Today’s Xiaomi Mi TVs are powered by Android TV, which offers users a wide range of third-party software installation options. However, the standard Google Play Store on TVs often has a limited list of available software, and the official VKontakte client may not be there, which poses a challenge for those who want to watch news feeds, listen to music or watch videos from the platform directly on the big screen without using a smartphone.
The solution to this problem is to manually install the APK installation file, which can be found on the network.The process does not require complex code manipulation or root rights, but requires careful attention when setting up system security. In this article, we will detail how to safely download and run the VK application on your Mi TV using proven methods of circumventing restrictions.
It’s important to understand that the mobile app interface may not be displayed correctly on a TV screen, so we’ll also look at alternative ways to display content that may be even more convenient than a native installation. For the correct operation of most methods, you will need a stable Internet connection and availability of the Internet. USB-The drive or file manager on the TV itself, and the willingness to experiment and follow the steps of the instructions ensures a successful result.
Preparing the TV for the installation of third-party applications
Before you start downloading installation files, you need to change the security settings of your Xiaomi Mi TV. By default, Android blocks the installation of programs from sources other than the official Google Play Store. This is a basic malware protection mechanism that we will have to temporarily disable for a particular installer.
You'll need to go to the settings menu of the TV. Navigation is done using the remote control. Find the section that is responsible for device security or application settings. The specific path may vary slightly depending on the version of the PatchWall shell or Android TV.
You need to find a point that allows installation from unknown sources. In some versions of the firmware, it can be the Unknown Sources switch, in others, it can be the choice of a specific installer application that is given permission, and once this function is activated, the system will alert you to the potential risks that you need to accept.
⚠️ Note: After you have completed the installation of all necessary programs, we strongly advise you to return the setting "Unknown sources" to the original position, this will protect your TV from the accidental installation of advertising debris or viruses when visiting websites in the browser.
It is also recommended to free up space in internal memory: the installation files take up a little space, but the cache and the VK app itself will require free space. If the memory is full, the system may refuse to install or the application will work unstable.
Search and download relevant APK-VKontakte file
The next step is to find a secure and working installation file. Since there is no official Android TV client available, you will have to use versions adapted for tablets or smartphones. The key here is to choose the processor architecture of your TV, although most modern Xiaomi models use the standard ARM architecture.
Search for a file is best on proven aggregator resources such as APKPure, 4PDA or Trash. Avoid sites with a lot of pop-up ads, as there is a risk of downloading a modified version with malicious code.
There are two main ways to download it: one is directly through the browser built into the TV, if it supports downloading files; the second, and more reliable, way is to download the file to a computer or smartphone, to transfer it to a computer or smartphone. USB-flash drive and connect it to the TV.
When choosing an app version, look for Android version requirements. Older TV models may require Android 5.0 or 6.0 versions, while newer Mi TV Sticks or Android 9+ TVs will require more recent builds.
How to check the Android version on your TV?
Installation of the application through USB-accumulator
This method is the most stable and avoids the problem of downloading heavy files directly to the TV. USB-flash drive formatted in the file system FAT32 or NTFS, Supported by Xiaomi TVs.
Copy the downloaded APK-file in the root of the flash drive or in an easily found folder. USB-The system automatically detects the new device and prompts you to open its contents. If that doesn't happen, use the file manager.
On Mi TVs. TV Often a file manager is preinstalled. If it's not available, you can install it from the Google Play Store (e.g., "File Commander" or "X-plore"). USB-Driver and Locate File with.apk Extension.
Click on the file to start the installation. The system will request confirmation of actions. Accept the installation and wait for the process to complete. Once the installation is successful, a notification will appear, and the application icon may appear in the general list of programs or in the recent folder.
☑️ Checklist of the installation from the flash drive
Alternative method: installation via Send Files to TV
If you don't want to mess around with flash drives, you can use wireless file transfer technology, which requires the Send Files to TV (SFTTV) app, which is available on the Google Play Store on the TV itself and on your smartphone.
Install the app SFTTV You can go to the TV through the official store. APK-Run the app on both devices, making sure they are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
On the TV, select Receive mode and on the smartphone, Send mode. Find your TV in the list of devices and transfer the file. Once the transfer is complete, the file will appear in the TV's memory and the system will prompt you to install it.
This method is especially convenient if you do not have it on hand. USB-The storage device or ports on the TV are occupied by other devices, the transfer speed depends on the quality of your Wi-Fi router and support for the 5 GHz standard.
⚠️ Note: When using the network transmission method, make sure your router does not use the feature "AP Isolation, which prevents devices on the network from seeing each other, without which file transfers will be impossible.
Compatibility problems and remote control
Once installed, you may find that the application interface is not adapted to control from the remote, mobile versions of the VC are sharpened to the touch screen, and the mouse cursor may be missing, which makes navigating the tape or menu extremely difficult.
To solve this problem, there are special mouse emulator apps for Android TV. They can also be found in the Google Play Store. By installing such an application (for example, "Mouse Toggle"), you can control the cursor on the screen using volume buttons or special combinations on the remote.
Another option is to use a Bluetooth mouse or keyboard. Connect a wireless computer mouse through the keyboard. USB-TV adapter. The cursor will appear on the screen, and you can comfortably use the mobile version of the VK, like on a tablet.
It’s also worth considering that some features, such as video calling, may not work due to the lack of camera and microphone in the TV’s design or the app’s access limitations to these modules.
💡
Use Logitech's Bluetooth mouse with a small one USB-whistle – it is ideal for controlling the cursor on Android TV and does not require complex settings.
Comparison of ways to use VKontakte on TV
To make it easier for you to choose the best option, we have prepared a comparison table that will help you assess the pros and cons of each method depending on your needs and technical equipment.
| Method | Difficulty | Management convenience | Stability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation of APK with USB | Medium | Low (needs mouse) | Tall. |
| Telephone broadcast | Low. | Tall (via phone) | Depends on Wi-Fi. |
| Browser on TV. | Low. | Medium | Medium |
| Official Client (Not available) | - | - | - |
As you can see from the table, direct installation gives autonomy, but suffers from the ease of control. Cast is often the preferred option for watching video, since control remains on the smartphone, and the TV acts only as a monitor.
To listen to music or watch photo albums installation APK-The file and then the mouse is the most functional solution. This turns your Xiaomi Mi into a new one. TV In a full-fledged social network media station.
💡
The optimal solution for permanent use is the bundle "Installed APK + Bluetooth mouse", which gives full control over the interface without the limitations of the mobile version.