MIUI Xiaomi: what kind of shell is it, why it is needed and whether it should be turned off?

If you own a Xiaomi, Redmi or a smartphone POCO, I'm sure you've been using the acronym. MIUI — And it's a branded shell that's pre-installed on all the devices in the brand, and many users are asking themselves, what is it, why does it take up so much space, can it be removed, and how does it affect how the phone works? MIUI, What functions does it perform, how does it differ from “pure” Android, and whether you really need it.

On the one hand, MIUI It offers unique features, from advanced personalization settings to built-in optimization tools, and some users complain about over-functionality, advertising in system applications, and slowing down the device over time. So should we put up with the shell, or should we move to alternative firmware.

What is it? MIUI And how did she come in?

MIUI (Pronounced "Mai Yuai," it's a proprietary shell developed by Xiaomi based on the Android operating system, introduced back in 2010 as custom firmware for enthusiasts, but within a few years it has become standard software for all smartphones of the brand. MIUI — This is not just a wrapper over Android, but a full-fledged ecosystem with its own applications, services and unique features.

Initially. MIUI It was created as a response to popular custom firmware like CyanogenMod, and the main feature of the shell was deep customization of the interface without the need to obtain root rights. Users could change icons, fonts, animations and even system sounds out of the box — something that was rare for standard Android of the time. MIUI own services: cloud storage Mi Cloud, branded theme store Theme Store, and even an alternative appstor GetApps.

Today. MIUI is available in several versions:

• 📱 Global MIUI — International version for markets outside China, with support for Google Mobile Services (GMS).
• 🇨🇳 China MIUI — Chinese version without Google services, but with local counterparts (Baidu, WeChat, Alipay).
• 🔧 MIUI for POCO — modified version for smartphones line POCO, with a focus on productivity and minimalism.
• 🛡️ MIUI Lite – “lightweight” firmware for budget models with limited resources.

It is important to understand that MIUI — It's not a standalone application, it's a shell that's integrated into Android at the kernel level, and you can't remove it completely without flashing the device. However, some elements (like Xiaomi's branded apps) can be disabled or replaced with Google's analogues.

Main functions and capabilities MIUI

MIUI It is distinguished from other shells (one). UI Samsung, Oppo ColorOS, thanks to unique features that are not available in standard Android.

1. Deep personalization of the interface

One of the main "chips» MIUI — It's the Theme Store, where you can download thousands of themes, icons, fonts and even system sounds:

• 🎨 Dynamic themes – automatically adjust to wallpaper or time of day.
• 🔤 Customizable fonts – support for third-party fonts (including Cyrillic fonts).
• 🖼️ Animated wallpaper - live wallpaper with paralax effects and 3D.
• 🔄 Display modes – the choice between “classic” Android (with an applet) and “iOS-like” (without an applet).

2. Built-in optimization tools

MIUI includes several utilities to improve performance and extend the battery life:

• ⚡ Battery and performance – Super Battery mode limits background activity of applications.
• 🧹 Waste Cleanup – Built-in Tool to Delete Cache and Unnecessary Files.
• 🔋 Smart charge distribution – protects the battery from overheating and deep discharge.
• 🚀 Game turbo mode – optimizes resources for gaming (available on the flagships Black Shark and Black Shark). POCO F).

3. Unique system chips

V MIUI There are functions that are not present in other shells:

• 🔒 Second Space – creating a second independent workspace with separate applications and data (useful for separating work and personal life).
• 📡 Double applications – cloning messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) for multiple accounts.
• 🔍 Smart Search – Instant search by contacts, messages, files, and even text on the screen.
• 📱 Children’s Mode – Restricting access to certain apps and content.

Besides, MIUI It is closely integrated with the Xiaomi ecosystem: with its help you can control smart devices (Mi Band, Mi Home), synchronize data between gadgets and even use your smartphone as a remote for Mi. TV.

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If you don’t like the standard icons in MIUI, Try installing an icon package through the Theme Store → Icons → Popular. Many sets are free!

Pros and cons MIUI: whether or not to use?

Like any shell, MIUI It has its strengths and weaknesses, and let's take them as a comparative table to make your decision easier.

One of the main shortcomings MIUI And people call it system-based ads, and it's found in Mi Browser, Mi Music, Security, and even settings. Fortunately, you can turn it off:

1. Go to Settings → Memory → Cleanup.
2. Slap the icon. ⚙️ (gear) in the upper right corner.
3. Turn off the recommendation or personalized ads option.

