Why Yandex is not preinstalled on Xiaomi TV and what to do about it
Xiaomi TVs with Android TV or Google TV come with a minimum set of Russian services – global platforms like Netflix, YouTube or Prime Video are a priority. Yandex, despite its popularity in Russia, is not included in the standard application package even on models for the Russian market (for example, Mi TV Q2 2023 or Redmi Smart Fire TV), This is due to Google’s policy and agreements on pre-installation of software.
However, the absence of Yandex in the list of pre-installed applications is not a verdict. the company's services (search, Yandex.Ether, Kinopoisk, Yandex.Music) can be installed manually in three ways: through the official store, through the help of the company's services. APK-Each method has nuances, from requirements to Android version. TV before the need to include the developer mode.
It is important to consider that the functionality of Yandex services on Xiaomi TV may differ from the mobile version, for example, Yandex.Ether on the TV does not support recording broadcasts, and voice search works only through a remote with a microphone (Mi TV A Pro models and newer).
Method 1: Install Yandex via Google Play on Xiaomi TV
The easiest and safest method is to download Yandex apps directly from the Google Play Store.It is suitable for all Xiaomi Smart models. TV Android-based TV 9.0 and higher, including Mi TV P1, Xiaomi TV A2, Redmi Smart TV However, not all Yandex services are available in the store for TV-device.
Here are the applications that can be officially installed:
- 🔍 Yandex (search and browser) – works as an alternative to Google Chrome, but without support for extensions.
- 🎬 Yandex.Ether - more than 200 channels in HD, without the "Deferred View" function on TV.
- 🎵 Yandex.Music – a full version with playlists and podcasts.
- 🎥 Film search – a catalog of films and TV series with a rating, but without the possibility of renting content.
To find these applications:
- Open the Google Play Store on the main screen of your TV.
- In the search bar, enter the name of the desired service (for example, "Yandex.Ether").
- Select the application from the issue and click Install.
- After installation, run it through the All Apps menu (Apps button on the remote).
⚠️ Note: If the Yandex app does not appear in Google Play search, check your account region. Russia should be selected in the Google profile settings for Russia. You can change it on pay.google.com under Account Settings".
Method 2: Installation APK-Manual files (for experienced users)
If the application is not available in Google Play, it can be installed via Google Play. APK-This method is suitable for services such as Yandex.Disk or Yandex.Navigator (although the latter is not useful for the user). TV), It requires the development mode and the use of a file manager.
Step-by-step:
- Download APK from Yandex’s official website or a trusted source (such as APKCombo) and look for the Android TV version (the file name should be “tv” or “atv”).
- Transfer the file to TV: 📁 Through USB-storage device (formatted in FAT32). ☁️ Through cloud storage (e.g. Google Drive) TV File Manager is installed like X-Plore. 📶 Local area network (if the TV and computer are connected to the same router).
Installation from unknown sources
- Go to Settings → Security and Restrictions → Unknown Sources.
- Select a file manager (such as File Commander) and allow installation.
- Install APK through the file manager by selecting the downloaded file.
⚠️ Attention: Alternative launchers may conflict with Xiaomi’s proprietary shell (e.g. PatchWall on models for India). After installation, there may be lags or remote malfunctions. Before experimenting, back up your settings through Settings → System system → Backup.
How to return the standard launcher Xiaomi?
Setup of Xiaomi remote to work with Yandex
After installing Yandex applications, it may turn out that some functions (such as voice search or player management) do not work with the standard Xiaomi remote, due to the lack of support for media buttons (Play/Pause, Next, Previous) in the firmware.
Decisions:
- 🎤 Voice search: If your remote is equipped with a microphone (Mi models) TV Stick or Mi TV A Pro), hold the microphone button and say the command (for example, "Enable Yandex.Ether on NTV"). For remotes without a microphone, connect a Bluetooth headset.
- ⏯️ Player control: Use buttons OK (pause/play) and arrows (rewind). For convenience, configure Yandex.Music using the Yandex Music Remote app on your smartphone.
- 🖱️ Mouse or keyboard: Connect Bluetooth mouse via Settings → Devices → Add an accessory. This will simplify navigation in Yandex.Browser.