How to safely change system applications on Xiaomi smartphones: from unlocking to installing analogues

Introduction: Why users want to change Xiaomi system apps

Xiaomi smartphones based on MIUI We're known for a plethora of pre-installed services, from proprietary launchers to system utilities like Security or Mi Browser, and for many users, these apps are a source of annoyance: They take up memory, use up battery power in the background, and often duplicate functions of third-party programs. However, simple deletion through the settings menu is impossible - the system blocks such actions to protect the integrity of the firmware.

In this article, we will discuss the legitimate ways to replace system applications with Xiaomi, Redmi and other POCO, including models from 2023 to 2026 (e.g. Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro)+, POCO F6). You will learn how to circumvent restrictions without losing warranty (if possible), what tools will be needed, and what risks should be considered. MIUI-Services from Mi Gallery to Mi Video.

⚠️ Important: All manipulation of system files can lead to irreversible data loss, device lock or warranty cancellation.If you are not sure about your skills, consider disabling applications through Settings → Applications instead of complete removal.

1.Preparation: What to Know Before Changing System Applications

Before you start replacing embedded programs, you need to understand three key aspects:

• 🔓 Unlocking the bootloader is a prerequisite for deep changes, and without it, the system will not allow you to modify the system partition (/system).
• 📱 Version. MIUI — on new firmware (e.g, MIUI 15 based on Android 14 may have additional protections.
• 🔧 Tools - will be required ADB, Fastboot, and for some methods - custom recovery (TWRP).

Also note that on devices with a locked bootloader (by default on all new Xiaomi) only surface changes are available - for example, disabling via adb shell pm disable-user. Full replacement is possible only after unlocking, which automatically resets the device to factory settings.

If you decide to go beyond a simple shutdown, prepare:

• 💻 Windows computer 10/11 or Linux (for the ADB/Fastboot).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original or certified).
• 📄 Backup of data (via Mi Cloud or locally).
• 🔒 Mi Account with a linked phone number (to unlock).

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Before unlocking the bootloader, check if your model supports the official procedure. Some devices (such as the Xiaomi Civi 4) may have restrictions for certain regions.

2. Method 1: Disabling system applications without unlocking (ADB)

If unlocking the bootloader seems too risky, you can deactivate unnecessary services through the ADB (Android Debug Bridge: This method does not require root rights and retains a warranty, but has limitations:

• ✅ Applications stop working and are not updated.
• ❌ Their icons can remain on the menu (depending on the launcher).
• ⚠️ After resetting settings or updating MIUI shutdown.

Instructions:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and tap 7 times on the MIUI version.
2. Enable USB debugging in Settings → Additional → For developers.
3. Connect your phone to your PC and do the following at the terminal:

adb devices

(Your device should appear. If not, install Xiaomi USB Drivers.)

adb shell pm list packages -f | grep 'xiaomi'

(This will show you a list of system packages, like com.miui.gallery, the standard gallery.)

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

(Switch off the gallery for the current user.)

Install ADB on PC (for example, through Platform Tools)

Enable debugging over USB on your phone

Connect your phone to your PC and confirm access

Download the package list MIUI (for example, XDA)

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⚠️ Warning: Disabling critical services (e.g. com.android.phone) can cause network loss or reboot cycle. Before experimenting, study the purpose of each package on forums like 4PDA or XDA-Developers.

Method 2: Complete replacement of system applications (with bootloader unlocking)

To completely remove or replace system applications, you will need to unlock the bootloader and access the partition /system. This process is more complex, but gives you full control of the device.

Step 1: Unlock the bootloader

The official procedure from Xiaomi requires:

1. Link your Mi Account to your device (Settings → Xiaomi Account).
2. Apply for unblocking via the official website (can take up to 72 hours).
3. Use the Mi Unlock Tool in Fastboot mode.

Once successfully unlocked, the device will be reset.

