Xiaomi’s current smartphones offer impressive amounts of internal storage, but that’s often not enough for active users. High-quality 4K videos, heavy games, and huge photo libraries quickly fill the available space. It’s at this point that the device owner is faced with the question of expanding storage with an external drive. Connecting a memory card is the most budget-friendly and effective way to solve the problem of the shortage of gigabytes without losing important data.
The process of installing a flash drive in Redmi and POCO devices is usually easy, but there are a number of nuances that need to be considered. Incorrect slot preparation or ignoring formatting can lead to the fact that the system does not recognize the new module. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the steps from the physical installation to the software configuration of the file system for maximum compatibility.
It is important to understand that not all models support simultaneous installation of two models. SIM-Some budget and mid-budget segments use a hybrid slot where the second number shares space with the drive. Before you disassemble the case or look for a paper clip, check the specifications of your particular machine to avoid unpleasant surprises when building.
Preparation for installation and choice of storage device
The first step is to purchase the right drive.The market is full of offers, but for Xiaomi smartphones with Android operating system, it is critical to choose microSD cards. SD-The cards used in cameras will not physically fit in a slot without bulky adapters that are not designed for permanent use in a mobile device.
Note the speed class of writing and reading. If you plan to store only documents or music, a Class 10 card will do. However, higher performance is required to record high-resolution video or install applications. The ideal choice would be UHS-I or V30 labels, which guarantee stable operation without delay when accessing files.
Older models of phones may not work correctly with drives of more than 32 GB due to the limitations of the file system.Modern flagships Xiaomi without problems work with cards on 512 GB and even 1 TB, but before buying it is better to look into the specifications on the official website of the manufacturer.
⚠️ Warning: Buy memory cards only in trusted stores, the market is full of fakes that have a real volume of many times less than stated, such drives quickly fail and can lead to the loss of your photos and documents without the possibility of recovery.
Physical installation of the card in the slot
The installation process begins with finding a SIM card tray. Most Xiaomi smartphones have it on the top or bottom of the case. Removing the tray will require a special metal clip coming in the kit, or a thin needle. Carefully press in the hole next to the tray until it pops out.
Take a close look at the retrieved tray. If you have a hybrid slot, you'll see that one side is destined for the other. SIM-The card is for the microSD, and the other one is for the microSD, so that the contacts (the golden stripes) look up and the angle is sloping and the tray shape. Don't put too much effort: the card should be placed in the slots freely.