Why your computer can’t see Xiaomi files and how to fix them
You connected the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 Pro to your computer via USB, but the folders with photos, videos and documents do not show? The problem is familiar to most owners of smartphones on MIUI - even with the right connection of Windows, Mac or Linux may not show the file system of the device, the fault of the MTP protocol, Xiaomi security settings or outdated drivers.
In this article, we’ve covered 5 proven ways to access smartphone folders, including hidden methods to bypass MIUI restrictions, and we’ll also look at Xiaomi’s unique PC connection errors that are not found in other brands (e.g., blocking access due to regional settings or activated Mi Cloud).
Spoiler: If you're using Xiaomi 13 Ultra or the new HyperOS firmware, the standard file transfer (MTP) mode may not work — you'll need an alternative method over ADB or the cloud.
Method 1: Standard USB connection (MTP)
The most obvious, but often problematic method, even if you’ve tried it before, check out 3 key points that 80% of users miss:
- 🔌 Use the original Xiaomi cable – cheap analogues often do not support data transfer, only charging.
- 📱 Unlock the smartphone screen when connecting — MIUI Blocks access to files on a locked device.
- 🔄 Change the regime. USB: When connecting in the notification curtain, tap on the Charging option through USB → Select File Transfer (MTP).
If after these actions, the folders still do not appear:
- On PC, open Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager).
- Find your Xiaomi’s Portable Devices or Other Devices (may appear as MTP or with an exclamation point) in the list.
- Right-click. → Update the driver → Search for drivers on this computer → Select from the list → specify MTP-device.
Turn off VPN on your phone and PC
Make sure your smartphone is enabled with developer mode (if you plan to use ADB)
Check that the latest version of iTunes is installed on your PC (no Mac/Linux required)
Restart both devices before connecting-->
⚠️ Note: Xiaomi with HyperOS (e.g. Xiaomi 14) is standard MTP This may not work well due to new security protocols, in which case you can move to Method 3.
Method 2: Developer Mode and USB Debugging (ADB)
If MTP is not working hard and files are needed urgently, use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which requires pre-configuration, but gives full access to the file system, including hidden /data folders.
Instructions:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on MIUI Version (you will receive a notification "You became a developer").
USB debugging
- Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
- Activate the debugging switch over USB and confirm the resolution.
- Connect your phone to your PC and select File Transfer (yes, even for ADB!).
- Download ADB Tools on PC and unpack it into the C:\adb folder.
- Open Command Prompt (Win + R → cmd) and type: cd C:\adb adb devices If the device appears in the list, type: adb shell ls /sdcard/ This will show the contents of internal memory.