How to Back Up and Restore SMS Messages on Xiaomi Phone

Switching to a new Xiaomi or restoring after a reset? Here's how to keep your SMS history safe using several backup methods.

Method 1 – Mi Cloud SMS Backup (Automatic)

1. Settings → Mi Account → Mi Cloud → Sync.
2. Enable Messages toggle — your SMS are backed up to Mi Cloud automatically.
3. To restore: On new phone, sign in to the same Mi Account → Settings → Mi Cloud → Restore → Messages.

Requires Mi Cloud storage space. SMS backup is included in the free 5 GB tier.

Method 2 – Local Backup (No Internet)

Create a local SMS backup stored on phone storage:
1. Settings → Additional settings → Backup & reset → Local backup.
2. Tap Back up → check Messages → Confirm.
3. Backup file saved to phone storage (or SD card if available).

Restore:
1. Same menu → Restore → select backup file → restore Messages.

Method 3 – Google Messages Backup

If you use Google Messages as your SMS app:
1. Open Google Messages → Profile → Messages settings → Chat features → Enable chat features.
2. For SMS backup: Messages → Profile → Backup → turn on.
3. Backups sync to your Google account.

Restore: Sign in to same Google account on new phone → Messages will sync automatically.

Method 4 – SMS Backup & Restore App (Most Flexible)

For cross-platform backup (Android to Android, or archiving):
1. Install SMS Backup & Restore (Play Store) on source phone.
2. Tap Backup → choose local storage, Google Drive, or email.
3. On new phone: install the same app → Restore → select backup file.

Comparison

Pro Tips

• Back up SMS before factory reset or phone swap — Mi Cloud backup may take a few minutes to sync.
• SMS Backup & Restore saves messages as XML files — keep a copy on Google Drive for long-term archiving.