How to open internal storage on Xiaomi Redmi: from MTP to ADB

Why does Xiaomi not show internal memory on your computer?

You connected Xiaomi Redmi to a PC via USB, but Windows Explorer or macOS doesn't display an internal drive? This problem is familiar to many brand users. The reasons can range from banal connection settings to system limitations of MIUI. In 80% of cases, the data mode is to blame - the smartphone by default can only be configured to charge.

Another common situation is that the file manager on Redmi itself shows memory, but access to the system folders (/data, /system) is blocked. This is not a bug, but a feature of Android with version 10+ and MIUI 12+, where Google has tightened its security policy, even with root rights, additional manipulation is required.

In this article, we will analyze 5 working ways to access the internal drive - from simple (mode change) USB) advanced (ADB-And then we'll find out why sometimes Redmi Note 10 Pro or Redmi. 9A They refuse to mount memory like a removable disk, and what to do about it.

Method 1: Checking the USB connection mode

The most common reason for memory invisibility is an incorrect data transfer protocol, and Xiaomi sets Charging mode by default, which blocks access to files.

To change it:

• 🔌 Connect your smartphone to your PC via the original cable (low-quality cords often don’t support data transfer).
• 📱 On the screen Redmi will appear a notification Charging through USB — tap him.
• 🔄 Select File Transfer (MTP) or Transfer of photographs (PTP).
• 🖥️ On the computer, check if the disk appears in the conductor (reconnection may be required).

If the file transfer item is not in the list, it means:

• 🚫 On the smartphone disabled debugging on USB (see method 4).
• 🔧 In the developer settings activated item Disable permissions USB.
• 🐛 Firmware MIUI glitch (will help reboot or reset settings) USB).

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If your computer still doesn’t see Redmi after changing USB mode, try connecting to another port (preferably USB 3.0) or reinstall the Mi PC Suite drivers.

Method 2: Allow access to files via MIUI

Even if USB-set up correctly, MIUI It can block access to certain folders, like Redmi Note. 11 s MIUI 13 Defaulty hidden system directories like /Android/data.

To unlock them:

1. Open the standard MIUI Explorer (the folder icon on the desktop).
2. Slip on the three points in the upper right corner → Settings.
3. Activate the switch to show hidden files.
4. Go back and go to the root folder (/). Now the system directories should be displayed.

To access folders of other applications (e.g. com.whatsapp):

• 🛡️ Go to Settings. → Annexes → Application management.
• 🔍 Find the right app (such as WhatsApp) → Permits.
• 📁 Enable permission to memory or storage.

Method 3: Use OTG-cable

If the computer does not recognize Redmi by USB, Alternatively, connect internal memory as an external storage device through OTG-Adapter: This method works even on locked devices (without unlocking the boot loader).

You'll need:

• 🔌 OTG-cable (Type-C) → USB-A or microUSB → USB-A, depending on the Redmi model).
• 💾 MicroSD-enabled cardholder (if you want to copy files to the card).
• 📱 Smartphone with support OTG (Check the characteristics of the model).

Instructions:

1. Connect. OTG-cable.
2. Connect the second end of the cable with a card reader or flash drive.
3. On the screen of the smartphone will appear notification USB-drive connected – tap on it.
4. Select Open File Manager and copy the data you need.

Make sure your model supports OTG|Use the original. OTG-cable (cheap cables may not work)|Check that the flash drive is formatted in FAT32/exFAT|Update the firmware MIUI last-minute-->

Limitations of the method:

• ⚠️ Not all Redmi models support all Redmi models. OTG (Like Redmi. 5A may not recognize the drives).
• 🐢 The data transfer speed is lower than the USB 3.0.
• 🔒 No access to system folders (user files only).

Method 4: Access via ADB (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work, then Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is a debugging tool that allows you to control the file system via the command line, the only way to access locked folders without root permissions.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 📱 Included Debugging by USB on the Redmi.
• 🔧 Utility. ADB (download from the official website).

Step-by-step:

1. Activate USB debugging: Go to Settings → About Phone. Tap 7 times on MIUI Version to unlock Developer Settings. Go back to Settings → Additional → Developer. Enable USB Debugging.

Redmi

File Transfer (MTP)

ADB

adb devices

(Your device should be displayed)

adb shell

(transition to the smartphone shell)

ls /sdcard

(See the contents of internal memory)

To copy files to the PC:

adb pull /sdcard/DCIM/ Camera

(This will copy the DCIM folder to the current directory on the computer to the Camera folder.)

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ADB allows you to bypass the limitations of MIUI, but it requires caution: the wrong commands can damage the system. Always check the paths to files before copying or deleting.

⚠️ Attention: Redmi with MIUI 14+ some ADB-If the adb shell is entered, an adbd cannot run as root error appears, then unlocking the bootloader is required.

Method 5: Reset USB settings (if nothing helps)

If after all the manipulations the computer still does not see the internal memory, the problem may lie in the lost settings. USB-This will help reset the configuration of the connection.

How to reset your settings:

1. Go to Settings → System → Resetting settings.
2. Select Network Settings Reset (this will also reset) USB-configuration).
3. Confirm the action and restart the smartphone.
4. After turning on, connect Redmi to your PC and re-select MTP mode.

⚠️ Attention: Redmi with MIUI 14 Android 13 There is a new limitation: when connecting to USB system folders (/data/app) They're automatically mounted in read-only mode, and it's not a bug, it's a security measure, and you'll need a Magisk or a patched boot image to write files to these directories.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions