Owners of MIUI and HyperOS devices often face a shortage of space, especially on models with a basic configuration of 64 or 128 gigabytes. The system overgrows with cache, and modern applications require more resources, which leads to a slowdown in the gadget. Users are looking for ways to combine memory on the shawmi to increase the available volume without buying a new device.
There are several approaches to this problem, from using software-based memory expansion to more complex manipulations of the internal file system. It is important to understand the difference between physical storage expansion and software-based resource reallocation. In this article, we will discuss the available methods, their risks and real effectiveness.
Memory integration is a process that can involve both creating a single logical volume from different partitions, and using part of the internal storage as additional RAM. Modern Xiaomi smartphones offer built-in optimization tools, but sometimes you need to intervene in system files. Before you start any action, you need to make a full backup of data, as the risk of loss of information when working with partitions remains high.
The Difference Between Internal Memory and RAM in Android
Many users confuse the concepts of internal memory (ROM) and RAM (RAM), although they perform fundamentally different functions: internal memory is used for permanent storage of photos, applications, music and system files. It stores data even after the device is turned off. It is this volume (64, 128, 256 GB) that most often ends, causing error messages.
RAM, or RAM, is used to temporarily store data from running applications and active processes. The more RAM, the more programs can run simultaneously without rebooting. Xiaomi devices have Memory Extension technology, which allows you to use part of the permanent memory as virtual RAM, and this is one way to “combine” resources to improve performance.
The /data partition is the main storage of user data. When this partition is overflowed, the system begins to work unstable. Physically combining memory cards with internal storage in one volume on modern Android smartphones is impossible without deep flashing and changing the system core, which is not recommended for ordinary users. However, software reallocation of tasks between memory types is available and effective.
⚠️ Attention: Any manipulation of partition tables may cause the device to fail completely (brick). ADB without a deep knowledge of Android architecture.
RAM Plus function: software extension of RAM
The safest and most common way to combine memory resources on shaomi is to activate the RAM Extension function. In the newer versions of MIUI and HyperOS, this option is called Memory Extension or RAM Plus, which takes some of the free space from the internal storage and creates a paging file there, which the system uses as additional RAM.
To activate, you need to go to the system settings. The path usually looks like: Settings → Advanced Settings → Expanded memory. Here you will see the switch and the ability to select the amount of memory you add (usually from 2 to 7 GB depending on the model). Once turned on, the phone will suggest rebooting to make the changes take effect.
This feature is especially relevant for models with a small amount of physical RAM (4 or 6 GB). Virtual memory helps keep more applications in the background, preventing them from unloading. However, it is worth considering that the speed of virtual RAM is lower than that of physical RAM, so the performance gains in heavy games can be negligible.
☑️ Pre-activation check RAM Plus
Importantly, constantly writing and reading data in extended memory mode can accelerate the wear of flash memory (eMMC or UFS). If your smartphone is not already the first freshness, activating the maximum expansion volume can reduce its life. It is recommended to add just as much virtual memory as is not enough for comfortable operation, without choosing the maximum values unnecessarily.
Using a memory card as internal memory
Owners of Xiaomi smartphones with microSD card support can try to combine external storage with internal storage, a feature called Adoptable Storage, which allows you to format a memory card so that the system considers it part of the main /data partition.
Unfortunately, in the latest versions of the shell MIUI The manufacturer often hides or completely removes the ability to format the card as internal storage, and if the memory card settings menu does not have "Use as internal storage", then at the software level this function is blocked. ADB-team, but this requires root rights or special permissions.
If a function is available, the process is as follows:
- 📱 Insert a microSD card into the phone slot.
- 📂 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Storage (or through the map settings menu).
- 🔄 Select "Format as internal storage".
- 💾 Wait for the process to be completed and the data migrate.
Once combined, the memory card is encrypted and linked to a particular device, it will be impossible to retrieve the card without losing data and resetting the settings on another phone, and using a slow memory card (class below U3/A2) will lead to significant slowdown of the entire system interface.
Table: Comparison of memory expansion methods
| Method | Impact on speed | Risk of data loss | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAM Plus (Memory Extension) | Medium (accelerates multitasking) | Low. | Low. |
| Map as an internal memory | Low (depending on the card) | Medium. | Medium |
| Cleaning up cache and garbage | High (frees up space) | Absent. | Low. |
| Partitioning (Root) | High (full control) | critical | Tall. |
As you can see from the table, the safest way for the average user is to use built-in optimization features. Radical methods, such as changing the partition table, require qualification. The file system of modern smartphones is complex, and a single-bit error can make the device unreadable.
Why Xiaomi is limiting memory functions?
Cleaning and optimizing storage without third-party programs
Before trying to combine or expand memory, it is worthwhile to conduct an audit of occupied space. Often users do not realize that the huge volumes are occupied by the cache of messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp) and saved videos from social networks. MIUI They are effectively doing this task.
For deep cleaning, use the built-in Security app. Go to Clean up and start scanning. The system will suggest removing unnecessary files, duplicate photos and app cache. It's also worth manually checking the Android/data folder, where remote games and programs can remain.
Regular maintenance helps to maintain the system in tone:
- 🗑️ Delete downloaded files from the Downloads folder).
- 📸 Transfer photos and videos to cloud storage (Google Photos, Xiaomi Cloud).
- 📱 Turn off auto-save statuses WhatsApp and Stories in the gallery.
- 🔄 Regularly clean the cache of the browser and streaming services.
Freeing up even 10-15% of total memory significantly improves the speed of writing new data and the system as a whole. Fragmentation affects flash memory of smartphones less than HDD, but a crowded drive always runs slower than a free one.
Advanced methods: working with sections and Root rights
For advanced users who understand the risks, it is possible to actually combine partitions of memory through superuser rights (Root), using utilities like Link2SD or SD Maid, you can create links to applications by placing them on a memory card, or transfer system partitions. However, on modern versions of Android (11, 12, 13, 14), this works extremely unstable due to the increased security of the system.
The process usually requires unlocking the bootloader, installing a custom recover (TWRP) and getting root access through Magisk. Only then can you try to manipulate the partition table, which allows, for example, to reduce the size of the system partition and increase the user partition, but requires accurate sector calculation.
⚠️ Note: Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi results in a complete data reset and waiting for 168 hours (7 days) After this procedure, some banking applications and services of Google Pay (Mir Pay) will stop working unless you use additional root rights hiding modules.
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If you do decide to re-mark up partitions, be sure to save the original backup.img file of your partition table. This is the only thing that will help restore the phone in case of a fatal error.
Is the game worth the candle? In most cases, the answer is no. The cost of memory cards and the risk of data loss do not justify the increase in a few gigabytes. It is much more efficient to use cloud services or regularly transfer media files to your computer. Virtual memory (RAM Plus) is the limit to which you should interfere with the work of a smartphone with regular means.
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It is safer and more efficient to use RAM Plus and cloud storage than trying to physically merge partitions of memory, which requires root rights and carries high risks.