Have you ever tried to quickly transfer a photo from Xiaomi to another phone, but Bluetooth was too slow and messengers demanded the Internet? In such cases, the built-in ShareMe app (formerly known as Mi Drop) comes to the rescue. This service from Xiaomi allows you to transfer files of any size between devices without a connection to the network using direct communication over Wi-Fi Direct. But how does it work, how does it differ from competitors and how to set it up correctly? Let's figure it out.
Many Redmi users, POCO Or Mi doesn't even know ShareMe exists, even though it's pre-installed on most of the brand's devices, and it's one of the most convenient ways to share data -- especially when you need to send a video to a video store. 4K, Unlike AirDrop (which only works in the Apple ecosystem) or Nearby Share (requires Google services), ShareMe is not tied to a specific operating system and can even interact with iOS or Windows devices via a browser.
In this article, we will explain in detail how to use ShareMe on Xiaomi, compare it with alternatives, reveal hidden features (for example, transferring files to a PC), and give tips for solving typical problems. And if you are still in doubt whether you need it, skip to the section with the advantages and disadvantages of the service.
What is ShareMe and how does it work?
ShareMe (formerly Mi Drop) is a proprietary application from Xiaomi designed to wirelessly transfer files between devices, using Wi-Fi Direct technology that creates a direct access point between smartphones, bypassing the router or mobile Internet.
- πΆ No Internet connection β files are transmitted directly, even on the plane or subway.
- β‘ Speed is higher than that of Bluetooth β up to 10-20 MB / s (vs. 1-2 MB / s for Bluetooth 4.0).
- π Without limiting size, you can send the film to the 4K or 10GB archive.
- π€ Cross-platform β works not only between Xiaomi, but also with other Android devices, as well as iPhone and PC.
The principle is simple: one device creates an access point (host), and the other connects to it. HTTP, This allows for high speed and stability, without requiring registration, authorization or binding to a Mi Account account, and it is sufficient to keep both devices within Wi-Fi coverage (usually up to 10-15 meters).
Fun fact: ShareMe can work even if your device has turned off mobile Internet and Wi-Fi. The service automatically activates Wi-Fi Direct without interfering with other connections, which distinguishes it from Nearby Share, which sometimes conflicts with active networks.
ShareMe Distinguishes from Mi Drop, Nearby Share and AirDrop
Many people confuse ShareMe with its predecessor, Mi Drop, and with analogues from other brands.
| Function | ShareMe (Xiaomi) | Mi Drop (old version) | Nearby Share (Google) | AirDrop (Apple) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supported OSs | Android, iOS (via browser), Windows/macOS | Android only (Xiaomi) | Android 6.0+, ChromeOS | Only Apple (iOS/macOS) |
| Max, speed. | Up to 20MB/s | Up to 10MB/s | Up to 15MB/s | Up to 10MB/s (Wi-Fi) |
| Need the Internet? | No. | No. | No. | No. |
| File size limitation | No. | Up to 1GB | Up to 2GB | Up to 50GB |
| You need authorization? | No. | No. | Yeah (Google account) | Yes (Apple ID) |
The main advantages of ShareMe over competitors:
- π Cross-platform β works even with iPhone via web interface (unlike AirDrop).
- π No size limit β you can send the film to the 4K disk-image.
- π It doesnβt interfere with other connections β unlike Nearby Share, which sometimes turns off Wi-Fi.
- π± Preinstalled on all Xiaomi β do not need to download anything.
There are, however, downsides:
- β οΈ iOS requires a browser connection, which is less convenient than native solutions.
- β οΈ Some users complain of hanging when transferring large files (resolved restarting the application).
π‘
ShareMe is the only Xiaomi service that can transfer files to iPhone without additional applications (via the web version).
How to use ShareMe: step-by-step instructions
ShareMe is easier than it sounds, and here is a universal guide for transferring files between two Xiaomi smartphones (or other Android devices):
- Open ShareMe on both devices, usually in the Tools folder or can be found through an application search.
- Select mode: On the sending device, tap Send. On the receiving device, Receive.
Select files
Next
Wait.
Redmi Note 12
Confirm the connection.
Wait for completion
ShareMe
If you want to transfer files to your iPhone or PC, the procedure is a little different:
Open ShareMe on Xiaomi and select "Send"|Nana iPhone/PK Open your browser and enter the address from the Xiaomi screen (for example, 192.168.x.x:1234)|Confirm the connection on both devices|Select files and wait for the download to complete.-->
Where to find ShareMe if itβs not on the menu?
