Xiaomi Mi 9T (also known as Redmi K20 in some regions) comes with a pre-installed MIUI Browser browser that automatically becomes the default browser. However, many users prefer alternatives like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Opera because of the faster speed, sync with other devices or enhanced privacy features. In this article, we will discuss how to change the default browser on your Mi 9T, avoiding typical errors, and what to do if the system does not allow you to choose the desired application.
The setup process depends on the version of MIUI (Android shell from Xiaomi) and the installed updates. On older versions of firmware (MIUI 11 and below), the algorithm may differ from current builds (MIUI 12/13/14). We will look at universal methods that work on most devices, as well as nuances for specific cases - for example, if the desired browser does not appear in the default application list.
Before proceeding, make sure that:
- 📱 On your Xiaomi Mi. 9T You have an alternative browser (such as Chrome or Firefox) installed. If not, download it from Google Play.
- 🔄 The device is updated to the latest firmware version (check in Settings). → The phone. → Updating the system).
- 🔒 You have administrator rights (no root required, but sometimes you need permissions for system applications).
Why you should change the default browser to Xiaomi Mi 9T
The pre-installed MIUI Browser has a number of features that not all users like:
- 📊 Data Collection: Xiaomi’s browser is integrated with the ecosystem MIUI and can transmit anonymous telemetry (even if you have disabled ad personalization).
- ⚡ Performance: Compared to Chrome or Firefox, MIUI Browser is often slower on resource-intensive sites (e.g. heavy-JavaScript).
- 🔗 Sync: There is no built-in sync with Google or Mozilla accounts, which is inconvenient for users of multiple devices.
- 🛠️ Limited Extensions: Unlike Desktop Versions Chrome/Firefox, MIUI Browser does not support most plugins (e.g. AdBlock).
In addition, some sites (especially banking or corporate portals) may block access through MIUI Browser due to the specifics of its engine or certificates, in which case changing the browser by default becomes not desirable, but a necessary measure.
There are also advantages, however: MIUI Browser is optimized for battery savings and works better with reading mode (night mode, reducing eye strain).If these features are critical for you, you may want to leave it as your primary browser, but configure an alternative browser for specific tasks.
Preparation: What to do before changing your browser
Before you change your browser by default, follow a few simple steps to avoid problems:
- Install an alternative browser from Google Play: 🌐 Google Chrome – for sync with Google account and support extensions. 🦊 Mozilla Firefox – Enhanced privacy and open source. 🎭 Opera – if you need a built-in VPN and-blocker.
Update MIUI
MIUI 10
Clear the MIUI Browser cache
Settings → Applications → Application Management → MIUI Browser → Storage → Clear the cache
If you want to completely remove MIUI Browser, keep in mind: this is a system application, and its uninstallation is possible only with root rights or through ADB. Without root, you can only turn off the browser (but this does not always solve the problem with opening links).
Download an alternative browser from Google Play|
Update MIUI to the latest version|
Clear the MIUI Browser| cache
Check for administrator rights (if you need to remove system applications)-->
Step-by-step: how to change the browser by default
The way you change your browser depends on the version of MIUI. Below is a universal algorithm that works on most devices, including the Xiaomi Mi 9T:
Method 1: Application settings (MIUI 12/13/14)
- Open the settings on your smartphone.
- Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
- Press three points (⋮) in the upper right corner and select the Applications by default.
- Slip on Browser.
- In the list, select the browser you want (such as Chrome or Firefox).
If your browser is not on the list, try opening it manually first and waiting for the system to suggest making it the primary one. For example, open Chrome, enter any address (such as google.com), and click Always or Use by default in the window that appears.
Method 2: Through browser settings (if the first method did not work)
- Open an alternative browser (such as Chrome).
- Go to your settings (usually through the ⋮ → Settings).
- Find the default browser or the default application.
- Click Make the default browser – the system will redirect you to Android settings, where you need to confirm the selection.
Some versions of MIUI (especially MIUI 11 and below) may require resetting the default application settings.
- Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Press on. ⋮ → Reset application settings.
- After reset, open any browser and follow the system instructions.
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If links still open in MIUI Browser after changing your browser, try clearing your default app settings (see method above) or restarting your phone.
What to do if the browser does not appear in the default list
Sometimes the installed browser (such as Firefox or Opera) does not appear in the default application list.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Browser not visible in settings | The application is not declared as a browser in the manifest | Update your browser or install a different version (e.g. Chrome Beta) |
| The system ignores choice | Conflict with MIUI Browser (he intercepts links) | Turn off MIUI Browser in Settings → Applications → Application Management → MIUI Browser → Disable |
| The "Browser" option is not in the settings | Outdated version of MIUI (below 12) | Update the firmware or use it ADB-team (see below) |
| Links open in MIUI Browser despite settings | System settings cache | Clear the Settings cache in Settings → Applications → App Management → Settings → Storage → Clear the cache |
If none of these methods worked, try resetting your network settings:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings.
- Confirm the reset and restart the phone.
- After the reboot, repeat the default browser setting.
ADB-method
How to Get MIUI Browser Back
If you decide to go back to the standard browser after experimenting, do the following:
- Open Settings → Applications → Application Management → Default Apps.
- Select the browser and tap on MIUI Browser.
- If MIUI Browser has been disabled, turn it back on to Settings → Applications → Application Management → MIUI Browser → Enable.
For experienced users, there is another way – changing intent filters through the ADB. It allows you to redirect everything. HTTP/HTTPS-links to the selected browser, bypassing the restrictions MIUI. However, this method requires command line knowledge and can disrupt system stability.
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Third-party utilities like App Chooser or Tasker offer more flexibility than standard MIUI settings, but may require additional permissions.