Another controversial point is data collection. Xiaomi collects anonymous telemetry to improve the software, but it can be limited in privacy settings (Settings). → Additionally. → Confidentiality).

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MIUI If you want a clean Android without unnecessary bells and whistles, consider alternative firmware or smartphones with Android One.

MIUI vs. pure Android: which is better?

Many users are comparing MIUI They're talking about naked Android (or Android One) and they're asking, which shell is better? The answer depends on your priorities.

1. Performance and optimization

Pure Android (like Google Pixel) is usually faster and smoother, because it doesn’t have any background processes. MIUI This is achieved through integrated optimization tools such as:

• 🔄 Auto-cleaning RAM — Closes unused applications.
• ⚡ Performance mode – speeds up the launch of frequently used programs.
• 🔋 Smart Battery Management – Prolongs Autonomous Life.

On flagship models (Xiaomi 14, Redmi) K70 Pro) performance difference between MIUI And Android is minimal, but on budget smartphones. 12C, POCO M6) The shell may slow down due to excessive functions.

Updates and support

Xiaomi releases updates for MIUI more often than many other manufacturers:

• 🔄 Monthly security patches (even for older models).
• 🆕 Major updates to the version MIUI (For example, from 13 to 14) every 1-2 years.
• 📱 Support for devices longer than some competitors (up to 3-4 years for flagships).

At the same time, Google updates pure Android longer (up to 5-7 years for Pixel), but these updates come less often and without additional “chips” from Xiaomi.

3. Customization vs minimalism

If you like to customize every interface element — MIUI If you prefer minimalism and stability, you'd better consider Android One or smartphones from Google, Motorola.

Can I remove or disable? MIUI?

Technically. MIUI — It's an integral part of Xiaomi's firmware, so you can't completely remove it without consequences. But there are a few ways to reduce its impact on your smartphone.

1. Disabling unnecessary system applications

Many Xiaomi apps can be disabled (but not removed!) for this:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select an unneeded app (such as Mi Browser or Mi Music).
3. Click Disable (Do not Delete!).

⚠️ Note: Do not disable system services called com.android. or com.miui. – this can lead to unstable phone operation.

2. Installation of alternative firmware

For experienced users, there is an option to reflash the smartphone on custom firmware, for example:

• 🔧 LineageOS – “clean” Android without unnecessary bells and whistles.
• 📱 Pixel Experience – firmware with Google Pixel interface.
• 🔄 Xiaomi.EU – modified version MIUI Advertising free and with extended settings.

🔹 Important: Firmware requires unlocking the bootloader, which resets all data and can deprive you of warranty. 4PDA or XDA Developers.

3. Use of a launcher from third developers

If you don’t like the interface MIUI, But you don't want to risk firmware, install an alternative launcher:

• 🏠 Nova Launcher – flexible customization of icons and gestures.
• 🎨 Lawnchair – Launcher in the style of Google Pixel.
• 🔄 Microsoft Launcher – Integration with Windows and Office.

Launchers not removed MIUI, but allow you to change the appearance of the desktop and the application menu.

How to update MIUI to the latest version?

Xiaomi regularly releases updates to the MIUI, There are many ways to update things that fix bugs, add new features and improve performance.

1. Automatic Air Update (OTA)

The easiest way is:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If a new version is available, download and install it.

⚠️ Before upgrading, make sure that the phone has enough space (at least 2-3 GB of free memory) and a battery level above 50%.

Manual installation via Recovery

If OTA-No updates are available, you can manually install the firmware:

1. Download the official update package from the site MIUI Downloads (select your model!).
2. Transfer the.zip file to the root folder of the phone.
3. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
4. Press three points (⋮) → Select the update file.
5. Select the downloaded file and confirm the installation.

3. Firmware via Fastboot (for power users)

This method is suitable if the phone is not turning on or requires a complete reinstallation of the system.

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB and Fastboot.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original).
• 📄 Firmware in.tgz format for your model.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone.


2.Put Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot.




3. Connect the phone to the PC and start the firmware script:




fastboot flash all [name file].tgz




4. wait until the cable is completed (don't turn off the cable!).

⚠️ Warning: Wrong firmware through Fastboot can turn your phone into a brick. Use only official firmware from Xiaomi's website!

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If after the update the phone began to brake, perform a cache reset: go to Recovery (clamping Volume up). + Power) and select Wipe Cache.

FAQ: Frequent questions about MIUI