• 🔄 Install custom recovery (TWRP) for backup and modifications.
• 📦 Delete APK-System application files manually through ADB Shell or file manager with root access.
• 🔧 Replace them with modified versions (e.g. Mi Gallery on Google Photos).

Step 2: Replace applications

Example of replacing the standard browser com.android.browser with Google Chrome:

1. Download. APK-Chrome version for Android (for example, with APKMirror).
2. Rename the file to Browser.apk.
3. Through ADB or TWRP Replace the original file in /system/priv-app/Browser/Browser.apk.
4. Change the access rights:

adb shell chmod 644 /system/priv-app/Browser/Browser.apk

⚠️ Note: Not all system applications can be replaced this way, for example, com.miui.home is closely integrated with the system. MIUI, In such cases, it is better to use alternative launchers (for example, Nova Launcher) on top of the standard one.

4.Alternatives to popular Xiaomi system applications

Instead of completely removing, many users prefer to install third-party counterparts and disable the original ones. MIUI-service:

For the installation of alternatives:

1. Disable the original application through ADB (see method 1).
2. Download. APK alternatives from a verified source (e.g. APKMirror or F-Droid).
3. Install by pre-allowing installation from unknown sources in Settings → Security.

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Replacing system applications doesn't always require root rights. Often, it's enough to disable the original through the ADB and set up a third-party analogue on top of it.

5 Risks and how to minimize them

Any changes to system files are potentially dangerous, and the main risks and ways to avoid them are:

• 🚨 The device's brique is a total loss of performance. How to avoid: always back up through TWRP change.
• 🔄 Reboot cycle: Remove critical services when you delete them. Avoid: disable, not delete packets completely.
• 🛡️ Loss of warranty - unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty. How to avoid: use methods without unlocking (ADB).
• 📵 Problems with OTA-Updates - the modified system may not accept official updates. How to avoid: restore the original files before updating.

If the device has stopped loading:

1. Try to boot up to Fastboot (hold on Power) + Vol Down).
2. Fly the original firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.
3. If it does not help - contact the service center (indicate that they conducted experiments with the software).

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Before any manipulation of the system, check whether your Xiaomi model has custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience). MIUI-box-office.

6. Frequent errors and how to fix them

Even experienced users face problems replacing system applications. Consider typical scenarios:

Error 1: "Command Not Found" in ADB

Reason: Platform Tools are not installed or the path to adb is not added to the environment variables.

Solution: Download the official Platform Tools and add a folder to the PATH, Or use the full path to adb.exe.

Error 2: "Failed to Disable Package"

Reason: The application is protected from disabling (e.g. com.miui.home).

Solution: Try disabling via pm hide (requires Android 10)+):

adb shell pm hide com.miui.home

Error 3: Device not defined in Fastboot

Reason: There are no drivers or the cable does not support data transfer.

Solution: Install Mi USB Driver, try another cable or port USB.

If after the application is replaced it does not start:

• Check the access rights (chmod 644).
• Make sure the version APK Compatible with your version of Android.
• Clear the app cache in Settings → Apps.

7.Conclusion: should system applications be changed?

Replacing Xiaomi’s built-in apps is a challenge that requires a balanced approach: If you are annoyed by duplicate services (for example, two browsers or two galleries), just turn them off via the Internet. ADB Deep customization (removing MiuiSystemUI or replacing the launcher) will require unlocking the bootloader and being prepared for potential risks.

Advantages of replacement:

• ✔️ Memory release and reduced background activity.
• ✔️ Ability to use more functional analogues.
• ✔️ Improved performance on weak devices (e.g. Redmi) 9A).

Disadvantages:

• ✖️ Risk of loss of system security and stability.
• ✖️ Need for technical skills (working with the ADB, Fastboot).
• ✖️ Possible problems with OTA-update.

For most users, the best solution is a combination of disabling unnecessary services through the Internet. ADB It's a minimally risky way to get a clean system without losing functionality.

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If you are not confident in your abilities – start by disabling applications through ADB. This is a reversible process that does not require unlocking the bootloader.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing Xiaomi system applications