What programs can be safely removed from Xiaomi

When buying a new Xiaomi smartphone, users often face a pleasant surprise — a huge amount of pre-installed software. On the one hand, it is convenient, since all the necessary services are already installed. On the other hand, this bloatware takes up precious space in memory, consumes RAM and can slow down the device. Owners of budget models with a small amount of storage are especially acutely aware of the lack of free space.

In this article, we will discuss which system applications MIUI HyperOS can be removed without risking system stability. We will look at safe cleaning methods, including the use of the system. ADB-Proper cleaning of the phone will not only free up gigabytes, but also extend battery life, as background processes will no longer consume battery power.

Before taking drastic action, it is important to understand the difference between user and system applications. Removing critical components can lead to bootloop (cyclical reboot) or loss of call and internet functionality. So carefully review the list of safe packets to remove below and proceed with caution.

Analysis of pre-installed software: what is what

The MIUI interface and the new HyperOS are Android-based, but have a deep modification. All applications fall into three categories: critical system, functional (which can be removed but with loss of functionality) and third-party (advertising or affiliate) The first group includes Google Play services, phone book, messaging and system framework, their removal is strictly prohibited.

The second group is the standard Xiaomi apps: Mi Browser, Mi Video, Mi Music, GetApps. These programs are replaceable. If you're used to using Chrome, VLC or Spotify, you don't need native Xiaomi apps. They're safe to remove, but may require you to configure default alternatives in the settings menu.

⚠️ Warning: Never delete packets containing the words "System", "Framework", "Security", "Telephony" or "Input" unless you are 100% sure of their purpose.

The third category is advertising junk and games, which are often pre-installed in regional versions of firmware (Global, Europe), which are the most annoying to users with pop-ups and notifications, and removing them is a priority for comfortable use of the smartphone.

Secure list of applications for removal

There is a specific list of packages that have been verified by thousands of users and do not result in critical errors. However, package names may vary depending on the Android version and regional firmware.

• 📦 com.miui.videoplayer is a standard video player that often duplicates the functionality of a gallery or third-party players.
• 📦 com.miui.player is a built-in music player that often contains ads in the free version.
• 📦 com.miui.browser – a browser from Xiaomi, which many replace with Chrome, Firefox or Yandex.
• 📦 com.miui.miservice – Service and Feedback application, often used for advertising notifications.

Also worth paying attention to the package com.miui.micloudsync if you do not use the cloud storage Xiaomi Cloud. disabling or deleting it will prevent constant synchronization and unnecessary requests to the server. For users who prefer the Google ecosystem, this is an extra load.

The GetApps app store (com.xiaomi.mipicks) is also worth noting, and in some regions it compulsively offers game and software installations. If you use the official Google Play Store, it can be removed via ADB, as it is often not removed by standard means, but only disabled.

Removal methods: from simple to complex

There are several ways to get rid of excess software. The easiest is standard uninstall through settings, but it only works for custom applications. System bloatware will require a deeper approach. Let's look at the basic methods in order of increasing complexity.

The best method to date is to use tools based on Android Debug Bridge (ADB), which does not require Root rights (which is difficult on new versions of HyperOS) and allows you to remove system applications for the current user.

Instructions for deleting via ADB (computer optional)

To work with ADB It's traditionally been a computer, but modern smartphones allow you to run a debugger right on your device. You'll need a terminal app or a specialized manager to support the debugger. ADB over Wi-Fi. Developer mode must be activated before work begins.

Go to Settings. → About the phone and press 7 times on the item "Version" MIUI" (or "Version." OS"), until it says, "You're a developer." Then go to Settings. → Advanced settings → For developers and include a paragraph USB-Debugging. We also recommend you to enable the "Debugging by" option. USB (settings of security" and allow the installation of applications through USB.

adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 name packet

This command removes the app for the current user (user 0), leaving it on the system, but making it invisible and inactive. This is the safest way. If you use a PC, connect your phone with a cable, run the command line in the folder with ADB and type in the command. If you use the app on your phone (for example, "ADB Keyboard" or specialized cleaners), the interface will be graphical.

⚠️ Note: When removing system components through ADB Don't use the flag --user 0 A mistake in the name of the packet can lead to the removal of the wrong component. Always double-check the name of the packet through pm list packages.

Nuances of working with services Google and Xiaomi

Many users are looking to remove Google services (GMS) to enhance autonomy or privacy. On Xiaomi devices, this is highly discouraged without deep knowledge. Many system applications, including Find My Device, Google Play Games, and even some contact synchronization features, are tied to these services.

As for Xiaomi services (MSA - Mi System Ads), their removal or disabling is desirable to get rid of advertising. com.miui.msa.global is responsible for displaying ads in system applications. It can be safely "freeze" or removed through ADB. However, after updating the firmware settings can reset, and the procedure will have to be repeated.

💡

Before a global cleanup, back up your critical data to an external medium or to the cloud, and removing system components is always a risk, even if it is minimal.

Also worth mentioning is the Mi Credit app and other financial services pre-installed in global firmware, which, unless you live in the region where they officially operate (like India or some European countries), will simply take up space.

Recovery of Remote Components

What if, after deleting an application, the phone started to behave strangely or an important function disappeared? Because we used the user deletion method (--user 0), the application data remained in the system.

adb shell cmd package install-existing name packet

This command will restore the remote application from the system storage, and this is the main advantage of the ADB method before obtaining Root rights and completely cutting files from the system partition, you can always roll back changes without flashing the device.

💡

Using ADB to remove system applications is the middle ground between security and efficiency, allowing deep cleanup of the system without loss of warranty and risk of bricking.

If you delete something critical and the phone goes into reboot, you will have to boot into Recovery mode (pressing the power and volume button up) and do a full reset (Wipe Data), which is why having a fresh backup is critical before starting any experiments with system software.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)