How to Update Apps on Xiaomi TV: All Ways and Solutions to Problems

Xiaomi TVs on Android TV or Google TV require regular updates to ensure stable operation, access to new features and protection from vulnerabilities. However, the upgrade process on large screens is different from smartphones: there is no familiar Google Play Store in the classic form, and the menu interface can be confusing. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to update applications on Mi TV, Redmi TV and other Xiaomi models, including solving typical errors.

The main problem is users do not know where to look for updates. Unlike phones, Xiaomi TVs do not have a single update center: some applications are updated through Google Play, some through the branded Mi App Store, and system services require separate firmware. We structured the information so that you can quickly find a solution for your model, whether it is Mi TV 4S, Redmi Smart TV X or Xiaomi’s flagship OLED Vision series.

1. Preparing the TV for app updates

Before you update your apps, make sure your TV is ready for the procedure, and neglecting these steps can cause crashes or even a system blink.

Requirements for a successful update:

  • πŸ”Œ Stable Internet connection (5GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable recommended) On a weak 2.4GHz, download errors are possible.
  • πŸ”‹ Adequate charge level of the remote (if you use a Bluetooth remote from Xiaomi.
  • πŸ“¦ Minimum 500 MB of free space in the TV's memory. β†’ Warehouse.
  • ⏳ Time: Updating system applications may take up to 20-30 minute.

Pay special attention to network connectivity. If the TV is connected via Wi-Fi, but the signal is weak, use a repeater or switch to a wired connection. On Xiaomi TV A2 models and later, when upgraded via Wi-Fi with a signal level below 60%, the system automatically interrupts the download of files above 100 MB.

Check the Internet speed (minimum 10 Mbit / s)

Connect the TV to the power supply (not via extension)

Close all applications running (except "Settings")

Disable VPN (if used)

Make sure the date and time on the TV are synchronized with the network-->

How to check the free space:

  1. Open the settings (cog on the main screen).
  2. Go to the Device. β†’ Warehouse.
  3. If you are under 300MB, delete unnecessary apps or cache.

2. Method 1: Automatically Update via Google Play

Most of the applications on Xiaomi TV (YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video are updated through the Google Play Store, but the interface is adapted for the remote. TV 9.0 and later (including Google) TV).

Step-by-step:

  1. On the home screen, find the Google Play Store icon (usually in the app bar).
  2. Select your Google account (if not logged in).
  3. On the left menu, go to My apps and games.
  4. The list will open with tabs Updates and Installed. Select Updates.
  5. Click Update All or select specific apps.

If the Update button is inactive, there are no updates, in which case check the automatic update settings:

  1. In Google Play, go to Settings (cog in the upper right corner).
  2. Select Auto-Update of Applications.
  3. Install Always or Only via Wi-Fi.

Once a week.

Once a month

Only when you stop working.

Never update.

I don't know how to do that.-->

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi TVs with firmware older MIUI TV 3.0 (released before 2020) may not be available in the My Apps section of Google Play. In this case, use Method 3 (manual installation) APK).

Method 2: Update via Mi App Store (branded applications)

Xiaomi’s branded apps (e.g. Mi Home, Mi Remote, Xiaomi Video) are updated through a separate store, the Mi App Store, which is also suitable for applications that are not available on Google Play (e.g. regional services).

How to update:

  1. Open the Mi App Store (the icon with the Mi logo).
  2. In the top menu, select Updates (the arrow icon down).
  3. Click Update All or select specific apps.
  4. Confirm the action and wait for the completion.

If the Mi App Store is not on the main screen:

  • πŸ” Check the folder All applications (Apps button on the remote control).
  • πŸ“₯ Install the store manually through APK (see method 4).
  • πŸ”„ Reboot TV: Hold the Power button on the remote for 10 seconds.
AnnexUpdate storeNote
YouTube, NetflixGoogle PlayUpdate automatically when the option is enabled
Mi Home, Xiaomi VideoMi App StoreRequires authorization in the Xiaomi account
Prime Video, Disney+Google PlayThey may require regional reference.
System applications (Launcher, Settings)Update of the software (see Method 5)Updated with firmware only

πŸ’‘

Xiaomi’s proprietary apps (Mi Home, Mi Remote) are updated only through the Mi App Store. They are not found on Google Play!

