Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a necessary feature for users who want to install APK-This may be necessary for testing beta versions of programs, using regionally blocked services or installing modified applications. However, the manufacturer by default limits this option for security reasons, requiring manual resolution in the settings.
In this article you will find the current instructions for all modern versions. MIUI (from 12 before 14), including customization features on different models - from budget Redmi to flagship Xiaomi 13/14. We will also discuss how to avoid common unblocking errors, what risks exist, and how to minimize security threats (11/12/13/14) and may require additional action on HyperOS devices.
Why do you need to install from unknown sources?
By default, Xiaomi blocks installation APK-Third-party files to protect users from malware, but there are legitimate reasons to enable this feature:
- 📱 Testing beta versions of apps (such as WhatsApp Beta or Google Apps for uncertified devices).
- 🌍 Install regional apps that are not available on your Google Play (e.g. banking apps for other countries).
- 🔧 Use modified versions of programs (for example, YouTube Vanced or Spotify Premium with unlocked features).
- 🛠️ Manual update of system applications if automatic update via Mi App Store does not work.
Without permission to install from unknown sources, you will see an error such as “Installation locked” or “Installation is prohibited from unknown sources to protect your phone.” It is important to understand that enabling this option does not prevent the APK from checking for viruses – it only allows the system to skip the file past the standard Google Play Protect filter.
⚠️ Attention: Installation APK from unreliable sources can cause malware to infect your device, steal data, or block your Mi Account. Always check files through VirusTotal before installing.
Preparation: Verification of MIUI and Android
Before setting up, make sure you know the firmware and Android version on your device, which is important because the path to settings may be different:
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Scroll down to the MIUI version section (e.g. MIUI 14.0.5 Global).
- Below will be the Android version (e.g. Android 13 TKQ1.221114.001).
| MIUI version | The corresponding version of Android | Features of settings |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12–12.5 | Android 10–11 | Permission is given for each browser/file manager separately. |
| MIUI 13 | Android 12 | Added an additional confirmation request at the first installation. |
| MIUI 14 | Android 13–14 | The setting is moved to the Applications → Special Access. |
| HyperOS 1.0 | Android 14 | You need to unlock the permission to install packages in the developer menu. |
If you have HyperOS, turn on the developer mode before setting up:
- Go to Settings. → The phone.
- Tap 7 times on the MIUI version (you will be notified "You became a developer!").
- Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and activate the switch.
Step-by-step instructions for MIUI 12–14
The standard way to enable installation from unknown sources on most Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO devices is:
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
- In the upper right corner, press three dots (⋮) and select Special Access.
- Slip on Installation from Unknown Sources (or Install Packets on Some Firmware).
- Select the application you will install APK through (such as Files, Chrome, or Xiaomi File Manager).
- Activate the switch Allow installation from this source.
After that, you can install it. APK-files that you downloaded from the selected application, for example, if you've allowed Chrome to install, you can open them. APK straight from the browser downloads.
Download APK from a trusted source (e.g. APKMirror)
Check the file for viruses through VirusTotal
Allow installation for the desired application (Files/Chrome)
Save a backup of the data (in case of failure)
Charge your phone at least 50%-->
⚠️ Note: On some devices (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro with a MIUI 13) after activation of permission, the system can request a password from the Mi Account. If you do not remember it, restore access in advance through the official website.
Features of setting up on HyperOS
HyperOS is Xiaomi's new shell, replacing MIUI in 2026, and it's a little different.
- Activate the Developer Mode (as described above).
- Go to Settings → Additional → For developers.
- Find the permission to install packages and tap it.
- Select an application (such as Files or Browser) and activate permission.
HyperOS may also require additional confirmation via biometrics (fingerprint or facial recognition) when the APK is first installed.
What if there is no "Special Access" clause?
How to install APK after unlocking?
After enabling permission to install from unknown sources, follow these steps:
- Download. APK-file on the device (for example, through a browser or Telegram).
- Open the files (or other manager you have been given permission to do so).
- Find the Downloads folder (or the one where the file was saved) and tap on the APK.
- Click Set and confirm the action.
- If the warning “This app could harm your device” appears, click “Install it anyway” (only if you trust the source!).
Once installed, the app will appear on the menu. If it doesn't start, check:
- 🔄 Compatibility APK with your version of Android (for example, the Android 12 app won’t run on Android 10).
- 🛡️ Availability of all necessary permissions in Settings → Annexes → Application management → [name] → Permits.
- 📥 Integrity of the downloaded file (damaged) APK never set).
1. delete the previous version of this application (if any).
2. Enable debugging over USB in the developer settings.
3. Use another file manager to run APK.-->
Typical errors and their solutions
When setting up an installation from unknown sources, users often face problems.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "Installation blocked by administrator" | The kiosk mode or corporate policy has been activated. | Turn off the mode in Settings → Special features → Kiosk mode. |
| "Unknown error of code -24" | Conflict with the existing version of the application. | Remove the old app and re-install. |
| "APK is not supported" | The file is designed for a different processor architecture (ARM/x86). | Download the APK version for arm64-v8a (for most Xiaomi). |
| "Mi Account password required" | It is blocked by the anti-theft system Find Device. | Enter the password from your Mi Account or turn off Find Device in the settings. |
If after all the manipulations the installation still does not pass, try:
- 🔄 Reboot your device – sometimes helps to reset time constraints.
- 📱 Install APK through ADB (power-user):
adb install path/to/file.apkTo do this, you will need a USB debugging and a computer with Xiaomi drivers installed.
💡
If you install APKs frequently, consider using the SPLIT APK Installer (SAI) from F-Droid.This app makes it easy to install batch APKs (for example, for applications with multiple configuration files).
Security: How to minimize risks?
Allowing installations from unknown sources opens up potential vulnerabilities, and follow these rules to protect your device:
- 🛡️ Download. APK only from verified sources: APKMirror (checks files for changes), APTidej (specializes in modified applications), official developer sites (for example, Telegram or other software). VK beta-version).
- 🔍 Check files before installing: Hash amount (compare with the official on the developer's website). APK (The file must match the original.
- 🔄 Update regularly MIUI: New firmware versions close vulnerabilities used by malware.
- 🚫 Do not give permission to install files to little-known file managers or browsers.
⚠️ Note: Some banking applications (e.g., SberBank Online or Tinkoff) may block work on devices with an approved installation from unknown sources. If financial services stop working after setting up, disable permission or use the second user profile (on Android 12)+).