Choosing the default browser on Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO smartphones is a challenge that every user faces after buying a device or resetting settings. Unlike iOS, where Safari is tightly integrated into the system, the MIUI shell allows you to flexibly manage pre-installed applications, including browsers. However, not everyone knows that in addition to the standard Mi Browser, you can use Google Chrome, Firefox, Opera or even niche solutions like Brave.
In this article, we will not only discuss how to technically change the default browser, but also which browser is better to choose for different scenarios, from traffic savings to maximum privacy. We will focus on the nuances of MIUI 14 and MIUI 15, where the browser change algorithm differs from previous versions.
Why it is important to choose the default browser on Xiaomi
At first glance, choosing a browser may seem like a trifle, but in practice, it affects:
- 🔒 Data security: The standard Mi Browser collects telemetry and displays targeted ads, while Firefox Focus or Brave block trackers by default.
- 📶 Traffic consumption: browsers like Opera Mini or Chrome in Light mode compress data, saving up to 60% of mobile Internet.
- ⚡ Speed: on weak devices (e.g. Redmi) 9A) Mi Browser can slow down due to background processes, while Chrome is optimized for Android.
- 🔄 Sync: If you use a Google account, Chrome automatically syncs bookmarks, passwords, and history between devices.
In addition, some apps (like Telegram or VK) open links in the browser by default. If it is slow or overloaded with Mi Browser ads, the user experience will noticeably deteriorate, and it is worth considering that in China (where Xiaomi is made), many Google services are blocked, so firmware for the global and Chinese markets can behave differently.
Comparison of popular browsers for Xiaomi: pros and cons
Before you change your browser by default, you should evaluate the alternatives. Below is a comparison table with key characteristics:
| browser | Advantages | Deficiencies | Better for you. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Browser | Pre-installed, optimized for MIUI, gesture support | Advertising, data collection, slow operation on weak devices | Users who do not want to install additional applications |
| Google Chrome | Sync with Google account, support for extensions, high speed | High RAM consumption, data collection to personalize advertising | Those who use the Google ecosystem (Gmail, Drive, YouTube) |
| Mozilla Firefox | Open source, strong privacy protection, add-on support | Less optimized for Android than Chrome | Users who care about privacy and customization |
| Opera | Built-in VPN, ad blocker, Turbo mode to save traffic | Chinese origin (owned by Kunlun Tech), sometimes slowing down | People who use public Wi-Fi or limited traffic |
| Brave | Blocks trackers and default ads, ad viewing rewards (BAT tokens) | Less well known, some sites may not work properly | Active users of cryptocurrencies and supporters of a decentralized web |
Important: On China ROM devices, Google Chrome and other Google services may not work without additional manipulation (installing the Google Framework). If you bought a smartphone in China or on AliExpress marked "Global Version", check the firmware version in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version.
Step-by-step: how to change the default browser to Xiaomi
The process of changing the browser depends on the version of MIUI. Below is a universal instruction, relevant for MIUI 12-15:
- Install an alternative browser from Google Play (e.g. Chrome or Firefox). If the Play Market is not available (Chinese firmware), download APK from the official browser site.
- Open any application with a link (such as Telegram or Twitter) and click on it. The system will prompt you to choose a browser.
- In the window that appears, select the desired browser and tick the “Always” (or “Use by default”) box.
- If the window does not appear, go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Browser by default and select the desired option.
On MIUI 14/15, the path may be slightly different.
Settings → Applications → Application settings (cog at the top) → Browser by defaultInstall an alternative browser from an official source
Check the MIUI version in your phone settings
Close all background apps before changing settings
Restart your phone after changing your browser (recommended)
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If the browser doesn't appear in the list, it may not support link processing.
- 🔄 Reinstall the browser.
- 📥 Clear the cache and application data in Settings → Annexes → [Browser name] → Warehouse.
- 🔧 Enable permission to open links in browser settings.
What if after changing the browser links still open in Mi Browser?
Features of setting up the browser on different models Xiaomi
Despite the general MIUI logic, the process may differ on some devices:
- 📱 Redmi Note 12 / POCO X5: In these models, MIUI 14, the way to set up your browser is hidden deeper. Use the search by settings (the magnifier icon at the top) and enter the request "default browser".
