Xiaomi Cloud (com.miui.cloudservice)

Xiaomi Cloud – Comprehensive Overview

1. General Overview

Xiaomi Cloud (often called Mi Cloud) is Xiaomi’s integrated personal cloud storage and synchronization service. It is built into the MIUI operating system on Xiaomi devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) and tied to the user’s Mi Account. Xiaomi Cloud securely stores user data (such as contacts, photos, messages, notes, and settings) on remote servers and keeps it synchronized across all of the user’s Xiaomi devices logged into the same account. The service also extends to the broader Xiaomi ecosystem – it is accessible on Xiaomi smart TVs, IoT products, and via any web browser through the Xiaomi Cloud web portal (i.mi.com). All data is transmitted and stored in encrypted form, and Xiaomi states that it does not access or analyze the content users store on the cloud. In essence, it functions similarly to Apple’s iCloud or Google’s Android backup services, providing a seamless way to back up data, sync it between devices, and manage or recover it when needed.

2. Core Features

Automatic Data Backup and Synchronization

One of Xiaomi Cloud’s core functions is automatic backup and sync of user data across devices. When enabled, it can continuously synchronize a wide range of data types: contacts, text messages (SMS), call history, photos and videos (in certain regions), notes, calendar events, voice recordings, browser data, Wi-Fi settings, and sometimes app data and system settings. Any change made on one Xiaomi device (for example, adding a new contact or taking a photo) can be uploaded to the cloud and reflected on the user’s other Xiaomi devices. Users have full control over which categories of data to sync. By keeping data continuously backed up in the cloud, Xiaomi Cloud ensures that a user’s information is safe and up to date, reducing the risk of data loss if the device is lost or damaged.

Cloud Storage and Web Accessibility

Xiaomi Cloud provides each user with secure cloud storage space to hold their synced data and uploaded files. By default, users receive 5 GB of free storage. This storage hosts backups of contacts, messages, notes, and other synced items; in the past, photos and videos were also included for many global regions. Users can access their Xiaomi Cloud data through the official web portal (i.mi.com). The web interface presents data organized into categories (Contacts, Messages, Gallery, Notes, Recordings, etc.) and allows actions such as viewing or editing contacts, reading synced messages, downloading photos, and sending notes or messages. Any changes made via the web portal will sync back to the user’s devices. It is also possible to share or download files as needed.

Device Tracking and Remote Management (Find My Device)

Beyond file storage, Xiaomi Cloud includes a “Find My Device” service that helps users locate and secure their Xiaomi devices if they go missing. Once enabled, the user can sign in to the Xiaomi Cloud web portal or use a dedicated app to:

• Locate the device on a map, using GPS or network data.
• Play a sound (alarm) even if the phone is in silent mode.
• Enable Lost Mode (remote lock), which locks the screen with a custom message and deters unauthorized access.
• Erase data remotely, wiping the phone to protect private information.

This capability is akin to Google’s Find My Device or Apple’s Find My iPhone, ensuring that if a phone cannot be retrieved, the owner’s sensitive data remains protected.

Photos and Videos Backup (Gallery Sync)

Note: This feature changed for non-China regions from 2022 onward.
Originally, Xiaomi Cloud offered automatic backup and sync of a phone’s gallery (photos and videos). However, for most global users, the gallery sync feature has been discontinued, replaced by an integration with Google Photos. Xiaomi gave users the option to transfer existing gallery data to Google Photos or download it back. As a result, users in certain regions can no longer sync their new photos and videos to Xiaomi Cloud. In mainland China and some other regions, gallery sync remains available.

Data Recovery and Restoration

Xiaomi Cloud provides robust data recovery options. If a user replaces a phone or performs a factory reset, logging back into the Mi Account triggers the cloud restore process, retrieving backed-up contacts, messages, notes, settings, and so forth. This eases setup on a new Xiaomi device. A trash (or recycle bin) mechanism lets users restore accidentally deleted items (contacts, photos, etc.) within a retention period. After that period, the items are permanently removed.

Integration with MIUI and Xiaomi Accounts

Xiaomi Cloud is deeply integrated into MIUI, appearing in the device settings under Mi Account > Xiaomi Cloud. This seamless setup means native apps (Contacts, Messaging, Notes, etc.) can directly sync data to the cloud without extra user intervention. It also extends to other Xiaomi products, such as tablets or laptops that support Mi Account. The Xiaomi Cloud web portal gives access to all this data from non-MIUI platforms, ensuring that although it is optimized for Xiaomi devices, users can still reach their data via any modern browser.

Cross-Device Synchronization and Accessibility

A major benefit of Xiaomi Cloud is cross-device continuity. All devices signed into the same Mi Account share the synchronized data, letting users switch between devices easily. For instance, a user with two Xiaomi phones or a phone and a Xiaomi Pad can have their contacts, notes, and (previously) gallery items appear on both devices in near real time. This feature also streamlines device upgrades: when setting up a new Xiaomi phone, logging into the Mi Account restores much of the old device’s content and settings.

