How to change the default browser on Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: 3 proven ways

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 uses the Mi Browser browser, an application with integrated Xiaomi services, advertising and a specific interface. Many users prefer alternatives like Google Chrome, Firefox or Opera, but when faced with MIUI settings, they can not find exactly where the default browser changes. The problem is compounded by the fact that different versions of the firmware may have different paths to settings, and some applications (such as Chrome) are not always correctly registered in the system as browsers.

In this article, you will find current ways to change the default browser for Redmi Note 7 to MIUI 11-14, including bypassing typical errors (for example, when the desired application does not appear in the list). We will also discuss why settings can reset after updating the system, and how to avoid this. All instructions are tested on real devices - without theoretical assumptions.

Why can’t Redmi Note 7 just select the default browser?

Unlike pure Android, MIUI imposes restrictions on changing some system applications by default.

• 🔒 Xiaomi: the company promotes its services (including Mi Browser), so hides the settings deeper than in standard Android.
• 📱 Version MIUI: firmware MIUI 12 the path to settings was different from the modern versions (for example, in the MIUI 14 there was a separate section "Default applications").
• 🔄 Resets after updates: with major system updates (for example, with MIUI 12.5 on MIUI 13) browser settings may be reset.
• 🚫 Blocking Third Party Browsers: Some apps (such as Brave or DuckDuckGo) don’t appear in the list due to restrictions MIUI.

In addition, on the Redmi Note 7 (as well as on other Xiaomi smartphones), there is a nuance: even after changing the default browser, some system functions (for example, opening links from Mi Home or Mi Community) will still use the Mi Browser.

Method 1: Standard change via MIUI settings (works on MIUI 12–14)

This is the most reliable method that is suitable for most users, and the instructions are relevant for Redmi Note 7 with MIUI 12.5 firmware and later (including MIUI 14).

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
2. Scroll down and select the Applications → Application Management section.
3. At the top of the screen, press three dots (⋮) and select the Applications by default.
4. Slip on the Browser item. If it's not there, see the solution below.
5. From the list of available browsers, select the browser you want (such as Chrome or Firefox). If the app doesn't show up, install it from Google Play and restart the phone.

Important! After selecting a browser, the system can request confirmation through a pop-up window. If the window does not appear, check if notifications for the Settings application (Settings → Notifications → System Applications) are blocked.

What to do if the settings do not have the "Browser" item?

This problem is typical for Redmi Note 7 with MIUI 11 firmware or modified versions (such as custom ROM).

• 📌 The item is hidden due to regional restrictions (for example, on the Chinese versions). MIUI).
• 🔧 System settings reset after update.
• 🛠️ Standard options are removed in firmware (relevant for unofficial builds).

Decisions:

1. Update your firmware to the latest stable version via Settings → About Phone → System Update. After the update, the Browser item should appear.
2. Use it. ADB-Adb shell settings put global settings http_proxy:0 This command will reset proxy settings, which sometimes helps to return hidden options.
3. Install Launcher from another manufacturer (like Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher).Some launchers let you assign default apps through their settings.

Method 2: Change browser on older versions of MIUI (11 and below)

If your Redmi Note 7 is running MIUI 11 or earlier, the path to settings will be different.

1. Open Settings → Applications → All applications.
2. In the upper right corner, click on the filter icon (three horizontal lines) and select Default.
3. Find the Browser in the list and tap it.
4. Choose the app you want from the one you can find. If the list is empty, install the browser from Google Play and restart the phone.

On MIUI 10 and below, an additional step may be required:

⚠️ Note: If after selecting the browser links still open in Mi Browser, clear the cache and application data Settings (Settings) → Annexes → All applications → Settings → Warehouse → Clear cache/Clear data) This will reset all user settings, but will return the functionality to the service.

Method 3: Use of third-party utilities (for power users)

If standard methods don't work, you can use third-party tools, and one of the most reliable is the Default App Manager app (available on Google Play), which allows you to manually assign apps by default, even if they don't appear in the system settings.

Instructions:

1. Download and install Default App Manager from Google Play.
2. Open the application and grant it administrator rights (if requested).
3. In the category list, select Browser.
4. Slip on the desired browser and confirm the choice.

Warning: Applications like Default App Manager can conflict with MIUI system services. If you have lags or errors after using them, uninstall the utility and reset settings through Settings → Additional → Reset (select App Resets, not a full reset!).

💡

If you frequently change browsers by default, create a shortcut for quick access: add the shortcut widget to the home screen and select Settings → Default Apps.

How to check if your browser has changed?

To make sure that the settings are applied correctly, follow the following steps:

1. Open any app that has links (such as Telegram or Gmail).
2. Tap any link. It should open in the browser you choose.
3. Check if a browser-selected pop-up appears, and if it does, the settings are not saved.

If links still open in Mi Browser, try:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone.
• 🗑️ Clear the browser cache you want to use by default (Settings) → Annexes → [Browser name] → Warehouse → Clear the cache).
• 📥 Reinstall an alternative browser.

⚠️ Note: On some versions MIUI (especially Chinese) system links (e.g. from Settings or Mi Community) will always open in Mi Browser, regardless of your settings. This is a firmware restriction, and you can only circumvent it with root rights.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

When you change your default browser to Redmi Note 7, you'll find that you're experiencing some common problems, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

If none of the methods worked, check if your device has modified firmware (such as Xiaomi.EU or custom ROM). These builds often change system settings, and you may need to edit the build.prop file to change your browser.

💡

The most reliable way is to use standard settings. MIUI (Method 1). Third-party utilities and ADB-Use commands only if other methods do not help.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions