How to install apps on Xiaomi TV: 5 proven ways

Xiaomi TVs based on Android TV or PatchWall proprietary shell offer flexible options for installing applications – from official services to manual download APK. However, not all users know how to circumvent the manufacturer’s restrictions or where to find compatible versions of programs. This guide covers all current installation methods on the model 2020-2026, including Mi TV 4S/5X, Redmi Smart TV and Xiaomi TV A Pro.

Many people are faced with the problem of not having the right apps in the Mi Store or blocking the installation from unknown sources, and we will analyze not only the standard methods, but also alternative ones through the use of the software. ADB, Cloud services and even using USB-Special attention is paid to security and compatibility to avoid errors such as "Application not installed" or system freeze.

If your TV is running PatchWall (most Xiaomi models for China/India), the installation algorithm will be different from the classic Android TV (European versions).

1.Installation through the official Mi Store

The easiest and safest way to do this is to use the built-in Mi Store (or Google Play Store on Android TV models), but there are some nuances: the Mi Store directory is heavily stripped down compared to Google Play, and some apps can be blocked on a regional basis.

To install the app through the Mi Store:

  1. Press the Home button on the remote.
  2. Go to the Apps (or Apps) section.
  3. Select the Mi Store (the icon with the Xiaomi logo).

On Android TVs (such as the Xiaomi TV A2 4K), instead of the Mi Store, Google Play Store will be the same algorithm, but the app catalog is wider, but even here some services may not be available — for example, 1xBet or Megogogo because of Google's policy.

⚠️ Note: On Chinese firmware, the Mi Store may require a link to a Xiaomi account with a Chinese phone number.If you have a European or global version of TV, this step can be skipped.

If you don't have the right app in the store, go to alternative methods, but first check if your model supports external installation.

📊 What kind of Xiaomi TV do you have?
Mi TV 4S/5X
Redmi Smart TV
Xiaomi TV A Pro/A2
Another Xiaomi
Not Xiaomi.

2. Permission of installation from unknown sources

By default, Xiaomi TV Blocks the installation of applications from third-party sources (APK-To fix this, you need to enable the appropriate option in the settings. The process is different for PatchWall and Android. TV.

For PatchWall TVs (most models):

  1. Open the settings (cog on the main screen).
  2. Go to the System. → Special facilities.
  3. Choose Unknown Sources.
  4. Activate the slider for File Manager or Browser (depending on the installation method).

For Android TVs (such as Xiaomi TV A2):

  1. Go to Settings. → Security and limitations.
  2. Choose Unknown Sources.
  3. Find the File Manager or bootloader in the list and allow installation.

After activating this option, you can install APK-However, remember that installing from unknown sources increases the risk of virus infection. Use only verified files from official sites (for example, APKMirror).

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If the Unknown Sources option is not on the menu, upgrade your TV firmware to the latest version. On older PatchWall versions, this item may be hidden.

Installation APK through USB-storage

If the app is not available in the store, but you have it APK-file, you can upload it to the TV through USB-This method is suitable for most Xiaomi models, including Redmi Smart. TV X and Mi TV Q1.

Method 1: Through USB-accumulator

  1. Download. APK-file on a computer (for example, from the APKMirror website).
  2. Copy the file to a FAT32 formatted flash drive.
  3. Connect the USB to the TV.
  4. Open the File Manager (the folder icon on the home screen).
  5. Find it. APK-You can click on the file and confirm the installation.

Method 2: Google Drive (Yandex Disk)

  1. Upload APK to your cloud storage.
  2. On the TV, open a browser (for example, TV Browser).
  3. Log in to the cloud and download the file.
  4. Once downloaded, open the APK via a notification or file manager.

If you install a Parse Error error, it means that the APK is not compatible with the Android TV version on your device. Try to find another version of the app (for example, Android 9/10/11).

What to do if the TV can’t see USB-flash-drive?
Make sure the flash drive is formatted in FAT32 (not NTFS Or exFAT. Try connecting it to you through the same device. USB-externally powered hub – some Xiaomi models do not read drives well without an additional energy source.

Installation via ADB (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work (e.g., blocking APK installation), you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which requires a computer and basic command line knowledge, but allows you to bypass many limitations.

Step 1: Preparation

  • 🖥️ Download. ADB Tools on the computer (Windows/macOS/Linux).
  • 📱 On the TV, turn on the debugging. USB: Go to Settings. → About the TV. Press 7 times the Build Number to activate Developer Mode. Go back to Settings. → Additionally. → For developers, turn on the debugging. USB and Installation through USB.