If you own a Xiaomi smartphone, you've probably noticed ShareMe (formerly Mi Drop) on the list of pre-installed apps, and many users delete it as unnecessary, but it's actually one of the most convenient tools for fast file transfer between devices -- without the Internet, without unnecessary settings, and without limiting the amount of time. Unlike classic Bluetooth, which slows down when transferring large files, or messengers like Telegram, where you have to wait for downloads, ShareMe works on the principle of a local network and copes with the task at times faster.
In this article, weβll go into detail about why ShareMe is needed on Xiaomi, how it works against the background of alternatives (like Googleβs Nearby Share or SHAREit), what hidden features the program has, and why it sometimes refuses to transfer files β along with proven ways to solve problems. We will focus on the new features of ShareMe in the MIUI 14/15, What many users overlook, such as file transfers between Xiaomi and other brands (including iPhone and Windows PC).
What is ShareMe and why is it needed in Xiaomi?
ShareMe is a proprietary application from Xiaomi for wireless file transfer between devices using Wi-Fi Direct technology. It replaced the outdated Mi Drop and today is pre-installed on all smartphones of the brand running MIUI. The main advantage of the service is a high transfer speed (up to 20 MB / s in ideal conditions) and no need for an Internet connection.
Here are the key tasks for which the application is intended:
- π± Transfer of files between Xiaomi smartphones (photos, videos, documents, APK)
- π₯οΈ Data exchange from PC (via web interface or desktop version)
- π Backup of contacts and notes to another device
- π΅ Streaming music (without saving a file on the receiving device)
- π² Transfer of applications (including their data, if supported)
Unlike Bluetooth, which is limited to ~2MB/s and cuts down on video quality, ShareMe retains original file resolution, and compared to cloud services like Google Drive, it doesnβt require uploading data to the Internet, which is critical for sensitive documents.
How ShareMe Works: Technology and Limitations
The app uses a combination of Wi-Fi Direct and Hotspot to create a local network between devices.
- One device creates a hotspot.
- The second connects to it via Wi-Fi.
- Files are transmitted directly, without the Internet.
- After the end of the session, the session shall be automatically closed.
This allows you to achieve speeds comparable to Wi-Fi 5 (up to 866 Mbps in theory), but in practice, the speed depends on:
- πΆ Smartphone models (new Xiaomi) 13/14 It is faster than the Redmi Note. 8)
- π Battery level (at a discharge below 15%, the speed may fall)
- π‘ Interference on the air (other Wi-Fi networks, microwaves, concrete walls)
- π File type (small files are transferred longer due to overhead costs)
It's important to understand that ShareMe doesn't encrypt traffic -- in theory, it can be intercepted if there's an attacker with the right equipment in range, and it's better to use USB-OTG or encrypted archives to transmit really important data.
Can I transfer files between Xiaomi and iPhone?
Step-by-step: how to use ShareMe on Xiaomi
To transfer files through ShareMe, follow the following steps:
- Open the application on both devices (located in the Tools folder or through a system search).
- Select a mode: π€ "Send it if you are transferring files. π₯ "Getting "if you accept.
On the sender device
"Send."
Wait.
Wait for completion
If the devices can't see each other:
Check if Wi-Fi is on on both devices|
Turn off the power saving mode |
Re-launch the ShareMe| app
Make sure that the distance between the devices is not more than 10 meters |
Try to reconnect manually through "Device Search"-->
To transfer files to the PC:
- On your smartphone, select "Send" β "To the computer".
- Open the address in the browser http://192.168.43.1:1234 (or scan QR-code).
- Upload files via the web interface.
If nothing helps, try resetting ShareMe settings:
- Go to Settings β Applications β Application Management β ShareMe.
- Press "Storage" β "Clear the data".
- Restart the app.
β οΈ Note: On some Xiaomi firmware (especially custom) ShareMe may not work due to the lack of certificates Wi-Fi Direct. MIUI.
ShareMe Alternatives: Which Is Best for File Transfer
If ShareMe doesnβt suit you for some reason, consider alternative file transfer methods:
| Method | Speed. | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearby Share (Google) | ~10 MB/s | It works with any Android device. | No iOS support, slower than ShareMe |
| SHAREit | ~15 MB/s | Cross-platform (Android/iOS/PC) | Advertising, collects user data |
| Snapdrop | ~5MB/s | Works through the browser, without installation | Requires a connection to a single Wi-Fi network |
| USB-OTG + flash drive | ~40MB/s | Maximum speed and reliability | We need more accessories. |
For users, Xiaomi ShareMe remains the best choice for speed, convenience and security, but if you want to transfer files to an iPhone or Mac, youβd better use SHAREit or Snapdrop.
Another interesting option is a local chat on Telegram: Create a group chat, add a second user to it and send files via Send as a file. This is convenient for small documents, but not suitable for 4K video due to Telegram restrictions (maximum 2 GB per file).
ShareMe Security: Risks and How to Minimize
Like any file transfer application, ShareMe has potential vulnerabilities.
- π Traffic interception β data is transmitted without encryption.
- π± Connecting to other devices β if you donβt check the recipientβs name.
- π Automatic file saving β viruses can enter your device.
To keep yourself safe:
- Always check the name of the receiving device before confirming the transfer.
- Disable ShareMe after use (in the app settings).
- Do not share sensitive files in public places (cafes, airports).
- Use antivirus to scan the received files.
If you often transmit sensitive data (such as document scans), it is better to use encrypted archives (ZIP with a password) or specialized messengers like Signal, where files are encrypted with end-to-end encryption.
π‘
ShareMe is convenient for fast file transfer in a trusted environment (home, work), but is not suitable for sharing sensitive information on public networks.