Huawei smartphones, due to U.S. restrictions, no longer officially support Google Mobile Services (GMS), including the Google Play Store and push notifications. However, with tools like GBox (a virtual environment for Google apps) and MicroG (a privacy-focused GMS alternative), users can bypass these limitations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Modify Huawei AppGallery Region
If your Huawei account is set to China, you must change the region to Singapore, Malaysia, or another supported country to access GBOXand MicroG directly from AppGallery.
Open AppGallery → Go to Me → Settings → Region.
Select Singapore/Malaysia (or another non-Chinese region).
*Note: This may reset payment methods and require re-login to Huawei services.
Step 2: Install GBox for Google Play Store Access
GBOX creates a sandboxed environment to run Google-dependent apps without installing GMS directly.
In AppGallery, search for GBox and install it.
Launch GBox → Allow permissions → It will auto-download Google services (Play Services, Play Store).
Open Play Store within GBox → Log in with your Google account → Download apps like Gmail or YouTube.
Tip: Apps installed via GBox run inside its virtual environment but can be added to your home screen as shortcuts.
Step 3: Use MicroG to Fix Push Notifications
While GBox handles app installation, MicroG ensures background services (e.g., notifications) work.
In AppGallery, search for MicroG → Install both MicroG Service and MicroG Companion.
Open MicroG → Go to Settings (gear icon) → Google Account → Log in.
Enable Self-Check → Turn on all permissions (e.g., Cloud Messaging, Location).
This allows apps like WhatsApp or Twitter to send notifications even without GMS.
Step 4: Post-Installation Adjustments
For GBox: If apps don’t show notifications, ensure GBox is running in the background and battery optimization is disabled.
For MicroG: Regularly update its components via F-Droid (a third-party app store) for compatibility.
Why These Tools Work
GBox: Acts as a “Google-friendly” container, tricking apps into thinking GMS is installed.
MicroG: Replaces Google’s proprietary services with open-source alternatives, enabling push notifications and sync.
Limitations and Risks
GBox: Apps run slower in the virtual environment, and some may crash.
MicroG: Not all Google-dependent apps (e.g., Google Pay) work perfectly.
Always download tools from trusted sources to avoid security risks.
By following this guide, Huawei users can enjoy Google apps and services seamlessly. Remember to revert your Huawei account region if needed, but note that this might restrict future access to region-specific apps.
