Complete guide to changing the default browser on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO

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If you own a Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone, you've probably encountered the Mi Browser that comes pre-installed on these devices. While functional, this browser includes ads and sends notifications that can be annoying. The good news is that you can easily switch to another browser like Chrome, Firefox, or any other you prefer and enjoy a much more comfortable browsing experience tailored to your needs.

Below, we'll show you how to change the default browser on your Xiaomi step by step , how to disable annoying notifications, and what the best alternatives are for browsing on your Android phone. Take advantage of all the available options and browse only with your favorite app, without unwanted ads or intrusive messages.

How to change the default browser on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO

On Xiaomi devices running MIUI or HyperOS, the process is simple but requires following a few steps to ensure any link opens in your preferred browser . It's also worth noting that this method works on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones , as they all share similar configuration options.

Before you begin, make sure you have the browser you want to use already installed . If you don't have it yet, go to the Google Play Store and download your preferred browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, Brave, DuckDuckGo, etc.).

1. Access the settings from your Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone. You can do this by swiping down from the top screen to find the gear icon, or by locating the “Settings” app in the main menu.
2. Go to the section of ApplicationsDepending on the version of MIUI or HyperOS, it may appear simply as “Apps” or “Installed Apps.”
3. Press on Manage applications (or “Manage Applications”).
4. In the upper right corner, tap the icon three vertical points and select the option Default applications or “Choose default apps.”
5. Within the default applications menu, locate and tap on Navigator o Browser application.
6. You'll see a list of all the browsers installed on your device. Choose the browser you want to use by default (for example, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox).
7. Done! From now on, All web links will automatically open in the browser you have selected.

Some browsers, like Chrome or Firefox, often prompt you to set them as default after installation or when you open a link for the first time. However, if you skipped this prompt or simply want to change browsers later, the steps above will ensure an effective change, applicable every time you install a new browser.

From this same default apps menu, you can also configure other apps to automatically open certain files (such as music, email, or camera apps), giving you complete control over your mobile experience.

Turn off MI Browser notifications and ads

Even after changing your default browser, it's common for the Mi Browser to continue sending notifications or displaying alerts even though you no longer use it. To completely eliminate this annoyance, you should disable notifications from this app:

1. Re-enter the Settings of your Xiaomi mobile and locate the section Applications.
2. Press on Manage applications y search for MI Browser (may also appear as “My Browser”).
3. Go to the app settings and access the section Notifications.
4. Turn off all notifications so that you no longer receive alerts, banners in the status bar, or pop-up notifications.

With these simple steps, you'll have complete peace of mind and a mobile phone free of spam and ads from the MI browser, even if the app remains installed on the device.

Advantages of changing the default browser on your Xiaomi

Personalizing your browsing experience not only helps you eliminate unwanted ads and notifications , but also provides many other benefits:

• Greater privacy and controlBrowsers like Firefox, Brave, and DuckDuckGo offer more options to protect your privacy and avoid trackers.
• Cross-platform sync: By using browsers like Chrome or Firefox, you can carry bookmarks, passwords, and open tabs between your computer and your mobile.
• Improved performance and extra features: Alternative browsers can be much faster and offer features like ad blocking, extensions, free VPN, dark mode, and more.
• full customization: Choose your browser's appearance, add extensions, change your search engine, and access useful tools that fit your everyday life.

Alternative browser recommendations for Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO

The Google Play Store offers a wide variety of browsers compatible with Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices . Some of the best options to replace the Mi Browser and enjoy a smoother and more secure experience are:

• Google Chrome: A favorite of many for its speed, intuitive design, and automatic syncing across all devices with your Google account. It lets you add shortcuts, manage passwords, and browse in incognito mode.
• Mozilla Firefox: It stands out for its focus on privacy and personalization. Allows you to install extensions, block trackers, customize the appearance, and efficiently manage hundreds of tabs.
• Microsoft Edge: It offers excellent compatibility, high performance, and useful features such as vertical tab organization or integration with Microsoft 365.
• Opera: Innovative, fast and very light. It includes unique features such as a Built-in ad blocker, night mode, free VPN and data saver to browse without spending too much.
• DuckDuckGo: The ideal browser for those who prioritize privacy. It blocks trackers, doesn't store your history, and automatically deletes browsing data after each session.
• BraveIncreasingly popular. It focuses on privacy, security, and ad blocking, and rewards safe browsing with its BAT rewards program.

Frequently asked questions and extra tips

Some users may find differences in the settings path, as the options can vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI or HyperOS they have installed. If you don't find an exact match, always look for the "Apps" section and then "Default apps" or "Choose default apps."

Remember that you can change your default browser as many times as you like . If you try one and don't like it, repeat the process by selecting a different browser. Also, if you have multiple accounts or profiles on your phone, you can change it for each user separately.

If you ever want to return to the MI Browser, just follow the same procedure and select it again from the list of browsers. Also, keep in mind that you can always completely remove any additional browsers you don't use from "Manage Apps."

Now you know how to fully customize your Xiaomi, Redmi, or POCO phone so that all links open in your favorite browser, eliminating annoying ads and intrusive notifications from the MI Browser. Try the different alternatives and configure your device for maximum privacy and customization in your daily experience.