How to properly update applications on Xiaomi: all ways and life hacks

Why it is important to update your apps to Xiaomi

Xiaomi smartphones based on MIUI or HyperOS require regular updates of installed applications – this is not just a recommendation, but a necessity. Each update brings not only new features, but also critical patches of security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers to steal data or install malware. For example, in 2023, more than 15 vulnerabilities were discovered in popular messengers and banking applications that allow you to bypass two-factor authentication.

In addition to security, updates optimize the work of programs for specific Xiaomi models (for example, Redmi Note). 12 or POCO F5). Manufacturers adapt the interface to new versions of Android (13/14) and fix hardware-related bugs: Snapdragon processor overheating 7 Gen 2, Incorrect operation of sensors or problems with AMOLED-Ignoring updates often leads to system slowdowns, application crashes, and even accelerated battery discharge. 15–20%.

But how exactly to update software on Xiaomi if standard methods do not work? In this article, we will analyze all the current methods - from automatic updates through Google Play to manual installation of.apk files, and also tell you how to avoid errors, for example, ERROR_924 or INSTALL_FAILED_UPDATE_INCOMPATIBLE.

Method 1: Automatically Update via Google Play

The easiest and safest method is to use the built-in auto-update feature in the Google Play Store, which works on all Xiaomi smartphones with Google services (even on models for China, where the Play Market is installed manually).

1. Open the Google Play Store (the icon of the color triangle).
2. Slip on the profile avatar in the upper right corner.
3. Select Application and Device Management.
4. Go to the Updates tab available.
5. Click Update All or select specific apps.

To enable automatic updates for all programs:

1. In the same profile menu, select Settings.
2. Go to the Network → Auto-update applications.
3. Specify the preferred option: 🔄 Through any network channel – updates will be downloaded over the mobile network (risk of traffic waste). 📶 Wi-Fi only – the recommended option for saving the Internet. ❌ Do not update automatically - manual mode.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (for example, MIUI 14 for global version) Auto-update option can be reset after the device is restarted. Check settings every 1-2 weeks.

Method 2: Update via MIUI App Store (for China and global versions)

If your Xiaomi doesn’t have Google Play (for example, on devices for the Chinese market or after removing Google services), use the branded MIUI App Store.This store pre-checks the applications for compatibility with firmware and hardware, which reduces the risk of errors.

Instructions:

1. Open the GetApps app (the icon with the blue robot).
2. Go to the Update tab (the arrow icon down).
3. Click Update All or select individual programs.
4. Confirm the installation if necessary.

Features of the MIUI App Store:

• 🔒 Security: All applications are tested for viruses and malicious code.
• 📦 Optimization: APK-files are adapted to MIUI/HyperOS and specific models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T or Redmi K60).
• 🌍 Localization: In the Chinese version of the store, many apps are available only in Chinese.

⚠️ Attention: B MIUI App Store some apps (like Facebook or Instagram) may be blocked due to regional restrictions. VPN with servers in Hong Kong or Singapore to access the full directory.

Check the firmware version (Settings → About the phone)

Connect to Wi-Fi (updates weigh 50–500MB)

Free 1-2 GB of memory (Settings → Storage)

Disable battery optimization for the store (Settings → Battery → Optimization)

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Method 3: Manual update through APK-file

If the app is not updated through stores (for example, due to an error) ERROR_963), You can manually install the new version through a.apk file:

• 📱 Devices without Google Play (Chinese versions of Xiaomi).
• 🔓 Applications blocked in your region.
• 🛠 Beta testing (such as WhatsApp Beta).

Step-by-step:

1. Download.apk from a verified source: 🔗 The official website of the developer (for example, Telegram). 🔗 APKMirror (check hash files!). 🔗 APKPure (Global Application Versions Only).

USB

Bluetooth

Settings → Applications → Application Management → Explorer (or browser) → Allow installation from this source

.apk

Conductor

Manual installation warnings:

• 🚫 Don't download. APK from torrent trackers or suspicious sites - the risk of catching Trojan.AndroidOS.Boogr or other viruses.
• 🔄 Before installing, remove the old version of the application (if the update does not go over the top).
• 📱 On some Xiaomi models, for example, POCO X5 Pro) may need to be deactivated MIUI Optimization in the Developer Settings.

Method 4: Update Xiaomi system applications

System applications (Mi Browser, Mi Video, Security) are not updated through stores, but with the firmware or separately through MIUI Updater. If you see a notification "System Update is available", but it is not installed:

Options:

1. Through Settings: Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → Check for updates If the update doesn't find, try resetting the cache: Settings → Annexes → Application management → Updating the system → Warehouse → Clear the cache
2. Through Recovery: Download the full firmware package for your model from the official website. Rename the file to update.zip and place it in the memory root. Recovery (press Power + Vol+). Select Install update.zip.

If the system application (e.g. Mi Home) is not working properly, but there are no updates:

• 🔄 Try to roll back to the factory version: Settings → Annexes → Application management → [Title of the annex] → Remove updates
• 📥 Install a modified version (e.g. Mi Home Mod) from the forums 4PDA or XDA-Developers.

💡

Before you update your system applications, back up your Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset. This will help you recover your data if something goes wrong.

Errors in the update and their solution

When updating applications on Xiaomi, users often encounter errors. Let’s consider the most common and ways to fix them:

Additional problems and solutions:

• 🔄 App not updated via Wi-Fi: Check router settings – some Xiaomi models block downloads when turned on IPv6. Try connecting to another network or using mobile internet.
• 📱 After the update, the app crashes: Clear the app cache in the settings. disable the Bat version (if it was enabled).

💡

If the error repeats after all the manipulations, try resetting the network settings: Settings → Connections → Resetting the Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings.

How to disable automatic application updates

Auto-update is convenient, but not always desirable, for example, if you have limited traffic or are testing the stability of a particular version of an app, to disable the automatic update:

On Google Play:

1. Open Play Store → Profile → Settings.
2. Select Network → Auto-Update Applications.
3. Set Do Not Update Automatically.

At MIUI App Store:

1. Start GetApps → Profile (human icon)
2. Go to Settings → Auto Update.
3. Turn off the automatic update slider.

For individual apps (e.g., to block a Facebook update that has become too heavy):

1. Open the application page in Google Play.
2. Slip three points in the top right corner.
3. Uncheck the box from Enable Auto Update.

⚠️ Warning: Disabling auto-update for system applications (e.g. Mi Security) may result in security vulnerabilities.

FAQ: Frequent questions about updating apps on Xiaomi