Smartphones POCO — This is a separate line of devices from Xiaomi, focused on performance and availability, but many users note that the standard launcher is a very important one. POCO Launcher is inferior to the functionality of the company MIUI-Xiaomi launcher, the latter offering more customization, built-in themes, improved animation and optimization for the Xiaomi ecosystem. POCO loss of stability?
Yes, it is possible, but the process has nuances depending on the model of the device and the firmware version. APK-file, in others — you will need to unlock the bootloader or even firmware custom Recovery. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to install the launcher Xiaomi on the site. POCO, including formal and informal methods, and consider possible risks and ways to avoid them.
Why do users want to replace POCO Launcher on MIUI-launcher
Although POCO Launcher is marketed as a lightweight alternative, it has a number of limitations:
- 🔄 Lack of smooth animations — MIUI-Launcher offers smoother transitions between screens and apps.
- 🎨 Limited topics - in POCO Launcher does not have a built-in store as in MIUI Themes.
- 📱 No support for super-stands (Super Wallpapers) that dynamically change when scrolling.
- 🔧 Less customizations, for example, in MIUI You can flexibly adjust gestures, icon size and indentations.
Besides, MIUI-The launcher is better integrated with Xiaomi’s branded services, such as Mi Account, Mi Cloud and GetApps. This is especially important if you’re using other devices in the ecosystem, such as the Mi Band or Xiaomi Smart Home.
Official methods of installing MIUI-launcher on POCO
If your POCO device is running on a global MIUI firmware (like the POCO F5 or POCO X6 Pro), the easiest way to do this is to download the launcher from an official source.
- Open Settings → About your phone and check out the MIUI version. If it starts with MIUI Global, move on to the next step.
- Download the latest version MIUI-Launcher from the official Mi App Store website or via APKCombo (select the version for your model!).
- Install. APK-File by allowing installation from unknown sources (Settings) → Annexes → Special rights → Installation of unknown applications).
- After installation, click Home and select MIUI-LAUGHTER as the main.
⚠️ Note: On some models (e.g, POCO X3 pro POCO F3) Official launcher may operate unstable due to shell conflict POCO. In this case, you will need to disable battery optimization for the launcher in the application settings.
☑️ Preparation for launcher installation
Installation of MIUI-launcher on POCO with custom firmware
If your device is running custom firmware (like LineageOS, Pixel Experience or MIUI EU), the launcher installation process will be different.
- Installation via Magisk (for rooted devices): Download the module MIUI-Launcher_Magisk.zip forum XDA Developers. Install it through Magisk Manager (Module section). Reboot your device and select the launcher in the default settings.
Manual System File Replacement (for Power Users)
- Download MiuiHome.apk and MiuiHome.odex for your version of MIUI.
- With Root Explorer or ADB, replace files in /system/priv-app/MiuiHome.
- Change the access rights to 644 (rw-r----).
- Reset the device.
⚠️ Warning: Replacing system files without a backup can lead to bootloop ( looped boot).Be sure to create a backup through TWRP Or OrangeFox Recovery.
What if the launcher does not start after the replacement?
Compatibility MIUI-launcher POCO
Not all devices. POCO They work equally well with MIUI-Below is a table of compatibility for popular models (current for 2026):
| The POCO model | Support MIUI-launcher | Action required | Possible challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| POCO F5 / F5 Pro | ✅ Complete. | Installation of APK or through Magisk | Sharp lags at first launch |
| POCO X6 / X6 Pro | ✅ Complete. | Official APK from Mi App Store | Super Wallpapers are not working. |
| POCO X5 Pro 5G | ⚠️ Partial | Deactivation required POCO-optimization | It flies out with prolonged use |
| POCO M6 Pro | ✅ Complete. | Any method (APK/Magisk) | No problem. |
| POCO C65 | ❌ No. | Incompatible due to weak iron | Strong inhibitions |
For MediaTek-based POCO models (e.g., POCO M4 Pro 5G), additional selinux configuration may be required via the command:
setenforce 0But remember that this is a temporary solution, and after the reboot the settings will reset.
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If after installing the launcher, application icons disappear, try resetting it: pinch the empty space on the main screen → Home screen settings → Reset the settings.
Solving common installation errors
Even with the right installation MIUI-The launcher may not work properly. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
- 🚫 "Application not installed": Reason: version incompatibility APK Solution: download it. MiuiHome.apk same-size MIUI, Your firmware (for example, for your MIUI 14 Take the launcher out of the firmware 14.x).
- 🔄 Launcher is constantly restarted: The reason: conflict with services POCO. Solution: Turn off the app POCO Launcher in settings (Settings) → Annexes → Show it all. → POCO Launcher → Shut down).
- 📱 No option to select the default launcher: Reason: manufacturer limitations. Solution: use ADB-Adb shell cmd package set-home-activity com.miui.home/.launcher.Launcher
- 🔋 Fast battery drain: Reason: Launcher runs in background. Solution: add it to optimization exceptions (Settings) → Battery → Optimizing the battery → All applications → MIUI Launcher → No restrictions).
Critical information: On devices with a locked bootloader (for example, POCO X5 installation MIUI-Launcher can cause the device to reset to factory settings. Before starting, check the bootloader status with the command fastboot oem device-info - if Device unlocked: false, unlock it through the Mi Unlock Tool.
How to get your POCO Launcher back if something goes wrong
If, after experimentation, MIUI-And when you launch it's unstable, you can always go back to the standard launcher:
- If the launcher just doesn't like: Go to Settings → Apps → Default → Home Screen. Select POCO Launcher.
- If the launcher does not start: Remove MIUI Launcher through Settings → Applications. Reset the default launcher settings with the command: adb shell cmd package clear-default-home
- Download to Fastboot Mode (clip Power + Volume down).
- Sweep the original firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.
⚠️ Note: On some models POCO (for example, POCO F4 GT) Launcher reset can cause data loss in applications.Before reset, back up via Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
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If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to use the official APK instead of manually replacing system files – this minimizes the risk of “bricking” the device.
Alternative launchers for POCO: is it worth trying?
If MIUI-Launcher is not suitable, consider alternatives that offer similar functionality without risks:
- 🌟 Nova Launcher – Supports icons MIUI, gestures and themes. Nova Prime allows you to customize animations like in the MIUI.
- 🎯 Lawnchair – open launcher with support for Pixel-style and customization, close to the MIUI.
- 🔧 Hyperion Launcher – Copying the Design MIUI, including transitions and widgets.
- 📱 Smart Launcher 6 – offers a unique category system and adaptive icons.
The advantage of alternative launchers is that they do not require root rights and do not conflict with POCO system services.
- Integration with Mi Account (synchronization of themes, wallpaper).
- Super Wallpapers support.
- Built-in widgets for weather and smart home.