3. Premium Features

Additional Cloud Storage (Membership Plans)

While the basic Xiaomi Cloud service is free with 5 GB, Xiaomi formerly offered premium membership plans for users needing more space, such as 50 GB, 200 GB, or 2 TB. These plans were often available by monthly or yearly subscription. However, due to the global discontinuation of gallery sync, many of these plans were halted or refunded outside of mainland China. In regions where full Xiaomi Cloud remains active (including China), users can still purchase upgraded storage for extensive photo and video backups or large device backups.

Enhanced Security Measures for Premium Users

All Xiaomi Cloud users benefit from encryption and security features, regardless of payment status. However, paying subscribers enjoyed certain perks, such as an extended trash retention period (up to 180 days for deleted items) and potentially more frequent backups or additional support. While fundamental data protection remains the same for all users, premium membership can make data recovery more flexible.

Priority Support for Subscribers

In many cases, Xiaomi prioritizes support requests from paying Xiaomi Cloud members. This can translate to shorter wait times or dedicated assistance with complex issues like data recovery or billing. Users who subscribe to storage plans may also receive notifications and dedicated guidance on service transitions or migrations (for example, to Google Photos when gallery sync was shut down in certain regions).

4. Security and Privacy

Data Protection and Encryption

Xiaomi Cloud uses encryption for both data in transit (HTTPS) and data at rest on servers (AES). Files are typically split into multiple encrypted blocks, each with its own key, so that even if someone accessed the storage disks, they would be unable to read the data without the encryption keys. Xiaomi stores the keys separately from the encrypted content, and only authorized systems can decrypt user files when needed. On the user side, Mi Account credentials protect access, and two-factor authentication (2FA) can be enabled for an additional security layer.

Privacy Policies and Compliance

As a global company, Xiaomi must comply with various data protection regulations, such as the GDPR in the European Union. Xiaomi’s privacy policy states that user data remains private and is not scanned or used for advertising. Users retain full control over their data, can request its deletion, and can choose which categories of information (contacts, messages, etc.) are backed up to the cloud. Xiaomi publishes security and privacy white papers outlining its approach to data storage, encryption, and user consent.

Managing Permissions and Data Access

In Xiaomi Cloud settings, users can enable or disable sync for each data type: contacts, messages, call logs, photos, and so forth. The device list in the Mi Account settings shows all phones and tablets linked to the user’s account, so one can revoke access from older devices if desired. Find My Device and other features can be enabled or disabled at will. Two-factor authentication is also recommended to secure logins and prevent unauthorized access.

5. Managing Xiaomi Cloud Storage

Checking Storage Usage and Freeing Up Space

Users can view how much storage is in use by opening Settings > Mi Account > Xiaomi Cloud on their device or by visiting i.mi.com. A breakdown by category (backups, contacts, messages, etc.) is often provided. To free up space, users can delete unneeded data, clear old device backups, or empty the cloud’s trash/recycle bin.

Upgrading or Downgrading Storage Plans

If available, upgrading a Xiaomi Cloud plan is done within the same settings or the web interface, where users see different storage tiers. Upon purchasing an upgraded plan, the new storage is applied immediately. Should a user downgrade or cancel, the account reverts to the free tier. If data exceeds the free limit, sync stops until enough space is freed or a paid plan is reactivated.

Transferring Data and Backup Restoration

When switching to a new Xiaomi device, one simply logs into the same Mi Account and enables sync. Xiaomi Cloud then restores contacts, messages, call logs, and other previously backed-up items. If a user maintained a full device backup, even home screen layouts and system settings can be restored. For transferring data to non-Xiaomi devices, one can export files or contacts from the Xiaomi Cloud web portal and then import them elsewhere.

6. Comparison with Other Cloud Services

Google Drive (Google One)

Google offers 15 GB of free storage shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos. Android device backups (contacts, settings, app data) are separate from Drive’s file storage. Google’s cross-platform availability and productivity apps make Drive ideal for collaboration, whereas Xiaomi Cloud specializes in phone-centric data (SMS, call logs, device settings) for MIUI.

Apple iCloud

Apple iCloud offers 5 GB free, tightly integrates with Apple hardware, and includes Find My iPhone. Xiaomi Cloud parallels iCloud in many ways but targets the Xiaomi ecosystem. Both handle device backups, photos (where applicable), messages, and settings. iCloud has its own premium tiers for larger storage.

Microsoft OneDrive

Microsoft OneDrive provides 5 GB free and is well-suited for Windows and Office file syncing, but it does not back up phone system data like call logs or messages. Xiaomi Cloud excels at complete device integration, while OneDrive is more universal for file storage and collaboration.

Overall, Xiaomi Cloud most closely resembles Apple’s iCloud in its focus on deep integration with the device OS, offering phone-specific backups, find-device capabilities, and a simple restoration process.

Summary

Xiaomi Cloud is the official cloud service from Xiaomi for secure backup, synchronization, and remote management of data on Xiaomi smartphones, tablets, and some other products. It offers a free 5 GB tier for essential backups, plus premium upgrades in certain regions. Deeply integrated with MIUI and Mi Accounts, Xiaomi Cloud allows quick data restoration and phone replacement, while also providing peace of mind with features like Find My Device and optional two-factor authentication. Although global gallery sync was discontinued in favor of Google Photos, Xiaomi Cloud remains a convenient and safe solution for users to protect and manage crucial phone data.

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• Xiaomi Cloud 1.12.0.4.60 (12 MB)