Modern smartphones Xiaomi Redmi series have enough power to not only run heavy games, but also serve as a full-fledged work station in conjunction with an external monitor. Users often wonder how to add another screen to Xiaomi Redmi to expand the workspace or bring the image to a large panel for viewing media. This function can be implemented in several ways, depending on the specific device model and operating system version. MIUI or hyperos.
The Wireless Projection feature is the most affordable method for most owners, as it does not require the purchase of additional accessories. However, for those who are looking for a stable connection without delay, especially in games or when working with graphics, it is preferable to use wired solutions through the USB Type-C port. It is important to understand that not all budget models support video transmission over cable, so the choice of method depends on the specifications of your gadget.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available connectivity options, from software settings to physical connectivity via adapters, and learn about the hidden capabilities of developer mode that allow you to force the output of an image where it is disabled by default, and we will also discuss the nuances of working with different resolutions and refresh rates.
Checking the technical compatibility of your Redmi
Before you start buying adapters or setting up a network, you need to make sure your Redmi is physically capable of transmitting a video signal. The key here is to support the DisplayPort Alt Mode or MHL standard via the charging connector. If the USB-C port on your device has version 2.0, then the wired monitor connection will most likely not work, and the only option will be wireless broadcasting.
You can find out the exact specifications on the manufacturer’s official website or in the documentation included. Often users confuse support for fast charging with the ability to transfer video, which leads to mistaken expectations. Owners of flagship lines, such as the Redmi K or the upper models of the Note series, have a significantly higher chance of successful wired connection.
⚠️ Warning: Trying to use cheap passive adapters on devices without video output support can overheat the power controller.Always check the specifications before buying accessories.
For the wireless method, the requirements are less stringent: Wi-Fi modules and Miracast technology, which has been built into Android since version 4.2, are enough, which means that even older Redmi models can stream images to modern Smart TVs or receivers like Chromecast. However, the quality of the picture and the presence of delays will depend on the speed of your local network.
Configuring wireless projection (Miracast)
The easiest way to add a second screen to Xiaomi Redmi is to use the built-in broadcast function. First, make sure that your smartphone and the receiving device (TV, projector or PC) are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
On the smartphone itself, open the notification curtain and find the Broadcast or Cast icon. If it is not available in the quick access, go to the settings menu, select Connect and Sharing, and then find the Broadcast option. The system will automatically start searching for available devices within network range.
- 📡 Click on your TV name in the list of found devices to start pairing.
- 🔒 If the confirmation code appears on the TV screen, enter it on your smartphone or agree to connect with the remote control.
- ⚙️ To change the image quality, tap the gear in the broadcast menu and select the desired resolution.
Once successfully connected, your Redmi screen will be fully copied to a large panel, which is convenient for presentations or photos, but you should consider that in mirror mode, the orientation of the smartphone screen and monitor will be synchronized, which can be uncomfortable with the phone’s vertical position.
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If the broadcast is working with delays, try to turn off the 5 GHz band on the router for a smartphone and use 2.4 GHz, or vice versa, experiment with channels to reduce interference.
Wired connection via USB-C and HDMI
For users who are critically interested in connection stability and artifact compression, the best solution is a wired method. To add a screen through a cable, you will need a special USB-C to HDMI adapter. Make sure that the adapter supports video output, not just data transfer or charging.
Connect the adapter to the smartphone connector, and then connect it with an HDMI cable to a monitor or TV. Unlike the wireless method, it doesn't require network setup. The image should appear automatically if the device supports video output. The system will determine the resolution of the external display and adjust the frame rate.
Some Xiaomi models offer special modes of operation when wired, such as Desktop mode, which turns the interface into a computer-like one with window mode and taskbar, which turns the smartphone into a full-fledged replacement for the PC for office tasks.
☑️ Checking before buying an adapter
It is worth noting that when using the external screen, the smartphone can quickly discharge, since the video controller consumes a significant energy resource. Many high-quality adapters have an additional USB-C port for connecting the charger, which allows you to simultaneously broadcast the image and recharge the battery.
Using the Developer Mode to Enhance Opportunities
Android has advanced settings that allow you to control the behavior of the second screen more flexibly. To access them, you need to activate the developer mode. To do this, go to Settings → About phone and quickly click 7 times on the field MIUI Version or OS Version.
Once activated, a new section will appear in the settings menu, Additional → For Developers. Scroll down to the display or network section, and you can find options that force video output to be enabled or change resolution.
| Option in the Developer Menu | Description of function | Recommended value |
|---|---|---|
| Turn on screen recording | Allows system recording or broadcasting | Activated. |
| Permission USB-debugging | Manages access rights through ADB | Always allow |
| Emulation of an additional display | Creates a virtual second screen | No change. |
| Show touch | Visualizes the taps on the external screen | If necessary, |
Using these settings requires caution. Changing the rendering settings can lead to unstable interface operation or device reboot. If you are not sure about the purpose of a particular option, it is better to leave the default value.
What is ADB and how does it help?
Third-party applications for screen duplication
If your regular tools don't work properly or you need functionality that goes beyond standard mirroring, you can use third-party software. There are many applications in the Google Play store that use DLNA protocols or their own compression algorithms to transfer a picture.
One popular solution is the LetsView or ApowerMirror app, which allows you not only to duplicate the screen, but also to control the smartphone from a computer using a keyboard and mouse, which is especially convenient for typing or playing games where you need precise control.
- 📲 Install the application on your smartphone and client program on PC or TV.
- 🔗 Make sure that both devices are on the same subnet.
- 🖥️ Run the scan. QR-code for instantaneous pairing without input IP-address.
The advantage of such programs is their cross-platform: you can add a screen not only to the TV, but also to any laptop with Windows or MacOS. However, it is worth remembering that free versions often have restrictions on session time or picture quality, and can also contain advertising.
⚠️ Note: When using third-party applications, your data passes through the developer’s servers (in cloud mode). For sensitive information, use only a local connection (Local Cast) without access to the Internet.
Solving Connection Problems
Even when set up correctly, users may find that the second screen is not defined or the image twitches, a common cause is resolution incompatibility. If the monitor supports 4K and the smartphone tries to output a signal in a non-standard format, the picture may be missing.
Problems can also arise from outdated drivers or bugs in the MIUI firmware, in which case it helps to reset network settings or update the system to the latest available version, sometimes conflicting DRM security mechanisms that block the output of protected content (for example, Netflix) to external displays through informal adapters.
If there is an image but no sound, check the audio output settings. In the notification curtain or in the Sound and Vibration menu, select the output device by changing it from the phone's speakers to an HDMI or Bluetooth device. This is a common situation where the video channel is running and the audio stream remains on the smartphone.
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The stability of the wired connection is always higher than the wireless one, but requires checking the video output standard support with your Redmi’s specific USB-C port.