GetApps is a standard application that is preinstalled on all Xiaomi, Redmi and other smartphones. POCO branded MIUI. Many users notice it on the menu, but not everyone understands what it is for and whether it can be removed. In this article, we will discuss in detail what GetApps are, how to use it, what alternatives are available, and how to solve typical work problems.
If you just bought a new Xiaomi smartphone or updated the firmware to MIUI 14/15, You may have encountered GetApps offering to install additional programs, games or updates, some of which may be considered a virus or an unnecessary block, but it's actually an official service from the manufacturer.
What is GetApp on Xiaomi and why you need it
GetApps (sometimes called the App Store or Mi App Store) is a branded app store from Xiaomi, similar to Huawei's Google Play or AppGallery.It is designed to:
- π₯ Install applications and games optimized for MIUI;
- π Updates to pre-installed system programs;
- π Get exclusive offers and bonuses for Xiaomi users;
- π‘οΈ Safety checks for installed APK-file.
Unlike Google Play, GetApps offers apps that have passed the additional screen compatibility test. MIUI. This means that they need to be more stable and not conflict with system services, and there are often exclusive themes, wallpapers and utilities that are not available in other stores.
However, GetApps has its drawbacks: some users complain of intrusive advertising, slow downloads or duplication of features with Google Play. But this does not mean that the application can be safely removed β it is closely integrated into the system and is responsible for updating key components. MIUI.
How to use GetApps: step-by-step instructions
GetApps interface is intuitive, but beginners may have questions.
- App Search: Enter the name of the program or game at the top line, and the system will offer options from its directory and Google Play (if any).
- Categories: in the lower menu you can select sections - "Games", "Themes", "Utilities", "Recommended".
- Updates: In the "Updates" tab (My) β Updates) display available updates for installed programs.
- File Manager APK: If you downloaded an application in.apk format from the Internet, GetApps can install it and check for viruses.
To install the application:
- Find it through search or in categories.
- Click on the card and select βInstallβ.
- Confirm the permissions (if required).
- Wait for the download and installation to be completed.
View ratings and reviews|Make sure the app is compatible with your version MIUI|Check the permissions it requests|Compare file size to similar in Google Play-->
If the application is not installed, check:
- π Internet connection (preferably via Wi-Fi);
- π± Is there enough memory on the device;
- π Are installations from unknown sources (Settings) allowed β Annexes β Special rights β Installation of unknown applications).
Can I remove GetApps from Xiaomi and what happens if I do it?
Technically, you can remove GetApps, but it is not recommended for several reasons:
| Action. | Effects of consequences | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Removal through Settings β Applications | The app will return after restarting or updating. MIUI | Disable notifications instead of deleting |
| Removal through ADB (skilled) | System applications (e.g. Mi Video, Mi Music) may stop updating | Create a backup copy before deleting |
| Disconnection through Developer Options | The app will remain in the system, but will not work. | It is better to hide the icon from the main screen. |
If you still decide to delete GetApps, use the command via ADB:
adb shell pm uninstall --user 0 com.xiaomi.mipicksBut remember: without GetApps, you wonβt be able to update pre-installed apps from Xiaomi (e.g. Mi Home, Mi Fit, Themes). MIUI, such as cloud storage or synchronization.
What if after removing GetApps, system applications stopped updating?
β οΈ Note: On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T Or the Redmi Note 12 Pro.+) Deleting GetApps can lead to errors in the work MIUI If you use Xiaomi Cloud services, it is better not to take risks.
GetApps vs Google Play: Comparison and What to Use
Many users are wondering why GetApps is needed when there is Google Play.
| Criteria | GetApps | Google Play |
|---|---|---|
| Number of applications | Limited catalogue (mainly for the MIUI) | Millions of apps and games |
| Security | Additional checks for compatibility with MIUI | Google Play Protect, but there are vulnerabilities |
| Exclusive content | Themes, wallpaper, branded utilities Xiaomi | No exclusive for MIUI |
| Advertising | It can be intrusive (banners, push notifications) | Advertising is available, but it can be turned off in the settings |
| Updates to system applications | Yes (for example, for Mi Home, Mi Fit) | No (only if the app is downloaded from Google Play) |
When to use GetApps:
- π§ To update pre-installed applications Xiaomi;
- π¨ For the installation of official themes and wallpapers for MIUI;
- π‘οΈ If you don't trust third-party APK You want to check it out;
- π To participate in promotions and receive bonuses from Xiaomi.
