Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a necessary feature for those who want to install APK-files outside of Google Play, but the manufacturer hides this option deep in the settings, and in the latest versions MIUI 14/15 If you are trying to install an app but you see an error, "Installation is locked" or "To protect your phone...", this article will help unlock the opportunity in a few steps.
Unlike pure Android, where the settings are in one place, Xiaomi has divided it into two levels: global resolution for the system and individual rights for each browser / file manager. We will discuss both options, and also explain how to avoid common errors (for example, when the "Allow" button is inactive, POCO X5 Xiaomi 13, where the interface is different from the older versions.
Why is Xiaomi blocking APK installation?
The manufacturer is motivated by concern for security: according to statistics, 80% of malware on Android is distributed through third-party APKs.
- 📱 Users installing applications from alternative stores (Aptoide, APKMirror).
- 🎮 Gamers downloading modified versions of games (e.g., Genshin Impact from a global server).
- 🔧 Developers testing their applications on real devices.
- 🌍 Residents of regions where Google Play is restricted (China, Iran).
In MIUI 14/15 (based on Android 13/14), the verification algorithm has been tightened: the system analyzes hash files and can block even secure APKs if they are not signed with a Google certificate, this applies to official applications downloaded from banks or messenger sites (for example, Telegram X).
⚠️ Note: If you enable installation from unknown sources for Chrome or Mi Browser, after downloading APK The file can be deleted automatically by the system. Use File Manager or Telegram to save.
Method 1: Global All-source Authorization (MIUI 14/15)
This method will allow the establishment of APK from any application, but requires confirmation every time you run the installer.+:
- Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Slip on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Special Access.
- Scroll down and click Install Unknown Apps.
- In the list, find the application through which you will install APK (for example, File Manager or Telegram).
- Activate the switch Allow installation from this source.
If there is no Special Access, try an alternative route:
Settings → Memory → Additional → Installation of unknown applicationsEnabled permission for file manager
APK downloaded from a verified source
File not damaged (check size)
Antivirus disabled (can block installation)
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Method 2: Application-specific resolution (Android 10/11)
On older versions of MIUI (up to 12.5), the algorithm was different. If you have a Redmi 9, POCO M3 or other Android 10/11 model, follow this instruction:
- Download. APK-file and try to install it.
- In the warning window, tap the settings (or more).
- Turn on the switch for the current source (e.g. Chrome or Mi Browser).
- Go back to the installer and try again.
Important: the permission is only valid for a specific application. If you download APK via Telegram and Chrome has given permission, the installation will not start.
| MIUI version | The path to adjustment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 15 (Android 14) | Settings → Applications → Special access → Installation of unknown applications | Requires confirmation at each installer start-up |
| MIUI 14 (Android 13) | Settings → Memory → Installation of unknown applications | It may not be on Chinese firmware. |
| MIUI 12.5 (Android 11) | Through the error window when installing APK | The permission is tied to a specific application |
| MIUI 12 (Android 10) | Settings → Privacy → Special permissions | Supports global permission for all sources |
⚠️ Note: On devices with Chinese firmware (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro) CN) Installation of unknown applications may not be available, in which case you need to unlock the bootloader and install a global version. MIUI.
MIUI 15 (Android 14)
MIUI 14 (Android 13)
MIUI 12.5 (Android 11)
Old version (Android 9/10)
I don't know my version.-->
Method 3: Through ADB (for power users)
If standard methods don’t work (e.g., on Xiaomi Pad 6 with limited settings), you can enable installation. APK through ADB. This method requires a computer and USB-cable:
- Activate Developer Mode (7 times tap the MIUI version in Settings → About Phone).
- Enable USB debugging in Settings → Additional → For developers.
- Connect your phone to your PC and execute the command:
adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 1Once the device is restarted, the restriction will be removed. To return the lock, replace 1 with 0.
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If ADB doesn’t recognize the device, install Mi PC Suite drivers or use Google USB Driver universal drivers. Windows 11 may require you to disable driver signature verification.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even after the permission is enabled, users face problems.
- 🚫 Install button is inactive: Remove the old version of the app via Settings → Applications: The system blocks the installation if detects version conflict.
- 🔄 APK Uninstalled (Parse Error error): Download the file again - it may have been corrupted during download.
- 🛡️ Antivirus removes APK: Add the file to Mi Security exceptions or temporarily disable protection.
- 📱 On screen only "Cancel": This means that the permission is not given to the application through which you are trying to install APK. Check the path: Settings → Annexes → [Name of the annex] → Permits → Installation of unknown applications.
On HyperOS devices (a new shell from Xiaomi that debuted on Xiaomi 14 in 2026), the APK verification algorithm has changed: the system now scans the file for malicious code before installing, even if the resolution is turned on. If the installation is interrupted with the error "App can cause harm", try:
- Install APK via ADB (adb install path/to/file.apk).
- Use an alternative installer, such as SAI (Split APK Installer).
- Turn off Mi Protect in Settings → Memory → Cleanup.
Security: How to check APK before installation
By allowing installation from unknown sources, you assume the risk of infection of the device, which can be minimized by checking the file:
- Hash sum: Compare the MD5 or SHA-1 file to the official data on the developer's website. Use utilities like Hash Droid.
- Virus scan: Download APK to VirusTotal or check through Mi Security (manually).
- Application rights: Before installing, check the permissions requested. If the messenger requires access to SMS or Calls, it is suspicious.
- Source: Download APK Only from verified sites: 🔗 APKMirror (checks file signatures). 🔗 Aptoide (has a rating system). 🔗 Official application sites (e.g. Telegram, VK).
What if the application does not start after installing the APK?
Features for specific Xiaomi models
The manufacturer adapts MIUI for different lines of devices, so the path to settings may differ:
| Model | Features | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/13 | Android 13 requires confirmation every time you run the installer. | Use File Manager instead of browser to download APK. |
| POCO F5/X5 | In MIUI for POCO, the item is called Installation from external sources. | Update the firmware to the latest version – older builds may not have an option. |
| Xiaomi 13/14 | HyperOS has added APK signature verification even when installed. | Use adb install --bypass-low-target to bypass. |
| Black Shark 5/6 | The JoyUI game interface hides the security settings. | Switch to Standard Mode in the notification curtain. |
⚠️ Note: On devices with a locked bootloader (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T for the European market), some system settings may not be available. APK You will need to unlock through the Mi Unlock Tool, which will cancel the warranty.
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On HyperOS models (Xiaomi 14, Redmi K70), standard methods may not work. Use ADB or alternative installers like SAI.