How to upload files to Xiaomi: 7 proven ways with step-by-step instructions

Uploading files to Xiaomi devices is a challenge that every user faces, whether it’s transferring photos from a computer, installing apps or sharing documents between gadgets. Despite its apparent simplicity, the process can be complicated due to the variety of methods, versions of MIUI firmware and the features of specific models (for example, Redmi Note 12 or POCO F5). In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of downloading – from classic USB connection to cloud services and Xiaomi proprietary technologies such as Mi Share and Quick Share.

We'll focus on the common mistakes: why the computer can't see the phone through USB, how to get around the MIUI restrictions on accessing files, and what to do if the speed of data transfer over Wi-Fi leaves much to be desired. Also, we'll look at the nuances for devices with unlocked bootloader and custom firmware - these cases require a separate approach. If you're looking for the fastest or safest way, here you'll find a comparative analysis of each method with pros and cons.

1. USB booting: a classic method with nuances

USB connectivity remains the most versatile way, but MIUI has some features that can be confusing. For example, when you first connect to a computer, Xiaomi asks for permission to transfer files — a step that is often missed, which makes the device not appear in the Explorer. It is also important to choose the correct connection mode: File Transfer (MTP), not Charging or Camera (PTP).

Modern models (Xiaomi 13T, Redmi K60) may require additional configuration in the menu For developers - enable debugging over USB (USB debugging). This is true if you use ADB or specialized utilities like Mi PC Suite. Remember that when connecting to a Mac, you may need to install the Android File Transfer driver.

• 🔌 Step 1: Connect your phone to your computer with the original cable (cheap analogs may not support data transfer).
• 📱 Step 2: Unlock the screen and select File Transfer mode in the Connection Notification.
• 🖥️ Step 3: Open the Explorer on the computer (Win) + E) – the phone should appear as a removable disk.
• ⚙️ Step 4: If the device is not visible, check the settings USB-Connection to default settings → Additionally. → For developers.

⚠️ Note: On some models (POCO X5, Redmi 12C) post-update MIUI 14 may work with protection against unauthorized access. If the computer does not recognize the device, try to restart both gadgets or use another one. USB-port (preferably) USB 3.0).

Original cable connected

Phone screen unlocked

Selected "File Transfer" mode

Drivers are installed on the computer (for Windows)

"Only Charging" mode is disabled in the settings-->

Wireless transmission over Wi-Fi: fast and wireless

If you don’t have a cable on hand or want to avoid a physical connection, Wi-Fi file transfers are a great alternative. Xiaomi offers some built-in tools to do this:

1. Mi Share (formerly Mi Drop): A proprietary file sharing solution between Xiaomi, POCO and Redmi devices, works via direct Wi-Fi Direct, without an internet connection.
2. Quick Share: A new feature in MIUI 14+ that is compatible with Android 12+ devices (including smartphones from other brands) and uses a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to establish a connection.
3. FTP-Server: Built-in function in the Explorer → Network storage that allows you to access your phone files through any browser on your computer.

To use Mi Share, you just need to open the application on both devices, select files and send them to the target gadget. Transfer speeds reach 10-15 MB / s, which is comparable to USB 2.0. Quick Share can be slower due to additional encryption, but it supports transfer to Samsung or Google Pixel devices.

Important: when transferring large files (4K video, archives) over Wi-Fi, the battery is drained 15-20% faster, we recommend connecting the phone to charge or using energy saving mode.

Mi Share (built into MIUI)

Quick Share (New Standard)

Apps (Send Anywhere, ShareIt)

FTP-server

I don't use wireless transmission.-->

3. Cloud services: downloading via the Internet

If you not only need to upload files to your phone, but also save a backup, cloud storage will be the best solution. Xiaomi offers its own Mi Cloud, but its functionality is limited (for example, only 5 GB is available for free).

• ☁️ Google Drive: 15GB free, Google Photo integration for automatic download of media.
• ☁️ Yandex Disk: 10 GB free, convenient for users from Russia (high download speed).
• ☁️ OneDrive: 5GB free, deep integration with Windows 11.
• ☁️ Mega: 20GB free, but with a traffic limit (after 5GB speed drops).

To upload files to the cloud from your phone:

1. Install the app of the selected service (e.g. Google Drive from Play Market).
2. Log in and allow access to files in the application settings.
3. Select files in MIUI Explorer, click Share → Save to Drive (or analog).
4. To automatically upload photos, enable the option in the app settings (e.g., Backup in Google Photos).

