How to copy Android contacts to Xiaomi Redmi: the complete guide

Changing your smartphone to a new Xiaomi or Redmi always starts with the same task: how to move your phone book quickly and without loss. Fortunately, the Android ecosystem offers a lot of built-in tools that allow you to do this in minutes without having to resort to complex manipulations. You don't need to be a technician to perform a data migration.

In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods, from cloud synchronization to direct cable connection. Contact synchronization is the basis without which a modern smartphone loses some of its functionality. We will look at the nuances of the MIUI interface and the new HyperOS, so you can choose the best option for your situation.

Whether you have an old device or a flagship you just bought, the data transfer process remains similar, so the key is to get both devices ready and choose the right channel. Let's move on to the specific steps.

Syncing through Google account: the classic method

The most reliable and common way to transfer is to use Google cloud storage, so if your old device has been synced, all numbers are already saved in the cloud, and you just have to log in to the same account on the new Xiaomi.

First, make sure that the old phone has a checkmark in your account settings opposite the Contacts item, then on the new Redmi when you first set up or through the Settings menu. → Accounts and syncs add your Google account. The system will automatically tighten all records.

This method is particularly useful because your contacts will be protected even if your device is lost or broken, and when you use a Google account, contacts are restored even after you completely reset to factory settings, which makes this a priority for most users.

However, it is worth considering that to download a large list (more than 2-3 thousand numbers) may require a stable connection to Wi-Fi.

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Use Wi-Fi for initial synchronization to keep mobile traffic out of the way and speed up the download process of thousands of records.

Using the Mi Mover app for direct transfer

Xiaomi has developed its own Mi Mover app, which is ideal for migrating from any Android smartphone, and allows you to transfer not only contacts, but also photos, applications and system settings without using the Internet.

The process starts with installing the app on both devices, and on the new Xiaomi, it is often pre-installed in the Tools folder. Launch the program, accept the terms of the agreement, and select the role of the device: “I am the recipient” on the new phone and “I am the sender” on the old one.

The devices will find each other through each other. QR-The speed of transmission in this case is limited only by the Wi-Fi capabilities of smartphone modules. Local data transfer ensures that your information does not go to third-party servers.

Once you connect, select Contacts and press the Transfer button. The app will create a temporary network and quickly transfer data, which is one of the fastest ways to do this if you have both phones in your hands.

Exports and imports through SIM-map

An old but still relevant method that doesn't require the Internet or any additional software, and it's perfect if you want to move a basic number list, and names are written in Latin or Cyrillic without complex characters.

First, copy the data to the map. Go to the Contacts app on your old phone, open the settings menu (usually three dots or a gear), and select "Import/Export Contacts." Click "Export to Export to Connect" SIM-map».

After the process is completed, reset SIM-The system can offer to import data, or you will need to manually go to the same menu and select "Import with the new Redmi". SIM-map».

⚠️ Attention: SIM-The card has limited memory and often crops long names or does not save additional fields (email, addresses.

The number of records you can save on a SIM varies from 200 to 500 depending on the operator and the type of card, and this method is not suitable for large phone books.

Transfer via Bluetooth and VCF-file

If cloud services are not available and Mi Mover is not installed, you can use standard Bluetooth protocol, which works on any Android device and does not require authorization.

In the Contacts app on the transmitting device, click on the menu and select Export to file.vcf (or Share Contacts).The system will create a file with all the numbers. Select the transfer method "Bluetooth" and find your new Xiaomi in the list of available devices.

On the receiving device, you need to confirm the receipt of the file. After downloading, simply click on the file in the notifications or in the download folder, and the system will suggest saving all the numbers found to the memory of the phone or account.

It's a good way to be versatile, but it's going to be slow, especially if the phone book weighs a few megabytes. 10-15 minute.

Import from Files and Other Accounts

Often users store backups in.vcf or.vcard files previously received, and transfers from other cloud services such as Yandex or an account are also relevant. MI old phone.

If you have a backup file, just flip it to a new phone and open it. MIUI automatically recognizes the format and suggests importing the data. To work with other accounts (such as Yahoo or corporate Exchange), add them to Settings → Accounts and Sync.

It is important to choose the right place to save when importing, by default, the system can offer to save contacts in the memory of the phone, which is undesirable.

Typical problems and their solution

Sometimes the transfer process may not go smoothly, for example, contacts can be duplicated if you have used several methods at the same time, in which case the “Combine Duplicates” function in the Contacts app will help.

Another common problem is that subscribers don't have photos after transferring via SIM or old export methods, because older storage formats didn't support graphical attachments, so you'll have to add photos manually or repeat the transfer via Google.

⚠️ Note: If the contacts are displayed as “No Name” or with numbers after transfer, check the encoding of the export file. UTF-8.

Users may also find that new records are being saved in the wrong place. To change this default behavior, go to the Contacts settings, find the default location, and select your primary account.

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Always check which account you are saving new numbers to avoid losing data when you change your device in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)