Owners of Xiaomi Mi 9 smartphones often face the intrusiveness of pre-installed software that takes up space in memory and consumes processor resources.One such application is the Mi Browser, built by default into the MIUI shell. Many users prefer to use third-party solutions such as Chrome or Firefox, and want to get rid of the standard browser completely.
Simply removing the icon from the desktop does not solve the problem, since the application remains in the system and continues to work in the background. To fully clean the device from excess software requires the use of more advanced methods. In this article, we will look at all the available methods, from basic disconnection to complete uninstallation through the computer.
It is worth noting that interference with system processes requires care. Mistakes can lead to unstable operation of the MIUI interface. However, if you follow the instructions Step-by-step, you can safely free up space and increase the autonomy of your Xiaomi Mi 9 without the risk of damaging the firmware.
Why you should get rid of the standard browser
Xiaomi’s standard browser is often criticized for overconsumption of RAM and intrusive advertising in the news feed. Even if you don’t use it, the process can remain active, consuming battery power.
In addition, Mi Browser collects data on user habits to target ads. For those who value privacy, replacing the standard application with more private counterparts is a priority, especially for the Mi 9, which is no longer the flagship of recent years, and every megabyte of RAM is on the bill.
It's important to understand the difference between deleting and disabling. Disabling only hides the application and stops its processes, but the file remains in the system partition. Complete deletion requires the use of special tools, but gives the maximum result.
- 🚀 Speeding up the operation of the interface by freeing up RAM.
- 🔋 Increased battery life of the smartphone in standby mode.
- 🛡️ Increased confidentiality and reduced data collection.
- 🗑️ Freeing internal storage from system debris and cache.
⚠️ Warning: Before you start any manipulation of system applications, be sure to back up important data to avoid accidental loss.
Don’t ignore the fact that some system links can be opened by default in a remote application. If you decide to completely remove, make sure that you have an alternative browser installed and configured to take its place.
Preparing a smartphone to remove system applications
Before we start taking drastic measures, you need to configure the smartphone properly. Standard security tools Android and MIUI block access to removing system components. The first step is to activate the developer mode.
To do this, go to the Settings → About Phone menu and find the MIUI version. You need to quickly click on it 7-10 times in a row until you notice that you have become a developer.
☑️ Pre-deletion check
Then you go to the advanced settings and find the Development Switch, and you activate the USB Debugging Switch, and when you connect to your computer, your smartphone will request confirmation of access, which is an important security element.
It is also recommended to include the option. USB-Debugging (security mode) if available in your firmware version, which will allow the computer not only to read the data, but also to make changes to the structure of the installed applications.
| Parameter | Standard value | Required importance | Where to find out. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Developer mode | Off. | Included | About the phone (7 clicks) |
| USB debugging | Off. | On. | For developers |
| USB-configuration | Just charging. | File Transfer (MTP) | USB settings |
| Screen locking | Anybody. | Pin code or pattern lock | Passwords and security |
Remember that the cable to connect should be high-quality and support data transfer, not just charging. Cheap cables can be the reason your computer just won't see your Xiaomi Mi 9.
Disconnection method through system settings
The safest, but less effective, way is to turn off the application, which doesn't require a computer connection or third-party software, but is suitable for users who are afraid of disrupting the system.
To use this method, go to Settings → Apps → All apps. In the list, find the Mi Browser (or Browser). Click on it to open the application management page.
If the Remove button is inactive (gray), click on the Disable or Stop button, and then select Disable.The system will alert you that the application will stop working and disappear from the list.This will stop all background processes associated with the browser.
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If the “Disable” button is also not available, then your version of MIUI will severely block the control of this component, and you will need to use ADB.
Once disabled, the icon will disappear from the desktop, and the application will no longer update and consume resources, but the files will remain dead weight in the system partition, taking up space.
In some regions and firmware versions of Xiaomi, the shutdown button can be completely hidden, in which case the only way out is to use a computer and debugging tools.
