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

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 uses the Mi Browser browser, an app with pre-set bookmarks, sync through Xiaomi account and built-in ad blocking, by default. However, many users prefer alternatives like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Brave because of the faster, more extended or more familiar interface. The problem is that MIUI limits direct browser change by default through the standard Default Apps menu, an option that is often missing or not working properly.

In this article, we will discuss three working methods for changing your browser to Redmi Note 7 (relevant to MIUI 12/13/14), including bypassing system constraints, resetting application settings and manually configuring through the developer. You will also learn why the browser can reset to the standard browser after updating MIUI, and how to avoid this. If you encounter an error "No applications to perform this action" - here is a solution.

Why can’t you just change your default browser on Xiaomi?

Unlike pure Android, MIUI is actively promoting its own services, including Mi Browser, which is manifested in several limitations:

  • 🔍 Settings menu → Annexes → The default application does not have the "Browser" option (unlike other categories, such as "Calls" or "Calls "SMS").
  • 🔄 Even if you have installed an alternative browser, the system can automatically open links to Mi Browser after a reboot or update.
  • 🛠️ Some versions MIUI Blocks the change of standard applications through ADB (developer-driven).

The reason lies in Xiaomi’s policy of integrating its own services (such as Mi Cloud or GetApps) into the browser, and using it to collect anonymous statistics. However, the law does not prohibit users from changing standard applications – it just does not simplify this process.

📊 Which browser do you prefer on Xiaomi?
Mi Browser (standard)
Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Brave
Other

Method 1: Change browser through MIUI settings (does not work on all versions)

This method is the simplest, but only works on some of the Redmi Note 7 firmware (most often on MIUI 12.5 and below).

  1. Open Settings and go to the Applications → Application Management section.
  2. Slip on the three dots in the upper right corner and select the Default Apps.
  3. Find the Browser item (if it is not available, go to method 2 or 3).
  4. Select from the list the browser you want (such as Chrome or Firefox).

If there is no Browser option but there are other categories (e.g. Home Screen or Phone), then your version of MIUI blocks this option.

💡

Before changing your browser, upgrade an alternative app (like Chrome) to the latest version on Google Play, which will help you avoid errors when opening links.

Method 2: Reset application settings (universal method)

If the standard method didn't work, reset the default application settings, which will return the system to factory settings and allow you to re-select the browser:

  1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
  2. Slip on the three dots at the top right and select Reset app settings.
  3. Confirm the action (this won’t delete your data, but will reset all default settings).
  4. After reset, open any link (for example, in a message or email). The system will prompt you to select a browser - specify the desired one and tick Always.

This method works on 90% of the firmware Redmi Note 7, but has a drawback: after reset, you will have to reconfigure other applications by default (for example, for SMS or calls).

Make sure the alternative browser is installed |Close all open tabs in Mi Browser|Save important bookmarks (export them)|Check if the phone has enough charge (minimum 30%)

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Method 3: Manual change through ADB (for power users)

If previous methods didn’t work, use Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a computer debugging tool that requires you to turn on developer mode and connect your phone to your PC, but it works on all versions of MIUI.

Instructions:

  1. Turn on Developer Mode on Redmi Note 7: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on MIUI until the notification "You've become a developer" appears.

Settings → Additional → For Developers

USB debugging

Connect your phone to your computer through USB-Cable (use the original cable for stability).

ADB Tools

Win + R → cmd

adb devices

Make sure the device is identified (should appear its serial number).

com.android.chrome

adb shell cmd package set-home-activity com.android.chrome

Packages of popular browsers:

  • 🌐 Google Chrome: com.android.chrome
  • 🦊 Mozilla Firefox: org.mozilla.firefox
  • ⚡ Brave: com.brave.browser
  • 🔍 DuckDuckGo: com.duckduckgo.mobile.android
  • Reboot the phone.
  • 🔄 Links open in one browser or another: This happens if you don't tick Always when you select your browser. Solution: Open any link (e.g., in Telegram or email). In the browser selection window, tap the right one and activate the option Always.