Xiaomi phones are often lauded for their cost-effectiveness and rich features. However, a recurring problem for users has been the presence of ads within the user interface (UI). While it is feasible to remove these ads, the procedure is intricate and does not fully meet user expectations.
Recently, a leak hinted that Xiaomi might be developing a single switch to entirely disable system ads. However, in a move that will likely disappoint many users, the company has confirmed that this feature will not be included in its Android skin anytime soon.
Xiaomi’s Official Stance
In a statement to Android Authority, Xiaomi acknowledged its plans to enhance the user experience by cutting down on pre-installed apps and “content display entry pages,” which suggests a potential reduction in bloatware. Nevertheless, the statement explicitly denied the introduction of a dedicated ad-disabling switch:
“We aren’t currently planning to add a toggle that realistically, only a small number of users would discover and use.”
User Frustration
This reasoning is likely to frustrate many users. Currently, disabling ads involves a multi-step process. Users must locate the obscure MSA app within the settings and then dive into individual app settings like File Manager, Music, and Downloads to remove all unwanted promotions. This tedious process starkly contrasts the straightforward solution users were hoping for.
While the news of reduced bloatware is promising, it fails to address the main issue of a fragmented and frustrating ad-disabling experience. Xiaomi’s justification for not providing a dedicated toggle seems particularly insincere, given that the current system requires users to navigate deep into settings menus across multiple apps.
Whether Xiaomi will reconsider its position in the future remains to be seen. Until then, users seeking a streamlined ad-free experience may need to either look elsewhere or accept the current complicated method.
