Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco smartphones often encounter a pre-installed system tool, which can be called differently depending on the version of the MIUI or HyperOS firmware. This application, known as Mi Drop, is a native file manager and wireless data transfer tool built directly into the operating system.
The main purpose of the service was to provide users with a fast way to share heavy files without using Internet traffic. Unlike standard Bluetooth, which is characterized by low speed, or cloud storage, which requires a connection to the network, Mi Drop uses a local Wi-Fi network to create a direct channel of communication between devices.
Understanding how this tool works is critical for every user of the Xiaomi ecosystem.Mi Drop is a direct precursor to the modern ShareMe service, combining the functions of the file manager and the user of the Xiaomi ecosystem. p2p-Knowing its features makes it much easier to transfer photos, videos and applications between gadgets.
The main purpose and principle of operation of technology
The program’s fundamental goal is to provide high-speed data exchange between mobile devices and personal computers, based on the creation of a local Wi-Fi hotspot, which one smartphone distributes and the others connect to it, which provides stable connection and high bandwidth of the channel.
It is important to note that the system does not require an active connection to the global Internet. All data is transmitted directly between devices, which ensures the confidentiality of information and no delays associated with downloading files to the server. Transfer speeds can reach values of up to 20-40 Mb / s, which is ten times higher than the capabilities of classic Bluetooth.
The user interface of the application is designed to minimize the number of actions necessary to start the transfer. You just select a file, click the send button and scan. QR-The system automatically determines the type of file and will suggest the best way to deliver it to the recipient.
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Use Mi Drop to quickly transfer video to 4K, as messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram greatly compress the quality of the image when sending.
In addition, the application can work not only with smartphones based on Android, but also with computers running Windows or macOS. To do this, you need to open the browser and enter it on the PC. IP-This is an address that's displayed on your phone screen, and it turns your smartphone into a full-fledged wireless storage device that can be used to manage files from a large screen.
Title Evolution: From Mi Drop to ShareMe
Many users are wondering where Mi Drop, the familiar Mi Drop, has gone and why it is called differently on new devices, due to the global rebranding of Xiaomi services, which has been renamed ShareMe to emphasize its versatility and independence from the phone brand, even though it is functionally the same tool.
The changes not only affected the name and icon, but also the internal architecture of the application. The new version of ShareMe has improved compatibility with devices from other manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei or OnePlus. Now, to transfer a file to a friend’s phone, you do not need to have a Xiaomi smartphone – it is enough that both devices have this service installed.
Despite the change in signage, the key features remain the same.
- 🚀 Transfer files of any size and format without restrictions.
- 📱 Manage the file system of the smartphone from the computer through the browser.
- 📥 Download popular apps and games directly from the built-in directory.
- 🖼️ Backup your contacts and media to the cloud or other device.
If your device still displays the Mi Drop name, it means you are using an older version of MIUI firmware or regional build where the name update hasn't yet been applied. Functionally, you won't lose anything using the older version, however, new features like the improved interface and cross-platform may not be available.
Step-by-step instructions for transferring files between smartphones
The process of sharing data between two phones is as simple as possible for developers. First, make sure that both devices have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules on them (required for initial device detection). Open the application on the sender device and select the files you plan to transfer.
After selecting the content, click Send. A list of available devices will appear on the screen or QR-If the recipient also uses a Xiaomi device with ShareMe or Mi Drop installed, they can appear in the list automatically thanks to Wi-Fi Direct technology. QR-sender code.
☑️ Checklist for successful transfer
Once the connection is established, the data copying process will begin, the progress bar will show the transfer speed and the remaining time, and it is important not to leave the application or lock the screen during the process, although modern versions of the system allow you to turn the window without breaking the connection.
It's worth mentioning that you can share the same file with multiple users at once, and to do this, in the standby mode, select the Group Transfer option or simply add multiple devices to the recipient list before you start the process, which is especially convenient in office settings or when sharing materials at events.
Using an application to work with a computer
One of the most useful features that is often ignored is the ability to manage smartphone files from a computer without using the same. USB-This eliminates the need to search for the wire and configure the debugging modes. To get started, go to the side menu of the application and select Connect to your computer.
The system will suggest you to choose the type of connection. FTP (File Transfer Protocol, as it provides the best compatibility with standard operating system conductors, and once this function is enabled, the phone screen will display an address starting with the following: ftp://192.168....
This address must be entered in the address bar of any file explorer on your computer (for example, "My computer" or Total Commander). Once you enter the address of the folder, your smartphone will appear as normal disks. You will be able to copy, delete and rename files just as if the phone was connected by a cable.
What to do if your computer can’t see your phone?
The advantage of this method is the ability to work with files weighing more than 4 GB, which is often impossible when transmitted via messengers or email. In addition, you get access to the entire file system, including hidden folders of system applications, if you have Root rights or the corresponding permissions.
Comparison of speed characteristics and compatibility
To understand the effectiveness of the technology, it is worth comparing it with other common methods of data transmission. Mi Drop (ShareMe) uses 802.11 ac/n Wi-Fi standards, which theoretically allows you to reach speeds up to 40 Mbps and higher under ideal conditions.
| Method of transmission | Average speed | We need the Internet. | Size limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Drop / ShareMe | 10 - 40 Mb/s | No. | No. |
| Bluetooth 4.0/5.0 | 0.1. 0.3 Mb/s | No. | No (but very slowly) |
| Telegram (file) | Depends on the channel. | Yes. | 2 GB |
| USB Cable 2.0 | 20 - 30 Mb/s | No. | No. |
As you can see from the table, Xiaomi’s wireless technology beats Bluetooth in speed hundreds of times and is not inferior to a wired USB 2.0 connection. The only competitor here is USB 3.0, but it requires the appropriate cable and port to work, which is not always available in the field.
The app's compatibility applies to devices running Android 4.0 and higher, but for the Connect to Computer feature to work, a PC must have an operating system that supports network protocols, which is relevant for Windows 7 and later, as well as macOS and Linux distributions.
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Using Mi Drop saves mobile traffic and time, especially when working with gigabytes of photos and videos, making it an indispensable tool for photographers and video makers.
Data security and confidentiality issues
Security in data transfer is a priority for Xiaomi, because the connection is established directly between devices (P2P), files do not pass through third-party servers, which minimizes the risk of data interception by third parties during the transfer.
When you first connect a new device, the system asks for confirmation on both screens, and you'll see a request with the device name and model. Warning: always check the name of the device you're connecting to so you don't accidentally send a private photo to a stranger in a crowded cafe or office.
⚠️ Note: Do not use the Connect to Computer feature on public Wi-Fi networks (cafes, airports) where other users may theoretically try to access your computer. FTP-port, unless a password is set (although the application usually generates temporary access).
In addition, the app does not have access to your correspondence in messengers or passwords unless you allow access to specific folders. All permissions are clearly spelled out in the Android settings and can be checked at any time. Regular updates close vulnerabilities, so it is recommended to keep the application up-to-date through the GetApps store or Google Play.