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How to Set Chrome as Default Browser on Xiaomi: A Complete Guide

Jack

Written by Jack Lin

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Set Chrome As Default Browser On Xiaomi

Are you a Xiaomi smartphone user looking to make Google Chrome your go-to browser? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of setting Chrome as your default browser on Xiaomi devices, regardless of which MIUI version you’re using.

Why Choose Chrome as Your Default Browser?

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s explore why Chrome is a popular choice for Xiaomi users:

  1. Speed and Performance: Chrome is renowned for its fast page loading times and smooth browsing experience.
  2. Cross-Device Sync: Seamlessly sync your bookmarks, passwords, and browsing history across all your devices.
  3. Enhanced Security: Benefit from Google’s robust security features, including automatic safe browsing and regular updates.
  4. Integration with Google Services: Enjoy seamless integration with Gmail, Google Drive, and other Google apps.
  5. Customization Options: Personalize your browsing experience with a wide range of extensions and themes.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of setting Chrome as your default browser.

Setting Chrome as Default on Different MIUI Versions

Xiaomi’s custom Android skin, MIUI, has evolved over the years. The process of setting a default browser varies slightly depending on your MIUI version. We’ll cover the steps for different versions, starting with the most recent.

Setting Chrome As Default On Different Miui Versions

MIUI 12 and Later

  1. Open the Settings app on your Xiaomi device.
  2. Scroll down and tap on Apps.
  3. Tap on Manage apps.
  4. In the top-right corner, tap the three-dot menu icon.
  5. Select Default apps.
  6. Tap on Browser app.
  7. Choose Chrome from the list of installed browsers.

MIUI 10 and 11

  1. Open the Security app on your Xiaomi device.
  2. Tap on Manage apps.
  3. In the top-right corner, tap the three-dot menu icon.
  4. Select Default apps.
  5. Tap on Browser.
  6. Choose Chrome from the list of available browsers.

MIUI 9

  1. Open the Settings app on your smartphone.
  2. Tap on Apps.
  3. Select Manage apps.
  4. In the top-right corner, tap the three-dot menu icon.
  5. Choose Default apps.
  6. Tap on Browser.
  7. Select Chrome as your default browser.

MIUI 8 and Earlier

  1. Open the Settings app on your device.
  2. Tap on Installed apps.
  3. Scroll to the bottom and tap on the gear icon labeled Default.
  4. Select Browser from the list.
  5. Choose Chrome to set it as your default browser.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, you might encounter issues when trying to set Chrome as your default browser. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  1. Chrome not appearing in the browser list:
    • Ensure Chrome is installed on your device.
    • Update Chrome to the latest version from the Google Play Store.
  2. Settings not saving:
    • Restart your Xiaomi device and try setting Chrome as default again.
    • Clear the app data for the Settings app and retry.
  3. Links still opening in Mi Browser:
    • Clear the defaults for Mi Browser:
      1. Go to Settings > Apps > Manage apps
      2. Find Mi Browser and tap on it
      3. Scroll down and tap “Clear defaults”
    • Disable or uninstall Mi Browser if possible.

Comparing Chrome to Other Browser Options

While Chrome is a popular choice, it’s worth considering other options to find the best fit for your needs.

Chrome vs Mi Browser

  • Chrome:
    • Pros: Faster performance, cross-device sync, vast extension library
    • Cons: Can be resource-intensive on older devices
  • Mi Browser:
    • Pros: Lightweight, integrated with MIUI
    • Cons: Limited features, potential privacy concerns

Alternative Browsers for Xiaomi Devices

  1. Firefox: Open-source with a focus on privacy and customization
  2. Opera: Features a built-in VPN and ad-blocker
  3. Microsoft Edge: Chromium-based with tight Windows integration

If you’re interested in exploring more browser options, especially for Android TV, check out our guide on the best web browsers for Android TV.

Backing Up Your Xiaomi Device

Before making any significant changes to your device settings, it’s always a good idea to back up your data. This ensures that you don’t lose any important information if something goes wrong. For a comprehensive guide on backing up and restoring your Xiaomi device, visit our Xiaomi backup and restore guide.

MIUI Recovery and Data Recovery

In case you encounter any issues during the process of changing your default browser or if you need to recover lost data, Xiaomi provides built-in recovery options. Learn more about MIUI recovery and Xiaomi data recovery to ensure you’re prepared for any situation.

FAQs About Setting Default Browsers on Xiaomi

  1. Will setting Chrome as default affect other apps on my Xiaomi device? No, it will only change which browser opens when you tap on web links.
  2. Can I switch back to Mi Browser after setting Chrome as default? Yes, you can always change your default browser by following the same steps and selecting Mi Browser instead of Chrome.
  3. Do I need a Google account to use Chrome on my Xiaomi device? While having a Google account enhances the Chrome experience through syncing, it’s not required to use Chrome as your default browser.
  4. Will using Chrome as my default browser drain my battery faster? Chrome is optimized for performance, but it may use slightly more battery than lightweight browsers. The difference is usually negligible for most users.
  5. Can I use multiple browsers on my Xiaomi device? Yes, you can install and use multiple browsers. Setting a default browser simply determines which one opens automatically when you tap on links.

By following this guide, you should now have Google Chrome set as your default browser on your Xiaomi device. Enjoy a faster, more synchronized browsing experience across all your devices!

For those interested in web browsing on other devices, you might want to explore options for Roku web browsers as well.

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