How to add a remote to a Xiaomi TV: from original to universal

Connecting the remote to a Xiaomi TV seems like a simple task — until you face problems synchronizing, lack of response to commands or the need to use a universal device instead of your native. In this article, we will analyze all possible scenarios, from the basic binding of the original Mi Remote remote to configuring third-party devices with support for infrared (IR) or Bluetooth protocols.

Feature of Xiaomi TVs (series Mi) TV 4/5, Redmi Smart TV, Mi TV Q1/Q2 etc.) involves the use of a hybrid control system: some models support only IR-Remotes, others – combined IR+Bluetooth, and flagship versions (e.g. Mi) TV Masters can work exclusively over Bluetooth, it affects the connection process and requires different approaches. We will look at each case in detail, including fault diagnosis and alternative management methods (for example, via a smartphone).

Important: If your TV doesn’t respond to the remote after updating the firmware, first check the version of the software in the Settings → About TV menu. In some cases, the problem is solved by resetting the remote settings or rolling back to the previous version of the firmware.

1. Connecting the original Xiaomi remote (IR/Bluetooth)

Xiaomi's original remotes come bundled with a TV and are usually synced automatically when first turned on. However, after resetting, replacing batteries or updating the firmware, re-binding may be required.

• 🔄 IR-remotes (infrared): do not require "connection" in the classical sense - just point the remote to the TV receiver and press any button. If there is no reaction, check the batteries or integrity IR-transmitter (visually - through the camera of the smartphone).
• 📶 Bluetooth remotes: pairing through the TV menu is similar to connecting wireless headphones.
• ⚡ Hybrid remotes (IR)+Bluetooth: used: IR for basic commands (on, volume) and Bluetooth for advanced features (voice search, application launch).

For Bluetooth remotes, follow the following steps:

1. Turn on the TV with the power button on the case (if the remote does not work).
2. Go to Settings → Devices → Bluetooth.
3. Activate device search and hold the OK (or Home) button on the remote for 5-7 seconds until the pairing indicator appears.
4. Select a device called Mi Remote or Xiaomi TV Remote.

⚠️ Warning: If the TV doesn't find the remote, try resetting the remote. To do this, remove the batteries, press and hold any button for 10 seconds, then insert the batteries back and repeat pairing.

Check the battery charge (minimum 30%)

Make sure the distance to the TV is less than 1 meter

Turn off other Bluetooth devices within range

Restart the TV before pairing-->

2. Customize a universal remote for Xiaomi TV

Universal remotes (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Universal Remote, BroadLink RM4 or Philips/Samsung models) require manually configuring the device code. For Xiaomi TVs, the codes from the manufacturer list “Xiaomi”, “Mi TV” or “Redmi” are usually suitable. If the automatic search does not work, try the following methods:

Method 1: Manual code entry

Many universal remotes support direct code for Xiaomi. