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How to Disable Preloaded MIUI System Apps

MIUI, Xiaomi’s Android-based OS, comes with many preloaded system apps. While some of these apps can be useful, others may be considered bloatware taking up space and resources. Fortunately, many of these apps can be disabled if you don’t need them. Here’s a guide on how to disable preloaded MIUI apps.

What Are Preloaded MIUI System Apps

When you get a new Xiaomi phone running MIUI, you’ll notice a suite of Xiaomi apps pre-installed, in addition to Google’s apps. These include apps like Mi Browser, Mi Pay, Mi Remote, Screen Recorder, and others tailored to Xiaomi devices.

While convenient, some users may consider these unnecessary bloatware. Disabling or removing apps you don’t need can free up storage space and system resources for better performance.

Before Disabling Apps

Before disabling any preloaded MIUI apps, consider if they serve an important function:

  • Essential services – Disabling critical system services like System Launcher or System UI can cause instability.
  • Functionality – Some MIUI apps provide useful functionality not easily replicated.
  • Repercussions – Removing certain apps completely may have unintended consequences.

If unsure about disabling an app, first try disabling notifications or restricting background activity instead of fully disabling it.

Method 1: Using Hidden Settings App

The easiest way to disable MIUI bloatware is by using the Hidden Settings for MIUI app:

  1. Install the Hidden Settings app from the Play Store on your Xiaomi device.
  2. Open the app and grant root access if prompted.
  3. Go to Manage Applications.
  4. Select the app you want to disable.
  5. Choose Disable to turn off the app, or Uninstall to remove it completely.
  6. Confirm disabling/uninstalling when prompted.

This app lists all apps, letting you easily manage them without needing special tools or technical know-how. However, not all system apps can be disabled/removed.

Method 2: Using ADB Commands

For advanced users comfortable with some tech work, MIUI system apps can be disabled using ADB (Android Debug Bridge):

  1. Enable USB debugging in Developer options on your Xiaomi device.
  2. On your computer, download ADB tools and Xiaomi’s MIUI ADB/Fastboot Tools.
  3. Connect your Xiaomi device to your computer using a USB cable.
  4. Open a command prompt/terminal and run the following:
adb devices
adb shell
pm list packages -s
pm disable-user --user 0 <package_name>
  1. Replace <package_name> with the app package you want to disable.
  2. Reboot your phone for changes to take effect.

With some technical skill, this gives you full control in removing any MIUI bloatware app. Instructions for enabling developer options, installing ADB tools, and useful MIUI package names can be easily found online.

Method 3: Using Recovery Mode

An alternative advanced method is disabling MIUI bloatware from recovery mode:

  1. Boot into recovery mode on your Xiaomi device (press Volume Up + Power).
  2. Use Volume keys to scroll to Advanced > Terminal.
  3. Type the following command to open ADB shell:
adb shell
  1. Then run the same pm disable-user command as Method 2, targeting the app you want to disable.
  2. Reboot device for changes to apply.

While more complex, this lets you disable apps without even booting into Android, useful if an app is preventing normal boot.

Bloatware Apps You Can Disable

Here are some common examples of MIUI apps generally safe to disable for most users:

  • Mi Browser – com.mi.globalbrowser
  • GetApps – com.xiaomi.mipicks
  • App Vault – com.mi.android.globallauncher
  • Mi Pay – com.mipay.wallet.in
  • Yellow Pages – com.miui.yellowpage
  • Mi Video – com.miui.videoplayer

Refer to online debloat lists for more recommendations on specific apps to remove. Avoid disabling core MIUI system components.

Before Disabling Apps

  • Disabling apps may impact functionality or stability.
  • Research apps before disabling to avoid unintended problems.
  • Apps disabled/removed can be reenabled if needed.
  • Backup important data beforehand as a precaution.
  • Monitor system after disabling apps to check for issues.

Conclusion

While MIUI provides useful enhancements, preloaded apps considered bloatware can negatively impact user experience. Thankfully, with some effort, many of these apps can be disabled or removed to reclaim resources. Using the Hidden Settings app provides an easy way to start debloating. For advanced users, ADB commands or recovery mode provide more options for cutting MIUI bloat at a deeper level. With some informed trial and error to see which apps you really don’t need, you can customize your Xiaomi device to be lean and fast.

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