If you are a Xiaomi Redmi smartphone owner or POCO, You may have noticed a mysterious item in the list of installed applications called the "GetApps" (GetApps or App Market), which many users mistakenly mistake for a virus or unnecessary "junk" when trying to remove or disable. In fact, this is the official system application from Xiaomi, which performs several useful functions at once - from updating software to searching for exclusive offers.
But why is it hidden from view, how to use it, and whether it can be done without it? In this article, we will examine in detail all aspects of the work of the Handbook, including its hidden capabilities, its connection with the work of the Handbook. MIUI And you'll also learn how to get premium apps for free, test betas, and even save money on purchases from Xiaomi's store.
Now, let's just say, despite the name, it's not a reference book in the usual sense (like a phone book), it's much more functional, and it's a very important part of the ecosystem. MIUI Next up is a detailed guide with instructions, tips and answers to the most popular questions.
What is the “Handbook” app in Xiaomi Redmi?
The Handbook app (original name – com.xiaomi.market) is the official app store from Xiaomi, built into the firmware MIUI. It acts as an alternative to Google Play, but with unique features that are targeted at users of the Xiaomi ecosystem:
- 📱 Official source: applications optimized specifically for MIUI (For example, branded utilities like Mi Remote or Mi Home).
- 🔄 Updating system components: through the "Directory" you can update not only third-party programs, but also some modules MIUI, which are not updated through the settings → Updating the system.
- 🎁 Exclusive offers: here they often give out free premium applications, discounts on themes for the most expensive ones MIUI Even the promotional codes for purchases in the Mi Store.
- 🛡️ Security: All apps are tested by Xiaomi, which reduces the risk of installing malware compared to third-party stores.
It's important to understand that the Guide is not a take of Google Play, but an add-on to it, and many of the apps here are unique and not available in other stores, such as the one you can install:
- 🎮 Game Turbo – a utility for optimizing games;
- 📡 Mi WiFi – a tool for managing Xiaomi routers;
- 🔋 Battery Doctor – Advanced Battery Monitoring.
The application interface may vary depending on the region and version. MIUI. In some firmware it is called “GetApps”, in others – “App Market” or “Themes” (if integrated into the design section).
Why does Xiaomi need an alternative to Google Play?
Many people ask, why is Xiaomi not just going to Google Play and building its own store? MIUI, and with the company's business strategy.
First, optimization for China, where Google Play is blocked in China, Xiaomi is forced to provide users with an alternative way to install apps, and the Handbook has become a universal solution that works in all regions, including Russia and Europe.
Second, control the ecosystem, and through its store, Xiaomi can:
Finally, the Guide is part of a loyalty strategy, and users who actively use it receive bonuses: discounts, early access to new features. MIUI And even the chance to get into closed beta tests.
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If you frequently install apps from the Handbook, register your Mi Account and link it to your device, which will give you access to personalized recommendations and exclusive promotions.
How to use the application "Directory": step-by-step instructions
Despite the simple interface, many of the functions of the Handbook remain hidden, and let's look at the basic actions that you can do through this application.
1. Search and installation of applications
- Open the "Handbook" (the icon with the blue icon and the white box).
- In the search bar, enter the name of the desired application (for example, Mi Fit).
- Click "Install" - download will begin automatically.
Updating established programmes
- Go to the Updates tab (or the Manager in some versions).
- Click on “Update All” or select specific apps.
- 🔹 Important: Some system updates (e.g. for Mi Security) are only available here!
3. Participation in promotions and receiving bonuses
- In the “For You” or “Recommendations” tab, look for banners marked “Free” or “Discount”.
- For example, there are often distributed premium versions. WPS Office, PowerDirector or games with in-game currency.
4. Set up notifications
- Go to "Profile» → «Settings» → «Notifications».
- Turn off unnecessary alerts (such as new topics or promotions) to avoid clogging the notification bar.
Reviews and rating (minimum 4)★)
Date of last update (not older than 6 months)
Permissions (no suspicious requests, such as access to the SMS)
Compatibility with your version MIUI-->
Hidden functions of the "Directory", which few people know
In addition to the basic functionality, the Handbook contains some useful features, and here are the most interesting ones:
1. Application beta testing
You can become a beta tester of popular programs (for example, Mi Browser or Mi Video) through the "Handbook".
- Open the application page.
- Scroll down to the Join Beta section.
- Click on “Register” and wait for approval (usually takes 1-2 days).
🔹 Advantage: You will get access to new features before other users.
2.Resetting the Mi Account password
If you have forgotten your Mi Account password, the Guide can help you recover it:
- Open the app and try installing any free app.
- The system will prompt you to log in to your account – click “Forgot your password?”.
- Follow the instructions (you will need an email or phone number).
3. View of installation history
Unlike Google Play, the Guide stores the complete history of every app ever installed, even remote ones.
- Go to "Profile» → «My apps».
- Select the History tab.
4. Accelerated download of updates
If you update through Settings → Update is too slow, try downloading it through the "Handbook»:
- Open the "Updates" tab.
- Find a system update (usually marked with an icon) MIUI).
- Click Download – speeds can be higher due to optimized Xiaomi servers.
How to get a hidden theme for MIUI?
Can I remove the "Directory" and what happens if I do it?
Technically, the Handbook is a system application, and you can't remove it in the standard way, but some users try to get rid of it through the system. ADB Or root-rights. Let's see where that leads.
Methods of disposal:
- 🔧 Through ADB (without root: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.xiaomi.market Note: This method only hides the application for the current user, but does not remove it completely.
- 🛠️ With root rights: you can delete the up file from /system/priv-app/MiuiMarket, But it's risky.
Consequences of disposal:
| Action. | Risk | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| System applications cannot be updated | ⚠️ Mi Home, Mi Remote and others will stop updating | Restore with the Mi Flash Tool or reflash the device |
| Mi Account problems | ⚠️ Some features (such as cloud backup) may stop working. | Reinstall the application manually |
| Mistakes in work MIUI | ⚠️ There may be disruptions in the theme store, security center and other services | Reset the settings to factory |
⚠️ Note: If you have deleted the "Directory" and faced problems in the work MIUI, The only reliable way to get it back is to completely flash the device through the Mi Flash Tool. Recovery via backup may not help, as system upk files are not saved in backups.
If the application simply interferes, it is better to disable its notifications or hide the icon through the launcher settings (for example, in the app). POCO Launcher can be removed from the app menu).
How to Solve Problems with the “Directory”
Sometimes the Handbook doesn't work properly, doesn't open, doesn't download apps, or gives out bugs, and these are the most common problems and ways to solve them.
1.The application does not open or fly out
- 🔄 Clear the cache: go to Settings → Annexes → Handbook. → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
- 📥 Update the app: sometimes a forced update through Settings helps → The phone. → System update (if available).
- 🔧 Reset settings: in the application menu, select Reset settings (if there is such a item).
2. Applications are not downloaded or installed
- 🌐 Check the Internet connection: The Handbook can block downloads in unstable Wi-Fi or mobile Internet.
- 📁 Free up space: installation requires a minimum of 500 MB of free space.
- 🛡️ Turn it off. VPN/Proxies: Some Xiaomi servers block connections via anonymizers.
3. "No connection to the server" error
This problem often arises from:
- 🕒 Server Updates: Wait 1-2 Hours and Try Again.
- 📡 Operator Blocks: Some Mobile Operators Restrict Access to Xiaomi Servers (Try Wi-Fi Connection).
- 🔄 Failure in MIUI: Restart the device or reset the network settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings).
⚠️ Note: If after the update MIUI «The directory stopped working, do not try to install its up-file from third-party sources! This can lead to a conflict of versions and break down system services.
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If the Handbook doesn't work after you reset your phone to factory settings, check if sync with Mi Account is enabled.Without a tied account, some of the app's features may be blocked.
Alternatives to the “Directory”: when should you use them?
While the Handbook is useful, in some cases it is better to turn to alternative sources, and consider when and which app stores to use instead.
1. Google Play
- ✅ Pros: huge selection, reliability, automatic update.
- ❌ Cons: There are no exclusive applications for MIUI.
🔹 When to use: To install popular apps (such as WhatsApp, Instagram) that are available in both stores.
2. APKMirror
- ✅ Pros: access to older versions of applications, no region-specific.
- ❌ Cons: the risk of downloading modified software.
🔹 When to use: if you need a specific version of the application (for example, for compatibility with old firmware).
3. Aurora Store (alternative client for Google Play)
- ✅ Pros: Anonymous installation, no link to Google account.
- ❌ Cons: Can be blocked on some devices.
🔹 When to use: If you don’t want to register for a Google Account but need apps from Google Play.
4. Manufacturer's branded stores (e.g. Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei AppGallery)
- ✅ Pros: Optimized applications for a specific brand.
- ❌ Cons: limited choice, not all applications are compatible with MIUI.
🔹 When to use: If you need an app that is only available in another store (such as Samsung Health).
Important: The only time when the "Directory" is indispensable is installing updates for system applications MIUI (Mi Security or Mi Share, which is not available in other stores.