How to download notes from Xiaomi to your computer through USB: 3 working methods

Transfer notes from Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO computer USB It seems like a simple task, but in practice, users are faced with a lot of nuances. MIUI, The process can be very different from smartphone models and synchronization settings. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods, from standard file copying to workarounds for devices with blocked access to system folders.

The peculiarity of notes in Xiaomi is that they are not stored as ordinary text files, but in the database of the application com.miui.notes. USB And it won't be enough to copy the Notes folder, and we'll show you how to export data properly so that it can open on a PC, and what to do if the phone isn't defined as a storage device.

Preparation of the smartphone: settings USB and file access

Before connecting Xiaomi to your computer, you need to configure the settings. USB-By default, many models use Charging mode, which doesn't allow you to transfer files:

1. Unlock the smartphone screen and connect it to the PC through the original USB-cable (preferably from the set).
2. Swipe down the notification panel and tap on the option «USB for file transfer” (or USB-linkage).
3. Select the "File Transfer" mode» (MTP) or “Presentation of images» (PTP). Only fits for notes. MTP.

If there is no regime on the list MTP, It could mean:

• 🔹 An outdated version MIUI (below 12 - update required.
• 🔹 Damaged. USB-Port or cable - try another port.
• 🔹 Storage access disabled – check permissions in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Notes.

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If your computer can’t see your phone even after changing mode, try connecting it to another one. USB-port (preferably) USB 3.0) or restart both devices.

On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12) after selecting the model. MTP You may be asked to unblock “Debugging by” USB». This is not necessary for copying notes, but if you plan to use it ADB (We will tell you about it later, turn this option into Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI (Tap 7 times according to version, then return to additional → For developers).

Method 1: Copy notes through the MiuiNotes folder (for MIUI 12–14)

This method works on most modern Xiaomi devices, where notes are stored in an open folder.

1. Connect your phone to your PC in mode MTP (as described above).
2. Open “This Computer” on your PC and find your device (usually displayed as Xiaomi or Redmi).
3. Go along the way: Internal drive → MIUI → Notes: Files with the.note or.db extension should be located here.
4. Copy all files from this folder to your computer (for example, to your desktop).

But there are important nuances:

• 📌 Notes in.note format are encrypted files, and you will need a converter to read them (more on this below).
• 📌 If there is no Notes folder, then your version MIUI Storing data differently (see Method 2).
• 📌 On some firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.eu) the path may be different: Android → data → com.miui.notes.

The Notes folder exists.|Files have the.note or.db extension|The phone is not locked during transmission|USB-cable-->

Notes are linked to your Mi Account. If you copy them to another phone, they won’t open without authorization.

Method 2: Export notes through built-in function MIUI

If the file copying doesn't work, use the built-in export. MIUI 13-15 and guaranteed to save notes in readable format:

1. Open the Notes app on your phone.
2. Tap the three-point menu (⋮) in the upper right corner and select "Settings».
3. Scroll down and click on "Export Notes".
4. Choose the format: TXT (simple text) or HTML (saving formatting).
5. Specify a folder to save (for example, Downloads) and confirm export.

Now connect your phone to your PC and copy the exported files from the selected folder.

• ✅ Notes are saved in a universal format readable on any device.
• ✅ No need for converters or additional programs.
• ✅ Selective notes can be exported (keep your finger on a note) → «Export»).

Limitations:

⚠️ Note: In some regional firmware (e.g. Europe), the Note Export option may not be available.

Method 3: Backup via Mi Cloud and PC Download

If the physical connection is USB It doesn't work (for example, because of a damaged port), you can sync notes with Mi Cloud and download them to your computer:

1. Make sure your phone has note synchronization enabled: Settings → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud → Activate the switch if it is turned off.
2. Wait for the synchronization to be completed (the cloud icon in the Notes app should turn green).
3. On your computer, open your browser and go to i.mi.com. Sign in with the same Mi Account as your phone.
4. Select “Notes” from the menu and all synchronized entries will be displayed here.
5. Open the desired note and copy the text manually or use a browser extension (for example, "Save Page"). WE»), to save the page as HTML.

An alternative way is to download the archive with data:

• 🔗 Go to Account Settings → Data management → Backup copy.
• 🔗 Select “Notes” and create a backup copy.
• 🔗 After completion, download the archive to your PC and extract the note files (usually in format) from it. JSON).

Warning:

⚠️ Warning: If you delete notes from your phone before you download the backup, they will disappear from the Mi Cloud. Always check for data in the cloud before cleaning your device.

Converting Note Files into Readable Format

If you copy files with the.note or.db extension, you need to convert them to read them on a PC. Here are two proven ways:

Method 1: Use the Mi Note Decrypt program

This is a specialized software for decrypting Xiaomi notes:

1. Download the Mi Note Decrypt utility (available for Windows).
2. Unpack the archive and launch MiNoteDecrypt.exe.
3. Drag.note files into the program window or specify a path to the folder.
4. Click “Decrypt” – notes will be saved in format TXT same-folder.

Method 2: Manual extraction from database (for advanced)

If you have a note.db file (SQLite database), you can extract text using:

• 🛠️ Programme programmes DB Browser for SQLite (open file and export note table to SQLite) CSV).
• 🛠️ Online services like sqlitebrowser.org.

Example of table structure:

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.note files are protected by binding to the Mi Account. Without authorization, they cannot be decrypted - even with the help of programs.

Solving problems: phone is not detected or files are not copied

If, when connected, USB Errors occur, try the following steps:

Problem 1: The computer can't see Xiaomi

• 🔌 Check the cable – use original or certified USB Type-C.
• 🔌 Install Mi drivers PC Suite (download from the official website).
• 🔌 Try another one. USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0 on the front panel of the system unit).
• 🔌 On Windows, update the driver in Device Manager (find Xiaomi in the list and select Update Driver»).

Problem 2: Notes folder is empty or missing

• 📂 Check Hidden Folders: In Windows Explorer, enable the display of Hidden Items (View) → Hidden elements).
• 📂 Some of the notes are stored in /data/data/com.miui.notes/databases — Access is only possible with root rights.
• 📂 If you use Google Keep or another third-party app, notes are stored in their cloud, not in your phone’s memory.

Problem 3: Error in copying files

• ❌ Make sure that the phone has enough free space (at least 10% of the memory capacity).
• ❌ Turn off Battery Optimization for the Notes app (Settings) → Battery → Optimizing the battery).
• ❌ Try to copy files in small portions (10-20 pieces each).

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If nothing works, back up your Mi Cloud (see Method 3) even if you don’t plan on downloading it, sometimes waking up your system notes.

Additional methods: ADB and third-party applications

If the standard methods do not work, you can use them. ADB (Android Debug Bridge for taking notes. This method requires enabling Debugging by USB» It is suitable for advanced users.

Instructions:

1. Install ADB Tools on your computer.
2. Connect the phone in mode MTP Open the command line (Win) + R → cmd).
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices should appear the name of your device.
4. Copy the Notes Database: Adb pull /data/data/com.miui.notes/databases/notes.db C:\Notes\ (substitute C:\Notes\ pathway).

To work with ADB may be required:

• 🔐 Unlock Bootloader (on some models).
• 🔐 Root rights (if files are in a protected folder) /data/data/).

Alternative annexes for export:

FAQ: Frequent questions about moving notes with Xiaomi