Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones often encounter incomprehensible folders when cleaning internal storage, one of which is a folder called partner bookmarks, which raises many questions among users: is it a system file, a virus or just garbage accumulated during the use of the gadget.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the purpose of this MIUI or HyperOS shell component, what functions it performs, why it can not be ignored, and what safe methods exist for managing the space it occupies without risking disrupting the operating system.
Many users rush to delete everything to free up gigabytes of memory, but in the case of system directories, this approach can lead to unstable interface operation. Xiaomi uses a complex data storage structure, where even non-obvious folders often play the role of a link between preinstalled services and the browser.
Assigning Partner Bookmarks to Android
The partner bookmarks directory is created automatically by the operating system when the device is first started or after a firmware update, and serves as a repository for pre-installed bookmarks that developers and partners add to the default browser, which can be links to news portals, app stores or entertainment services.
The main purpose of this folder is to provide fast access to partner resources immediately after you buy a smartphone. The system reads data from this directory when you start the browser, forming a start page or a Favorite bar. If you have ever noticed that after resetting, you have certain sites, know that they are registered here.
⚠️ Warning: Deleting system files responsible for the browser’s start settings may cause the application to stop opening or to start with the “Black Screen” error».
It’s important to understand that Android on Xiaomi smartphones has deep integrations with its own services. The folder doesn’t just store the text of links, it can contain the thumbnails of sites (favicons) and metadata necessary to correctly display widgets on the desktop, so direct intervention in its structure without understanding the consequences is not recommended.
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Before any manipulation of system folders, create a full backup of data through the menu “Advanced Settings” → “Resetting” → “Backup”.
Content Analysis: What's Inside the Directory
If you open the file manager and go on the way to this folder, you'll see a set of files with obscure names, often consisting of numbers and letters, and inside you can have.db files (SQLite databases),.xml (configuration files) and cached images, each of which is responsible for a specific parameter of the bookmark display.
The database usually contains URL-The configuration files can determine which bookmarks are mandatory and cannot be deleted by the user, and which can be changed. Cash speeds up the loading of icons so that the browser interface does not “slow down” when scrolling through the start page.
A folder can range in size from a few kilobytes to tens of megabytes if it has a lot of graphics, but a sharp increase in volume without user action may indicate that background synchronization processes are not working properly, and it is worth checking for updates for the system component of the MIUI System.
Technical details of files
Can I remove Partner Bookmarks on Xiaomi?
The security of deleting this folder is key. Technically, a file manager with superuser rights (Root) will allow you to delete this directory. However, for ordinary users who do not have Root rights, the system will not simply delete or change the contents of this folder, since it is protected by access rights.
If you try to clean a folder through third-party cleaners ("cleaners"), they can only delete temporary cache files, but leave the main bookmark database intact.This is because the process using these files runs in the background and blocks the removal of critical items.
- 🚫 Complete removal of a folder without root rights is impossible by standard means.
- ⚠️ Attempting to bypass protection can lead to a cyclical browser reboot.
- ✅ Cache cleaning is safe, but won’t free up much space.
- 🔄 After system updates, the folder can be restored automatically.
It's worth noting that even if you manage to delete the folder, the next time you update your browser engine or HyperOS shell, it will be recreated, a behavior that is embedded in the logic of the Android package installer, which checks the integrity of system components with each major update.
Risks of removing system components
Interfering with system directories, such as partner bookmarks, carries certain risks, and the most common scenario is a default browser that may stop opening a new tab, reset the homepage settings, or make an error when trying to add a site to a favorite.
In rarer cases, if the process responsible for reading this folder has broader rights in the system (e.g., associated with global search or widgets), there may be malfunctions in the launcher.The screen may begin to "freeze" when trying to swipe to the right, where the news feed or quick links are usually located.
⚠️ Note: Using scripts to remove system folders found on forums may result in loss of software warranty. Service centers may refuse free repairs if they find traces of tampering with the system partition.
Another risk is sync loss: If you use a Xiaomi Cloud or Google Chrome cloud account to save bookmarks, manually deleting the local database can cause a version conflict, resulting in your saved links disappearing from all synced devices.
So before you take drastic measures, weigh the benefits of freeing up a couple of megabytes of memory and the risk of getting a broken browser. In most cases, the game is not worth the candle, especially given that modern smartphones have enough internal storage.
Safe methods of cleaning and management
If the partner bookmarks folder takes up too much space or you just want to clean up, there are safe methods. Instead of deleting system files, it is better to clear the browser or system launcher cache, which will delete temporary files without affecting the main data structure.
To do the cleaning, go to your smartphone settings, search for Apps, select All Apps, and find Browser (or Mi Browser) in the list. Inside the app menu, click Memory and select Clear Cache. This action is secure and won't delete your personal bookmarks if they're synced with your account.
☑️ Safe cleaning algorithm
You can also use Xiaomi’s built-in Security app, which can find and remove debris from apps without ignoring critical system files, and it helps keep the system clean without risking damaging partner bookmarks.
If you want to remove specific bookmarks that you don't need, the easiest way to do this is to open your browser, go to the home page, pinch your finger on an unnecessary icon, and choose "Delete" or "Hide" -- and that will change the database in the right way, without having to go into the file system.
Comparison of methods of cleaning the storage
Different memory management methods have different efficiency and risk levels, and here is a table that will help you choose the best way to clean up your situation without disrupting your system.
| Method | Efficiency | Risk to the system | Data retention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning the cache in settings | Low/Mediocre | Absent. | Complete. |
| Use of the Security App | Medium | Absent. | Complete. |
| Removal through Root rights | Tall. | High-pitched | Possible loss |
| Reset to factory settings | Maximum | Medium (resetting all settings) | Backup required. |
As you can see from the table, the safest and most reasonable option for the average user is to use regular cleaning tools, which are designed by Xiaomi engineers specifically to balance free space and stability.
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Using regular cleaning tools ensures that you do not damage the system files necessary for the interface and browser to work.