If you own a Xiaomi, Redmi or a smartphone POCO, I think they probably came across the term. HMS Core is a system component that appears on the app list or notifications. But what is it really? Why is Xiaomi integrating not only Google services but Huawei's own solutions into its devices? And most importantly, is it safe for your phone?
In this article, we will discuss in detail what it is. HMS Core, how it connects to the Huawei Mobile Services ecosystem (HMS), Why Xiaomi is using it, and what it means for the user: You will learn whether it is possible to remove this service, how it affects performance and autonomy, and what alternative features it offers compared to Google Mobile Services (GMS). We will pay special attention to current versions. HMS Core 6.0+ Compatibility with the latest Firmware MIUI 14/15 hyperos.
Spoiler: HMS Core is not spyware, but its presence on Xiaomi devices is a consequence of geopolitical constraints and a strategy of service diversification. But for European users, his presence is often questionable.
What is it? HMS Core and why it is on Xiaomi
HMS Core (Huawei Mobile Services Core) is a set of system services and API, Huawei as an alternative to Google Mobile Services (GMS). It was originally designed for Huawei and Honor devices that were denied access to Google services due to US sanctions, but since 2020, the company has been using the technology. HMS Core has started appearing on smartphones of other brands, including Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo.
On Xiaomi devices, this component is integrated for two key reasons:
- ๐ Geopolitical restrictions: In some regions (e.g. China), Google services are blocked, so manufacturers are forced to use local alternatives. HMS Core for compatibility with Chinese firmware versions and applications.
- ๐ฑ Diversifying Services: The company aims to reduce its reliance on Google by offering users alternative solutions for push notifications, geolocation, authentication and cloud services.
- ๐ฐ Monetization: Huawei is actively promoting its ecosystem (e.g. AppGallery, Huawei Pay), and partnering with Xiaomi allows you to expand your audience.
It is important to understand that HMS Core is not a virus or malware, it is a legitimate system component that:
- โ Provides the operation of applications that use API Huawei (e.g. Petal Maps, Huawei Health).
- โ It allows you to receive push notifications via Huawei Push Kit (an alternative to Googleโs Firebase Cloud Messaging).
- โ Offers developer tools similar to Google Play Services (geolocation, payments, analytics).
However, it is often confusing on Xiaomi devices, especially if you are not using Huawei services.
Differences HMS Core by Google Mobile Services (GMS)
To understand why Xiaomi is integrating HMS Core and Google Mobile Services, compare their key features:
| Function | Google Mobile Services (GMS) | Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) |
|---|---|---|
| Push notifications | Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) | Huawei Push Kit |
| Geolocation and maps | Google Maps API, Fused Location Provider | Petal Maps, Location Kit |
| Authentication | Google Sign-In | Huawei ID |
| Cloud storage | Google Drive | Huawei Cloud |
| Payment system | Google Pay | Huawei Pay |
In practice, this means that:
- ๐ฒ If the application supports both standards (e.g. TikTok or Booking.com), it can use the same standard. HMS Core for notifications in regions where Google is restricted.
- ๐บ๏ธ Huaweiโs Petal Maps Could Run Faster in China than Google Maps, Due to Local Servers.
- ๐ Huawei ID Sometimes required to log in to Chinese versions of apps (e.g. WeChat or Alipay).
But there are downsides:
โ ๏ธ Attention: On devices with MIUI Global (European/Indian firmware) HMS Core often runs in the background, consuming resources even if youโre not using Huawei services.This can reduce battery life by 5-10%.
So should I remove it? HMS The answer depends on your region and your smartphone usage habits.
How to check for availability HMS Core on Xiaomi and its version
To find out if it is established HMS Core on your device, follow the following steps:
- Open Settings โ Applications โ Application Management.
- In the search box, enter HMS Core or Huawei Mobile Services.
- If the app is found, tap it to see the version and permissions.
Alternatively, through the settings โ The phone. โ Version. MIUI:
- Click several times on the item Version MIUI, Until the developer menu comes out.
- Back to Settings โ Additionally. โ Special facilities โ Menu for developers.
- Find the Services section HMS (If it is, the component is active).
Current versions HMS Core for 2026:
- HMS Core 6.0+ โ It supports HyperOS and MIUI 14/15, Optimized for Snapdragon processors 8 Gen 2/3 Dimensity 9000+.
- HMS Core 5.0 is an outdated version, can conflict with new firmware.
