How to increase memory Xiaomi Redmi 9: everything from memory card to cloud

Xiaomi Redmi 9 is one of the most popular budget smartphones, but its internal memory (32/64/128 GB depending on version) sooner or later ends. High-resolution photos, videos, games and app cache take up precious gigabytes, and system updates require more space. If your Redmi 9 constantly shows a notification “Not enough memory”, do not rush to buy a new phone – there are at least 5 ways to expand storage or optimize its use.

In this article, we will analyze all the current methods: from installing a microSD card (including setting up as an internal drive) to using cloud services and hidden MIUI functions. Particular attention will be paid to the nuances that the manufacturer does not advertise: why the memory card can work slower than the built-in one, how to transfer applications without root rights and what to do if the smartphone “does not see” the microSD.

Installation of a microSD card: how much to choose and how to configure

The most obvious way to expand memory is to buy a microSD card. Xiaomi Redmi 9 supports cards up to 512 GB (officially stated up to 256 GB, but tests show compatibility with 512 GB models from SanDisk and Samsung). The card slot is hybrid, meaning you can’t use two at the same time. SIM-MicroSD and cards will have to be selected.

When buying, pay attention to the speed class:

• 📱 Class 10 or UHS-I (U1/U3) — minimum 4K and fast application.
• 🚀 A1/A2 — Optimized to run apps (if you plan to port games).
• ⚠️ Unlabeled or under Class 10 cards will slow down when writing files.

After installing the card in the slot (under the tray) SIM-Redmi 9 will offer two options for use:

1. Portable storage – files will have to be transferred manually, but the card can be retrieved and used on other devices.
2. Internal memory – the card is formatted and becomes part of the system (applications can be transferred to it). ⚠️ Note: Once formatted as an internal drive, the card will not be read on a PC or other phone without completely erasing the data.

2. Transfer of applications to a memory card: limitations and workarounds

If you set up a microSD as internal memory, you can transfer some of the applications to it through the Settings menu → Apps → [Select App] → Storage → Change.

• 🎮 Games and heavy apps (such as Facebook, Instagram) often don’t carry or run slower.
• 📱 System applications (MIUI, Google Play Services cannot be moved.
• ⚡ When you transfer some functions (such as widgets) may stop working.

To force the transfer of applications without root rights, use the AppMgr III utility (available on Google Play).

• Transfer applications that the system blocks.
• Clear cache and data directly from the interface.
• Sort programs by size (to find the most voracious).

Make sure the card is formatted as internal memory |

Close all applications you want to move |

Check the free space on the map (you need at least 20% more than the weight of the application)|

Backup of important data-->

⚠️ Note: After transferring the application to the map, its performance may fall by 10-30% due to the slower read/write speed of the microSD compared to the built-in memory of eMMC 5.1 in Redmi 9.

3.Inline memory optimization: what can be safely removed

Before you spend money on a memory card, check what is occupied on the phone. Go to Settings → Storage and analyze the sections:

Pay special attention to the DCIM/.thumbnails folder, which stores thumbnails of photos and videos that can be deleted (they regenerate automatically), and check the Android/obb folder: this is where game data (sometimes weighing several gigabytes) are located. If the game is not in use for a long time, the folder with its data can be deleted.

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Turn on Low Memory Cleanup in Settings → Storage → Storage settings. The system will automatically delete unnecessary files when the space runs out.

4.Use of OTG-Drivers and external hard disks

If microSD is not suitable (for example, you need to transfer large files between devices often), consider OTG-Xiaomi Redmi 9 supports the connection of flash drives and external hard drives through USB OTG-adapter USB-C). Read/write speeds will be faster than microSD, but there are limitations:

• 🔌 Hard drives require additional power (need an external-source adapter or a powered USB-hub).
• 📁 File system of the drive is better formatted in exFAT (supports files) >4GB).
• ⚡ Not all file managers work properly with OTG — Use the Mi File Manager or Solid Explorer.

To connect:

1. Buy it. OTG-adapter USB-C → USB-A (worth ~200-300 rubles).
2. Connect the flash drive or hard drive to the adapter, then to the phone.
3. The notifications will have the option “Use as” USB-drive" - press it.
4. Files can be copied through any file manager.

5. Cloud Storage: Which Service to Choose for Redmi 9

If physical memory expansion is not possible (for example, the microSD slot is occupied by a second memory). SIM-You can use the cloud services. They allow you to use the map:

• 📸 Automatically back up photos and videos (Google Photos or Mi Cloud).
• 🎵 Store music and documents with access from any device.
• 🔄 Synchronize contacts, notes and SMS (via Mi Account).

Comparison of popular services for Redmi 9:

To automatically upload photos to Google Photos:

1. Install an app from the Play Market.
2. Go to Settings → Backup and Synchronization.
3. Turn on the option and select quality (High – unlimited, Original – counts from 15 GB).

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Cloud storage doesn't replace physical memory, but it frees up space on your phone by transferring rarely used files, such as uploading an archive of photos older than a year to the cloud, and leaving only the latest pictures on your phone.

6 Hidden MIUI features to save memory

MIUI has a few built-in tools that help save space, but they need to be enabled manually:

• 🧹 Cleaning up garbage on schedule: Settings → Warehouse → Storage settings → Autocleaning. Set a schedule (e.g. once a week).
• 📦 Compression of unused applications: Settings → Annexes → Remove duplicates. The system will find repeatables. APK-file.
• 🔄 Limitation of background activity: Settings → Battery → Energy saving regime → Limit background activity. This will reduce the size of the app cache.

Another useful feature is the Light versions of apps (e.g. Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite), which take up 2-3 times less space than the regular versions and consume less traffic, and can be installed through Google Play or the Mi App Store.

⚠️ Note: The “Waste Cleanup” function in MIUI Sometimes delete files from Download folders or DCIM, Before launching, check which files are labeled as “junk” so you don’t lose important data.

7.Alternative methods: from root rights to memory chip replacement

If all of the above methods have not helped, radical measures remain:

• 🔧 Root rights: Allows you to transfer any application to a memory card, delete system programs and manually clean the cache. However, this deprives you of warranty and can lead to unstable operation of the phone.
• 🔄 Custom Recovery firmware (TWRP): It gives you access to advanced backup and cleanup functions. It requires unlocking the bootloader.
• 🛠️ Replacement of memory chip: Theoretically possible (Redmi 9 uses eMMC 5.1), but requires soldering work and costs almost like a new phone.

To unlock the bootloader and obtain root rights:

1. Create a Mi Account and link your phone.
2. Apply for unlocking in the Mi Unlock Tool (you need to wait 7-15 days).
3. Once unlocked, install TWRP and Magisk to manage root rights.

⚠️ Warning: Mistakes when unlocking a bootloader or firmware can turn the Redmi 9 into a brick.If you are unsure of your skills, it is better to consult a specialist or use less risky methods of expanding memory.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Redmi memory 9