Connecting a monopod to a Xiaomi phone over Bluetooth: full instruction with shooting tips

Bluetooth-controlled monopods are an indispensable accessory for shooting video on a smartphone, especially if you are the owner of a Xiaomi device, which allows you to stabilize the frame, make smooth movements with the camera and control the shooting remotely without touching the screen. However, many users face difficulties when connecting first: the phone does not see the device, the buttons do not work, or the connection is constantly broken.

In this article, we will discuss all the steps of connecting a monopod to Xiaomi over Bluetooth, from compatibility checks to fine-tuning camera control. You will learn how to avoid typical errors, which monopod models work best with firmware. MIUI, And how to set up extra features like zoom or camera switching right off the joystick, and if something goes wrong, there's a section at the end of this article that addresses some of the most common problems.

1. Verification of compatibility of monopod and Xiaomi smartphone

Before you try to plug in a monopod, make sure it's compatible with your Xiaomi model.Not all monopods work equally well with firmware. MIUI, Especially when it comes to budget devices or older versions of Android.

The main compatibility criteria:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Android Version: Monopods with Bluetooth 4.0+ Require Android 6.0 and newer.Outdated smartphones (e.g. Redmi) 3S Mi 4 may not support modern accessories.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Version. MIUI: In the firmware older MIUI 10 may not have drivers for some Bluetooth devices. Update system via Settings โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Updating the system.
  • ๐ŸŽฎ Monopod type: Devices with physical buttons (e.g, DJI Osmo Mobile or Hohem iSteady Mobile+) Usually better compatible than cheap, brandless counterparts.

If you use a monopod from a little-known manufacturer, check it out on the Bluetooth website. SIG โ€” It has a database of certified devices. Xiaomi is the best monopods with profile support. AVRCP 1.6 (it allows you to manage multimedia).

๐Ÿ“Š What monopod do you use?
DJI Osmo Mobile
Hohem iSteady
Xiaomi Mi Selfie Stick
Another brand
I haven't bought it yet.

2. Preparation of Xiaomi smartphone to connect

To connect properly, you need to configure Bluetooth and permissions on your phone.

Enable Bluetooth in Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth

Disable Power Saving Mode for Bluetooth (Settings) โ†’ Battery โ†’ Energy saving regime โ†’ Settings โ†’ Turn off for Bluetooth)

Allow access to the camera and microphone for the Camera app (Settings) โ†’ Annexes โ†’ Permit management โ†’ Camera)

Update the Camera app to the latest version on Google Play

Reboot your phone (this resets the Bluetooth cache)

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Pay special attention to the energy saving regime. MIUI By default, Bluetooth can shut down after 10 minutes of inactivity, which will cause the monopod to break down:

  1. Open the settings โ†’ Battery โ†’ Power saving mode.
  2. Select Settings โ†’ Autonomous access applications.
  3. Find Bluetooth and check the box without restrictions.

It is also recommended to reset your Bluetooth settings if you have previously connected other devices and experienced errors.

Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth โ†’ โ‹ฎ (menu) โ†’ Reset settings

3. Step-by-step instruction for connecting a monopod

Now, let's get to the connection itself. The instructions are universal for most monopods, DJI Osmo Mobile 6, Hohem iSteady X2, Xiaomi Mi Selfie Stick, but there may be minor differences.

Step 1. Turn on the monopod.

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Charge the monopod (if it is discharged, the indicator will flash red).
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Hold the power button for 3-5 seconds until the blue Bluetooth light light lights up.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ If the monopod supports several modes (for example, Photo / Video), select the desired one using the switch.

Step 2: Activate device search on Xiaomi

  1. Open Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Click Device Search.
  3. In the list, find the name of your monopod (for example, OSMO_Mobile_XXXX or iSteady_X2).
  4. Slip it on it and confirm the pairing.

Step 3: Set up camera control

Once connected, the monopod should automatically sync with the Camera app.

  • ๐Ÿ“ธ The shutter button on the monopod should be triggered when pressed.
  • ๐Ÿ” If you have a joystick, try controlling the camera tilt.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Double-pressing the button usually switches between the front and main camera.

๐Ÿ’ก

If the monopod doesn't control the camera, close the Camera app and open it again. Sometimes restarting Bluetooth on your phone helps (Settings) โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth โ†’ Off./On.).

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Monopod is not in search.Monopod battery dischargedCharge the monopod for 1-2 hours
The pairing is gone, but the buttons are not working.Bluetooth profile incompatibilityUpdate the firmware of the monopod (if there is a proprietary software)
The connection breaks in 10-20 seconds.Bluetooth Energy Saving in MIUITurn off battery optimization for Bluetooth (see Section 2)
The Monopod controls music, not the cameraIncorrect profile AVRCPReconnect the monopod and open the Camera app BEFORE pairing

4.Configure additional functions of the monopod

Modern monopods not only support basic shooting control, but also advanced features: tracking, zoom, timelapse and even gestures. Let's consider how to set them up on Xiaomi.

The following mode (Object Tracking)

If your monopod supports self-tracking (e.g, DJI Osmo Mobile 6, activate it like this:

  1. Open the camera app and go to Video mode.
  2. Click on the object on the screen and hold for 2 seconds โ€“ a tracking frame will appear.
  3. On the monopod, activate the tracking mode (usually by double pressing the joystick or the M button).

Zoom management

To use the monopod joystick for zooming:

  • ๐Ÿ” In the Camera app, go to Settings โ†’ Gestures โ†’ Zoom control.
  • ๐ŸŽ›๏ธ Select the Monopod Joystick (if there is no such option, update the application).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Check the sensitivity of zoom in the monopod settings (via proprietary software, if any).

Gestures and voice control

Some monopods (like the Hohem iSteady Pro 4) support gesture control (wake your hand) or voice commands, to make it work for Xiaomi:

  1. Install a proprietary monopod app (such as Hohem Gimbal or DJI Mimo).
  2. In the application settings, activate Gestures or Voice commands.
  3. Allow access to the microphone and camera for this application.
How to improve the stabilization of video with monopod?
Use monopod sports mode for dynamic shooting (e.g. running or cycling). Turn off digital stabilization in the Xiaomi camera settings, it can conflict with the monopod gyroscope. 1080p@60fps โ€” It is the optimal balance between quality and smoothness.

5. Typical errors and their solutions

Even with the right connection, there can be problems, and here are the most common errors and ways to fix them:

Mistake 1: The monopod connects but does not control the camera

โš ๏ธ Note: If the monopod is defined as an "audio device" (in the Bluetooth list, it is displayed as OSMO_Mobile_Audio), So it's gone into music control mode, so to get back control of the camera, disable the monopod, close all media applications (YouTube, Spotify) and reconnect it by opening the Camera app before you can get back in control.

Mistake 2: Permanent connection breaks

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Check if there are other Bluetooth devices nearby (earphones, smart watches) that cause interference.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Make sure the monopod is at least 30% charged โ€“ at low charge, the connection can be unstable.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ B Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth โ†’ โ‹ฎ โ†’ Additionally, disable the option of high-quality audio (AAC) โ€” Sometimes she's in conflict with the camera.

Mistake 3: Monopod doesn't turn smoothly

If the joystick of the monopod twitches or is delayed, try:

  • ๐ŸŽ›๏ธ Calibrate the monopod gyroscope (instructions are in the user manual).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ In Xiaomi camera settings, turn off Digital Stabilization (Settings) โ†’ Additionally. โ†’ Stabilization).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Update the firmware of the monopod through the company software (for example, DJI Mimo or Hohem Gimbal).

๐Ÿ’ก

If the monopod doesnโ€™t work with a proprietary app, try using third-party shooting programs (like Filmic Pro or Open Camera) โ€“ theyโ€™re often better compatible with Bluetooth devices.

6. Optimization of shooting with monopod on Xiaomi

Connecting a monopod is only half the battle, and to get a professional video, you have to set up the camera and the monopod properly. Here are some tips:

Camera settings for smooth video

  • ๐ŸŽฅ Use your permission. 1080p@60fps or 4K@30fps โ€” These are the best modes for stabilization.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Enable the grid in the camera settings (Settings) โ†’ Grids) to comply with the rule of thirds.
  • ๐Ÿ”ฆ Turn off the car.-HDR โ€” It can cause jerks when changing lighting.

Monopod settings

  • ๐ŸŽ›๏ธ Set the joystick sensitivity to 60-70% (in proprietary monopod software). Too high sensitivity leads to twitching of the frame.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Activate the Tracking Lock mode (if any) so that the monopod does not get lost during sudden movements.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ For shooting with a hand, use Portrait Orientation mode, for panoramas - Album mode.

Composition tips

The monopod allows you to create dynamic shots, but it is important to avoid typical mistakes:

  • ๐Ÿšถ When walking with a monopod, bend your hands at your elbows - this will reduce shaking.
  • ๐ŸŒ„ For panoramic shooting, turn with the whole body, not just your hand.
  • ๐ŸŽฌ Use the monopod as a slider: place it on a flat surface and move slowly along the object.

๐Ÿ’ก

For low light shooting, increase the value ISO 800-1600 in manual camera mode, but not higher, otherwise noise will appear.

7. Alternative ways of connecting a monopod

If the Bluetooth connection is unstable or the monopod does not support wireless control, alternative methods can be used:

Cable connection (OTG)

Some monopods (e.g. Zhiyun Smooth 4) support connectivity. USB-C or micro-USB through OTG-The advantages of cable:

  • โšก No delays in management (unlike Bluetooth).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Monopod can be charged from the phone.

To connect:

  1. Buy it. OTG-cable (e.g. Xiaomi) OTG Adapter).
  2. Connect the monopod to the phone via cable.
  3. In the monopod settings, select Wired Control mode.

Use of branded applications

Monopod manufacturers often release their own applications with advanced features, such as:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ DJI Mimo - for monopods DJI Osmo (allows you to set up tracking mode, timelapse, hyperlapse).
  • ๐ŸŽฅ Hohem Gimbal โ€“ for Hohem devices (there are Dolly Zoom and Vertigo modes).
  • ๐Ÿ”ง ZY Play - for Zhiyun monopods (supports gyroscope calibration).

Control over Wi-Fi

Some monopods (like FeiyuTech Vimble 3) can connect to a phone over Wi-Fi, creating their own access point.

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Transmitting live video to the second screen.
  • ๐ŸŽฎ Control the camera from a greater distance (up to 10 meters).

To connect:

  1. Turn on Wi-Fi on a monopod (usually by holding the power button long).
  2. On the phone, connect to the monopod network (the name will be like Feiyu_XXXX).
  3. Open the branded monopod application.

8.A review of the best monopods for Xiaomi in 2026

If you havenโ€™t already chosen a monopod, hereโ€™s a list of the best models tested for compatibility with Xiaomi:

ModelType of connectionFeaturesPrice (2026)Compatibility with MIUI
DJI Osmo Mobile 6Bluetooth 5.0, USB-CAutotracking, magnetic fastening, folding structure~25 000 โ‚ฝโญโญโญโญโญ (full-time)
Hohem iSteady X2Bluetooth 5.2, OTGGesture control, 360.ยฐ rotation, battery 2400 mAh~18 000 โ‚ฝโญโญโญโญ (Sometimes it requires reconnection)
Zhiyun Smooth 5Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-FiBuilt-in microphone, Vertigo mode, lighting mount~22 000 โ‚ฝโญโญโญโญ (trouble MIUI 13)
Xiaomi Mi Selfie StickBluetooth 4.2Budget option, folding, shutter button~3 000 โ‚ฝโญโญโญ (basic functionality)

Important: Supported monopods USB-C (for example, DJI Osmo Mobile 6) connects to Xiaomi without adapters, unlike models with Micro-USB, which you need to use. OTG-adapter.

When choosing a monopod, pay attention to:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Battery life (optimum 8)+ hours).
  • ๐Ÿ“ Maximum load (for heavy smartphones in a case, for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Availability of proprietary software with support MIUI.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting a monopod to Xiaomi

The monopod is plugging in, but it's not turning the camera.
Check: Is the Camera app open before you connect the monopod, is the Monopod settings enabled Follow Mode, does the monopod conflict with other Bluetooth devices (disable headphones, fitness bracelets), if it doesn't work, update the monopod firmware through branded software.
How to connect a monopod to Xiaomi via OTG, if you don't have Bluetooth?
For this: Buy OTG-cable (e.g. Xiaomi) USB-C to USB-A). Connect the monopod to your phone via cable. In the monopod settings, select Wired Control. Open the Camera app, the monopod buttons should work. If the monopod doesn't respond, check if it supports wired control (this is indicated in the specifications).
Can I use a monopod as a selfie remote?
Yes, most monopods support remote shutter control. For this: Connect the monopod over Bluetooth. Open the Camera app and go to Selfie mode. Press the button on the monopod, shoots. Some models (e.g., click the button on the monopod, DJI Osmo allows you to adjust the delay of shooting (3 or 10 seconds) directly from the joystick.
Why does a monopod control music and not the camera?
This is because a monopod is defined as an audio device (profile). A2DP). To fix: Close all media applications (YouTube, Spotify, VLC). Turn off the monopod in Bluetooth settings. Open the Camera app. Reconnect the monopod, it has to control the camera. If the problem persists, reset the Bluetooth settings on the phone (Settings). โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth โ†’ โ‹ฎ โ†’ Reset the settings).
How to update your monopod firmware for better compatibility with Xiaomi?
To update the firmware: Download the proprietary monopod software (DJI Mimo, Hohem Gimbal, etc.) from Google Play. Connect the monopod to your phone via Bluetooth. Open the app and go to Settings. โ†’ Firmware update. Follow the instructions on the screen (don't turn off the monopods during the update!) Attention: Update may take 5-10 minutes. If the process is interrupted, the monopod may fail.