How to remove system applications on Xiaomi: 3 proven ways

Xiaomi smartphones are known for their rich functionality, but many users face the problem of unnecessary system applications that take up memory, consume battery power and are not deleted in standard ways. Unlike conventional programs, embedded services (such as Mi Browser, Mi Music or GetApps) often remain even after resetting, and their removal requires special methods - from simple tricks to deep changes in the system.

In this article, we will discuss three working ways to remove system applications on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO, including models on MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS. You will learn how to do without root rights, when to use ADB safely, and what to do if the application returns after the update. Importantly, some methods can lead to loss of warranty or unstable device performance – we will warn about the risks in each section.

Why you can’t just remove system applications

Embedded programs on Xiaomi are protected at the operating system level. They are stored in the /system section, which is read-only by default. Even if you find them in the settings (Settings → Applications → Application Management), the Remove button will be inactive or replaced with Disable.

Reasons for such protection:

• 🔄 System dependencies: Some applications (such as MiuiDaemon or Security) are responsible for the operation of the system. MIUI/HyperOS. Removing them can cause disruptions.
• 📦 Updates by air (OTA): After the system update, remote programs can be restored automatically.
• 🛡️ Xiaomi policy: the manufacturer blocks the removal of pre-installed services to preserve the functionality of the ecosystem (for example, Mi Account or Mi Share).

However, there are workarounds. Below we will look at methods from the safest (disconnect) to the radical (remove root rights).

Method 1: Disabling system applications (without risk)

If you just need to hide an application and stop it from running in the background, you just need to turn it off. This method requires no additional tools and is safe for the system. It is suitable for most embedded programs, except for mission-critical ones (for example, Settings or System UI).

Instructions:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select "Show all apps."
3. Find the right app (like Mi Browser) and tap it.
4. Click “Disable” (if the button is inactive, the application is protected).
5. Confirm the action in the dialog window.

What the blackout does:

• ✅ The app will disappear from the menu and stop running.
• ✅ Free up some of the memory (but not the internal memory!).
• ✅ System updates won’t automatically restore it.

⚠️ Note: Disabling system services like Google Play Services or MiuiSystemUI can cause errors in the phone.

Backup of important data

Check the name of the application on forums (for example, 4PDA)

Do not disable services with the gear icon (system)

Reboot the phone after disconnecting-->

Method 2: Removal via ADB (without root rights)

The Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool allows you to remove system applications without obtaining root rights.The method works on most Xiaomi devices, but requires a connection to a computer and enable developer mode.

Advantages of the method:

• 🔧 Does not violate the warranty (unless you remove critical components).
• 📱 Works on MIUI HyperOS and other versions, including the latest versions).
• 🔄 Applications do not recover after restarting (but may return after system updates).

Step-by-step:

1. Enable Developer Mode: Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (click 7 times) Return to Settings → Additional → For Developers and activate “Debugging by USB”.
2. Connect your phone to your PC and install ADB drivers (download Google’s Platform Tools).
3. Open the command line in the folder with ADB and type: adb devices If the device is displayed, execute: adb shell
4. Delete the application by command: pm uninstall -k --user 0 name.package For example, to delete Mi Browser: pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.browser

Where do you find the names of the packages? Use the command:

pm list packages | grep 'miui'

App Inspector from Google Play.

⚠️ Note: Deleting some packages (e.g. com.miui.securitycenter) may block access to security settings or updates. Always check the package on forums before uninstalling.

adb backup -apk -obb -shared -all -f backup.ab

This will save all user data and applications to the backup.ab file on PC.-->

Method 3: Complete removal with root rights (for experienced)

If you're willing to take the risk of taking full control of the system, you can remove apps permanently with root rights.

• 🔧 Can work with Magisk or TWRP.
• 📱 Ready to lose warranty (on most Xiaomi models, unlocking the bootloader resets the warranty).
• 🔄 Understand that improper actions can lead to a “brick” (inoperability) of the device.

Instructions:

1. Unlock the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool (Mi Unlock Tool). This will take up to 7 days of waiting ( Xiaomi policy).
2. Install custom recovery (TWRP) for your model.
3. Please use Magisk to obtain root rights.
4. Use a root-access file manager (such as Root Explorer or FX File Explorer) and delete application folders from: /system/app//system/priv-app///data/app/

An alternative way is to use Titanium Backup (requires root) to freeze or completely remove system packages.

⚠️ Note: Removing files from /system If you don't have a backup, you can make your phone inoperable. Always save your original files to a separate folder before you delete them.

How to return a remote system application

If you have problems after deleting (for example, Google Services stopped working or your settings disappeared), the application can be restored.

• 🔄 If removed through ADB: You can return the application by command: cmd package install-existing name.packet For example: cmd package install-existing com.android.browser
• 📦 If deleted from root: You need to copy the original files back to root /system/app/ or reflash the firmware.
• 🔧 If you have turned off through settings: Go to Settings → Annexes → Unplugged and press "Enable».

If the application is not restored, only a factory reset or a flashing through Fastboot remains.

💡

Before removing system applications, always check for compatibility with your version of MIUI/HyperOS. For example, on Xiaomi 13 Pro with HyperOS 1.0, removing com.miui.hyperos will lead to system failure.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when removing system applications, and here are the most common problems and solutions:

Another common mistake is to remove Google Play Services from Google Mobile Services (GMS) phones, which will make Google Play, Gmail and other services inoperable, and if you don’t need Google services, you’d better install GMS-free firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.EU).

Removal Alternatives: How to Hide or Replace System Applications

If the risks of deleting you are frightening, there are safer ways to get rid of unnecessary programs:

• 🔍 Hiding icons: Use launchers like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher to hide apps from the menu.
• 🔄 Replacement with analogues: For example, instead of Mi Browser, install Chrome or Firefox and make it the default app.
• ⚙️ Background activity restriction: In the application settings (Settings) → Annexes → [name] → Battery) select "Limit background activity».
• 📵 Firewall Blocking: Applications like NetGuard or AFWall+ (requires root) can block Internet access for unnecessary services.

Another trick for POCO and Redmi models on HyperOS is that some system applications can be deactivated via a hidden menu.

1. Open the phone app.
2. Enter the code: ##4636###.
3. Go to Usage statistics and find the unnecessary app.
4. Click Disable (not working on all models).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions