Owning a Xiaomi or Redmi smartphone often begins with getting used to a corporate shell that dictates its own rules for working with the system. By default, the Chinese manufacturer has its own Mi Browser browser, which automatically opens when clicking on links from messengers. However, many users are not satisfied with the abundance of advertising in the news feed or a specific interface, and they prefer to use familiar solutions like Google or Yandex Browser.
The problem is that MIUI and the new HyperOS can insist on returning to a standard app or blocking some of the features of third-party browsers, which creates the feeling that changing the priority application is impossible without complex manipulations. In fact, the algorithm of actions is simple, but requires attention to detail, since menu items can be hidden or renamed in different versions of the firmware.
In this article, we will discuss all the nuances of setting application priorities. You will learn how to force the system to open links in your chosen browser, how to clear the cache of old settings if they are lost, and what features the newest shell HyperOS has. Proper setting will save you time and nerves when using your smartphone every day.
Why Change the Standard Browser on Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s standard browser is often criticized for its aggressive monetization policy, which includes intrusive push notifications and a news feed on the homepage. Users who value the cleanliness of the interface and page loading speed are eager to replace it with lighter and more functional counterparts. Changing the priority app allows you to instantly open web pages in a familiar environment with saved passwords and history.
In addition, third-party browsers often offer more advanced privacy protection tools: Built-in ad blockers, incognito mode with advanced settings, and synchronization with desktop versions are features that can run more stable in specialized applications. For example, Firefox or Brave provide layers of protection not available in a stock solution.
It's important to understand that just installing an alternative app from Google Play is not enough. Android requires a user's explicit indication of which app should handle web links. Without this step, the phone will continue to use Mi Browser or ask how to open a link each time, which creates inconvenience. The key is not to install, but to assign the default status in system settings.
Preparation for setup: installation and updates
Before you start changing system settings, you need to make sure that the desired application is properly installed and updated to the latest version.Old versions of browsers may not properly register as link handlers in the system, which will lead to errors when trying to make them basic. Go to Google Play Market or GetApps and check for updates.
If you have just purchased a new smartphone, the first thing you should do is download the software you need. The installation process is simple, but it requires attention to the permissions the app requests when you first start. Don't ignore storage access requests if you plan to download files, but limit access to contacts if there is no urgent need.
- 📲 Open the Play Market app store on your device.
- 🔍 In the search bar, type the name of the browser you want, such as Chrome or Opera.
- ⬇️ Click the “Install” button and wait for the download to complete.
- 🚀 Launch the application and accept the user agreement.
Once installed, Android can suggest that you set up your browser as your primary browser. In MIUI, this pop-up may not appear immediately or be blocked by security settings. So it's best to manually configure through the settings menu to ensure the result.
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If you use the Chinese version of firmware, the standard GetApps store may not contain the browser you want. APK-Files from verified sources or change region in phone settings.
Main way: Configure through the application menu
The most reliable and versatile method of changing a priority application is available through a common system settings menu.This path works on most versions of MIUI and HyperOS, regardless of the smartphone model, whether it is the flagship Xiaomi 14 or the budget Redmi Note. The algorithm of actions may vary slightly depending on the version of the android, but the logic remains the same.
You need to go to the application management section, which stores all the information about the installed software, including access rights and default launch options, find the application you want to make the main one, rather than the one you want to make now, which is an important nuance, because often users try to configure an already working browser instead of assigning a new one.
☑️ Check before changing the browser
Once you select the right application, you'll see a screen that tells you about it, and we're interested in the default launch item, and in the newer versions of the shell, it can be called "Open by default" or "Start by default." When you click on this, you'll see "Open supported links" or something similar. Switch the switch to the active position or select "Open in this application."
⚠️ Note: If the system says that the application cannot be installed as the primary default, try first opening the browser settings and find the option “Make the default browser” there. Often this redirects you to the desired system menu.
In some cases, especially on older versions of MIUI, an additional step may be required. If after all the manipulations, links still open in the old browser, you need to reset the settings of the previous priority application. To do this, find the Mi Browser application list, go to its properties and click on the “Clear Default Settings” button.
Specifics of the configuration in HyperOS and MIUI 14
With the release of the HyperOS shell, Xiaomi has slightly changed the structure of the settings menu, making it more logical, but unusual for long-time users. The default path to managing applications can now be in the Applications section -> Application Management -> Three dots in the upper right corner -> Default Apps. This path is more direct and eliminates the need to search for each application separately.
In the Default Apps menu, you'll see a list of action categories like calls, messages, and of course, Brower. Clicking on this, the system will suggest a list of all browsers installed. Select the one you want from the list. This is the fastest way that works more stable than configuring through the properties of a particular application.
| Shell version | The path to adjustment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12-13 | Settings -> Applications -> All Applications -> [Browser -> Default | Resetting of the old browser is required |
| MIUI 14 | Settings -> Applications -> Application Management -> Menu -> Default Applications | Central management |
| HyperOS | Settings -> Applications -> Default Applications -> Browser | Simplified interface, quick selection |
It’s worth noting that HyperOS has improved deep linking, which means that if you click on a link from YouTube or Telegram, the transition will be instant and without further confirmation if the browser is set up correctly, but if you use specific browsers with traffic saving features, the system can limit their background activity.
What if the “Browser” item is not in the default list?
Problem Solving: If the settings are not saved
Xiaomi users often face a situation where after a phone reboot or system update, the settings are reset and the links are reopened in the Mi Browser. This can be due to aggressive energy saving system, which “kills” the processes of background applications, or cache errors of system services, in which case a deeper cleaning of the parameters is required.
The first step is to remove updates to the Mi Browser itself if it is system-based and not completely removed. Go to the app settings, click three dots in the corner and select "Delete Updates." This will return the browser to the factory version, which is less intrusive.
- 🗑️ Go to Settings -> Annexes -> All applications.
- 🔍 Find the Mi Browser (or one that gets in the way).
- ⚙️ Click Clear Data and Clear Cache.
- 🔄 Reboot the device and check the link work.
And the problem can be in third-party launchers or optimization apps that you may have installed additionally, which can take over link management, check if you have installed cleaners or antiviruses that have permission to change system settings, and disabling such permissions often solves the problem.
⚠️ Note: When cleaning the system browser data, the history and passwords may be deleted if they were not synced with the Mi Account.
If nothing works, you can use the hidden test menu, but it requires caution. Entering the code ##4636## in the call (not working on all models) opens up a testing menu where you can check the status of components, but direct browser configuration is usually not available there.
Features of working with links in messengers
Special attention should be paid to the behavior of links within applications such as Telegram, WhatsApp or Viber. These messengers often use the mechanism WebView to preview pages. Even if you change the main browser, clicking on a link can open a built-in viewing window inside the messenger itself. This is not a bug, but a feature of the messenger.
To always open links in an external browser, you need to change the settings of the messenger itself. For example, in Telegram you need to go to Settings -> Privacy (or Data and memory) and find the item "Inline browser." Disable this feature, and all links will automatically transfer you to the selected main browser.
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Built-in browser messengers are convenient for quick browsing, but for full work with sites that require data entry or authorization, it is always better to use a full-fledged external application.
On WhatsApp, the situation is similar: when you click on a link, a preview appears, and only when you click on three dots or the "Open in the browser" button, you transition. This behavior cannot be changed globally through the Android settings, because this is the internal logic of the application. However, if you set up the main browser correctly, it will launch when you select "Open", not the Mi Browser.
Security and privacy when changing browser
When choosing a new browser, it is important to consider not only the user-friendliness, but also security issues. Xiaomi’s standard browser is tested for compliance with local laws, which sometimes means the presence of content filters. Third-party browsers may not have such restrictions, which gives freedom, but also requires greater responsibility from the user.
It is recommended to use browsers with regular security updates. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge receive security patches almost immediately after their release, which is critical to protect against phishing and malware that is often spread through web pages.
- 🔒 Use browsers with HTTPS-only support.
- 🛡️ Enable anti-tracking protection in your settings.
- 🚫 Install a reliable ad blocker, such as uBlock Origin (for Firefox) or built-in Brave.
Remember that changing your primary browser also means changing your data storage. Cookies, browsing history and cache will now accumulate in the new app. If you use multiple devices, make sure that the new browser is synchronized with your account (Google, Yandex, Apple, etc.) so that you do not lose access to important sites.