How to change the default browser on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones: 5 proven ways

Why Xiaomi Redmi is difficult to change the standard browser and what to do about it

Owners of Xiaomi Redmi smartphones often face a problem: the system stubbornly opens links in the standard MIUI Browser, even if Chrome, Firefox or Edge are installed. It is all about the aggressive policy of MIUI, which blocks the change of some system settings “for security.” But there is a way out – and there are several of them.

In this article, we will analyze 5 working methods for changing the default browser, including bypassing the limitations of MIUI 12/13/14. Relevant for all Redmi models - from the budget Redmi 9A to the flagship Redmi K60 Pro. Important: some methods require administrator rights or disable battery optimization - we will warn you about this in advance.

Before you start, check:

• 📱 Is an alternative browser installed (download from Google Play or APKMirror)
• 🔄 Is the firmware updated (in Settings) → The phone. → Update MIUI)
• 🔒 Is there an active "Mode for children" (it blocks changes to system applications)

Method 1: Standard Applications by Default menu (works on 60% of devices)

The most obvious way is through Android settings, but in MIUI, this section is often hidden or restricted.

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management
2. Slip on three dots in the upper right corner → Default Apps
3. Select the browser and specify the desired application (for example, Chrome)

⚠️ Note: Some firmware may not have the default App. If it's not, go to method 2 or 3.

If the menu is available but nothing changes after the selection, follow the following steps:

• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes changes only apply after a reboot
• 🚫 Turn off auto-update MIUI Browser in Google Play
• 📵 Clear the browser cache in Settings → Annexes → MIUI Browser → Warehouse

Method 2: Reset application settings (radical but effective)

When standard methods don't work, a complete reset of application settings will help, which will return all the "failures" to factory settings, after which you can re-select the browser.

Instructions:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management
2. Tap on three points → Reset application settings
3. Confirm the action (password or fingerprint is not required)
4. After reset, immediately open any link - the system will suggest choosing a browser

⚠️ Note: This method will reset all settings of all applications, including permissions, notifications and authorization data.Do not use it if you have set up complex rules for other programs (for example, auto-enable). VPN or background lock for camera).

Method 3: Use ADB-Teams (for advanced users)

If previous methods don’t work, you’ll have to connect your phone to your computer and use Android Debug Bridge (ADB), Google’s official tool for managing Android devices.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux
• 📱 Cable USB (preferably original)
• 🔧 Installed drivers ADB (download from Google)
• 🔓 Included debugging by USB phone-on

Step-by-step:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Tapnet 7 times on MIUI Version Enter the password from Xiaomi account if required

USB debugging

Settings → Additional → For Developers

Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer

Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with ADB

adb shell pm clear --user 0 com.android.browser

(This will reset the settings of the standard browser)

adb shell am start -a android.settings.MANAGE_DEFAULT_APPS_SETTINGS

(Opens the application menu by default)

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB It can cause a system malfunction. Never follow a type of command. `adb shell pm uninstall --user 0 com.android.browser` — This will completely remove the system browser and may cause errors in the MIUI.

Method 4: Disable MIUI Browser through "Special Features"

Little-known life hack: in MIUI, you can disable system applications through the special features menu. This will not remove the browser, but will make it inaccessible for automatic link opening.

How it works:

1. Open Settings → Special Opportunities → Special Opportunities Services
2. Find MIUI Browser in the list and tap it.
3. Turn off all switches (especially Autostart and Display on top of other windows)
4. Return to Settings → Applications → Application Management
5. Find MIUI Browser, open its page and click Disable

If you're still up to it,

1. Unlock the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool
2. Install TWRP Recovery for your Redmi model
3. Download compatible firmware from the XDA Developers or 4PDA forum
4. Fly through fastboot or TWRP

⚠️ Note: Before the firmware make a full backup through TWRP On some Redmi models (such as the Redmi Note 10 Pro), unlocking the bootloader erases data from internal memory, including photos and contacts.

💡

Installing custom firmware is the last chance to change the default browser, but it is only suitable for advanced users. For most tasks, there are enough ways 1-4.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even after a successful browser change, Redmi users are plagued with bugs, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

If the problem is not resolved, check:

• 📋 Are there any active job profiles (they can block changes)
• 🔒 Is Safe Mode enabled (only system applications are running)
• 🛠️ Are there any “cleaning” utilities like Clean Master installed – they often reset settings?

FAQ: Answers to popular questions