Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone owners often notice a pre-installed app with a distinctive orange logo on their desktop or tool folder. Many users ignore the software, relying on Bluetooth or instant messengers to share data. However, the built-in tool has functionality that far exceeds the capabilities of standard transmission tools.
Essentially, it is a powerful file manager and wireless data client powered by the Mi Drop protocol (now known as ShareMe), which allows files of any format to be transferred between devices at tremendous speed without consuming mobile traffic or requiring a Wi-Fi hotspot connection.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the application’s architecture, hidden capabilities, and ways to integrate with your computer, and explain why this tool is a must-have element of the MIUI ecosystem and how it can replace your USB cable in your everyday smartphone use.
Basic functionality and principle of operation
The main feature of the program is the use of Wi-Fi Direct technology. Unlike classic Bluetooth, which has a low transfer rate, Wi-Fi Direct allows you to create a direct connection between devices. Data transfer speeds can reach 20-40 MB / s, which is ten times faster than any wired standards of the past.
The app can scan the device for duplicates, clear cache and manage files in internal memory. The key difference from its peers is that it doesn't need to be online: all data is transmitted locally, which guarantees 100% privacy. You can transfer files even on an airplane or in places where there is no cellular connection.
The interface is divided into logical blocks: send, receive, and invite, which makes it easier for beginners to navigate, automatically determining the type of file being transferred (photo, video, app, music) and sorting them into appropriate categories, eliminating the need to search for the desired content in the depths of the file system.
It's important to note that you're working with big data, and if you decide to move gigabytes of data from your old phone to your new Redmi Note or Xiaomi Mi, this tool can do it in minutes, and the compression and transmission algorithm is optimized to minimize quality loss and connection breakage.
How to transfer files between smartphones
The process of transferring data between two devices is as simple as possible for developers, it does not require complex setup or registration of accounts to start, it is enough that both smartphones have the ShareMe application (or Mi Drop, which is its predecessor).
To start the transfer on the sender device, you need to select files, click the "Send" button and wait for the available devices to be found. The recipient, in turn, must click the "Receive" button and allow the connection. The devices will find each other automatically if the Wi-Fi module is turned on.
☑️ Quick transmission algorithm
There are several ways to connect if the automatic search fails:
- 📡 QR-code: the recipient scans the code on the sender screen with the camera.
- 🔗 Invitation Link: Creating a Temporary Exchange Group.
- 👤 Mi Profile: Sharing through Xiaomi account (requires internet).
When you transfer a large number of small files (for example, hundreds of photos), the system combines them into a stream, which speeds up the process. The progress bar shows not only the overall speed, but also the approximate time before the operation is completed. If an incoming call arrives during the transfer, the transfer is paused and resumes automatically after the conversation is completed.
Working with PC: transferring files to the computer
One of the most useful features is the ability to connect a smartphone to a computer without using USB-This is done through the PC file access function. The smartphone creates a localized file access. FTP-server that can be connected to through any browser or file manager on your computer.
To activate the mode in the application, select "Access to PC Files" and click "Run." The screen will display an address that usually looks like ftp://192.168.x.x:port. This address must be entered in the address bar of "My computer" or any Windows Explorer.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure your computer and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.If the router has a customer isolation feature (AP Isolation, the connection may not be established, in which case use the access point mode on the phone.
Once connected, the folders will appear as normal drives. You can copy, delete and rename files directly from your computer keyboard. Speed depends on the power of your router and Wi-Fi standard (5 GHz is significantly faster than 2.4 GHz).
For advanced users, the mode of operation is available through ADB or FTP-This allows you to automate the backup process, and in the application settings you can set a permanent port or allow access without a password to simplify the connection procedure in the home network.
Remote management and memory cleaning
ShareMe is not only a transfer, but also a full file manager. The Manage tab allows you to view the contents of internal memory, SD cards and system partitions. The built-in storage analyzer shows which applications take up the most space.
The Cleanup feature automatically finds temporary files, remnants of deleted apps and social media cache.This helps to free up space without risking deleting important personal data.The system suggests only that which is truly secure to delete.
| Type of data | Description | Security of removal |
|---|---|---|
| Cash app. | Temporary files to speed up work | High (can be removed) |
| APK remnants | Installation files after update | High (can be removed) |
| Large files | Videos and archives over 100MB | Medium (requires inspection) |
| Systemic debris | Logs and error reports | High (can be removed) |
Remote management is also available, which allows you to manage your smartphone files from another device if they are linked by one account, which is convenient when you need to urgently get a file from your phone that is lying at home and only a PC or tablet is on hand.
What is it? FTP-protocol?
Security and privacy settings
Security when transferring files over Wi-Fi Direct is a priority, and when you first connect to a new device, a confirmation request appears on the screen, displaying an avatar or the name of the partner device, which prevents the data from being accidentally sent to other devices in public places.
You can set a password to access from your PC in the application settings. It is recommended not to leave access open if you are on a public network (cafe, airport), as in theory an attacker can try to connect to your port.
⚠️ Note: Do not use PC Access on public Wi-Fi networks without a password. Attackers can access your gallery and documents if the device is visible on the shared network.
The app requires a minimum set of permissions, requires access to storage, Wi-Fi module and location (necessary for the Android Wi-Fi scanner to work), and no contact or microphone is required, reducing the risk of personal information leakage.
If you are transferring sensitive documents, use the built-in Hidden Folder feature (if available in your version of MIUI) or pre-archive files with a password. ShareMe transfers the file "as is", so the protection of the content rests with the user.