Owners of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones often face intrusive behavior of the proprietary shell MIUI. By default, the system suggests using the built-in Mi Browser browser, which many users consider overloaded advertising and news feed. However, Android is an open system, and you have every right to choose which application will open links.
The process of changing the main browser pages on the Redmi 9A model does not require root rights or complex programming. It is enough to make a few changes to the system settings to open links from messengers and social networks in the usual Google Chrome, Firefox or any other tool. This will significantly speed up the device and increase the comfort of use.
In this article, we will discuss all the nuances of switching, including hidden MIUI settings that can block changing the application. You will learn how to permanently disable pop-ups with an offer to use Mi Browser and make your choice a priority for the system.
Why you should give up the standard Mi Browser
Standard application preinstalled on Redmi 9A, It's often criticized for its aggressive news policies and overconsumption of resources. The system browser is deeply integrated into the shell, allowing it to run background processes even when you're not using it. 9A.
Alternative solutions like Brave or DuckDuckGo offer built-in tracking and ad blockers that are more efficient than regular tools. Changing the default browser is the first step to customizing Android to your needs without losing warranty.
In addition, third-party developers often implement modern features faster than Xiaomi updates its system components, which includes support for new web standards, improved work with extensions, and synchronization with desktop versions.
Preparation for the installation of a new observer
Before you change your system priorities, make sure that the alternative app is already installed on your Redmi 9A. If you just reset or bought a new phone, go to Google Play Market and download the desired option.
Once installed, it is recommended to launch a new application once, which is necessary for initial configuration, acceptance of license agreements and possibly synchronization of your passwords or bookmarks, some browsers will offer to become the main one when they first start up, which will simplify the task.
Make sure your internet connection is stable. Although the setup itself takes seconds, the initial download of the interface and security updates of the new browser may require traffic.
βοΈ Checklist before changing browser
Instructions: Change the browser by default through settings
The main method of changing the priority application to Xiaomi Redmi 9A is in the depth of the system menu. MIUI interface may vary slightly depending on the version of Android, but the logic remains the same. You will need to consistently go through several levels of nested menus.
First, open the Settings app on your desktop. Scroll down to the App section and select All Apps. This shows the full list of installed software. In the upper right corner of the screen, you'll see a three-dot icon β click on it.
In the drop-down menu, select the default App option. The system will open a list of categories (calls, messages, browser). Find the Browser bar and click on it. You will see a list of all installed browsers. Choose the one you downloaded earlier, such as Chrome.
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If after selecting a new browser, links still open in the old one, try clearing the Settings app cache in the application management menu.
Alternative way through application management
Sometimes a direct path through the settings doesn't work because of the specific MIUI build, so you can use direct control of a particular application, and this method allows you to forcefully reset old bindings.
Go to Settings β Applications β All apps. Find your new browser (like Opera) in the list. Click on the name to open the management card. Here we are interested in Start by default or Open by default.
If the button is active, click Use by default. If the system says that the application is already in use, this is a good sign. If you see the Reset default button gray or inactive for the old browser, this means that priority has already been transferred to the new application or hard lock.
β οΈ Note: On some global versions of Xiaomi firmware, the "Default Apps" item may be hidden in the "App Management" submenu. Look for the gear icon or three dots in the corner of the screen.
Comparison of popular browsers for Redmi 9A
The right tool depends on your needs: speed, traffic savings or privacy. Redmi 9A is a budget device, so optimizing RAM consumption is key here. Heavy browsers can slow down the system.
Below is a table comparing the main features of popular browsers available for installation on Android, which will help you decide on your choice if you have not already made a decision.
| browser | RAM consumption | Blocking ads | Synchronization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | High. | Expansion is required | Google Account |
| Opera Mini | Low. | Built-in. | Opera ID |
| Mozilla Firefox | Average. | Built-in (flexible) | Firefox Account |
| Brave | Average. | Built-in (aggressive) | Brave Rewards |
For owners of Redmi 9A with a small amount of RAM (2-3 GB), the most optimal choice is often lightweight versions, such as Opera Mini or Via Browser. They consume less CPU resources and load pages faster on 3G/4G networks.
How does the traffic saving mode work?
Problem Solving: If the system imposes Mi Browser
MIUI is known for its persistence, and even after you change your settings, when you open some links or search in the global line, you can pop up a window asking, "Open in Mi Browser?" -- not a mistake, but a feature of the manufacturer's marketing policy.
To get rid of this, whenever a selection window appears, always tick Remember my choice (or "Always"). If the window doesn't appear but the browser changes back, try clearing the Mi Browser data itself. Go to Settings β Applications β Mi Browser β Memory β Clear.
In some cases, disabling notifications from the standard browser helps, so go to the Mi Browser app and completely stop it from showing notifications, which will reduce the frequency of reminders of its existence.
β οΈ Note: Do not delete the system browser through ADB Or root rights without any need, which can cause errors in search widgets or voice assistants that are tied to a standard web engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I remove the Mi Browser completely on the Redmi 9A?
Why did the browser settings reset after the MIUI update?
Does changing your browser affect your phoneβs speed?
Is it safe to use third-party browsers?
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The main conclusion: Changing the default browser to Xiaomi Redmi 9A is a safe and useful procedure that increases the comfort of using a smartphone and allows you to get rid of intrusive advertising.