How to save phone numbers on Xiaomi: all ways with instructions

Keeping contacts on Xiaomi smartphones is a task that seems simple only at first glance. Users often face situations when, after resetting, replacing the settings, changing the settings. SIM-All numbers suddenly disappear, usually because of the wrong storage method: by default, the MiUI stores contacts in the device's local memory, making them vulnerable to any failures.

In this article, we will discuss 5 reliable methods for saving numbers on Redmi, Poco and Mi phones, including synchronization with Google, exporting to a file, transferring to a new location. SIM-map and backup in Mi Cloud. We will pay special attention to the nuances for different versions MIUI (12 to 14) and smartphone models, and you'll learn which way to choose depending on your needs, whether it's moving to a new phone, data loss protection, or just making contacts.

1. Save contacts in a Google account (the most reliable way)

Syncing with a Google account is the only method that guarantees access to contacts on any Android device, even if a Xiaomi phone is lost or dropped.All numbers are stored on Google servers and are automatically updated when new contacts are added.

To enable synchronization:

1. Open the Contacts app on your Xiaomi.
2. Slip on three dots in the top right corner → Contact management → Import/Export contacts.
3. Choose to sync with Google and log in to your account if required.
4. Activate the Contacts switch in the account sync section (Settings → Accounts → Google).

After that, all your contacts will be duplicated in Google Contacts (available at contacts.google.com) to check that sync works:

• 📱 Add a test contact on your phone and update your Google Contacts page – it should show up there in 1-2 minutes.
• 🔄 Remove the contact from your phone – it will stay on Google and recover the next time you sync.

⚠️ Note: If you use multiple Google accounts, make sure that sync is enabled for the correct profile, otherwise contacts may be saved to another account that you do not have access to.

2. Export contacts to the VCF file (for backup)

The.vcf file (vCard) is a universal format for storing contacts that can be transferred to any phone, computer or cloud storage, and is useful if you want to create a local copy of all numbers or transfer them to a device of another brand (for example, an iPhone).

Export instructions:

1. Open Contacts → Three Points → Contact Management → Import/Export Contacts
2. Select Export to File (or Export to Device in older versions of MIUI).
3. Check the contacts you want to keep (or click Select All).
4. Click Export and select a folder to save (such as Downloads or Documents).

The finished contact.vcf file can be:

• 📤 Send to your post or Telegram.
• 💾 Save to Google Drive or Mi Cloud.
• 📱 Move to another phone via Bluetooth or cable.

⚠️ Note: If you are exporting your contacts to SIM-card (method from the next section) and then delete them from the phone, the.vcf file will not help to restore the numbers - they will be lost. Always back up before any manipulation of contacts.

Retention of numbers on SIM-map (limited method)

Maintaining contacts SIM-It's an outdated but still popular way, especially among users who often change phones or use devices without access to the Internet:

• 📛 SIM-The card stores only the name and number (without photos, addresses, email).
• 📏 Maximum number of contacts – usually 250-500 (depending on the operator).
• 🔠 Names are preserved only in Latin (Cyrillic will be displayed by Krakozabras).

If you are satisfied with these restrictions, follow the instructions:

1. Open Contacts → Three Points → Contact Management → Import/Export Contacts
2. Select Export on Export SIM-map.
3. Mark the contacts you want (or click Select All).
4. Confirm the export. The process can take a few minutes.

To transfer SIM contacts to a new phone:

1. Insert the SIM into the new device.
2. Open Contacts → Three Points → Import / Export → Import from SIM-card.
3. Choose where to save numbers (Google, Mi Cloud, or locally).

4. backup to Mi Cloud (for Xiaomi users)

Mi Cloud is a cloud storage from Xiaomi that automatically backs up contacts, messages, photos and other data, and the advantage of this method is that it is integrated into MIUI and does not require manual export.

• 🌍 Available only on Xiaomi devices (you can not restore contacts on Samsung or iPhone).
• 📦 Only 5GB is free (that’s enough for you). ~2000 contacts with photos).
• 🔒 Mi Account (linked to phone number) required).

To enable backup:

1. Go to Settings → Accounts → Mi Cloud.
2. Sign in to your Xiaomi account (or sign up).
3. Activate the Contact Switch.
4. Click Sync (or Backup in older versions of MIUI).

To reconnect contacts from Mi Cloud:

1. On the new Xiaomi phone, log in to the same Mi Account.
2. Go to Settings → Accounts → Mi Cloud → Contacts.
3. Click Restore and select the latest backup.

💡

If you are planning to sell or hand over your phone for repair, be sure to untie Mi Cloud in your account settings. Otherwise, the new owner will be able to restore your contacts!

5. Transfer contacts through applications (for advanced users)

If standard methods don't suit you, you can use third-party contact management apps that offer additional features such as combining duplicates, mass editing, or exporting to non-standard formats.

Top.-3 Applications for working with contacts on Xiaomi:

• 📊 Contacts Optimizer – cleans duplicates, restores lost numbers.
• 🔄 My Contacts Backup – Exports contacts to file and sends them to email.
• 📱 Simpler Contacts – an alternative “Contacts” application with advanced features.

Use of My Contacts Backup:

1. Install the app from Google Play.
2. Open it and press Backup.
3. Select the format (VCF or XML) and confirm backup.
4. The application will offer to send the file to the mail or save to the cloud.

⚠️ Note: When using third-party apps, give them access to contacts only (not to the contact information). SMS, Some programs may collect unnecessary information.

💡

Synchronizing with Google is the most versatile method, and Mi Cloud is only suitable for Xiaomi devices. VCF and SIM-Card – temporary solutions for moving to a new phone.

6. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even Xiaomi experienced users sometimes lose contacts due to non-obvious errors.

To avoid data loss:

• 🔄 Check regularly (once a month) that sync with Google or Mi Cloud is working.
• 📱 Before resetting your phone, export to VCF And save the file to the computer.
• 📌 Do not keep your contacts only on SIM-Use it as a temporary storage device.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions