How to upgrade to Xiaomi’s new phone: A complete guide to data migration

Buying a new smartphone is always an exciting moment, especially if you choose a modern model Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO. However, before the first launch and enjoy the new interface MIUI or HyperOS, the user faces a difficult task: how to transfer all the important data, contacts, photos and settings from the old device so as not to lose a single byte of information.

In this article, we will discuss all the stages of preparation, from the banal freeing up space on an old gadget to fine-tuning cloud services. You will learn why standard copying methods may not be effective enough and how to use specialized software to clone the system. The right approach to the question of how to switch to a new phone Xiaomi will save you several hours and save you from losing important documents or correspondence in messengers.

It should be noted right away that there is no universal “do well” button, and each case requires an individual approach depending on the operating system of your previous smartphone. Whether it is Android, iOS or even Nokia, the action algorithm will have its nuances, which we will definitely consider.

Pre-preparation of the old and new device

Before you start any data manipulation, you need to make sure that both devices are ready to work. On an old smartphone, you should conduct a storage audit: delete unnecessary videos, duplicate photos and cache of applications that you do not plan to carry, this will speed up the transfer process and avoid errors associated with lack of free space on the receiving side.

Pay special attention to battery power: both devices should be charged at least 60-70%, and ideally connected to a power source during migration. Interrupting the data transfer process due to battery discharge can corrupt files or damage system partitions on a new phone, which will require complex recovery.

⚠️ Attention: Do not try to extract SIM-A microSD card or memory card from an old phone while transferring data can cause a file system to crash and stop migration halfway through.

It is also recommended to update the operating system on both devices to the latest available version. Xiaomi developers are constantly releasing security patches and improvements for the carrier application, so using the current firmware ensures the compatibility of the transfer protocols. Check for updates in the Settings menu → About Phone → MIUI (or HyperOS) version.

Using the Mi Mover app to migrate fully

The most efficient and reliable way to transfer data is the branded Mi Mover app (in newer versions may be called Data Transfer) built into the default MIUI shell, but if the old phone doesn’t have one, the app is easy to download from Google Play or GetApps. This tool allows you to transfer contacts, messages, call log, photos, music, videos, documents and even installed applications along with their data.

The process is simple: open the app on both devices, select Recipient on the new phone, and Sender on the old one. QR-Wi-Fi Direct transmission speeds are much faster than Bluetooth, and can reach tens of megabytes per second.

When selecting data to transfer, be careful. You can choose specific folders or file types. For example, if you have secret folders or albums hidden in the gallery, make sure they are also marked for copying, otherwise they will remain on the old device. Once the selection is confirmed, a process will begin, the progress of which is displayed as a percentage.

• 📱 Contacts and messages: Transferable instantly, including attachments MMS and history of correspondence SMS.
• 📸 Media files: Photos and videos store their metadata (date, geolocation), which is important for sorting in a gallery.
• 📲 Annexes: APK-files are copied, but logging into accounts inside applications (banks, social networks) will have to be done again for security reasons.
• ⚙️ System settings: You can transfer wallpaper, alarm clocks and some interface parameters.

Switching from iPhone (iOS) to Xiaomi

Many users are migrating to Android with iOS, and the process has its own peculiarities. The standard Mi Mover also supports iPhone, but the functionality can be limited compared to the migration between Android devices.

The main difficulty is the transfer of instant messengers: the history of correspondence in WhatsApp or Viber when switching between different operating systems (iOS). ↔ Android often requires special features inside the apps themselves or paid third-party utilities, as databases are encrypted in different ways.

For successful synchronization, make sure your iPhone is allowed to access the local network for the Mi Mover app. When you first start, iOS can request permission to use Wi-Fi and search for nearby devices - this must be confirmed. If the connection is lost, try restarting the router or temporarily turning off mobile Internet on both devices, leaving only Wi-Fi.

Once the data transfer is complete, it is recommended to check the integrity of the files. Open the gallery and make sure that all the albums are in place and there are no duplicates in the contacts. Often, when migrating from iOS, contacts can split into several entries if the address book had combined profiles.

Sync with Mi Cloud and Google Account

The Xiaomi ecosystem is closely integrated with the Mi Cloud, which allows you to store backups of contacts, notes, voice recorders, gallery and system settings. If you have previously used a Xiaomi phone, just log in to your Mi Account on a new device, and the data will be automatically pulled up.

For users switching from any Android smartphone, Google Account is critical. When you first turn on a new phone, Xiaomi will offer to log in to Google. Once authorized, the system will offer to restore a backup created on the old device, which includes: a list of installed applications, passwords from Google Chrome, contacts and calendar.

It is important to understand the difference between synchronization and backup. Synchronization occurs in real time while the Internet is turned on, whereas backup is created at a specific time. For maximum reliability, it is recommended to use a hybrid approach: keep contacts in Google, and duplicate photos and system settings in Mi Cloud or on your computer.

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Tip: Turn on Google contacts sync on your old phone in advance. Go to Settings → Accounts → Google and make sure the Contacts slider is active. This is the most reliable way to keep your phone book safe.

Security and biometrics setting

Once the data is transferred, the security adjustment stage begins. Xiaomi’s new phone offers various protection methods: face unlock, fingerprint scanner (in screen or side), and voice recognition. Biometrics are mandatory for banking applications and personal data protection.

In the Settings section → Passwords and security must be given a strong graphical key or digital key. PIN-This is the code that will be asked when you restart the device, or if the biometrics fail several times in a row. Don't use simple combinations like "1234" or "000000".

Second Space, which allows you to create an isolated environment in your phone, as if you have two different smartphones in the same case, is ideal for separating work and personal data, or if you want to hide certain apps and photos from prying eyes, you can move to the second space by quick swipe or through the fingerprint of the other finger.

⚠️ Note: When setting up Face ID Keep in mind that face unlocking is less safe than a fingerprint, especially in bright light or if you wear a mask.

Optimization of the system and removal of excess software

A new phone out of the box can contain pre-installed apps that you don't need. MIUI/HyperOS often comes with service labels from Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Xiaomi partners. To make it work as fast as possible and not waste battery power, you'd better get rid of unnecessary software.

Press the app icon and select "Delete." If the delete button is not available (system application), you can at least turn it off in the settings so that it does not work in the background. Also go to Settings → Apps → Autostart and disable startup in the background for those programs that you do not need constantly (for example, airline or store applications).

• 🚀 Memory Cleanup: Use the built-in Security app to delete junk files after migration.
• 🔋 Energy saving: In battery settings, select Balanced mode for optimal performance.
• 📢 Advertising: Turn off personalization of ads in Mi Account privacy settings.
• 🔄 Updates: Check for updates for all installed apps on Google Play.

Don't forget to set up notifications. Android is notorious for its intrusiveness, so immediately after installing social networks and instant messengers, go through the list of applications and turn off notifications from those services that do not matter to you, this will save your nerves and battery power in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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The most reliable way to upgrade to the new Xiaomi is to combine Mi Mover for heavy files and media, and Google/Mi Cloud sync for contacts and settings. Don't rely on just one method.