If you own a Xiaomi smartphone, you've probably noticed on your desktop or app menus the Get Apps label, which is the company's app store. Many users mistakenly think of it as an analogue of Google Play, but in fact, this service has unique features that favorably distinguish it from the standard Android store. In this article, we'll discuss in detail what Get Apps is, what it is designed for, and how to use it correctly to get the most benefit.
Get Apps is not just a take on Google Play, it’s a full-fledged ecosystem with its own rules, benefits and even exclusive offers. Here you can find apps that are not available in the official Google Store, get bonuses for installing software, and participate in closed beta tests. However, the service has its own nuances, which are important to be aware of to avoid security or compatibility issues.
In the material you will find step-by-step instructions on how to work with Get Apps, compare with Google Play, and answer frequent questions - from removing unnecessary apps to solving problems with download errors. POCO, This information will be particularly useful.
What is Get Apps on Xiaomi and how is it different from Google Play?
Get Apps (formerly known as the Mi App Store) is Xiaomi’s official app store pre-installed on all shell devices. MIUI. Unlike Google Play, which is universal for all Android devices, Get Apps is developed specifically for the Xiaomi ecosystem and takes into account the features of its firmware.
The main differences:
- 🔹 Exclusive apps: Here you can find software that is not available in Google Play, such as Xiaomi’s proprietary utilities (Mi Home, Mi Fit), localized versions of Chinese services or beta versions of programs.
- 🎁 Bonus system: For the installation of certain applications, users receive Mi Coins, an internal currency that can be exchanged for discounts or premium features.
- 🛡️ Additional moderation: Xiaomi checks the applications for compatibility with the MIUI, Reduces the risk of conflict with the system.
- 🌍 Localization for different regions: In some countries (e.g. China), Get Apps replaces Google Play entirely, offering alternative services.
It's important to understand that Get Apps doesn't compete with Google Play, but complements it. Most popular apps (like WhatsApp, Instagram) are available in both stores, but sometimes versions may differ. For example, Get Apps often has "lightweight" software options optimized for devices with low memory.
⚠️ Note: Some apps in Get Apps may contain ads or collect additional data. Always check permissions before installing, especially if you download software from lesser-known developers.
Why you need Get Apps: 5 key features
Get Apps is not only an alternative store, but also offers Xiaomi users unique features.
1. Access to exclusive apps and beta versions
Many Xiaomi-branded utilities (such as Mi Remote for hardware management or Mi Video with advanced codecs) are updated in Get Apps earlier than in Google Play. MIUI.
2.The Mi Coins bonus system
For installing recommended apps, viewing ads or participating in promotions, users receive Mi Coins.
- 🎮 Buying premium features in games (such as skins at Mi Game Center).
- 🛒 Discounts on purchases in the Mi Store (official Xiaomi store).
- 🔓 Unlocking Additional Themes in Mi Themes.
3. Optimized versions of applications
Get Apps often features "light" versions of popular programs (such as Facebook Lite or Messenger Lite) that take up less space and consume less resources. POCO memory-limited.
4. Local services for different countries
Depending on the region, Get Apps offers different sets of applications, for example, in India you can find local payment systems (Paytm), and in China you can find services like WeChat or Alipay in full versions, which are not available on Google Play.
5. Simplified installation of system updates
Get Apps sometimes distributes updates to Xiaomi’s branded apps (like Security or Gallery) that aren’t updated through Google Play, allowing for faster security patches and new features.
How to use Get Apps: step-by-step instructions
Get Apps is intuitive, but it has its own features, and we'll look at the basics of how to find apps to manage installed software.
1. How to open Get Apps
On most Xiaomi devices, the Get Apps shortcut is on the desktop or in the app menu. If it isn't, check the Tools folder or search the system (swipe down the screen and type "Get Apps"). On some firmware, the service may be called the App Market or Mi App Store.
2. Search and installation of applications
- 🔍 Enter the program name in the search bar (at the top of the screen).
- 📥 Click on the desired application, then select Install.
- ⚙️ If necessary, confirm permissions (access to contacts, storage, etc.).
- ✅ Wait for the download and installation to be completed.
Updating the annexes
To update the software through Get Apps:
- Open the service and go to the Updates section (the arrow icon at the bottom).
- Click Update All or select specific apps.
- Confirm the action if necessary.
4. Removal of unnecessary applications
If you have installed the program through Get Apps and want to delete it:
- Press the app icon on your desktop → select Delete.
- Or go to Settings. → Annexes → Manage applications, find the program and click Delete.
Examine reviews and ratings|Check the permissions (access to the SMS, geolocation.)|Make sure the app is compatible with your version MIUI|Download only from the official page (not from third-party sources)-->
5. Obtaining Mi Coins
To earn bonus coins:
- Open Get Apps and go to the Mi Coins section (the coin icon at the bottom).
- Perform the proposed tasks: installing applications, viewing advertising, participating in surveys.
- The accumulated coins can be spent in the Exchange section.
⚠️ Note: Some tasks in Get Apps require confirming your phone number or linking your Mi Account. Without this, you won’t be able to get Mi Coins for certain actions.
How to turn Get Apps on or off on Xiaomi
By default, Get Apps is active on all Xiaomi devices, but some users prefer to turn it off - for example, to save battery power or avoid unnecessary notifications.
How to turn off Get Apps
You can not completely remove the service (since it is system), but you can limit its operation:
- Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Find Get Apps in the list and select it.
- Click Disable (the shortcut will disappear from the desktop, but the service will remain in the system).
- To return, go back to the application settings and click Enable.
How to limit background activity
If Get Apps consumes traffic or battery power:
- Open the Settings. → Annexes → Get Apps → Battery.
- Choose to limit background activity.
- Disable auto-update applications in the service settings (Settings section) → Auto-update).
How to Hide Notifications
To prevent Get Apps from sending notifications about new apps or promotions:
- Press notification from the service → Click Disable notifications.
- Or go to Settings. → Notifications → Get Apps and turn off all switches.
| Action. | Effects of consequences | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Shutdown of service | The label disappears, but background processes may remain | It is better to limit the battery and notifications |
| Removal of updates | Service will return to the factory version, errors are possible | Do it only if you have problems with work. |
| Limiting mobile traffic | Get Apps will not be updated in the background | Useful for saving the internet |
| Resetting service settings | Reset all settings, including download history | Use it if the service is not working properly |
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If Xiaomi’s branded apps (such as Mi Home) have stopped updating after disabling Get Apps, turn the service back on and check for updates manually.
Security in Get Apps: How to Avoid Fraud
While Get Apps is Xiaomi’s official service, it’s not immune to fraudulent apps, especially for users who download software from regional versions of a store (like China’s).
1. Developer verification
Before installing the application, pay attention to:
- 🏢 Company name: Official apps (such as WhatsApp) must be from trusted developers (WhatsApp) LLC).
- ⭐ Rating and reviews: If the program has less than 4 stars or few reviews, this is a reason to be wary.
- 📅 Date of last update: Applications that haven’t been updated in years may contain vulnerabilities.
Analysis of permits
If the application requests suspicious permissions (for example, access to the SMS or calls for no apparent reason, it is better to refuse installation, for example, a simple flashlight should not ask for access to your contacts.
3. Use of antivirus
Install a reliable antivirus (such as Avast or Bitdefender) and scan the system regularly. Even official stores sometimes miss malicious software.
4. Beware of "clones" of popular apps
In Get Apps, you can see fake programs under known programs (for example, Fake WhatsApp or Instagram Pro), such applications often steal data or show intrusive advertising.
Signs of a fraudulent app
⚠️ Attention: In the Chinese version of Get Apps (for firmware without Google services), the risk of running into fraudulent software is higher, since moderation is less strict. MIUI, Try to download apps only from Google Play.
Frequent problems with Get Apps and their solutions
Xiaomi users sometimes encounter bugs in the work of Get Apps. Let's analyze the most common problems and ways to fix them.
1.Get Apps won't open or fly out
Possible causes and solutions:
- 🔄 Cache Clearing: Go to Settings → Annexes → Get Apps → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
- 📥 Service Update: Go to Google Play, find Get Apps and update it (if available).
- 🔧 Reset: In the application settings, select Resetting (will delete the history, but not the programs themselves).
- 📦 Reinstall: Disable the service (as described above), then turn it on again - this will reset it to the factory version.
2. Applications are not downloaded or installed
Check the following:
- 🌐 Internet connection: Get Apps may not work through some VPN proxy.
- 📶 Traffic Saving Mode: Turn it off in network settings.
- 📁 Free space: The device must have at least 500 MB of free memory.
- 🔒 Installation Permission: In the security settings, enable Unknown Sources for Get Apps.
Error "Service unavailable"
This problem often arises from:
- 🇨🇳 Regional restrictions: If you use Chinese firmware without Google services, some features may be blocked.
- 🕒 Xiaomi server problems: Check the status of services on status.mi.com.
- 📡 ISP Blocking: Try connecting to another network (e.g., via mobile internet).
4. Apps from Get Apps are not updated
Decisions:
- 🔄 Manually check for updates in the Updates section inside Get Apps.
- 📥 Remove and install the application again.
- 🔧 Check Auto Update Settings: Get Apps Settings → Auto-update.
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If the problem with Get Apps occurred after the update MIUI, Try resetting the service settings or wait for a patch from Xiaomi. Often bugs are fixed in the next versions of the firmware.