Changing a smartphone is always stressful because of the fear of losing important information, but Xiaomi’s ecosystem offers powerful tools to automate this process. Owners of this brand have a unique advantage – the presence of a built-in Mi Mover utility that allows you to transfer all the contents of the old device to a new one in minutes without using a computer. This tool works directly through the Wi-Fi connection created between gadgets, which ensures high speeds of transfer of large amounts of information.
Unlike manually copying files via cable, automated methods save not only media files, but also folder structure, icon location and passwords from Wi-Fi networks. The process becomes especially relevant when switching to a model with a large amount of memory, when you need to transfer gigabytes of photos and videos. Data transfer speeds through Mi Mover can reach 20-40 MB / s, which is much faster than a standard Bluetooth connection.
There are several proven action algorithms, each suited to a specific situation: having a broken screen, not having the Internet, or having to transfer only selected contacts. We will look at the most effective ways, from regular data tools to synchronizing through Google cloud services, choosing the right method will save you hours of time and nerves when setting up a new device.
Use of the built-in Mi Mover application
The most reliable and quickest way to migrate is to use the Mi Mover app, which is built into the MIUI and HyperOS shell, so you do not need to install additional software from third-party sources. To start working, you need to open the application on both devices through the settings menu or find it in the Tools folder.
On the new smartphone, select Reciever and on the old one, Sender. QR-code that will appear on the screen of the new device, or connect to the created Wi-Fi point manually. Once the connection is established, the interface will suggest selecting data categories to copy.
☑️ Check before launching the Mi Mover
Importantly, the app allows you to selectively transfer data, which is convenient when you switch to a device with less memory, you can eliminate heavy video files or rarely used applications, leaving only contacts, messages and system settings.
⚠️ Note: Do not interrupt the transfer process or turn off smartphone screens until the operation is complete, as this may damage the archives with data.
Synchronization with your Mi Cloud account
If physical access to the old phone is limited or temporarily unavailable, the best solution is to use Mi Cloud storage, which requires pre-configuring on the original device, but ensures that the data is stored even in the event of complete loss of the gadget, all data is encrypted and uploaded to the company's servers, from where it can be downloaded at any time.
To activate the function, you need to log into your Mi Account and go to the sync menu, where you can set up automatic downloads of contacts, notes, voice recordings and photos in the gallery. Free storage is limited, so you may need a subscription for large amounts of data.
On a new device, you just need to enter the same login and password in the system settings, and after authorization, the system will prompt you to restore data from the backup, which is especially effective for restoring message structure and call history that are difficult to transfer in other ways.
- 📱 Contacts and phone book synced instantly when the Internet is turned on.
- 📷 The gallery loads in the background without taking up the processor during active actions.
- 🔐 Wi-Fi passwords and system settings are saved in a secure partition of the cloud.
Transferring data through Google Account
The universal method, which works not only between Xiaomi phones, but also when switching from other Android smartphones, is synchronization through Google, which is the basic method for the Android operating system and ensures the safety of the most important data: contacts, calendar events and the list of installed applications.
To make sure all data is saved, check the sync settings in the Accounts section on your old phone. Make sure the switches in front of the right points are active and the last sync is successful. When you first set up a new device, just type in your Gmail address.
What is not saved in Google Account?
Apps downloaded from the Play Market are automatically identified by the system and marked as “installable.” You don’t have to search for them again, just click “Install All” or select specific programs. However, data inside the applications (game progress, logins) will only be saved if the developer has used cloud-based saves.
⚠️ Note: Google’s two-factor authentication may require confirmation of sign-in via SMS or authentication app, so make sure that you are not logged in. SIM-map or backup codes available.
Local backup and PC
For users who prefer full control over their data or do not have a stable Internet, the local backup method is suitable. The built-in function "Backup" in the phone settings allows you to create a complete image of the system or its individual parts in internal memory or on the phone. SD-map.
Created backup file (usually located in a folder) MIUI/backup/AllBackup) You can copy it to a computer through USB-You can just start the recovery from the local copy and then you can flip it to the new smartphone.
| Type of data | Size (approximately) | Copying time. | Recommended method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contacts and SMS | less than 10 MB | 1-2 minutes | Google / Mi Cloud |
| Photos (10GB) | 10GB | 10-15 minutes. | Mi Mover/PC |
| Annexes (50 units) | 5-20 GB | 20-30 minutes. | Mi Mover / Play Market |
| Video archive (100 GB) | 100GB | 1-2 hours | PC / USB-OTG |
The good thing about this is that it doesn't depend on the speed of the Internet connection or the cloud storage, you get a physical copy of the data that you can store for years, but it requires free storage space and a little bit more manual work moving files.
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Use a USB-OTG adapter to plug the flash drive directly into your phone and copy heavy files without a computer if you can’t use Mi Mover.
Deferral decision
During the data migration process, users often face technical difficulties, such as a connection break or incompatibility of Android versions. If the transfer is hanging on a certain percentage, try turning off power saving on both devices, as the system may limit the operation of the Wi-Fi module to save charge.
Sometimes there is a “Not enough space” error, even if there is free memory, which may be due to file system fragmentation or hidden system files, in which case it is recommended to clear the cache of the Mi Mover application or restart both smartphones before trying again.
Password problems from Wi-Fi are solved by simply re-connecting the network. If the new phone doesn't see the old one's network, make sure both devices are enabled with GPS and Bluetooth, as they are used for initial detection and handshake between gadgets.
Set up a new smartphone after migration
Once you have successfully completed the data copy, it is important to make a number of adjustments to ensure that the system works correctly, first of all, check the operation of banking applications and the NFC module, since for security reasons payment tokens and access keys are often not automatically transferred and require re-binding.
It's also worth checking the app permissions. Some programs may request access to contacts or microphones again, as newer versions of Android strictly monitor privacy.
Remember to update all applications through GetApps or Play Market to current versions. Older versions of programs may not work correctly on the new version of the operating system, causing errors or increased battery consumption. Regular updates are the key to stable operation.
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Full data portability is only the first step; checking the security of banking applications and software updates are critical final steps.