Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones hide the file system deeper than it was in earlier versions of Android, which often confuses users when searching for the necessary documents. The standard MIUI interface and the new HyperOS prioritize ease of use by removing unnecessary icons from the desktop, but this makes direct access to system folders more difficult. To enter the storageyou need to know the exact path to the built-in application or use alternative connection methods.
Many device owners mistakenly believe that the document folder has disappeared, although in fact it is simply not displayed in quick access. Understanding directory structure Android is critical for migrating data, cleaning up garbage, or installing modifications. In this article, we will look at all the legal ways to navigate through the internal memory of your gadget.
Access to files may be required at any time: from searching for a saved presentation to deleting a heavy messenger cache. We will look at standard system tools, hidden engineering-level menus, and working through a computer. This will allow you to fully control the disk space.
Using standard Explorer in MIUI and HyperOS
The easiest and safest way open storage on Xiaomi is to use the pre-installed system application. It is usually hidden in the Tools folder on the desktop or in the All Applications menu. The icon looks like a yellow folder and is called “Explorer” (or “File Manager” in the English version).
When you launch the application, you are taken to the main screen, where the system offers sorting by file type: images, videos, music, documents. However, this is not enough for deep work with the file system. You need to switch to the Folders tab or click on the folder icon in the top corner to see the root directory structure.
This shows the path /storage/emulated/0/which is the main space for user data. It is in this directory that the WhatsApp, Telegram, Download and DCIM folders are located. Navigation here is carried out by a simple tap on the desired directory.
⚠️ Attention: Do not delete files with unknown names in the root directory if you are not sure of their purpose. These may be system configsnecessary for the operation of MIUI.
To quickly navigate to hidden system folders in new versions of the shell, additional permission may be required. The system may request access to manage all files, and this security requirement Android cannot be ignored. Without this, you will only see part of the content.
- 📂 Click on the "Explorer" icon in the Tools folder.
- 📂 Go to the "Folders" tab to view the structure.
- 📂 Select the "Internal storage" category for full access.
- 📂 When asking for permissions, confirm access to files.
MIUI 14 and HyperOS interfaces may differ slightly in the location of the buttons. If you don't find the standard File Explorer, check your desktop display settings or use system search.
Setting access permissions for full control
Starting with Android 11 and above, Google has implemented strict restrictions on folder access Android/data and Android/obb. This is done for security reasons, but it blocks the work of many file managers. To enter the storage on Xiaomi and get full access, you need to manually issue special rights.
First open the “Settings” of your smartphone and find the “Applications” section. In the list of installed apps, find “Explorer” or the file manager you use. Click on “Permissions” and make sure that access to photos, media and files is activated.
However, this may not be enough. In some cases, the system will require you to enable “Access to all files”. To do this, go to Settings → Privacy protection → Special permissions → Access to all files. Find your explorer in the list and turn on the toggle switch.
This procedure is critical if you plan to transfer game caches or edit system logs. Without these rights, you will only see empty folders or receive an “Access denied” error when trying to copy.
If the standard Xiaomi Explorer does not ask for full rights, try installing a third-party file manager, for example, Total Commander or Solid Explorer, which can correctly request access through the system API.
- 🔐 Go to Settings → Applications.
- 🔐 Find your file manager in the list.
- 🔐 Open the “Permissions” section and activate all items.
- 🔐 In special permissions, enable access to all files.
Without explicitly enabling access to all files in special permissions, entering Android 11+ system folders will not be possible for any application.
Alternative file managers for Xiaomi
The stock Xiaomi tool is functional, but sometimes it is too simplified. Third-party solutions offer more flexible navigation, archive support, and access to hidden sections. Installing an alternative manager is a common solution for those who often work with the file system.
Popular applications like File Commander, Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer automatically request the necessary rights when first launched. They provide a two-pane interface, which is convenient when copying data between folders. In addition, they work better with network storage.
When installing such an application on Xiaomi with the MIUI shell, the system may aggressively close the background process. To avoid this, you need to hold down the application icon, select “About the application” and in the “Battery” section select the “No restrictions” mode. This guarantees stable operation.
| Application | License type | Key feature | Root support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Explorer | Paid (Trial) | Two-panel mode, clouds | Yes |
| Files by Google | Free | Junk cleaning, simplicity | No |
| MT Manager | Free | APK editing, system files | Yes |
| X-plore | Free | Tree structure, LAN | Yes |
The use of third-party software allows not only enter the storage, but also to carry out complex operations, such as text recoding or checking the integrity of archives. This turns the smartphone into a full-fledged working tool.
Why do some managers not see the OBB folder?
This is a security limitation of Android 11+. Only applications that have been granted special permission through the system API (as described above) can see the contents of the Android/data and Android/obb folders. Old managers that have not been updated to new standards simply will not be able to open these directories.
Access to storage via a computer (USB)
The most reliable way to manage large amounts of data is to connect to a PC. To do this, use a high-quality USB cable, preferably an original one, since cheap analogues often only work in charging mode. Connect your smartphone to the computer and unlock the screen.
The “Charging via USB” notification will appear on the smartphone screen. Click on it and select File Transfer (MTP) mode. After this, a new disk with the name of your device will appear in “My Computer”. This is a direct entrance to your storage.
Through the computer you get unrestricted access to all visible folders. You can copy movies, music and documents at speeds unmatched by wireless methods. This is ideal for creating backups before resetting the settings.
⚠️ Warning: When connecting to an unknown computer, always make sure that the requested permissions do not include access to contacts or messages unless necessary.
If the computer does not see the phone, try a different USB port, preferably USB 3.0 (blue). It's also worth checking if the MTP driver is installed in Windows Device Manager. Sometimes a driver update is required.
- 🔌 Connect the USB cable to your smartphone and PC.
- 🔌 Unlock the screen and click on the USB notification.
- 🔌 Select the "File Transfer" or MTP mode.
- 🔌 Open “My Computer” and find the device.
In MTP mode, you will not see the system partitions reserved for Android, but the user space will be fully accessible. This is a safe method that eliminates the risk of accidentally deleting critical OS files.
Hidden sections and engineering menu
For advanced users, it is possible to enter hidden memory sections through the engineering menu or special commands. However, on modern global versions of MIUI, access to them is often closed. However, it's worth a try if standard methods don't work.
One way is to use the command line via ADB (Android Debug Bridge). To do this, you need to enable “USB Debugging” in the “For Developers” section. Then, by connecting the phone to the PC, you can execute commands to view the file structure.
The command adb shell ls /sdcard/ will list all folders in the internal storage. It is a powerful tool for diagnosing when the File Explorer GUI freezes or does not display files. Using ADB requires caution.
adb shell ls -la /storage/emulated/0/Android/dataIssuing such commands allows you to see even hidden files (those starting with a dot). But remember that changing access rights or deleting files through the console can lead to unstable system operation. Do this only if you understand the consequences.
There are also codes for entering the engineering menu, for example, ##64663##, but they are mainly intended for testing hardware, and not for managing files. You should not count on them to clean up memory.
Cleaning and optimizing storage space
After you have been able enter the storage, the task of cleaning space becomes urgent. Xiaomi's file system tends to accumulate duplicates and remnants of deleted applications. Regular revision of folders helps maintain performance.
Pay attention to the folder MIUIwhere screenshots and voice recordings are stored, and the folder DCIM with the camera. Often unsuccessful shots and long videos are stored there. It is also worth checking the folder Downloadwhere browsers save everything.
Use the built-in application “Security” → “Cleaning”. It automatically finds large files and cache. However, manual control through Explorer gives the best result, since you decide what to delete.
Interfaces and the location of system folders may change with MIUI/HyperOS updates. Always check the official documentation if the directory structure seems unusual to you.
Don't forget to empty the Trash in Gallery and Explorer. Deleted files often continue to take up space for 30 days until they are permanently erased. This is a common reason for lack of space.
- 🧹 Check the Download folder for APK installers.
- 🧹 Clear the cache of instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp) through their settings.
- 🧹 Delete duplicate photos.
- 🧹 Don't forget to empty the trash after deleting.
☑️ Safe cleaning checklist
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why can’t I open a folder Android/data on Xiaomi?
Starting with Android 11, access to this folder is limited by the security system. To enter there, you need to use the built-in explorer or a third-party manager to which you have given permission for “Access to all files” in the settings.
Where is the WhatsApp folder on Xiaomi?
In new versions of Android, the path has changed. Look for files at: Internal storage → Android → media → com.whatsapp → WhatsApp. In older versions, the folder WhatsApp was in the root of the storage.
How to enter the storage if the phone screen is broken?
If enabled USB debugging, you can use ADB commands from your computer. If not, connect a USB mouse via OTG adapter to control the screen, or use voice control to open File Explorer.
Is it safe to delete files in the .thumbnails folder?
Yes, this is a cache of thumbnail images. The folder .thumbnails can grow to several gigabytes. Deleting it is safe, but the next time you open the gallery, the system will create it again, which will temporarily load the processor.
Why does the computer not see the internal memory of Xiaomi?
Check whether MTP mode is selected in the USB notification. It is also possible that your computer is missing MTP drivers. Try a different cable or USB port.