In some models (for example, POCO F5 Xiaomi 13T) The app could be hidden to find it:
- Open Settings β Applications β Application Management.
- Search ShareMe.
- If the application is disabled, click Enable.
- For convenience, add it to the main screen.
One of the most useful things is to transfer files to a PC.
- On a Xiaomi smartphone, open ShareMe and select Send.
- At the bottom of the screen will appear local IP-address (e.g. 192.168.43.1:1234).
- On your computer, open your browser and enter this address.
- Confirm the connection on the phone and select the files to download.
This is convenient when you need to quickly drop photos from your phone to your laptop without cable, without needing to install additional programs like Mi. PC Suite.
How to speed up the transfer of large files?
Typical ShareMe Problems and How to Solve Them
Despite the convenience, users sometimes encounter errors when working with ShareMe, and here are the most common problems and solutions:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Can't find the device. | Wi-Fi Direct is disabled or blocked | Check Wi-Fi settings, restart ShareMe, enable geolocation (sometimes required for search) |
| Transmission is cut off | Weak signal or interference | Move devices closer, turn off other Wi-Fi networks |
| Low speed. | Background processes or an old version of the application | Close other apps, update ShareMe through Play Market |
| You can't pick up files. | No access rights to the vault. | Go to Settings. β Annexes β ShareMe β Permissions and enable access to files |
| Error of connecting to the PC | Firewall or antivirus blocking the port | Turn off the firewall on your PC or add an exception to ShareMe |
What if ShareMe doesnβt work at all?
β οΈ Note: If the app is constantly giving out errors, try resetting its settings. β Annexes β ShareMe β Storage and click Clear Data. After that, you may need to re-authorize (if it was configured).
Another effective way to do this is to upgrade ShareMe to the latest version. Even if you have an app pre-installed, the Play Market may have a more recent version with bug fixes, and check if the power saving mode is blocking the service (please add ShareMe to the exceptions in the battery settings).
ShareMe Security: Can Data Transfer Be Trusted?
Many users are worried about how secure it is to transfer files through ShareMe.
- π Data encryption β files are transmitted over an encrypted channel (protocol) HTTPS web-connected).
- π« No cloud storage β files are not uploaded to Xiaomi servers, transfer is direct.
- π€ Confirmation of connection β before transfer, you need to manually confirm the connection on both devices.
- π‘ Local area network β data does not leave Wi-Fi Direct, which minimizes the risk of interception.
However, there are potential risks:
- If you connect to someone elseβs devices in a public place (such as a cafe), you can theoretically access their files (but only if they confirm the connection themselves).
- When transferring to a PC via a browser, the data is temporarily stored in cache, so after the session is over, it is better to clear the history.
β οΈ Warning: Never confirm connection to unknown devices in ShareMe - this could be an attempt to access your files.Always check the device name before transferring!
For maximum safety:
- Use ShareMe only with trusted devices.
- After transfer, turn off Wi-Fi Direct in the settings.
- Do not share sensitive data (passwords, documents) in public places.
ShareMe Alternatives: What to Choose If It's Not Suitable
If ShareMe didnβt work for you for some reason, consider alternative file transfer methods:
| Service | Pluses | Cons | Better ShareMe? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearby Share (Google) | Built into Android, high speed | Requires a Google account, sometimes it is glitchy | Yes, if you have a "clean" Android |
| Snapdrop (web) | It works in a browser, cross-platform | You need to open the site on both devices. | No, less comfortable. |
| Xender | Supports iOS, high speed | Advertising requires installation | Only if you need iOS support |
| Bluetooth | Built into all devices | Low speed, size limit | No. |
| USB cable | Maximum speed, reliability | You need a physical connection. | Yes, for large files. |
When should you choose an alternative?
- π If you need to transfer files to your iPhone often, it is better to use AirDrop or Xender.
- π» For transmission to PC more convenient Snapdrop or cable USB-C.
- π If you have devices of different brands (not Xiaomi), Nearby Share can be more versatile.
However, for owners of Xiaomi ShareMe remains the optimal solution due to pre-installed, high speed and no restrictions.
π‘
ShareMe is winning against competitors by not being linked to accounts and being able to transfer files of any size, but for iOS devices, itβs better to consider specialized solutions like AirDrop.