Xiaomi's strands are not just a stable shoot accessory, they're a full-fledged professional content creation tool. They combine compactness, multi-functionality and affordable price, making them popular among bloggers, travelers and selfie enthusiasts. However, many users have difficulty connecting first: Bluetooth doesn't find the device, the mount doesn't fix the smartphone, the remote controls refuse to work. In this article, we'll take a look at all the nuances from choosing a compatible model to fine-tuning the connection.
Xiaomi tripods (such as the Mi Selfie Stick Tripod or Xiaomi Mi Portable Bluetooth Selfie Stick) are hybrid in nature: they simultaneously act as a physical support and a wireless remote for controlling the camera. This means that it requires not only mechanical mounting to work, but also proper Bluetooth synchronization. If you have never used such accessories before, the process can seem complicated - but we will simplify it to step-by-step actions with visual cues.
1. Compatibility of Xiaomi tripods with smartphone models
Before you buy a tripod, make sure it supports your smartphone.Most Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi 11, Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3) are compatible with the brand's tripods, but there are nuances:
- ๐ฑ Width of mounting: Standard tripods are designed for smartphones up to 85 mm wide. Flagships (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra) may require an adapter.
- ๐ต Bluetooth Version: Xiaomi Trims Usually Work with Bluetooth 4.0+. Outdated models (e.g. Redmi) 4A) They may not support all functions.
- ๐ฏ Firmware MIUI: On devices with custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) there may be problems with remote recognition.
If your smartphone is released after 2018, it most likely supports all the features of the tripod. To check the compatibility of a particular model, use the official Xiaomi website or the table below:
| Model tripod | Supported smartphones | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mi Selfie Stick Tripod | All Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO models (2019โ2026) | Bluetooth 5.0, retractable leg up to 20 cm |
| Xiaomi Mi Portable Bluetooth Selfie Stick | Smartphones up to 80 mm wide | Built-in battery 100 mAh, weight 120 g |
| Xiaomi Mi Smart Tripod | Mi 10/11/12, Redmi K40/K50 | Support for horizontal mode, magnetic fastening |
โ ๏ธ Note: Xiaomi's strands are not compatible with the iPhone at the camera control level (the descent button does not work) and can only be used as a mechanical support.
2. Mechanical mounting of the smartphone: step-by-step instructions
Before you connect to Bluetooth, you need to securely lock your smartphone in the mount. If you install it incorrectly, you can cause the device to fall down!
- Unlock the clamp mechanism on the tripod by pulling the lever to the side.
- Place the smartphone in the mount so that the camera is in the center of the cutout.
- Close the clamp, making sure the device is not wobbling. To check, shake the tripod slightly.
- If necessary, adjust the angle of inclination of the smartphone using a hinge connection.
If your smartphone is too wide (like the Xiaomi 13 Pro with a case), use the rubber pads that come with the kit. They prevent scratches and improve grip.
Make sure the clamp tightly fixes the smartphone | Check the balancing of the tripod on a flat surface | Adjust the angle of inclination to avoid glare |Close the protective cover of the connector (if any)
-->
For foldable models (such as the Mi Selfie Stick Tripod), extend the legs as long as possible for stability after the smartphone is fixed. When folded, the tripod can be used as a monopod for selfies.
3. Connecting Xiaomi tripod over Bluetooth
Syncing a tripod with a smartphone is done via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which saves battery power but can cause delays in connection.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone: go to Settings โ Connections โ Bluetooth.
- Press and hold the power button on the tripod for 3 seconds until the indicator starts flashing blue.
- In the list of available devices, find the name of the tripod (usually Mi Selfie or Xiaomi Tripod) and tap on it.
- Confirm the pairing if a request appears on the smartphone.
Once connected successfully, the indicator on the tripod will burn in blue, and if the connection is interrupted, repeat the process or restart both devices.
Bluetooth|Wire (Type-C)|Wi-Fi Direct|I don't use it as a support, I only use it as a support.-->
โ ๏ธ Note: If a tripod does not appear on the list of Bluetooth devices, check its battery power. the discharged accessory will not broadcast the signal. Charging is done via Micro-USB or Type-C (depending on the model).
To control the camera through a button on a tripod, you must first open the Camera app on your smartphone. Some models (for example, Xiaomi Mi Smart Tripod) support double-pressing to switch between the front and main camera.
4. Setup camera control from tripod
By default, the button on the tripod performs the shutter function, but in some MIUI firmware it can be reassigned.
- Open the Camera app on your smartphone.
- Go to Settings โ Additional โ Bluetooth Management.
- Select the action for the button: Shutter Down, Video Recording, or Camera Switching.
If you donโt have a reassignment option, use third-party apps like Camera Connect & Control (available on Google Play), which allow you to configure your controls flexibly, including your shooting timer and zoom adjustment.
๐ก
For low-light shooting, turn on Nchonaia mode in the Camera app and use a tripod to stabilize, which will reduce blurring at long shutter speeds.
Some tripod models (such as the Xiaomi Mi Smart Tripod Pro) have an additional button to control zoom. To make it work, the camera settings must enable the zoom control setting.
5. Common Problems and Their Solutions
Even with the right connection, users are faced with common errors, and here's how to fix them:
- ๐ Tripod not turning on: Charge accessory (charging indicator - red light). If the indicator is not on, check the cable and port.
- ๐ถ Bluetooth won't find the device: Remove the tripod from the list of associated devices and reconnect. On some smartphones, it helps to turn off the power saving mode.
- ๐ท The down button doesnโt work: Update the Camera app via Google Play or MIUI App Store.Some firmware requires permission to use Bluetooth for management.
- ๐ The tripod spontaneously shuts down: This is due to Bluetooth timeout. in the developer settings (Settings) โ The phone. โ Version. MIUI โ tap 7 times) disable the option Automatic Bluetooth shutdown.
If the problem persists, try resetting the tripod settings, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds until the indicator flashes red.
What to do if a tripod falls with a smartphone?
6. Alternative ways of connecting
If Bluetooth is unstable, consider alternative options:
- ๐ Wired Connection: Some tripods (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Smart Tripod 2) support Type-C connectivity for simultaneous charging and control.
- ๐ถ Wi-Fi Direct: For professional shooting, you can use applications like FiLMiC Pro, which allow you to control the camera over Wi-Fi.
- ๐ฎ Gamepad mode: In settings MIUI You can assign the tripod button as a virtual key for any action (for example, running a record in TikTok).
For wired connection, use a USB OTG cable if the tripod is not equipped with its own connector. Remember that with such a connection, the smartphone battery will drain faster.
๐ก
For stable Bluetooth operation, keep your tripod and smartphone at a distance of no more than 10 meters. Obstacles (walls, furniture) can reduce the connection range.
7. Shooting Tips With Xiaomi Tripod
To get the most out of a tripod, follow these guidelines:
- ๐ธ Use a timer: In the Camera app, turn on the 3 or 10 seconds delay to avoid shaking when you press the button.
- ๐ Shooting in HDR: The tripod allows you to make long exposures without blurring. HDR Professional for the best quality.
- ๐ฅ Video stabilization: For smooth panoramas, slowly turn the tripod while holding the smartphone with both hands.
- ๐ฆ When shooting at night, use an external light source (for example, Xiaomi Mi). LED Desk Lamp) or built-in flash.
To create timelapses, use the Camera app in Slow Mode, and the tripod will ensure that frames are static, which is critical for this type of video.