- 📱 Xiaomi 13 / 13 Pro: Additional confirmation via biometrics (fingerprint or Face) may be required here ID) when changing system applications.
- 📱 POCO F5 / Redmi K60: These devices sometimes get a bug when they update. MIUI Browser settings are reset. Check the settings after each major update.
- 📱 Devices with China ROM: Google Chrome cannot become the default browser without root rights or Google Mobile Services installation (GMS).
On older models (e.g. Redmi 5/6 or Mi A2 with Android One), the logic of changing the browser corresponds to “pure” Android:
Settings → Applications and notifications → Additional → Browser by default💡
If you travel frequently, install a browser with a built-in VPN (such as Opera or Brave) to help you bypass regional locks without additional apps.
How to remove Mi Browser completely (and whether it’s worth it)
Mi Browser is a system application, and you can't completely remove it without root rights.
- Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Mi Browser.
- Click "Disable" (or "Delete Updates" if the disable button is inactive).
- Confirm the action. The app will disappear from the menu, but it will remain in the system.
⚠️ Warning: Disabling Mi Browser could lead to disruptions MIUI, Especially on devices with China ROM. Some features (such as push notifications from Xiaomi or Mi Account) depend on the system components of the browser.
An alternative way to hide the icon from the main screen:
- 📌 Press the Mi Browser icon and drag it up to the "Delete" label (it's actually just a cover-up).
- 🔍 Use a third-party launcher (like Nova Launcher) where you can hide system applications.
If you want to remove the Mi Browser completely, you will need to:
- Get root rights (for example, through Magisk).
- Use an ADB or root-access file manager (such as Root Explorer).
- Delete browser files on the path /system/priv-app/MiBrowser.
⚠️ Warning: Removing system applications may disrupt the work MIUI And you can get a "brick" of the device. Before you do that, back up your Settings. → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
Problem Solving: Links Open in the Wrong Browser
Even after changing the browser by default, some links may open in Mi Browser or another application.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp links open in Mi Browser | WhatsApp has its own link processor | In WhatsApp settings, select Storage and Data → Clear the cache, then repeat the browser selection |
| Links from Telegram ignore the browser by default | Telegram uses built-in browser for preview | Open the link, click "Open in the browser" in the top menu, then select the desired browser. |
| Advertising links open in Mi Browser | Some SDKs are tightly tied to Mi Browser | Turn off personalized advertising in Settings → Google → Advertising |
| Links from Mi Video or Mi Music will not open in the browser you select. | Xiaomi system applications are prioritized | Use third-party apps to watch videos/music (like VLC or Poweramp) |
If the problem persists, try:
- Install the Defult App Manager app from Google Play and manually reassign link handlers.
- Clear the cache and data of the Settings app (Settings → Applications → Application Management → Settings → Storage → Clear the cache).
- Reset application settings to factory (Settings → System → Resetting → Reset application settings).
💡
On devices with MIUI 15, the “Browser Separation” function (Settings → Privacy → Browser Separation) appeared, which allows you to use different browsers for personal and work profiles.
Optimizing your browser on Xiaomi: tips for speed and security
Choosing a browser is only half the battle, and to make it work quickly and safely, follow these guidelines:
- 🛡️ Enable Tracker Lock: In Chrome: Settings → Confidentiality → Do not track requests. In Firefox: Settings → Improved tracking protection. Brave: Lock enabled by default.
- ⚡ Optimize performance: In Chrome, turn off unnecessary background processes: Settings → Systemic → Simplified mode to save charge. Opera activate Turbo mode to save traffic.
- 🔒 Set up sync: In Chrome and Firefox, log in to your account to sync your bookmarks and passwords. In Brave, use Brave Sync for encrypted sync without the cloud.
- 📥 Save Traffic: In Chrome: Settings → Light mode. Opera: Settings → Data compression mode.
For devices with low RAM (1-2 GB, such as the Redmi 7A or POCO C31), it is recommended that:
- 📉 Use Firefox Lite or Opera Mini – they consume less resources.
- 🗑️ Regularly clean the browser cache in Settings → Warehouse.
- 🔄 Disable automatic tab updates in the background.
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (Especially Chinese browsers can automatically download unnecessary services (for example, Mi Cloud or Xiaomi Ads). → Additionally. → Xiaomi Services and Deactivate All Options.