How to download data from Xiaomi to Samsung: step-by-step instructions

Changing a smartphone is always an exciting process, especially when it comes to moving between different ecosystems, for example, from MIUI to One UI. Users are often afraid of losing important photos, contacts or correspondence history during migration.

In this article, we will discuss in detail all available methods of data transfer, we will look at both standard tools from manufacturers and third-party solutions that ensure the safety of your files.

No matter what your budget Redmi or flagship Galaxy S, the algorithm will be similar, the main thing is to prepare both devices correctly and choose the best method for your use case.

Preparing devices for data migration

Before any transfer process begins, both smartphones must be trained in basic training, which will avoid connection errors and transmission interruptions in the middle, and make sure that both devices are charged at least 60-70%, as the active operation of the communication modules and the screen consumes energy quickly.

Both smartphones need to be connected to a stable Wi-Fi network if you plan to use cloud methods or wireless transmission. If you choose a cable connection, find a good one. USB-cable, preferably original or certified.

On a Samsung device, when you first turn on, the system will suggest you move the data. If the phone is already configured, you will need a Smart Switch app that is often preinstalled but may require an update. On Xiaomi, you need to make sure that Bluetooth and geolocation are enabled, as they are used to detect devices.

⚠️ Note: Do not interrupt the transfer process or block smartphone screens until it is complete, otherwise files may get damaged.

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Before migrating, free up more space on the new Samsung than the amount of data you transmit to avoid recording errors.

Using Samsung Smart Switch for portability

The most reliable and official way is to use Samsung’s Smart Switch utility, which is designed specifically for migrating to the Korean brand’s devices and supports the transfer of contacts, messages, photos, videos, system settings and even home screen layouts.

The process begins with installing the app on both smartphones, if it is missing. APK-You can find a file or an app on Google Play, which is usually built into the settings menu on Samsung. After you start, select "Receive data" on your new phone and "Send data" on your old phone.

The system will offer to choose the type of connection: wireless or via a USB-C cable. Wireless method is more convenient, but the cable provides a much higher speed, which is critical when transferring tens of gigabytes of media.

Once the devices are connected, you'll be asked to select data categories to copy, and you can choose all at once or manually mark only the items you want, for example, by eliminating heavy video files if they're not important.

Transfer through Google Account and Cloud Services

The Google ecosystem is a universal bridge between any Android device, and if your contacts, notes, and calendar are synced to your Google account on Xiaomi, they will automatically be downloaded when you sign in to the same Samsung account.

For photos and videos, Google Photos is the best option. Turn on Autoboot and Sync on your old device and wait until the process is over. On your new phone, just log in to your profile and the entire library will be available in the cloud.

This method is ideal for those who do not want to mess with cables or complex Wi-Fi Direct settings, but it requires a stable Internet connection and sufficient space in the cloud.

The best ways to do this are Mi Mover and Send Anywhere.

If standard methods don't work for some reason, you can use third-party solutions. Send Anywhere allows you to transfer files of any type between any devices through the generation of six-digit code or QR-code.

Xiaomi users can also try using the built-in Mi Mover app, although its compatibility with Samsung isn't always 100% guaranteed.It creates a local Wi-Fi hotspot for fast transfer.

To transfer only contacts and messages, you can export them to a.vcf or.xml file and toss them over Bluetooth or messenger, and then import them on the new device through the contacts menu.

⚠️ Note: When using third-party applications from unknown sources, check the permissions they request to avoid passing on unnecessary data.

There are also paid professional PC utilities like MobileTrans or AnyDroid that allow you to control the transfer over the computer, which is a good option if wireless methods fail.

Transferring WhatsApp and Viber messages

Special attention should be paid to transferring the history of correspondence in instant messengers. WhatsApp on Android has an official migration function, which is often built into the process of setting up Samsung via cable.

If the automatic port didn’t work, use the built-in backup feature in Google Drive. On Xiaomi, go to Settings → Chats → Backup and create a fresh backup. On Samsung, when you install WhatsApp, select Restore from copy.

For Viber, the procedure is similar: back up the app settings on your old phone and restore it when you first run it on a new phone. Local copies may not be transferred automatically, so the cloud is your best friend.

Frequent mistakes and ways to solve them

Users often face problems migrating, and one of the most common is Wi-Fi Direct interruption, which can be due to power savings on Xiaomi, which aggressively kills background processes.

To avoid this, add the data app to Power Saving Mode Exceptions. Go to Settings → Battery → Energy Saving and select No Limits mode for Smart Switch.

Another problem is file format incompatibility or paths. Some MIUI system settings may not display correctly on One UI, but personal data (photos, documents) is stored completely.

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90% of port errors are due to an unstable Wi-Fi connection or power saving mode on an old device.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions