GetApp Xiaomi app: what it is, why you need and can you remove

Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphone owners often notice a pre-installed app called GetApps. Formerly known as the Mi Store, it raises questions for users accustomed to pure Android or the Google ecosystem. It's not just a shortcut, but a full-fledged software distribution tool integrated into the MIUI and HyperOS shell.

Having a third-party app store can be confusing for those who are worried about data security or want to free up space in memory. However, completely removing this component without understanding its functions can lead to some system services not working properly. In this article, we will discuss in detail the purpose of GetApps, assess the risks of using it, and determine whether to turn off this service on your device.

The main purpose and functionality of the service

The main purpose of GetApps is to provide a platform for downloading and updating software. Unlike the Google Play Store, which is a global standard, this store is focused on regional features and offers content that may not be available or less optimized in Western versions of storage. It serves as a distribution channel for developers who want to reach the audience of Xiaomi users.

The system automatically scans installed programs and offers them to be updated through its interface, allowing the company to control the version of the software, ensuring compatibility with the branded shell add-ons. In addition, the store often contains exclusive themes, fonts and widgets adapted specifically for the MIUI design code.

• 📥 Automatic update of pre-installed system applications without user involvement.
• 🎁 Provision of coupons and discounts for the purchase of equipment and accessories of the brand.
• 🛡️ Checking downloaded files for viruses through the built-in antivirus module.
• 🌏 Localization of content for a specific region of smartphone use.

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GetApps is the official Xiaomi app store that runs parallel to Google Play and is required to update the system components of MIUI.

It's worth noting that the app is actively promoting the company's own services, such as Xiaomi Cloud or Mi Video. To the average user, this may look like an imposition, but from a technical point of view, it ensures the integrity of the ecosystem. If you only use the device of this manufacturer, integration can be useful.

Differences from Google Play Store and Third-Party Analogues

Users often compare GetApps to Google Play, but there are fundamental differences in moderation policies and content availability. While Google’s store strictly adheres to international security and copyright standards, Xiaomi’s store may have more flexible rules for local developers, especially in the Asian region.

The interface and logic of the work also differ. GetApps often offers recommendations based on analysis of user behavior within the MIUI system, which makes the selection more personalized, but sometimes more intrusive. In contrast, Google Play relies primarily on search history and geolocation.

It’s important to understand that having two app stores doesn’t create a critical conflict in the system. Android allows you to properly handle installation requests from different sources. However, if you’re used to managing everything through a Google account, a second store may seem like an extra element taking up space.

Data security and confidentiality issues

One of the most common questions users ask is, “Is this app safe?” GetApps is certified and security checked, but Xiaomi’s privacy policy involves collecting certain telemetry data to improve services.

⚠️ Note: When using the GetApps store, your preferences may be transmitted to the company's servers to generate promotional offers. If you are critical to complete anonymity, your privacy settings should be changed manually.

Unlike the unknown. APK-The programs in GetApps are tested for malicious code, but the banner ads inside the application can be redirected to third-party resources. Users are advised to be careful when clicking on the bright Download or Win buttons, which are often part of a marketing strategy.

• 🔒 Using an encrypted connection when downloading files.
• 👁️ Collection of usage statistics for targeted advertising.
• 🚫 Lack of some Western apps due to sanctions restrictions.
• 🔄 Regular security updates for the store’s customer.

For most users, the level of security is comparable to standard Android app stores, but if you do not plan to use Chinese services or buy discounted equipment through the app, its functionality may seem excessive, in which case it raises the logical question of whether it can be deactivated.

Can I remove GetApps and the consequences?

It is not possible to completely remove the GetApps system application by standard means, since it is protected by superuser rights. You can only disable it or remove updates, which will return the application to the factory version. Root rights or use of ADB (Android Debug Bridge) via a computer are required to completely remove it.

If you choose to disable the app through your settings, it will stop running in the background, sending notifications, and consuming traffic. However, some MIUI system components that depend on the store’s libraries may start to work incorrectly or may give up errors when trying to update embedded utilities.

It is recommended to try to simply ban notifications and limit background activity before resorting to radical measures, which will keep the system stable, but eliminate visual noise and unnecessary activity.

Instructions for disabling and configuring the application

If you decide to minimize the impact of GetApps on your smartphone, follow these steps: This will not remove the app completely, but will stop its activity. First go to your device’s Settings, then select the App section and find the GetApps list (may be called the Mi Store).

In the app management menu that opens, click on Notifications and disable all types of alerts. Next, go back and select Battery (or Battery Consumption) setting background activity limits, which will prevent the process from starting without your knowledge.

To clean up the system more deeply, you can remove all the updates you receive by pressing the corresponding button in the application menu (three dots in the corner), which will free up space in memory, returning the program to its original state, and then it is recommended to restart the device to apply the changes.

adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.xiaomi.mipicks

The above command for ADB completely disables the packet for the current user.This is a safe alternative to deletion that can be easily reversed by the pm enable command. Use this method if a standard disconnection through the settings does not work.

Alternatives and Auto Update Management

Many users fear that important apps will stop updating without GetApps. It's not true: Google Play Store is successful with updating programs. Problems can only arise with Xiaomi system utilities, but they are usually updated along with the security patches of the MIUI system.

Alternatively, you can use independent app directories such as F-Droid for open source or Galaxy Store (on Samsung devices if they have switched from one brand to another), but for the average user, a bundle of Google Play is quite enough.

• 📲 Google Play is the main source of secure applications.
• 🦊 F-Droid – Open Source Free Software Repository.
• 🌐 APKPure – an alternative client for downloading application archives.
• ⚙️ Settings MIUI — Allows you to hide system applications from the menu.

⚠️ Note: Install applications from unknown sources (APK-Site files) are at increased risk of malware infection. Use only proven alternative stores.

If you don't use store features, just ignore it. Android manages resources efficiently, and the store's background service, if it's properly configured, shouldn't significantly affect autonomy.

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To hide the GetApps icon from your desktop, press it, select “Delete” (this will remove the shortcut, but not the app itself), or use desktop editing mode to hide the system icons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)