Method 3: Manual installation of APK (for power users)

If the app is not updated through stores or it is not on the list, you can install it. APK-This is a manual file. This is a method that works for you:

  • πŸ“± Applications that are not available in your region (e.g, HBO Max in Russia).
  • πŸ”„ Reverse to the previous version (if the new version is unstable).
  • πŸ›  Install modified versions (e.g. YouTube Vanced).

Step-by-step:

  1. Download. APK fitting USB-storage device FAT32). Sources: APKCombo (official) APK) APKMirror (verified versions)

USB-port

File manager

File Manager

APK

"Installation locked"

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ Security and limitations.
  2. Enable Unknown Sources for File Manager.

⚠️ Attention: Installation APK from unverified sources can lead to viruses or unstable TV performance.Always download files from official sites or verified repositories.On Xiaomi TVs with Android TV 12 and newer installation of uncertified APK It can block access to Google Play!

How to check the compatibility of APK with TV?
Before installing, check the processor architecture of your TV: 1. For Xiaomi TV with Amlogic processors (most models), APKs for arm64-v8a or armeabi-v7a are suitable. 2. For Redmi Smart TV X (on MediaTek), only arm64-v8a. 3. You can learn the architecture in the AIDA64 application (install via Google Play). If you install an incompatible APK, the application either won’t start or will fly out.

5. Method 4: Updating system applications (firmware)

Some applications (e.g. Launcher, Settings, Input Method) are part of the firmware and are only updated with the system. If they are not working properly, you need to update the TV software.

How to update firmware:

  1. Open Settings β†’ About TV β†’ Update system.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. If a new version is available, follow the instructions on the screen.

πŸ’‘

If the app starts to crash after the update, try to roll back to the previous version. To do this, delete the current version, turn off the Internet on the TV and install the old APK via USB.

7. Features of the update on different models Xiaomi TV

The upgrade process may vary depending on the TV model and firmware version, and the key differences below are:

Model comparison:

ModelPlatformFeatures of the update
Mi TV 4S / 4X (2018-2020)Android TV 9.0No β€œMy Apps” section in Google Play – update through the store’s homepage
Redmi Smart TV X (2021)Android TV 10Supports background updates but requires manual confirmation for system APKs
Xiaomi TV A2 / P1 (2022-2023)Google TV 11/12Auto Updates are enabled by default, but can be blocked when Wi-Fi is weak
Xiaomi OLED Vision (2023)Google TV 12Supports the update via voice assistant (OK Google, update apps)

On TVs with Google TV (Models 2022 and later), the Google Play interface has been changed to find updates:

  1. Open the user profile in the upper right corner.
  2. Select Application and Device Management.
  3. Go to the Update tab.

For older models (Mi TV 3S, Mi TV 4):

  • πŸ”„ Application updates may require manual confirmation for each application APK.
  • πŸ“‘ Some apps (such as Mi Video) are only updated through the Mi App Store and may not support the latest versions.
  • πŸ”Œ When connecting through USB-OTG Use an externally powered hub – the TV may not have enough power for the flash drive.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I update my apps without the internet?
Yes, but only manually through APK-Download the desired versions to another device (for example, a phone), transfer to the USB-install it through the File Manager on your TV, note that some applications (e.g. Netflix) require an internet connection to verify a license.
Why are some apps not automatically updated?
The reasons may be different: Auto-update is disabled in Google Play. App installed as system (updated with firmware only), insufficient memory on the TV, regional restrictions (for example, Disney+ is not updated in Russia), check the auto-update settings and free up space in storage.
How to roll back an app update?
Recoiling is only possible for applications installed manually (via APK). To do this: Delete the current version of the app. Download the old version. APK from a trusted source (e.g. APKMirror) Turn off the Internet on your TV (Settings) β†’ Network β†’ Shut down. Wi-Fi/Ethernet). Install the old version through File Manager. For system applications, no rollback is possible without rolling back the entire firmware.
What if the application does not start after the update?
Try the following steps: Clear the app cache: Settings β†’ Apps β†’ [App name] β†’ Clear the cache. Delete the update (if it's a system application): Settings β†’ Apps β†’ [Title] β†’ Remove updates. Reboot the TV (hold Power on the remote for 10 seconds). If the problem persists, delete and install the app again.
Can I update apps via smartphone?
No, you can't. However, you can: Manage updates remotely via Google Play Web (play.google.com) if the TV is linked to the same Google account; download APKs to your phone and then transfer them to your TV via USB or cloud storage (like Google Drive); and use TeamViewer QuickSupport for full management (installe them on your TV via Google Play).