How to make an SMS application for default on Xiaomi: all ways

Xiaomi’s MIUI-based smartphones often raise questions when it comes to setting up default apps, especially for SMS messaging apps: Xiaomi’s standard Messages** app doesn’t always suit owners, and attempts to replace it with Google Messages, Truecaller or other alternatives face system limitations. In this article, we’ll discuss all the working ways to change the default SMS application to Xiaomi, including bypassing typical errors and nuances for different versions of MIUI.

Compounding the problem, MIUI actively blocks standard apps from changing through Android settings — the messenger selection button may not be available. We tested the solutions on devices from Redmi Note 10 Pro to Xiaomi 13 Ultra and found universal methods that work even on the latest versions of the firmware.

Why can’t you just change your SMS app on Xiaomi?

Unlike pure Android, MIUI aggressively protects its system applications.

• 🔒 Security Policy: Xiaomi believes that third-party messengers may threaten user privacy (for example, data leakage through Truecaller).
• 📱 Integration with MIUI: standard application com.android.mms hard sewn into the system and is responsible not only for SMS, but also for notifications of missed calls, service messages from the operator.
• 🔄 Google restrictions: on some Xiaomi models, the lock is related to the requirements of Google Mobile Services (for example, for certification of devices).

Even if you have installed an alternative messenger (e.g. Messages by Google), the system can:

• 🚫 Do not show it in the default list of applications.
• 🔔 Ignore notifications from a third-party messenger.
• 🔄 Automatically return the standard application after restarting.

Method 1: Standard settings through the Android menu (not always working)

On some Xiaomi models (especially those with MIUI 12 and later), the SMS button is hidden by default, but it can be unlocked.

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select the Default Apps.
3. Scroll down to the SMS app section. If there's no item, move on to the next method.
4. Tap the current app (usually Messages) and select an alternative from the list (like Google Messages).

If the SMS section is missing, try this workaround:

1. Install an alternative messenger (e.g. Google Messages).
2. Open it and send a test SMS (this will make the system register the application as a messenger).
3. Return to Settings → Applications → Application Management, find the installed messenger and click Open by default.

💡

If SMS notifications stopped coming after changing the application, check the permissions for the new messenger in Settings → Notifications → App permissions.

Method 2: Use of the ADB-commands without root)

If the standard method didn't work, you could use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which doesn't require super-user rights, but requires a computer and USB debugging enabled.

Enable USB debugging in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (click 7 times)

Install ADB drivers on PC (download from the official website)

Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trusted device

Open the command line (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) file ADB-->

Next, execute the commands in order:

adb devices

(Your device should be displayed. If not, check the drivers and cable.)

adb shell pm list packages | grep -i sms

(This command will show all the SMS apps installed. Remember the package name of the one you want, such as com.google.android.apps.messaging for Google Messages.)

adb shell cmd phone set-default-sms -p com.google.android.apps.messaging

(Replace com.google.android.apps.messaging with your messenger’s package name.)

Once you've done it, restart your phone. If the command doesn't work, try the alternative:

adb shell am start -a android.intent.action.MAIN -n com.android.settings/.Settings$DefaultSmsPackageActivity

Method 3: Change settings with Activity Launcher (for experienced)

If ADB seems complicated, you can use Activity Launcher, which allows you to open hidden system menus.

1. Install and open Activity Launcher.
2. In the search box, enter DefaultSmsPackage.
3. Select the result with the name com.android.settings.Settings$DefaultSmsPackageActivity.
4. In the menu that opens, select the desired SMS application.

This method works on most Xiaomi devices with MIUI 11-14, but may require several attempts.If the menu doesn't open, try clearing the Settings app cache (Settings → Applications → App Management → Settings → Clear the cache).

💡

Activity Launcher is the only way to open a hidden SMS selection menu without ADB. However, after the MIUI update, the path to Activity may change.

Method 4: Use root rights (for advanced users)

If none of these methods work, you have to get root rights, and that's a risky option, because:

• ⚠️ Cancels the guarantee.
• ⚠️ It can lead to unstable operation of the system.
• ⚠️ Blocks updates over the air (OTA).

If you are prepared for risk, follow the instructions:

1. Unlock the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool (requires a Mi Account and wait 7-15 days).
2. Install a custom recap (TWRP) and scrolle Magisk to get root.
3. Download the App Manager app (requires root).
4. In App Manager, find the standard Messages app (com.android.mms) and turn it off (don’t delete!).
5. Install an alternative messenger and assign it by default through Settings → Applications.

⚠️ Note: Disabling the com.android.mms system application may cause missed call notifications and service SMS from the operator to malfunction. TWRP.

Compatibility table with MIUI versions

Solving problems after changing the SMS application

Even if you managed to change the default messenger, typical problems can arise:

• 🔔 No notifications: Check permissions for new app in Settings → Notifications. Disable battery optimization for messenger (Settings) → Battery → Optimizing the battery).
• 📵 No SMS: Make sure the new app has access to phone features (Settings) → Annexes → Permits) Some firmwares require manual indication SMS-Center (number can be specified by the operator).
• 🔄 Reset to a standard app after rebooting: this is a typical feature» MIUI. Re-appointment is decided through ADB Activity Launcher.

On devices with MIUI 14 and HyperOS, the Quick Answers feature on the lock screen may disappear after changing the SMS application. To return it, go to Settings → Lock Screen → Quick Answers and turn on the option manually.

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 11 with) MIUI 13.0.6) after use ADB-The system can block SMS sending via alternative applications, in which case only resetting settings or firmware via Fastboot will help.

FAQ: Frequent questions about changing SMS application to Xiaomi