Complete removal via ADB on your computer
The most effective way to physically remove an application package from the system is to have a computer (Windows, macOS or Linux) and a minimum set of ADB (Android Debug Bridge) tools.
First, download and install Platform Tools from the official Android developer site or use the ready-made Minimal ADB and Fastboot installer. After installation, open the command prompt (cmd) or terminal in the tool folder.
Connect the Xiaomi Mi 9 cable to your computer. Enter the command line for adb devices. A window should appear on your smartphone screen asking for debugging permission — tick "Always Allow" and click "OK."
adb devicesIf the list shows a device with device status, the connection is successfully established. Now you need to know the exact name of the browser package.
adb shell pm list packages | grep browserThe package you are looking for is usually called com.android.browser or com.miui.global.browser. Be careful not to remove a third-party browser if it is installed.
- 🔍 Accurately identifying the name of the package is critical to removing the desired component.
- 💻 Commands are entered in the terminal without unnecessary spaces and symbols.
- 🔄 After removal, it is recommended to restart the device for application of changes.
For direct removal, use the command adb shell pm uninstall. -k --user 0 <packet>. Key key -k saves data and cache in case you want to restore the application, and --user 0 indicates deletion for the main user.
⚠️ Note: Removal of system components through ADB It is irreversible without resetting to factory settings. Make sure you delete the browser, not the critical system service.
Using graphic utilities for uninstallation
For those who don’t want to mess with the command line, there are convenient programs with a graphical interface. One of the most popular and secure is the Xiaomi utility. ADB/Fastboot Tools or Universal Android Debloater.
These programs automatically identify the connected device and show a list of all installed applications. System applications are usually marked with the appropriate icon. You just need to search the Mi Browser list and click on the Uninstall or Deactivate button.
Why should you use Universal Android Debloater?
The advantage of graphical webs is that they often have a built-in knowledge base, such as when getting stuck over a com.android.browser packet, the program can tell you that it is "Mi Browser" and that its removal is safe.
But remember, these programs are just a shell for the same ADB commands. If the program freezes or gives an error, you can always go back to manually entering commands in the terminal.
After working with the utility, be sure to check the list of applications on your smartphone. The browser should disappear. If it remains, you may need superuser rights (Root), which are difficult to obtain using standard methods on new firmware.
Browser Restore and Possible Problems
If after deleting you realized that some features stopped working, or you just decided to return everything as it was, there is an easy way to restore (--user 0), The installation file itself remained in the system.
To restore it is enough to execute the command:
adb shell cmd package install-existing com.android.browserOr through the graphical interface of the program you used to remove, select the option “Restore” that will return the browser to its original state with all default settings.
A common problem after removing the system browser is that links from other applications (such as Telegram or WhatsApp) stop opening, in which case the system should automatically prompt you to choose a new application by default.
- 📱 If no offer is available, go to Settings. → Annexes → Application management.
- ⚙️ Choose your new browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
- 🔗 Click “Open by Default” and select “Open Supported Links».
In rare cases, a full Wipe Data reset may be required if the deletion went wrong and caused a cyclical reboot, which is why the backup clause at the beginning of the article was not accidental.
⚠️ Note: Do not remove components with the names Framework, Security, Services, or System UI», Even if they seem unnecessary, it can cause your smartphone to be completely inoperable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to completely remove the Mi Browser on the Xiaomi Mi 9?
What to do if your computer does not see a smartphone for debugging?
Can I delete a browser without a computer?
Will it take a lot of time to delete the browser?
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Removing the Mi Browser via ADB is the most effective way to clean up the Xiaomi Mi 9 system of excess debris, but it requires careful input.
In conclusion, releasing the Xiaomi Mi 9 from the intrusive Mi Browser is a smart step to optimize the device’s performance. Using the methods described above, you can make your smartphone faster and more convenient by choosing tools that are right for you.