Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO to Mac: how to move files and stay connected

For Xiaomi to Mac file transfer, use a USB cable with a free Mac app called OpenMTP, or a free Wi-Fi app such as NearDrop or LocalSend. Google's own pages say certain Xiaomi devices support AirDrop through Quick Share, but they name one model, the Xiaomi 17T Pro, and no Redmi or POCO phone. So for most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO owners, AirDrop is not confirmed and the cable or Wi-Fi apps are the safer start.

Publisher note: The Relay publishes this guide and is one of the products discussed. Details about other products come from each maker's own pages, checked on 26 October 2026. Prices and features change, so confirm before you buy.

Does AirDrop work between a Xiaomi phone and a Mac?

On some Xiaomi phones. Google's Quick Share help page lists Xiaomi among makers with "certain" devices that can send to and receive from Apple devices. The compatible-device list is where models are named, and as of 26 October 2026 it names only the Xiaomi 17T Pro for the Xiaomi group. It says no Redmi or POCO model is listed.

That does not prove a Redmi or POCO cannot do it. It means Google has not named one. If you have a Xiaomi 17T Pro, set the Mac's AirDrop to Everyone, then on the phone open the file, tap Share, then Quick Share, pick the Mac, and click Accept. For any other model, check the list again before relying on it, and use the routes below.

Phones without AirDrop support can send to a Mac with Quick Share's QR code. You scan it with the Mac, open the link, and download. Google says files are end-to-end encrypted, stay on its servers for 24 hours, and need internet on both devices.

How do I connect a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone to a Mac with a cable?

A Mac cannot browse an Android phone without an app. Google's USB help page gives steps for Windows and Chromebook only, so we use its phone-side wording, which is the stock Android wording.

1. Install OpenMTP, which lists macOS 10.14 Mojave or higher.
2. Unlock the phone and connect a data cable. Google notes that "Not all USB cables can transfer files."
3. Tap the USB notification. Google's wording is Charging this device via USB. Under Use USB for, choose File Transfer.
4. If there is no notification, OpenMTP's connection guide says to open Settings, search for USB or USB Preferences, and choose File transfer.
5. Drag files across in OpenMTP.

Xiaomi's software may word these screens differently and may place the option elsewhere. Xiaomi has its own support page on connecting a phone to a computer, so check that for the exact screens on your version. The thing to look for is an option about transferring files, as opposed to charging only. Android to Mac file transfer via USB has the full steps, and OpenMTP not working covers the failures.

What are the Wi-Fi options for a Xiaomi phone and a Mac?

A short test settles which to keep: send the same video both ways with each and keep the one you would use again.

How do I read Xiaomi texts on a Mac?

Use Google Messages for web, which needs the Google Messages app on the phone. Google's page describes pairing through your Google Account and says SMS travels through the phone. If your phone ships with another messages app, make Google Messages your default first. More in Android messages on a Mac.

Can a Xiaomi phone share its clipboard or notifications with a Mac?

Not through anything Google's pages describe. This is where a continuity app comes in. Do not assume that a Xiaomi or Redmi feature shown for Windows has a macOS version. Check the maker's page for the feature you care about.

Where does The Relay fit for Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO owners?

The Relay is one Mac app plus one Android app. It shares the clipboard both ways, shows the phone's notifications on the Mac, shows incoming calls to accept or decline, copies login codes from texts, hands links across, and gives you a window on the Mac to browse the phone's files. The Relay needs Android 8.0 or later and macOS 13 Ventura or later. It is one subscription through Google Play that covers your phone and your Mac, with a 7-day free trial.

It has no USB mode, does not send texts from the Mac, does not mirror the screen, and only works on one network or in Bluetooth range. We have not tested it on every Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO model, so use the trial to see whether yours behaves. If you only need files, the free routes above are enough.

Questions people ask

Can a Redmi or POCO phone AirDrop to a Mac?

Google does not name a Redmi or POCO model on its AirDrop list as of 26 October 2026. Check the list for your model, or use the cable or Wi-Fi routes.

Does Xiaomi have a Mac app for file transfer?

Nothing on Google's pages points to one. Check Xiaomi's support pages for the current answer.

Do I need to turn on developer options to connect a Xiaomi to a Mac?

Google's steps for stock Android do not require it. Start with the USB notification and File Transfer.

Why is my Xiaomi charging but not showing on the Mac?

The cable may carry only power, or the phone is in charging mode. Choose the file option and try another cable.