Transferring data from your phone to your memory card in Xiaomi: 5 proven ways

A full internal memory of a smartphone is a headache for many Xiaomi users, especially if the model does not support installing apps on the smartphone. SD-Even with the optimization of the map. MIUI, High-resolution photos, app cache and downloaded files quickly eat away at precious gigabytes. Fortunately, you can transfer data to an external drive in a number of ways, from manual copying to automated system tools.

In this article, we will analyze all current methods of file transfer, including nuances for different versions. MIUI (from MIUI 12 before MIUI 14 Android-based 13/14). We will pay special attention to the limitations of the manufacturer: why some applications can not be moved to a memory card, how to circumvent the ban on writing for individual folders, and what to do if the system does not see the microSD after installation. You will also learn how to format the map correctly for maximum compatibility with Redmi smartphones, POCO and Xiaomi premium lineup.

1.Preparation: Checking the compatibility of the memory card and the telephone

Before transferring data, make sure your SD-Xiaomi smartphones support microSD, microSDHC (up to 32 GB) and microSDXC (up to 2 TB), but there are nuances:

• 📱 Budget models (Redmi) 9A, POCO M3): 512GB maximum, speed UHS-I (Class 10).
• 📱 Mid-segment (Redmi Note 12, Xiaomi 12 Lite): up to 1 TB, support UHS-II (if specified in the specifications).
• 📱 Flagships (Xiaomi 13 Ultra, MIX Fold 3: Up to 2 TB recommended UHS-III for 4K-video.

To avoid problems, check:

1. The file system format of the card is FAT32 (up to 32 GB) or exFAT (up to 64 GB). NTFS is not supported!
2. Speed class: 4K video requires a V30 or higher, Class 10 is enough for a photo.
3. Slot availability: hybrid slot (instead of second SIM) or dedicated slot (for example, in POCO X5 Pro).

⚠️ Note: If the card has been previously used in a camera or other device, format it directly in your smartphone via Settings. → Warehouse → Memory map → This will eliminate read errors associated with incompatible file systems.

2. Method 1: Manual transfer through the "Conductor" MIUI

The easiest method is to use the built-in Explorer (Files app) that allows you to copy or move files between your internal memory and your card without connecting to a PC.

1. Open the Files app (the folder icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the Internal Memory section and find the data folder (for example, DCIM for photos or Download for downloads).
3. Press your finger on the file/folder → select the rest (if you need to move several items).
4. Click Move (or Copy if you want to leave the original).
5. In the top menu, select Memory Map → specify the target folder (or create a new one).
6. Confirm the transfer with the Insert button.

To speed up the process, use the packet mode:

Select all files in the folder through a long press → “Select all”

Use date sorting ("Date" in the menu) to transfer fresh files

Create folders on the map in advance (for example, Photos, Videos, Documents)

Disable Battery Optimization for Files in Settings → Annexes → Permits-->

⚠️ Note: When you transfer applications through Explorer, they may stop working. For programs, use Method 4 (settings) MIUI) method 5 (ADB).

Method 2: Automatic transfer of photos and videos through the "Gallery"

The Gallery app in MIUI can automatically save new photos and videos to a memory card, to enable this feature:

1. Open the Gallery → click on the three dots in the upper right corner → Settings.
2. Select a Rescue Site.
3. Specify a Memory Card for photos, videos, or both.
4. Confirm the choice (the system may suggest formatting the card if it is new).

Important: This method only works for NEW files, and you will have to transfer existing photos and videos manually (method 1) or via PC (method 3).

If the option is not saved:

• 🔧 Check that the card is formatted as a portable storage (not as internal memory).
• 🔧 Update the Gallery via Google Play (sometimes the feature appears after the update).
• 🔧 For models on MIUI 13+ The path may be different: Gallery settings → Additionally. → Warehouse.

💡

If photos are not displayed in the Gallery after transferring, restart your phone or use the QuickPic app to scan your memory card.

Method 3: Transfer over a computer (USB-cable)

If there is not enough space for temporary files on the phone, it is more convenient to use a PC, which is also suitable for carrying large amounts of data (for example, backups).

You'll need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original from Xiaomi for stable speed).
• 💾 Cardholder (if you transfer the card directly).

Instructions for Windows:

1. Connect your phone to your PC via USB, select File Transfer (MTP) mode in the notification curtain.
2. On PC, open This PC → find a Xiaomi device (usually as a Redmi or MI).
3. Copy files from your phone’s folders (e.g., Internal Storage\DCIM) to a memory card (it will appear as a separate drive, e.g., E:\).
4. To accelerate, use the hot keys: Ctrl+A (select everything), Ctrl+C/Ctrl+V (copy/paste).

Nuances:

• 🐢 Transmission speed USB 2.0 (in budget models) - up to 40 MB / s. USB 3.0 (flagships) – up to 400 MB/s.
• 🔒 If the card is not visible on the PC, check that it is not encrypted in the phone (MIUI Offers encryption when formatting).
• 📁 For macOS, install Android File Transfer (official software from Google).

5. Method 4: Transfer applications to a memory card (with limitations)

Android MIUI impose strict restrictions on the transfer of applications to SD-Most programs (especially system programs) can't be moved, but for some, it can:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select an app from a list (like Google Maps or Spotify).
3. Click Warehouse → Change (if the option is active).
4. Select a Memory Card and confirm the transfer.

Limitations:

• 🚫 Cannot be transferred: system applications (Settings, Phone), games with high requirements (Genshin Impact, PUBG), Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram).
• ⚠️ After the transfer, the application may run slower (depending on the card class).
• 🔄 When you update the app, it automatically returns to internal memory.

Use ADB (Method 5) to circumvent restrictions, but it requires technical skills.

💡

Transferring applications to a memory card in Xiaomi is only possible for some programs and does not guarantee stable operation. The main way to free up space is to delete the cache and unnecessary files.

Method 5: Transfer data over ADB (for power users)

If standard methods do not work (for example, for transfer) OBB-Game files can be used, you can use them ADB (Android Debug Bridge: This requires a PC connection and command knowledge.

Preparation:

1. Enable USB Debugging (see spoiler in method 3).
2. Download Platform Tools from the official Android website and unpack it into a folder on your PC.
3. Connect your phone to your PC and confirm access via USB.

Transfer commands:

adb shell


pm set-install-location 2 # Install the memory card as the default location for new applications




pm move-package com.example.app # Move a specific application (replace com.example.app with a batch name)

Warnings:

• 💥 Incorrect commands can cause system failure.
• 🔒 Some apps (e.g. com.miui.home) cannot be migrated even through the ADB.
• 📱 After the transfer, check the application - errors are possible.

⚠️ Attention: Use ADB cancels warranty if the phone was purchased from official Xiaomi stores (for example, in the Mi Store). → Additionally. → Backup.

7. Frequent errors and their solutions

When you move data, you have a typical problem, and here's how to solve it:

If the memory card is permanently unmounted:

• 🔋 Check the slot contacts - gently blow or clean with alcohol.
• 📉 Turn off battery savings for Files and Gallery in settings.
• 🛠️ Update the firmware through Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions