How to change the default browser on Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco: complete and updated guide

Android Guides » Android Tutorials » How to change the default browser on Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO: a complete and updated guide

Customizing the default browser on your Xiaomi phone is one of the best ways to tailor the device to your preferences . Xiaomi devices often come with Mi Browser as the default, but there are many modern alternatives, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Edge, Brave, or even privacy-focused browsers like DuckDuckGo. Choosing the browser that best suits your browsing style is key to a comfortable and secure experience.

Advantages of changing the default browser on your Xiaomi

Setting your default browser helps you avoid annoying pop-ups that constantly ask which app you want to use to open web links. It also ensures that all your browsing takes place in your preferred environment , with your saved passwords, bookmarks, and custom extensions (if your browser allows them). It can also fix errors caused by MIUI or Android updates, where links stop opening correctly.

Main method to change the default browser on Xiaomi

Many Xiaomi phones, especially those with the MIUI customization layer, make it easy to change your primary web browser app. Follow these steps:

• First make sure you have installed the browser you want to use as default.You can choose from Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Opera, DuckDuckGo, and others by downloading the app from the Google Play Store.

1. Go to the app Settings of your Xiaomi device.
2. Scroll to the section Applications.
3. Select option Manage applications.
4. Click on the menu three vertical points located in the upper right corner.
5. Choose Default applications.
6. Now, touch the option NavigatorYou'll be shown a list of the browsers installed on your phone.
7. Select the browser you want to set as default. Confirm your selection if necessary.

After completing these steps, all web links you open from any application will automatically open in the selected browser . This method works for most Xiaomi models running MIUI, as well as Redmi and POCO devices using this interface.

Alternative method to change default browser (recent MIUI versions)

If your Xiaomi has a newer version of MIUI or includes new system apps (for example, the Security app ), there is an alternative method to change the default browser:

1. Open the application Security on your Xiaomi device.
2. Let it run a quick system check, then access the functions menu.
3. Select option Manage applications, where the list of installed apps will appear.
4. Click on the icon with three vertical points at the top right.
5. From the dropdown menu, choose Default applications (may appear as “default applications”).
6. Search and select the section Navigator, where you can see the installed browsers.
7. Select the browser you want to use by default.

This method is especially useful on Xiaomi phones that have updated to the latest versions of MIUI or HyperOS, where the usual settings may vary slightly.

Preliminary considerations before changing the default browser

• Install your preferred browser before making the changeIf your browser doesn't appear in the list, make sure it's installed correctly from the Google Play Store.
• On some models, When you first open an alternative browser and click on a web link, the system may automatically ask you if you want to set it as default.If you decide to change it later, you'll need to follow the method explained above.
• The process may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI, HyperOS, or Android your device is running. If you can't find an option, use the search bar in the Settings app and enter the words "Browser" or "Default."

Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models compatible with this method

Most Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones equipped with the MIUI or HyperOS customization layers allow you to change the primary browser using the methods detailed above . Some of the compatible models include:

• Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, Note 5, Note 6 Pro, Note 7, Note 8, Note 9, Note 10, Note 11 and later
• Mi 8, Mi 9, Mi 9T, Mi 9T Pro, Mi 10, Mi 11 and later
• Redmi 5, Redmi 6, Redmi 7, Redmi 8, Redmi 9 and later
• POCO models with MIUI or HyperOS

Conversely, Xiaomi devices with stock Android (Mi A1, Mi A2, Mi A2 Lite, Mi A3 series, and similar) typically don't have this specific option within MIUI . On these models, you'll need to make the change from the standard Android app menu, or by following the same procedure in Settings > Apps > Default apps > Browser, provided the option is available.

Troubleshooting common errors and additional adjustments

Sometimes, after updating the operating system or installing new versions of MIUI, issues may arise where links don't open or the default browser selection isn't saved. To resolve this:

• Clear the cache and data of the “Mi Browser” app or the current browser.
• Restart your device after changing the default browser.
• Update your favorite browser from the Google Play Store to ensure you have the latest and most compatible version.
• If you're still prompted to select a browser, repeat the setup process and make sure to set the "Always" option when asked which app to use to open links.

FAQ about changing the default browser on Xiaomi

• Can I use any installed browser? Yes, as long as it is properly installed and appears in the list of default apps.
• Does this affect the performance of the device? No, changing the default browser only changes the app that opens web links.
• Can I change the default browser again? Of course, you can adjust your choice as many times as you like.
• What if the option doesn't appear? Update your phone or try searching within Settings using the search bar, as the location may vary with each system version.

Customizing the default browser on your Xiaomi allows you to enjoy a smoother experience tailored to your digital needs. By following these steps, you can ensure that every link you open on your device runs from your favorite browser, always enjoying the latest features, security, and compatibility offered by current browsers.

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