How to turn off advertising on Xiaomi Mi Box S

Xiaomi Mi Box S owners often encounter intrusive advertising that appears in the system interface and embedded applications, the result of MSA (MIUI System Ads) services and built-in trackers that collect user data. Fortunately, there are several proven ways to completely clear the interface of banners and pop-ups.

In this article, we’ll look at the most effective methods, ranging from simple menu settings to more advanced solutions via DNS. You don’t need to be an expert to perform these actions, but mindfulness when entering data is critical to the correct operation of the system.

Before we get started, it’s worth noting that methods can vary depending on the version of Android TV firmware installed on your console.Some steps may not be available on the most recent updates, so we’ll offer alternative lock options.

Disabling personalized advertising in settings

The first and easiest step that every owner needs to take is to turn off personalizing ads directly on the system, which won't take away all banners completely, but it will significantly reduce their number and relevance.

To start, go to the main menu and select the settings section. You need to find the privacy and security section, which is usually located in the Settings category → Device → About System → Advertising IDs.

Here you'll see the option to reset your advertising ID, and by clicking on it, you'll reset your preferences, but the more important action is to switch the "Personalized Ads" slider to "Off."

It’s also worth checking your Google account settings, as it syncs with the console. Go to Settings → Accounts & Login → Google and turn off ad personalization there. This will create an additional barrier to targeted offers.

Blocking through change DNS-server

The most effective way to remove advertising at the network level is to change the DNS-This method blocks requests to ad servers before they even reach your TV screen.

To implement this method, you will need to go to network settings. Select your current connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click on it to change the settings. You need to manually prescribe. DNS-addresses instead of automatic.

One of the most popular and reliable ad blocking services is AdGuard DNS. In the field "DNS 1" enter the address 94.140.14.14, and in the field "DNS 2" - 94.140.15.15. These addresses specialize in filtering trackers.

Once you have entered, save your settings and restart the set-top box. If the internet is gone, try Cloudflare's alternative addresses (1.1.1.1), although they don't block ads, but they can speed up the network.

⚠️ Note: When using third-party DNS-Some local services or applications may not work properly on servers. If you notice problems accessing content, return your settings. DNS auto-mode.

Disabling MSA and Mi Video system services

The main source of pop-ups in the Xiaomi Mi Box S interface are system services such as MSA (Miui System Ads) and built-in media players. Their complete disabling requires caution, but gives excellent results.

You need to go to Settings → Applications → All Apps. Find the MSA or MIUI Daemon app on the list. If the Delete button is inactive, click Stop and then Disable.

A similar procedure is worth doing with Mi Video, Mi Music, and GetApps apps if you don’t use them, which often contain built-in ad modules that are activated even without running the app itself.

After disabling system components, it is recommended to clear the cache of the remaining services, which will delete temporary files that may contain data for displaying banners.

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If the system doesn’t allow you to disable the MSA application the first time, try turning off the internet, perform an action, and then turn the network back on.

Removal of advertising through ADB-team

For advanced users who want to maximize their impact, there is a method of removing ad packages through ADB (Android Debug Bridge) debugging, which requires connecting a console to a computer or using a terminal on the device itself.

The first step is to activate the developer mode. Go to Settings → Device → About System and quickly click on "Build" seven times. After that, the "Developers" section will appear in the menu.

Put the debugging on. USB and remember IP-By connecting to the device via the command line on your PC, you can execute commands to delete or freeze packets.

adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.android.miui.msap


adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.miui.misys




adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.android.adbd

Executing these commands deactivates the system processes responsible for collecting statistics and displaying advertising. Be careful when entering commands, since deleting system files can lead to unstable work.

Use of third-party launchers

If your Android TV's standard interface is overloaded with recommendations and banners, a great alternative would be to install a third-party launcher, which would completely change the look of the home screen.

A popular solution is the FLauncher launcher or ATV Launcher.These apps provide a clean, minimalist interface without built-in advertising and intrusive content recommendations.

For installation you will need to download APK-the launcher file via the browser on the console or transfer it from the computer. After installation, remember to assign a new launcher to the default application in the system settings.

Using a third-party interface not only removes visual noise, but also often speeds up the menu, as the standard shell Xiaomi consumes significant RAM resources.

Cache cleanup and reset settings

In some cases, advertising modules can get stuck in the system cache, continuing to work even after the main services are turned off.

Go to Settings → Device → Memory and select cache clearing. It’s also helpful to go to the settings of each heavy app (YouTube, Netflix, browser) and clear their data individually.

If nothing helps and the ads continue to annoy, you can consider a full reset to factory settings.Be sure to save important data before that, as everything will be deleted.

⚠️ Note: Full reset will remove all installed apps and accounts. Use this method only as a last resort when other methods have failed.

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A comprehensive approach that combines changing DNS and disabling system services gives the best result in the fight against advertising on Xiaomi Mi Box S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)