Owning a Xiaomi device is often accompanied not only by high performance, but also by intrusive advertising built into the shell of MIUI or HyperOS. Many users encounter banners in system applications, which reduces the comfort of the gadget. Fortunately, the developers have left the options for fine-tuning, allowing you to minimize or completely eliminate visual noise.
The process of disabling advertising mechanisms requires a consistent approach, since there is no single “magic button”; you will have to go through several settings menus and system applications. Below we will discuss in detail all the steps that will help you make the interface clean and free of unnecessary content.
Before you start making changes, it’s important to understand that some features can be called differently depending on the firmware version.However, the logic of the work remains the same for most models, whether it’s a budget Redmi or flagship Xiaomi. 10-15 minutes of time for initial setting.
Disabling the MSA system advertising service
The central element in charge of displaying banners in the system is the MSA (MIUI System Ads) process, which analyzes your actions and selects advertising offers, the first step is to force it to disable through the authorization menu.
You need to go to the device settings section, look for "Password and Security" or "Printprints, Face Data, and Device Lock." Depending on the version of the shell, the path may vary slightly, but the essence remains the same: looking for privacy settings.
Inside the menu, find the "Authorization & revocation" section. In the app list that opens, search for msa and uncheck it. The system will alert you to the consequences of disconnection, but you must agree to the goal.
⚠️ Attention: When trying to disconnect MSA You may have to wait 10 seconds before you confirm, and if you don't get it the first time, try doing it again, which is a known feature of the shell.
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If the MSA disable button is inactive, temporarily turn off the Internet (Wi-Fi and mobile data), uncheck the tick, and then turn the network back on.
Once the service is successfully shut down, it will no longer receive permission to collect data and display ads, but the changes will not take effect immediately, but after restarting the device or after some time has passed, a method that is basic and mandatory.
Setup of system applications and cleaning
Ad units are often built directly into standard utilities such as Explorer, Music, Themes, and Security, each with its own settings that need to be changed manually for full effect.
Start with the Security app (green shield icon). Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Settings. Here you need to find the Receive Recommendations and deactivate it, and check the Cleanup section, which often hides suggestions for installing redundant programs.
- 📁 Explorer: Open the app, click on the menu (three bars), select Settings» → «About service» → Turn off "Recommendations».
- 🎵 Music: In the Music app, click on the menu, go to Settings» → «Additionally» → Remove the box from “Show advertising».
- 🎨 Topics: In the store, click on the profile avatar, select “Settings” and disable the item “Show ads».
Also, remember to check the Downloads and Calendar app if you are actively using them. In Calendar, the ad settings are located in the event settings menu or in the general configuration section of the app, disabling these options will significantly clean the interface.
☑️ Verification of system applications
Using a private DNS to block
One of the most effective methods working at the network level is to configure a private DNS, which allows you to block advertising requests before they reach your smartphone, and works globally for all apps and browsers.
To implement this, go to Settings → Connect and Sharing (or Wi-Fi). Find Private DNS. The default is Auto or Disabled. You need to select Host Name DNS Provider.
dns.adguard.comEnter dns.adguard.com in the input box and save the settings. After that, all traffic passing through known ad servers will be cut off, not only will it remove banners, but it can also speed up the loading of pages in the browser by not loading heavy ad scripts.
⚠️ Attention: Use of third-party DNS This may cause some carrier services or local ad networks to fail. If you notice problems with Internet access, return your settings. DNS auto-mode».
What to do if the DNS is not working?
Personalization of recommendations and MIUI
MIUI and HyperOS are using personalization algorithms to offer you content in the Recommendations folder on the desktop and in the notification curtain. While not always classic advertising, sponsored news and apps are often found there.
To remove the Recommendations widget (news carousel) from your desktop, press the blank space on the screen to go into edit mode. Swipe left to see the widget tape, and tap the settings gear in the corner. Turn off the Receive Recommendations switch.
You should also look at the system settings. Go to Settings → Password & Security → Access to Personal Data. Here you can limit data collection for various system services, such as Mi Video, Mi Browser and GetApps. Disabling data access for these services limits their ability to target ads.
Pay special attention to GetApps, which also has recommendations that you should turn off to stop the store from imposing installations, an important step for users who don’t use third-party app stores.
Comparison of Ad Blocking Methods
There are many ways to combat intrusive content, but not all are equally effective and safe. Below is a table comparing the main methods by their impact on the system and the complexity of implementation.
| Method | Efficiency | Difficulty | Impact on the system |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSA shutdown | Tall. | Low. | Minimum |
| Private DNS | Maximum | Low. | Absent. |
| Set-up of applications | Medium | Medium | Absent. |
| ADB team | Maximum | Tall. | It requires caution. |
As you can see from the table, a combination of methods is the best thing to do, and using just one method can leave some loopholes for advertisers, such as DNS blocking network requests, but not removing the blank spaces in the interface that remain after the MSA is disabled.
For advanced users, there is the possibility of using commands ADB (Android Debug Bridge: This method allows you to remove system components responsible for advertising, but requires a connection to a computer and basic technical skills. ADB This can lead to unstable operation of the system.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to shut down the MSA service completely?
Will the advertisements return after the system update?
Will installing a third-party launcher help?
Do I need root rights to remove ads?
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The comprehensive application of all methods – disabling MSA, setting up DNS and manual cleaning of applications – guarantees maximum comfort of using the Xiaomi smartphone.
To conclude, it is worth noting that the fight against advertising on Xiaomi is a process that requires attention to detail. the manufacturer balances between low cost devices and monetization through services, so the user must customize the gadget to his needs.
Using the instructions described above, you can turn your smartphone into a tool that works only for you, not advertisers. Regularly checking settings after updates will help keep the interface clean throughout the life of the device.