict installation from unknown sources. Xiaomi follows these rules but leaves the user the option to disable lock manually.
- ⚖️ Legal liability: If a user installs a virus and suffers from a data breach, Xiaomi can avoid claims because it warns of the risks of activating the feature.
But blocking is a problem for the power users, and without permissions, you can't:
- 📱 Install alternative launchers (e.g. Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher) from official sites.
- 🎮 Run game emulators (PPSSPP, Dolphin) with modified assemblies.
- 🔧 Use utilities to unlock the bootloader or obtain root rights (Magisk, TWRP).
It is important to understand that permission to install from unknown sources only applies to the specific browser or file manager through which you open the APK. For example, if you have activated an option for Chrome, then if you try to install a file through Xiaomi Files, you will have to turn on the permission again.
Where to find the Unknown Sources setting in MIUI 12 and 13
The MIUI 12 and MIUI 13 firmware have the same path to setup, but may vary slightly depending on the Redmi model (e.g., the Redmi Note 10 Pro and Redmi 9A have different menus).
- Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
- Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
- In the upper right corner, press three dots (⋮) and select Special Access.
- Slip on the item Installation from unknown sources.
- In the list of applications, select the one you plan to install APKs through (e.g. Chrome, Xiaomi Files, or Telegram).
- Activate the switch Allow installation from this source.
If the application is not in the list, first open it through any APK-The system will automatically add it to the Unknown Sources menu, for example, to add a Telegram, download a file through it. APK And try to install it - after that the application will appear in the settings.
Download the APK file from a trusted source | Check the file for viruses (e.g. via VirusTotal) | Open the APK through the desired application (Chrome, Files, etc.) | Enable permission for this application in the settings
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⚠️ Note: Some Redmi models (e.g. Redmi 8 or Redmi) 9C) The option "Special Access" can be called "Additional" or "Extended Settings." If you do not find an option, search the settings (the magnifier icon at the top of the screen) and enter the request "unknown sources».
How to Include Unknown Sources in MIUI 14 and Newer
Starting with MIUI 14, Xiaomi has simplified the interface, but has slightly changed the settings.
- Go to Settings → Apps.
- Select Application Management → Special access.
- Slip on Install Unknown Applications (in some localizations, “Installation from External Sources”).
- In the list, find the application you use to open the APK (such as Files or Browser).
- Switch the slider to the "Allow" position.
MIUI 14 also introduced the malware protection feature (under Settings → Memory and RAM). If it is active, the system will further scan the APKs installed for viruses, and we recommend that you do not disable this option even if you have allowed the installation from unknown sources.
| MIUI version | The path to adjustment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12 / 13 | Settings → Applications → Application Management → Special Access → Installation from Unknown Sources | You need to allow each application separately (Chrome, Files, etc.). |
| MIUI 14 | Settings → Applications → Application Management → Special Access → Installation of Unknown Applications | The interface is simplified, but the logic is the same – the resolution is given for a specific source. |
| MIUI for POCO | Settings → Applications → Permissions → Installation of unknown applications | On POCO devices (e.g., POCO X3 Pro), the path may be different. |
If you still can’t install APK after activating the permission, check:
- 📌 Is there enough memory on the device (needs at least 200-300 MB of free space).
- 🔄 Is the file intact? APK (Try to download it again).
- 🔒 Does the antivirus installation block (stop it temporarily).
What if the “Allow installation” button is inactive?
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the switch in the Unknown Sources settings is gray and it cannot be turned on.
- Child Mode Device (Parental Control) If a child profile or restrictions are activated on the phone via Mi Account, some settings are blocked. To remove the restriction: Settings → Accounts → Parental Controls → Disable
- Organizational Security Policy (for work phones) On corporate devices, the administrator may prohibit installation APK through MDM-So, you can use solutions like Microsoft Intune, and you can only reset to factory settings or go to the factory. IT-division.
- Damaged firmware or failure MIUI If the problem occurs after the update, try: Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → Reset If it does not help - reset settings (Settings) → Additionally. → Recovery and reset), but pre-backup data.
Another possible reason is that there's no permission to write to system folders, and that's true for devices with unlocked bootloaders or root rights, to check:
- Install the Root Checker app from Google Play.
- If you have root access, use Magisk or SuperSU to reclaim the rights to system partitions.
How to get around the lock without including unknown sources?
Security: How to install APK and not catch a virus?
Permission to install from unknown sources opens the door not only to useful software, but also to malware.
- 🔍 Check the source: Download APK Only from official developer sites or trusted repositories (APKMirror, APKPure) Avoid torrents and questionable forums.
- 🛡️ Scan files: Before installation, download APK VirusTotal or check through built-in antivirus MIUI (Settings → Memory and RAM → Scan).
- 📋 Read permissions: When you install, the system shows what features the phone requests access to. SMS geolocation without cause - it is suspicious.
- 🔄 Update: Outdated versions APK You can have vulnerabilities. You can manually monitor updates.
If the app behaves strangely after installation (for example, shows ads in the status bar or consumes traffic in the background), immediately delete it and check the phone with antivirus.
⚠️ Note: Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online or Tinkoff) block work on devices with permissioned unknown sources or root rights. If you need financial services, create a separate user profile (Settings) → System system → Multiplayer mode) and install APK only.
Frequent errors when installing APK on Xiaomi Redmi
Even after you turn on Unknown Sources, users are faced with errors.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Failed to install the app. | The APK file is corrupted or designed for a different processor architecture (ARM/x86). | Download the file again from the official source. ARM is good for Redmi with Snapdragon processor, ARM is good for MediaTek, ARM64 is good for MediaTek. |
| Application not installed | Conflict with the already installed version of the program. | Remove the old app through Settings → Apps, then re-install. |
| Installation blocked by security policy | Mi Protect or Corporate Restrictions are activated. | Turn off Mi Protect in Settings → Password and Security or contact the device administrator. |
| Lack of memory | There is no room for installation on the system partition. | Clear the cache (Settings) → Memory. → Clear) or transfer files to SD-map. |
If the APK does not install with the Parsing Packet error, chances are the file is not fully downloaded or its format has changed (for example, instead of.apk extension.zip).
💡
Before installing modified apps (such as YouTube Vanced or Spotify Premium), disable automatic updates to Google Play. Otherwise, the original version will overwrite the modified version: Play Store → Menu → Settings → Auto-Update apps → Never.
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
Can I turn on unknown sources for all applications at once?
After the MIUI update, the settings reset. How do I get the permission back?
Will unknown sources work after the phone is reset to factory settings?
Can I install APK on Xiaomi Redmi without including unknown sources?
Why are some APKs not installed even with unknown sources included?
💡
Enabling Unknown Sources on Xiaomi Redmi is not a one-time procedure; permission must be given separately for each application through which you open the APK. After updating the MIUI or resetting the option, you will have to activate again.