How to set up Xiaomi selfie stick correctly: from connectivity to fine-tuning

Xiaomi’s selfie stick is not just an accessory for handy self-portraits, but a full-fledged tool for creative photography. However, many users face problems when they first connect: the device is not determined by the smartphone, the buttons do not work, and in some cases the stick does not even turn on. In this article, we will discuss all the stages of settings, from basic Bluetooth connection to fine-tuning for professional shots.

Xiaomi selfie sticks (such as Mi Selfie Stick or Mi Smart Stick Tripod) are compatible not only with the brand’s smartphones, but also with other Android/iOS devices. However, to work properly, you need to synchronize and adjust settings in the Mi Home app or standard camera tools. If you bought a stick and don’t know where to start, this guide will help you avoid typical errors and use the device 100%.

1.Preparing Xiaomi selfie stick for first use

Before connecting, make sure your selfie stick is charged and in working order.Most Xiaomi models come with a built-in battery that requires pre-charging via USB-Type C or Micro-USB (depending on the version).

To check the charge:

• 🔋 Connect the stick to the charger (use the adapter on the 5V/1A or 5V/2A).
• 🔄 Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds - the indicator should light up (red - discharged, blue - charged).
• ⏳ Charging takes ~1.5-2 hours Do not interrupt the process if the indicator flashes.

Important: Mi Selfie Stick 2-in-1 and Mi Smart Stick Tripod models have a removable battery – if the stick does not turn on, check the battery’s contact density.

⚠️ Note: Do not use chargers with higher voltage 5V — This can damage the power controller stick.The original Xiaomi adapters on the 10W or 18W perfect.

2. Connecting a selfie stick to a smartphone via Bluetooth

The main way to control a selfie stick is wirelessly connected via Bluetooth. The synchronization process is different for Android and iOS devices, but generally comes down to a few steps:

On Android smartphones (including Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO):

1. Activate Bluetooth in your phone settings (Settings → Connections → Bluetooth).
2. Turn on the selfie stick with a long press on the power button (the indicator should flash blue).
3. In the list of available devices, find the name of your stick (for example, Mi Selfie). Stick_XXX or XMSH-XXX).
4. Confirm the pairing. If you successfully connect, the stick indicator will burn constantly blue.

On the iPhone:

• 📱 Open the Settings. → Bluetooth and turn on the module.
• 🔵 Hold the button on the stick until the indicator flashes.
• 🔍 In the list of devices, select Mi Selfie Stick and wait for the status "Connected" to appear".

If the smartphone can't see the stick:

• 🔄 Reboot both devices.
• 📱 Remove the stick from the list of associated devices and reconnect.
• 🔋 Check the battery charge of the stick (at a discharge below 10%, the Bluetooth module may not be activated).

3. Customization of buttons and controls

Xiaomi selfie sticks are equipped with 1-2 buttons (depending on the model), which can be programmed to different actions.

• 📸 The main button - start shooting (photo / video).
• 🔄 Additional button (if any) – switch between front/back camera or zoom.

To reassign functions:

1. Install the official Mi Home app (available from Google Play and App Store).
2. Add a selfie stick to the app through Add Device → Accessories → Selfie Stick.
3. Go to the device settings and select Setting buttons.
4. Set up an action: 📷 Single tap - Take a photo / Record a video. 🔄 Double press – Switch camera/Enable timer. 🔍 Retention – Zoom Increase/Activation of Voice Assistant.

Make sure the stick indicator is blue.|

Press the main button - a characteristic click should be heard |

Check the response of the smartphone camera to press |

Reset the stick if the buttons don't respond-->

⚠️ Note: On iOS, some features (such as zoom or camera switching) may not work due to operating system limitations.In this case, use the standard Camera app with Bluetooth remotes.

4. Shooting optimization: modes and tips

To get high-quality selfie stick shots, it's not enough to just press a button. Here are the key recommendations:

For shooting in motion (for example, a video for TikTok or YouTube):

• 🎥 Use mode 60. FPS smoothly.
• 🔊 Connect an external microphone (if you have a 3.5mm or Type-C connector).
• 🌄 Shooting in the street against the sun or use it HDR.

💡

If the selfie stick is used as a tripod, turn on the option Horizon Level in the camera settings - this will help to avoid frame distortions.

5. Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even after you set it up properly, users are faced with typical problems.

Problem 1: The selfie stick plugs in, but the buttons don't work.

• 🔄 Reconnect the device in Bluetooth settings.
• 📱 Update the firmware of the smartphone and the Mi Home app.
• 🔧 Reset the stick settings (hold the power button 10 seconds until flashing red).

Problem 2: The stick is discharged quickly.

• 🔋 Use only original charging cables.
• ❄️ Avoid operating at temperatures below 0°C.
• 🔄 Turn off Bluetooth on a stick after use (hold the 5 second button).

Problem 3: The Mi Home app doesn't see the stick.

• 📲 Install the latest version of the application.
• 🌐 Connect your smartphone and stick to the same Wi-Fi network (for some models).
• 🔧 Manually add the device to MAC-address (indicated on the box).

6 Additional accessories and upgrades

Xiaomi Selfie Stick can be upgraded for extended tasks:

Useful accessories:

• 🎤 External microphone – for pure audio in video (connects via 3.5mm or Type-C).
• 🔦 LED-backlighting – ring light for shooting in dark rooms.
• 🔗 Extension cable – if the standard length of the stick is not enough.
• 📱 Smartphone clip - for reliable fixation of phones with covers.

Programmatic improvements:

• 🤖 Photography Apps: Open Camera (for manual settings) ISO, FilmoraGo (to edit video directly on your phone).
• 🎛️ Stick firmware (for advanced users): 1. Download firmware from the official Xiaomi website. 2. Connect the stick to the PC through USB. 3.Use the MiFlash utility for an update.

💡

For shooting in extreme conditions (rain, snow), use waterproof smartphone cases and avoid direct moisture on the stick contacts.

7.Comparison of Xiaomi selfie stick models

If you haven’t bought a selfie stick yet, compare the popular models:

For travel, the Mi Selfie Stick 1S is the best option, lightweight and compact. For bloggers and professional shooting, you should choose the Mi Smart Stick Tripod with tripod function.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi selfie sticks