If you have a version below 6.0, it is recommended to update it through AppGallery or manually (instructions in the next section).
โ๏ธ Verification HMS Core on Xiaomi
Can I remove or disable? HMS Core on Xiaomi
Technically remove HMS Core is possible, but it's not always safe:
Methods of shutdown:
- Through the App Settings: Go to Settings โ Annexes โ HMS Core. Click Disable (Do not delete!) Reset cache and data.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Disabling may cause some apps to crash (e.g., Chinese instant messengers or games with Huawei Game Service support).
Removal via ADB
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.huawei.hms.coreThis team will remove HMS Core is only for the current user, without affecting system files.
Flip-on-the-click-on-click
LineageOS
Pixel Experience
HMS Core
Consequences of disposal:
- โ Apps that depend on Huawei Push Kit will stop working (for example, some Chinese social networks).
- โ Support for Petal Maps and other Huawei services may be missing.
- โ Increased battery life (5-15% with active use).
- โ The background processes associated with HMS Core.
If you are not using Huawei services, disconnect HMS Core is a smart move, but back up your data before you do it!
What happens if you completely remove it? HMS Core through root?
How to update HMS Core manually on Xiaomi
If you have a version HMS Core is outdated (below 6.0) and can be updated in two ways:
Method 1: Through AppGallery
- Download and install Huawei AppGallery (if it is not on the device).
- Open AppGallery and find it. HMS Core in search.
- Press Update.
Method 2: Installation APK manually
- Download the latest version HMS Core from Huawei's official website: For MIUI Global: link. MIUI China: Use the Chinese version from VMall.
Settings โ Security โ Unknown sources
Reset the device.
After updating, check the version in Settings โ Annexes โ HMS Core. It must be at least 6.11.0.300 (current in mid-2026).
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After the update HMS Core has errors in the application, clear the cache and service data in the settings. If the problem persists, roll back to the previous version.
HMS Core and Security: Worrying About It?
One of the most common questions users ask is whether or not HMS Core spyware? Let's get the facts straight:
๐ Arguments for safety:
- โ Huawei is a public company with a long history, and the use of HMS Core is governed by Chinese and EU laws (depending on the region).
- โ The service code is audited by independent laboratories (e.g, TรV Rheinland).
- โ HMS Core does not have access to your data on Google Account or other third-party services.
โ ๏ธ Potential risks:
- ๐ก In the Chinese version HMS Core can transfer anonymous location data to Huawei servers (as does Google).
- ๐ Some applications support Huawei ID You may request additional permissions (for example, access to contacts).
- ๐ Updates HMS Core on non-Chinese firmware sometimes comes with a delay, which can create vulnerabilities.
๐ก๏ธ How to minimize risks:
- Disable unnecessary permissions for HMS Core in Settings โ Annexes โ HMS Core โ Permits.
- Use it. VPN When working with Chinese versions of applications.
- Update the service regularly to the latest version.
Conclusion: HMS Core is no more dangerous than Google Mobile Services, but if youโre paranoid about privacy, you can turn it off (see section above).
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HMS Core does not collect data more actively than similar services Google or Apple. the main risk is the potential incompatibility with some applications when disabled.
HMS Core on Xiaomi: Prospects and Future
With the tightening of sanctions against Huawei and the growing popularity of alternative ecosystems, HMS Core will play an increasingly important role on Xiaomi devices, hereโs what to expect in the coming years:
๐ฎ Trends 2026โ2026:
- ๐ Expanding Support: Xiaomi Will Integrate HMS Core in more models, especially for the markets of Asia and the Middle East.
- ๐ค HyperOS Compatibility: Xiaomiโs new firmware optimized for alternative services, including HMS.
- ๐ณ Huawei Pay: In some regions (e.g. UAE or Malaysia), Huawei Pay may be preferred to Google Pay due to local partnerships.
- ๐ฎ Huawei Game Center to compete with Google Play Games, especially in China.
๐ What it means for users:
- If you live in Europe or the United States, HMS Core will remain a secondary component that can be turned off.
- For users in Asia, the service will become more useful thanks to local optimizations.
- Application developers will support both standards more often (GMS and HMS), to reach the maximum audience.
๐ก Tip: If you buy Xiaomi for use in Russia or China, check which services are available (GMS or HMS) It's pre-installed in firmware, like the Redmi Note 13 Pro.+ China doesnโt have Google Play by default, but thereโs a full suite of Huawei Mobile Services.