When is the best time to use Google Play:
- π If you need an app that is not in GetApps;
- πΉοΈ To install popular games (they are often updated faster on Google Play);
- βοΈ If you donβt want to see ads from Xiaomi.
π‘
If notifications from GetApps interfere with you, open Settings β Annexes β GetApps β Notifications and disable all switches.This won't remove the app, but will make it less intrusive.
Typical GetApps Problems and How to Solve Them
Although GetApps is the official app, it can crash, and let's look at some of the most common bugs and how to fix them:
1. GetApps won't open or crash
If the application does not start, try:
- π Reboot your smartphone;
- π§Ή Clear the cache (Settings) β Annexes β GetApps β Warehouse β Clear the cache);
- π₯ Update the application through Settings β The phone. β Updating the system;
- π§ Reset the application settings (Settings) β Annexes β GetApps β Additionally. β Reset the settings).
2. Applications are not downloaded or installed
The problem may be related to:
- π Unstable Internet connection (try switching to Wi-Fi or mobile data);
- π± Memory disadvantage (free up space or transfer files to a memory card);
- π Blocking antivirus downloads (turn it off temporarily).
3. There's a lot of advertising coming up.
To reduce the amount of advertising:
- π« Turn off personalized advertising in Settings β Google β Advertising β Disable personalization;
- π Disable notifications from GetApps (see tip above);
- π Check if additional advertising modules (e.g. Mi Browser or Cleaner) are installed).
β οΈ Note: If after the update MIUI GetApps has stopped working, donβt try to install it APK This can lead to conflicts with the system, preferably wait for the official patch or reset the settings through Settings. β Additionally. β Resetting settings.
How to disable automatic application installation through GetApps
Many users complain that GetApps willfully installs unnecessary programs (such as games or services Xiaomi).
- Open GetApps and go to Mine β Settings.
- Find the item βAuto-Update appsβ and turn it off.
- In the same menu, turn off βRecommendationsβ and βPersonalized Content.β
- Back to Settings β Annexes β GetApps β Permits and disable access to Warehouse, Contacts and Locations (if not required).
If these settings donβt help, check:
- π§ Availability of updates for MIUI (Sometimes bugs are fixed in new versions);
- π οΈ Have any viruses installed (scan your device via Google Play Protect or Dr.Web);
- π Are βHidden Settingsβ activated (Settings) β The phone. β Version. MIUI β Tap 7 times, then check additionally β Special facilities β Auto-installation).
π‘
Disabling the auto install does not interfere with manual updates to the apps, and you can still manually check and install updates through GetApps.
GetApps Alternatives: What App Stores Can You Use
If you don't like GetApps, you can replace it with other stores.
| Shop | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Google Play | Largest catalogue, high security | No exclusive for MIUI, Regional limitations |
| APKMirror | Older versions of apps available, no geo-blocking | No automatic updates, risk of downloading an unofficial build |
| Aptoide | Open catalog, there are unique applications | Many advertisements, viruses are possible in unofficial repositories |
| Amazon Appstore | Good choice of games, often discounts | Fewer apps than Google Play |
If you decide to use a third-party store, consider:
- π Security: Install APK only from verified sources;
- π± Compatibility: Some applications may not work MIUI;
- π Updates: Without GetApps, Xiaomiβs system programs wonβt automatically update.
For installation APK third-party:
- Download the file to the device.
- Open the Settings. β Annexes β Special rights β Installation of unknown applications.
- Select the browser or file manager through which you will install the APK and allow installation.
- Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions.