Xiaomi’s internal storage is not just a place to store photos and apps, but a key element of the system that determines the speed of the device. Users often face the need to clear memory, transfer files or check free space, but do not always know where the drive is physically located and how to get to it without risking damage to the gadget. In this article, we will understand where the internal memory in Xiaomi smartphones and tablets, how to open it software and hardware, and what tools will be needed to do this.
It is important to understand that access to internal storage can be required in many situations, from a trivial lack of space to complex repairs or data recovery. For example, after resetting settings or updating the firmware, users often find that files have “disappeared”, when in fact they have simply moved to hidden partitions. We will consider all possible scenarios, from simply viewing through the file manager to disassembling the device to replace the memory chip.
This article is relevant to all modern Xiaomi models, including the Redmi, POCO, Mi and Black Shark series, but with the design features of each family in mind. If you are not sure about your skills, some operations are better entrusted to service centers — especially those involving physical interference with hardware.
Where is the internal drive physically located in Xiaomi smartphones
Internal storage (also called embedded flash memory or eMMC/UFS-Xiaomi is a chip soldered to the motherboard in smartphones, and its location depends on the model of the device, but in most cases it is located in the same device:
- 📱 Under the battery - in most models of Redmi and POCO (For example, the Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3 The memory chip is usually covered by a metal screen or heat pad.
- 🔧 Next to the processor – in flagship models (Xiaomi) 13 Ultra, Black Shark 5 Pro) where high-speed memory is used UFS 3.1/4.0. The chip can be integrated into a single module with a SoC.
- 🔋 On the back of the board - in budget devices (Redmi) 9A, POCO M3), where the memory is often combined with a Wi-Fi module or charging chip.
Physical access to the drive is extremely rare, for example, when replacing it (which is almost impossible without specialized equipment) or diagnosing malfunctions, 99% of the time users enough software methods of working with memory, which we will discuss below.
⚠️ Warning: Trying to sell off or replace the memory chip without experience will lead to permanent damage to the motherboard. BGA-equipment.
If you just need to make room or move files, use standard MIUI tools or third-party apps. Physical disassembly is only justified in hardware failures when the smartphone is not turned on or memory is not determined by the system.
How to view the internal drive through the settings of Xiaomi
The easiest way to check the state of internal memory is to use the built-in MIUI tools. This does not require root rights or additional programs.
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Select Memory (or Storage in newer versions of MIUI).
- The system will display a memory usage diagram broken down by categories: System, Applications, Media Files, etc.
- Click on any category to see a detailed list of files (e.g., Photos and videos will show all the images taking up space).
This section also provides tools for cleaning cache and removing unnecessary files, such as:
- 🗑️ Cash applications (Cleaning tab).
- 📁 Downloads (Download folder).
- 🎵 Duplicate media files (the function of searching for duplicates in the MIUI 13+).
Note that in some models (such as Xiaomi 12T or Redmi K50), some memory can be reserved for virtual RAM (Memory Extension technology).
File Managers for working with internal drive
The standard file manager in MIUI (Files) provides basic functions, but for advanced memory work, it is better to use third-party applications.
- 🔍 See hidden system folders (for example, /data or /system).
- 📂 Manage root directories (if root rights are available).
- 🔄 Transfer files between internal memory and SD-card (if supported).
Top.-3 File Manager for Xiaomi:
| Annex | Features | Needs root? |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Explorer | Dual-panel interface, cloud storage support, built-in FTP-server | No (but expands with root) |
| FX File Explorer | Built-in archiver, access to system folders, support for SMB | Optionally. |
| MiXplorer | Lightweight, themes support, built-in text editor | No. |
To access a full directory tree (including /data and /system) you will need root rights. Without them, you will only see custom folders: DCIM, Downloads, Pictures, etc. Remember that removing files from system directories can lead to the crash of the operating system.
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If you need to free up space but don’t want to delete files manually, use the function Storage → Memory Analysis in MIUI. The system will automatically find large and rarely used files.
Access to internal storage via PC (ADB and MTP)
Connecting a Xiaomi smartphone to a computer opens up additional possibilities for working with internal memory.
- MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) is the standard mode for file transfer, allowing you to view user folders through Windows Explorer or Finder (macOS).
- ADB (Android Debug Bridge) - Extended access via command line. Requires to enable USB debugging in the developer settings.
To enable debugging:
- Go to Settings. → The phone.
- Click 7 times on the MIUI version to activate the Developer Settings.
- Return to the main settings menu, select Additional → For developers.
- Activate Debugging on USB.
After you connect to the PC, you can use it. ADB-I'm going to use memory teams:
adb shell ls /storage/emulated/0/This command will display a list of files in the internal storage, to copy files to the PC:
adb pull /storage/emulated/0/DCIM/ .⚠️ Note: Adb shell rm or adb shell mv can permanently delete data. Always check paths before performing operations.
Install Xiaomi drivers on PC|Enable debugging on USB|Connect the original USB-cable|Run the command line on behalf of the administrator-->
Hidden sections of the internal drive: what is stored there
Xiaomi’s internal memory is divided into several logical sections, most of which are hidden from the user.
| Section | Appointment | Access without root |
|---|---|---|
| /system | MIUI and Android system files | Only reading. |
| /data | User data and application settings | No. |
| /cache | Temporary system files and updates | Partially. |
| /vendor | Iron drivers and firmware | No. |
The /data section is especially important – it is stored here:
- 📱 Account settings (Google, Mi Account).
- 🎮 Game savers (e.g. Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile).
- 🔑 Encryption keys (if device encryption is enabled).
When you reset your Wipe Data, this partition is completely cleared, but your system files (/system) remain intact. If you want to back up /data, you'll need custom recovery (such as TWRP) or root access.
What happens if you format the /system partition?
How to transfer files from the internal drive to SD-map
Many Xiaomi models support memory expansion via microSD cards, but not all allow portability.
- 📸 Photo and video: Use the built-in File Manager → highlight files → Move it → choose SD-map.
- 🎵 Music and Documents: Similar to Files or apps like Google Files.
- 📱 Apps: Only if the card is formatted as Internal Memory (configure in Storage) → SD-This will lead to the encryption of the card and its binding to the device!
To format. SD-map as an internal memory:
- Put the card in your smartphone.
- Go to Settings. → Warehouse.
- Press the name. SD-map → Three dots (menu) → Storage settings.
- Choose to format as internal.
⚠️ Note: After formatting SD-The internal maps cannot be read on other devices without completely erasing the data, and it can also slow down the smartphone if the class map is not readable. UHS-I U1 lower.
To transfer the cache of applications (for example, offline maps in Google Maps or media in Telegram), use the settings of the programs themselves. Most of them allow you to choose a manual save location.
Frequent problems with internal drive and their solutions
Xiaomi users often experience memory-related errors, and here are the most common ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| “Not enough memory when you have it.” | Clogged cache or damaged files | Cleaning through Settings → Memory → Cleaning |
| SD-map not defined | Incompatible format (exFAT/NTFS) | Formatting to FAT32 via PC |
| Files disappear after updating | Resetting folder access rights | Restart your device or restore rights through MIUI Security |
| Impossible to record files | A damaged file system | Run chkdsk via PC or reset settings |
If your smartphone is not turning on and you suspect a memory problem, try:
- Load in Recovery Mode (clip Power + Volume up).
- Select Wipe & Reset → Wipe Cache.
- If it doesn’t work, run Wipe Data (wipes all data!).
In cases where memory is determined to be damaged (the “Storage damaged” message), it may be necessary to flash through Fastboot or replace the chip in the service.
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If your smartphone doesn’t see internal memory but is booting, try connecting it to your PC. If your computer doesn’t recognize the device, it’s a hardware problem (a chip or contacts are damaged).