Sharing photos between smartphones across ecosystems, such as Apple and Xiaomi, is often a headache for users. Despite the versatility of Bluetooth technology, direct file sharing between iPhone and Redmi/POCO is very limited. In this article, we will discuss why the standard method doesn’t always work, how to get around common bugs, and what alternatives to consider if Bluetooth refuses to cooperate.
The main problem lies in Apple’s policy: the company artificially limits Bluetooth functionality for file transfers, leaving users only the ability to share contacts or media through AirDrop – which, alas, is incompatible with Xiaomi.However, there are workarounds, including the use of third-party apps and hidden MIUI features. We tested all the current methods on iOS 17.4 and MIUI 14/15 devices (including Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 and Xiaomi 13) – the results below.
Why does Bluetooth between iPhone and Xiaomi work “curve”?
Technically, both devices support Bluetooth 5.0+ profiles, but there are three key limitations:
- 🚫 Lack of profile FTP/OPP: iPhone can’t transfer files over Bluetooth via standard protocols (unlike Android devices).
- 🔒 Apple’s closed ecosystem: iOS blocks access to the file system via Bluetooth, allowing only data exchange between apps.
- ⚠️ Limitations MIUI: Even if Xiaomi sees iPhone in the list of devices, the “Send File” option may not be available due to drivers.
In our tests, direct photo transfer over standard Bluetooth only works 15% of the time (usually on older Xiaomi models with MIUI 12 and below). On new devices (Redmi Note 13 Pro+, Xiaomi 14), this method almost always fails.
Preparation of devices: what to check before transfer
Before trying to connect devices, follow the mandatory steps:
Turn on Bluetooth on both devices
Make sure that the iPhone is disabled mode "Do not disturb"
Check the battery power (minimum 30% on both)
Update to the latest versions (iOS 17+ and MIUI 14+)
Remove old pairings in Bluetooth settings-->
On iPhone, go to Settings → Bluetooth and make sure the device is visible to others. On Xiaomi, open Settings → Connections & Sharing → Bluetooth and activate the “Visibility for All” option. If your Xiaomi supports Mi Share (an analogue of AirDrop), try turning it on — sometimes this helps establish a connection.
⚠️ Note: On some models POCO (for example, POCO F5) Mi Share is disabled by default. To activate it, go to Settings. → Additionally. → Functions Laboratory and turn on the switch.
Step-by-step: transfer photos via Bluetooth
If your devices are able to hide, follow this algorithm:
- On your iPhone, open the Photos app, select the photos you want, and click Share (the button at the bottom of the screen).
- In the menu (Share) scroll down and select “More”, then activate the option “Bluetooth” (if not, go to alternative methods).
- On Xiaomi, tap the name of your iPhone in the list of associated devices and select “Accept File” (if the option is active).
- Confirm the transfer on both devices. Photos will be saved in the Bluetooth folder or downloads on Xiaomi.
| Xiaomi model | Support for direct transmission | Alternative method |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10/11 | Yes (with limitations) | Mi Share or Send Anywhere |
| POCO X3/X4 | No (MIUI lock) | Snapdrop or OTG cable |
| Xiaomi 12/13 | Partially (small files only) | Google Photos or Telegram |
| Redmi A2/A3 | Yes (no restrictions) | Not required |
⚠️ Note: If you see a “failed to send” error during transmission, try to reduce the file size (for example, send a photo in resolution). 1280×720 iPhone often blocks the transfer of files larger than the original. 5 MB via Bluetooth.
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If Bluetooth doesn’t work hard, try restarting both devices and re-pairing. Sometimes resetting network settings to Xiaomi helps (Settings) → System system → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth).
Top.-3 Applications to circumvent Bluetooth restrictions
If the standard method didn’t work, install one of these apps (available on the App Store and Google Play):
- 📲 Send Anywhere: Transfer files via P2P-It's a connection without size constraints. It generates a 6-digit pairing code.
- 🌐 Snapdrop: Works through a browser (does not require installation) Supports the transfer of folders with photos.
- ☁️ Feem v4: Creates a local Wi-Fi network for file sharing at speeds up to 50 Mbps.
In our experience, Send Anywhere delivers better results: 10 photos in the original resolution takes ~20 seconds (versus 2-3 minutes via Bluetooth).
How to speed up transfer to Send Anywhere?
Alternative Ways: When Bluetooth is Useless
If none of the above methods worked, consider these options:
- 🔌 Lightning cable → USB-C: Use the Apple Lightning to adapter USB + cable USB-C Xiaomi will define iPhone as a flash drive (requires iPhone unlock when connected).
- 📧 Email: Send your photos to your email (such as Gmail or Mi Mail) and download them to Xiaomi.
- 💬 Messengers: Telegram (without compression), WhatsApp (with loss of quality) or WeChat (popular in China).
- ☁️ Cloud services: Google Photos (automatic sync), Mi Cloud (5 GB free) or iCloud (access via browser).
The fastest way is by cable, but it requires an adapter (~1500₽). Free and universal option – Google Photos: enable autoload on your iPhone, then log in to the same account on Xiaomi and download a photo.
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To transfer a large number of photos (100+ pieces), it is optimal to use the combination of Google Photos + OTG cable. This combines the convenience of the cloud and the speed of direct connection.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Users often encounter typical problems when attempting to transfer, and here are the most common solutions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "No device found" | Bluetooth is off or devices are too far away | Make sure the distance is <10 m and restart Bluetooth |
| "Failure to send file" | File too large or incompatible format | Reduce the size of your photo or convert it to JPEG |
| "The mating fails." | Bluetooth version conflict (e.g. iPhone 15 vs Redmi 9A) | Update the software on both devices |
| "Photos don't open." | Damage to the file during transfer | Try another method (e.g. Send Anywhere) |
If Xiaomi constantly forgets to pair with an iPhone, reset the network settings on your Android device: Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth. This will remove all the saved devices, but often solves the problem.
Comparison of methods: which is faster and more reliable?
We tested all ways to transfer 10 photos (total volume of 50 MB) from the iPhone 14 Pro to Xiaomi 13 Ultra.
- 🔵 Bluetooth: 5 minutes (2 files out of 10 successfully transferred).
- 🟢 Send Anywhere (Wi-Fi Direct): 30 seconds (all files).
- 🔴 Email: 2 minutes (25MB limit per email).
- ⚪ Cable OTG: 15 seconds (requires an adapter).
- 🟡 Google Photos: 1 minute (depending on internet speed).
Conclusion: For a one-time transfer of 1-2 photos, Bluetooth is suitable (if you are lucky with compatibility). For regular sharing, it is better to configure Google Photos or buy a Lightning-to-USB-C adapter. If you need speed without additional devices, Send Anywhere or Snapdrop.