⚠️ Warning: When uploading sensitive data (document scans, passwords) to the cloud, always enable two-factor authentication and encryption. In Mi Cloud, this feature is only available for paid accounts. For maximum security, use Cryptomator or Boxcryptor to encrypt files before downloading.

4. Downloading via OTG: flash drives and external drives

If you want to transfer files from a flash drive or external hard drive, Xiaomi’s OTG (On-The-Go) feature will allow you to do this without a computer. Most modern models (Xiaomi 12 Pro, Redmi Note 11) support OTG out of the box, but older devices (Redmi 5A) may require a Micro-USB → USB-C adapter.

Instructions:

1. Connect. OTG-adapter to the phone, and to it – a flash drive or external disk (formatted in FAT32 exFAT).
2. The notification will show a message USB-device connected – click on it.
3. The Conductor will open. MIUI Select the files and copy them to internal memory or to SD-map.

Note: some high-power drives (such as USB 3.0 drives) may not be detected due to power restriction via OTG. In this case, an externally powered active hub will help.

💡

If your phone doesn’t see the flash drive through OTG, try formatting it into FAT32 with a cluster size of 4096 bytes. Use the SD Formatter utility on your computer to do this.

5. Download via ADB: for power users

If the standard methods do not work (for example, due to damage) USB-port-lock MIUI), You can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method requires command line skills, but allows you to bypass many system limitations.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn on Developer Mode (7 times click on the MIUI version in Settings → About Phone).
2. Activate Debugging by USB in the Developer Menu.
3. Connect your phone to your computer and install the ADB driver (you can download from Google or through the Mi Unlock Tool).
4. Open the command line (Win + R → cmd) and type:

adb devices

(Your device should be displayed)

adb push C:\path\to\file /sdcard/folder on phone/

To download a file from your phone to your computer, use:

adb pull /sdcard/folder/file C:\path\on\computer\

⚠️ Attention: Adb teams push/pull They do not work with files larger than 4 GB due to file system limitations FAT32, default MIUI sectional /sdcard. For large files, pre-archive them or use alternative methods.

💡

ADB is a powerful tool, but it requires caution. Incorrect commands (e.g., adb shell rm -rf/) can cause data loss or "bricking" of the device. Always check paths and access rights.

6. Download via Mi PC Suite: official software from Xiaomi

Mi PC Suite is a proprietary utility for managing Xiaomi devices from a computer, which allows you not only to transfer files, but also to install firmware, create backups and synchronize contacts.

• ⚠️ It only works on Windows (no version for Windows). macOS/Linux).
• ⚠️ Often gives the error "Device is not supported" on new models.
• ⚠️ The speed of file transfer is lower than when connecting directly through MTP.

How to use:

1. Download Mi PC Suite from Xiaomi’s official website (avoid third-party sources!).
2. Connect your phone over USB and select File Transfer mode.
3. In the program, go to the Files tab - the folder structure of the phone will be displayed.
4. Drag files with your mouse or use the import/export buttons.

For backup:

1. Go to the Backup tab.
2. Select data to save (contacts, messages, applications).
3. Specify the path on your computer and click Create a backup.

7. Download files to Xiaomi from Mac: features and solutions

Mac users often face problems when connecting Xiaomi over USB.The fact is that MIUI by default uses the MTP protocol, which is poorly supported by macOS.

• 🍎 Android File Transfer: Google’s official utility, but it doesn’t work well MIUI 13+.
• 🍎 OpenMTP: Alternative software with support for new versions of Android (requires driver installation).
• 🍎 FTP Wi-Fi: The most reliable way (see section 2).
• 🍎 Termux + SSH: for advanced users (configuration) SFTP-phone-server).

Instructions for OpenMTP:

1. Download OpenMTP from GitHub.
2. Install the HoRNDIS driver (if the phone is not identified).
3. Connect Xiaomi to USB, select File Transfer mode.
4. OpenMTP – the phone should appear in the list of devices.

If none of the methods work, check:

• 🔄 Restart your phone and Mac.
• 🔌 Try another one. USB-cable (original from Xiaomi).
• 🛠️ Turn it on. USB-Debugging and try to connect through ADB (see section 5).

FAQ: Frequent questions about uploading files to Xiaomi