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Xiaomi: Change the App Download Preference in Play Store

If apps on your Xiaomi phone start downloading over mobile data even while connected to Wi-Fi, the Play Store's download preference is likely set to Over any network. This setting decides whether new app installs and updates use any connection, Wi-Fi only, or ask before each download. Getting it wrong quickly eats into a limited monthly data plan.

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Android 11 · MIUI
App Download Preference (Play Store) – MIUI: step 1 – Tap on Play Store
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Xiaomi

App Download Preference (Play Store) auf Xiaomi

Xiaomi phones rely on the standard Play Store settings to decide how apps and updates get fetched, but the practical effect depends on your data plan and Wi-Fi habits.

Why apps download over mobile data

Before starting any install or update, the Play Store checks a single setting called App download preference. If it is set to Over any network, the store uses mobile data whenever Wi-Fi is unavailable or weak, even for large app files.

How to change the setting

Tap on Play StoreTap on Google accountTap on SettingsTap on GeneralTap on App download preference. Choose Over any network, Over Wi-Fi only or Ask me every time, then confirm with Tap on Done.

Which option fits you

Over Wi-Fi only blocks downloads on mobile data completely, useful with a small data plan. Ask me every time shows a prompt before each download, handy if you switch networks often. Over any network suits unlimited or generous plans.

The change only applies to future downloads and updates. Anything already queued keeps using the connection that was active when it started.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, App download preference applies to both manual installs and automatic updates queued in the Play Store.