How to install an app on a Xiaomi TV: all the ways 2026

Install applications on Xiaomi TVs with Android operating system TV Unlike smartphones, there is no familiar Google Play Market (on most models), and the official Mi App Store offers a limited set of programs. However, there are at least 5 working ways to install any app – from social media to social media. IPTV-player.

In this article, we will analyze all current methods: from standard installation through the built-in store to manual download. APK-files from a flash drive or over the network. We will pay special attention to the nuances for different models (Mi) TV 4/5 Pro, Mi TV A2, Mi TV P1 And so on, and solutions to common bugs like "Installation locked" or "Unknown sources disabled." If you want to expand your TV, read on.

1. Installation through the official Mi App Store

The easiest and safest way to do this is to use the built-in Mi App Store (formerly the Mi TV App Store), which is pre-installed on all Xiaomi TVs and offers Android TV-optimized versions of popular services like YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, IVI and others, but the range is much narrower than Google Play.

To install the application:

  • πŸ“Ί Turn on the TV and go to the main screen (Home button on the remote).
  • πŸ” Find the Apps tab (or β€œApps”) and select β€œMi App Store".
  • πŸ”Ž Enter the name of the desired application in the search bar or select from categories.
  • ⬇️ Click "Install" and wait for the download to be completed.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi TVs for the Russian market (for example, models with a prefix) RU In the name, some applications may be hidden due to regional restrictions, in which case it will help to change the region in settings or use of the app. VPN.

πŸ“Š Which app store do you use most often on Xiaomi? TV?
Mi App Store
Google Play
APK-file
Other

Installation APK-file USB-flash-drive

If the application is not in the Mi App Store, you can install it manually through the app. APK-This method works for most models, including Mi. TV 4A, Mi TV 4S mi TV 5 Pro: The main condition is to allow installation from unknown sources.

Step-by-step:

  1. Download. APK-file on a computer or smartphone. We recommend using verified sources: 🌐 Official Developer Sites (for example, IVI Wink). πŸ“¦ Specialized resources like APKMirror (select versions for Android) TV).
  2. Prepare the flash drive: πŸ’Ύ Format it in FAT32 (necessarily!). πŸ“ Copy. APK-file in the root folder of the flash drive (not nested!).
  3. Connect the flash drive to the TV (USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port).
  4. Allow installation from unknown sources: Go to Settings β†’ Device β†’ Security and Restrictions. Activate the Unknown Sources (or Install Unknown Applications) option.
  5. Install. APK: Open the built-in Explorer (or File Manager). Select the flash drive, find the APK-file and confirm installation.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for installation APK flash-drive

Done: 0 / 5

⚠️ Attention: Some APK-Files may not work on Android TV Because you don't have remote control, and you can use Bluetooth to connect your wireless mouse or keyboard.

How to check the compatibility of APK with Android TV?
Open the app page on APKMirror and look for the "Supported Android versions" section. If you have "androidTV = true" or if you have a "Optimized for TV" tag, the file will do. Also pay attention to the architecture: most Xiaomi TVs need an APK for arm64-v8a.

3. Installation via Google Play (for certified models)

Xiaomi TVs for the global market (such as Mi TV P1 or Mi TV Q2 marked Global) often have a pre-installed Google Play Market.This makes installing apps much easier, but requires a Google account.

How to install the app through Google Play:

  • πŸ”— Connect your TV to the Internet (preferably via Ethernet cable for stability).
  • πŸ“± Sign in to Google Account: Go to Settings β†’ Accounts and login. Select "Add account" β†’ Google and enter data.
  • πŸ›’ Open the Google Play Market (Icon in the App Menu).
  • πŸ” Find the right application and click "Install".

πŸ“Œ Key point: On Xiaomi TVs for the Russian market, Google Play is often absent due to restrictions. ADB alternative shops.

Model TV setSupport for Google PlayAlternative means
Mi TV 4A/4S (RU)❌ No.Mi App Store, APK, ADB
Mi TV 5 Pro (Global)βœ… Yes.Google Play, APK
Mi TV P1 (2022)βœ… Yes (with an update)Google Play, Aptoide TV
Mi TV A2 (43"/55")❌ No.APK, Send Files to TV

4. Install applications via ADB (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work (for example, a TV blocks APK installation), you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB), which requires a computer and basic command line knowledge, but allows you to bypass most of the limitations.

