Many users, when they first encounter the MIUI shell on Redmi 9 smartphones, experience confusion when they can not detect the usual icon for Internet access. This is not due to a device breakdown, but due to the company's marketing policy, which by default promotes its own Mi Browser service or preinstalles third-party solutions. Google Chrome's standard system browser is often hidden in folders or removed from visible access on the desktop, which creates the illusion of its absence.
Redmi 9 owners often wonder where to look for this interface element and how to activate it without unnecessary movements. Understanding the logic of the Android operating system in conjunction with the proprietary shell allows you to quickly eliminate confusion. In this article, we will discuss in detail all possible search scenarios, ways to restore access to web surfing and settings that will help you comfortably use the Internet on your device.
It's worth noting that on global versions of MIUI 12 and above, the default browser is Mi Browser, which has its own design and functionality. However, the Android kernel always contains the basic components for displaying web pages, and you can return or customize them as you like. Let's look at the step-by-step algorithm of actions.
Search for applications through system search and menu
The fastest and most efficient way to find any application on a Xiaomi smartphone is to use the built-in search function. You don’t have to go through hundreds of icons on desktops, just swipe down the center of the home screen or click on the search bar in the widget. In the window that opens, type in the browser name, for example, Chrome or the Browser, and the system will instantly show the result if the application is installed.
If the search comes up with an app, but it's deep in the menu, you can immediately launch it by clicking on the icon in the search results. Often users do not even suspect that the browser is simply hidden in a folder called Tools or Google. Check these directories first, because that's where MIUI likes to sort system utilities.
If the search is not yielding results, it may have been removed or disabled. To check, go to the Settings menu and select the App. Here you need to find the All Apps section and scrolle through the list carefully. If you see Chrome or Mi Browser there, then the program is in place, and the only problem is that there is no shortcut on the desktop.
- 🔍 Swipe down the center of the screen to call for global search.
- 📂 Check Google folders and tools on all desktops.
- ⚙️ Go to the application settings to check the installation status.
⚠️ Note: If you only see system components in the installed app list, but there is no full browser, it may have been removed along with Google services when you purchased the Chinese version of the smartphone.
Lack of a shortcut is a common problem that can be solved by drag and drop: Finding an app in a shared menu (swipe up the screen), press the icon with your finger and drag it to the free desktop space, which will create permanent access to the web browser without having to search for it in the depths of the menu every time.
The difference between Mi Browser and Google Chrome
Redmi 9 devices can have two primary browsers pre-installed, and it’s important to understand the difference between them. Mi Browser is a Xiaomi development that is focused on integrating with the brand ecosystem, has built-in traffic saving, night mode and the feature of downloading videos from sites. It is often installed as the default browser immediately after the first turn on the phone.
At the same time, Google Chrome is the standard for the Android platform, providing better sync with your Google account, search history, passwords and bookmarks between all your devices, and many users prefer it because of the familiar interface and lack of intrusive news that is often found in Mi Browser.
The choice between them depends on your personal preferences. If you care about speed in low signal conditions and downloading media in the background, Mi Browser may be more convenient. If you value minimalism, security and synchronization with a PC, then you should give priority to a product from Google.
Both apps can be used simultaneously. You can access the Internet from one browser and store important bookmarks through the other, or use them for specific tasks, such as testing websites or sharing user profiles.
Installation of a shortcut on the desktop
If an app is found on the menu but is not on the home screen, you need to create a shortcut. To do this, open the menu of all apps by swiping up from the bottom of the screen. Find the browser icon in the alphabetical list.
Press the icon and hold your finger for a second until the vibration or the interface scale changes. Without letting go, drag the icon to the free area of any desktop. Release your finger to fix the shortcut. Now you'll have one click to access the Internet.
Some versions of the MIUI shell may require additional action. If drag and drop doesn't work, try clicking on the icon in the app menu and select Add to the home screen option (if such a pop-up prompt appears). Also check if the "Block Desktop Changes" mode is enabled in the theme settings.
☑️ Checking the browser shortcut
Once you have created a shortcut, it is recommended to check its health. Click on it and make sure the page loads correctly. If the shortcut leads to a blank page or an error, you may need to reset the settings of the application itself through the program management menu.
Browser setting by default
When you have multiple browsers installed on your phone, you need to know which browser to open when you click on links from other apps (like Telegram or Viber). To set this up, go to Settings and find the App section. Then select Application Management.
In the upper right corner of the screen, click three dots and select Other Settings. In the menu that opens, find the default App bar. Click on the Browser. The system will offer you a list of all browsers installed, select the one you plan to use as the primary.
Once selected, Redmi 9 will automatically open links in the app you select, which will save you from the constant “Open with...” questions that can be annoying when you actively use instant messengers and social networks.
| Parameter | Mi Browser | Google Chrome | Third-party (Opera, Yandex) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronization | Mi Account | Google Account | Your account. |
| Savings regime | Built-in | Lite mode | Depends on the version. |
| Download video | There is. | No (no plugins) | Often |
| Ad-blocker | Basic | Through expansion | Often embedded |
It is important to check these settings periodically, especially after major system updates, as MIUI can reset user preferences to standard values.
What to do if the browser is deleted or not working
There are times when an app is physically absent from the system or stopped running due to a software failure. If a standard Google browser has been removed, it can be easily returned.
If you have a browser but it doesn't open (takes off immediately after you start), try clearing its cache. Go to Settings → Apps → All apps, find a browser, click Memory and select Clear Cache. If that doesn't work, you can click Clear Everything, but that will delete the saved passwords and history inside the app.
How to restore a system browser without Play Market?
As a last resort, if the problems are systemic, you may need to reset your phone to factory settings.Be sure to back up important data before doing so, as all files will be deleted.
Alternative ways to access the Internet
In addition to classic browsers, Redmi 9 can use other methods of accessing web content. Desktop widgets allow you to get information without fully running the application. For example, the Google Discover widget or the Mi Video/Mi Music news feed (depending on the region) can display previews of articles.
There are also lightweight versions of browsers that consume less RAM, which is true for the Redmi 9 model with its configuration. Opera Mini or Chrome Lite can work faster in unstable connection conditions. They can be installed from the app store and used as an addition to the main browser.
And don't forget about the Google Assistant, which is the voice assistant, and you can just say, "OK, Google, open Wikipedia," and the phone will launch a browser request, even if you're on the desktop, which is the fastest way to get to the right resource without using your hands.
By combining different access methods and properly configuring shortcuts, you will make using your smartphone as convenient and efficient as possible, regardless of which browser you choose as your primary browser.