Physical limitations and software solutions
Smartphone owners Xiaomi i Redmi often face a lack of RAM when running several applications simultaneously. This causes the system to forcefully close background processes, which slows down the device. However, physically add a new memory chip in an already assembled smartphone is impossible without complex industrial equipment and resoldering the motherboard.
However, modern versions of the MIUI and HyperOS shell offer built-in tools for creating a virtual buffer. This process, known as swapingallows a portion of the internal flash memory to be used as additional RAM. The system transfers inactive data from fast RAM to a slower drive, freeing up space for current tasks.
There are also third-party methods that require a microSD memory card or root access. Using additional partition on the SD card can be a salvation for budget models with a minimum amount of built-in storage. But you should understand that the operating speed of such “memory” will be significantly lower than that of standard modules.
Setting up the memory expansion function in MIUI
Starting with version MIUI 12.5, Xiaomi has introduced the Memory Extension function directly into the system settings. It is available on most mid-range and flagship devices. To activate, you need to go to menu Settings → About phone → All settings. At the bottom of the screen you will see the item Memory expansion.
After clicking, the system will prompt you to select the amount of virtual RAM. Options to add 2, 3, or 4 GB are typically available, depending on available storage space. It is important to note that after changing the settings, the device will require a full reboot reboot for the changes to take effect.
⚠️ Attention: Using the memory expansion function increases wear on the internal flash memory due to frequent overwriting of data. On older devices with low storage capacity, this may shorten the life of the phone.
Some users do not see this option in the menu. This may be due to regional firmware or a specific processor model. In this case, activation is possible only through the engineering menu or special applications, which will be discussed below.
Using a memory card as RAM
If the built-in memory is not enough to create a swap, you can use an external microSD card. This method requires that your card has a high speed class, preferably UHS-I Class 3 or higher. Slow cards will only slow down the system, since their reading speed is lower than that required for operational tasks.
To implement this method, you often need to obtain root-rights and install specialized utilities, such as SWAP No Root (does not work on all versions of Android) or applications like RoEHS Pro. The app creates a swap file on the card, which the system perceives as additional memory.
The setup process is as follows:
- 📂 Insert the memory card and format it as internal storage (if supported).
- 🔓 Get superuser rights through application Magisk or an analogue.
- ⚙️ Install an application to manage the swap file and specify the path to the card.
- 🚀 Activate the swap file and reboot the device.
It is worth considering that modern versions of Android limit direct access of applications to system partitions without deep modification of the firmware. Therefore, this method may be unstable on Android 12 and higher.
Use only high-quality memory cards from well-known brands (Samsung, SanDisk, Kingston). Cheap cards can lead to data loss and system freezes when swap is activated.
Third-party applications for optimizing RAM
The store Google Play presents many utilities that promise to increase the amount of RAM. Most of them work on the principle of clearing the cache and closing background processes, rather than actually expanding the memory address. However, some applications, for example SWAP - No Root, try to emulate the operation of the page file.
The effectiveness of such apps highly depends on the firmware version and the presence of restrictions on the part of the manufacturer. On devices with a locked bootloader, the chances of success are minimal. Before installation, carefully read the reviews, as aggressive work with memory can cause system instability system instability.
An alternative is to use booster applications that adjust kernel parameters. They don't add gigabytes, but they optimize the allocation of existing resources. An example would be setting a parameter vm.swappiness via the terminal, which forces the system to use the page file less frequently, saving storage resource.
⚠️ Attention: Installing applications from unverified sources that require root access can lead to infection of the device with malware or complete blocking of boot (bootloop).
Comparison of methods memory expansion
To choose the best method, you need to compare the risks and benefits of each method. The built-in function from Xiaomi is the most secure, as it has been tested by the company's engineers. Third-party methods provide more flexibility, but require technical knowledge.
The table below compares the main characteristics of various approaches to increasing RAM on devices Xiaomi:
| Method | Required rights | Impact on wear and tear | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in MIUI function | No | Average | High |
| SD card (Swap) | Root (preferred) | High | Low/Medium |
| Booster applications | No | Low | Minimum |
| Manual kernel configuration | Root / ADB | Depends on settings | Average |
As can be seen from the table, the standard tool remains the leader in terms of security and result. Using a memory card is only relevant for very old models, where every megabyte counts, and there is no built-in function.
☑️ Checking readiness for memory expansion
Optimization without increasing the volume
Often the problem is not the physical amount of memory, but its ineffective use. Background services and startup applications can eat up resources faster than you can add them. In the developer settings, you can limit the number of background processes.
To access these settings, go to Settings → About phone and click 7 times on the item MIUI version. Then, in the extended menu, find the section For developers. Find the option Background limit processes and set the value to "No more than 2-3 processes."
It is also recommended to disable autorun for unnecessary applications. Go to the application Security → Permissions → Autostart and leave only instant messengers and system services enabled. This will free up a significant part of the RAM immediately after turning on the phone.
Secret command to clear memory
In the Phone application, enter the code ##6485## to view detailed battery and memory statistics, or ##4636## for the testing menu, where you can sometimes see RAM usage in real time.
Possible risks and consequences
Any intervention in the operation of the memory management system carries certain risks. The main one is accelerated failure of the drive. Flash memory has a limit of rewrite cycles, and active use of it as RAM quickly exhausts this limit.
In addition, incorrect settings of the paging file can lead to the phone starting to “slow down” even more. When the system tries to read data from a slow memory card instead of fast RAM, there are delays (latency) that are noticeable when switching between windows.
⚠️ Attention: Interfaces and menu item names may differ depending on the firmware version (Global, China, Russia) and device model. If you don't find the option listed, check the official support forum for your specific model.
Before you start experimenting, be sure to create a full backup of your important data. In case of unsuccessful modification of the system, a complete reset to factory settings may be required, which will lead to the deletion of all information.
The standard memory expansion function in MIUI is safer and more efficient than third-party solutions, since it is optimized for the specific hardware of the device.
Does memory expansion affect the warranty?
Using the built-in functions Storage expansion in the MIUI settings does not void the warranty, since this is a standard option. However, getting root access and unlocking the bootloader to use third-party methods officially voids your warranty service.
Why does the phone run slower after enabling the function?
This happens if the speed of your internal memory or SD card is not fast enough for operational tasks. The system wastes time exchanging data between fast RAM and slow storage, which creates delays in the interface.
Is it possible to add RAM to Xiaomi Redmi Note 8?
This model does not have a standard memory expansion function due to limitations of the processor and Android version. The only way is to use root access and create a swap file on the memory card, but the efficiency will be low.
How much space does the swap file take up?
Usually the system reserves 2 to 4 GB of free space on the internal drive or memory card. This space becomes unavailable for storing photos or applications while the function is active.