Instructions:

  1. Turn on USB debugging on your TV: Go to Settings β†’ Device β†’ Device Information. Click 7 times on β€œBuild Number” (you will be notified β€œYou’ve become a developer”). Go back to β€œSettings β†’ Device” and select β€œDeveloper Settings.” Activate β€œDebug via USB” and β€œInstall via ADB”.
  2. Connect the TV to your computer: Use a cable USB-A β†’ USB-A (or USB-C β†’ USB-A For new models, install it on your computer. ADB Tools.

Install APK through the command

adb install path to file.apk

Example:

adb install C:\Downloads\com.ivi.client.apk

⚠️ Note: When connecting to ADB The TV can request debugging permission, confirm it on the screen. If the adb device command doesn't show the device, check the drivers or try another cable.

πŸ’‘

If ADB If the TV doesn't recognize the TV, try connecting over Wi-Fi. To do this, activate "Debugging over the network" in the developer settings and type in the adb connect command. IP_television:5555 (IP You can find out in the network settings).

5. Alternative app stores (Aptoide TV, Aurora Store)

If the Mi App Store and Google Play don’t fit, you can install a third-party app store optimized for Android TV.

  • πŸ“¦ Aptoide TV β€” Google Play with a wide range of products. APK You can get from the official website.
  • 🌐 Aurora Store is an open alternative to Google Play (requires registration) and is suitable for installing paid apps for free (at your own risk).
  • πŸ“Ί Send Files to TV β€” utility for transferring files from a smartphone to a TV over a local network.

To install Aptoide TV:

  1. Download. APK-arch-file TV send to the TV via Send Files to TV.
  2. Install it through the Explorer (as described in Method 2).
  3. Open Aptoide TV, find the desired application and click "Install".

⚠️ Note: Apps from third-party stores may contain ads or malicious code. Check reviews and ratings on VirusTotal before installing them.

6. Solving errors in application installation

When installing apps on Xiaomi TVs, users often encounter common errors, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

Mistake.Reason.Decision
The installation is locked.Unknown sources are disabledEnable the option in Settings β†’ Security
Incompatible with the deviceAPK is not for Android TVDownload the version marked "TV" or "arm64"
Lack of memoryInternal storage occupied.Clear the cache in Settings β†’ Storage or use a flash drive
Packet analysis errorDamaged. APK-fileDownload the file or check it for viruses

If the application is installed but not opened:

  • πŸ”„ Restart the TV (Power button on the remote hold 5 seconds).
  • πŸ“‹ Check the permissions in Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ [Title of the annex] β†’ Permits.
  • πŸ”§ Update the TV firmware (in Settings) β†’ System system β†’ Update of the PO).

πŸ’‘

If the app requires Google Services (like YouTube or Google Maps) but doesn’t have them on your TV, install them manually via APK. Download com.google.android.gms and com.google.android.gsf from APKMirror (the Android TV version!).

FAQ: Frequent questions about installing apps on Xiaomi TV

Can I install WhatsApp or Telegram on a Xiaomi TV?
Technically, yes, but these apps are not optimized for remote control. TV-mode) or web version via browser. Connect wireless keyboard for convenience.
Why is YouTube not working on Xiaomi TV after installation?
On TVs without Google Services (e.g. Mi TV 4A RU), the official YouTube may not start. Solutions: Install a modified version of YouTube for Android TV. Use the web version via a browser (e.g. TV Bro). Install SmartTubeNext (requires root or ADB).
How to transfer applications to a flash drive to free up memory?
On Xiaomi TVs, porting apps to an external drive is not officially supported, however, you can: Use the flash drive as "Inner Memory" (formatted in Adoptable Storage via the following link: ADB). Install applications directly on the flash drive (some launchers, for example) ATV Launcher, that's what allows). ⚠️ Note: After formatting the USB drive in Adoptable Storage, it will not be used on other devices without data loss!
How to update installed applications?
Update methods depend on the source of installation: Mi App Store / Google Play: Updates come automatically or through the section "My apps". APK-Files: You need to manually download new versions and install on top of old ones (with the "Update" tick). TV: Updates are checked in the "Updates" section inside the store.
Can I install Kodi on Xiaomi TV?
Yes, Kodi works great on Xiaomi TVs. Download the official Android TV version from kodi.tv and install via APK. For better performance: In Kodi settings, enable "Optimize for Android TV." Use Xiaomi's microphone remote for voice search.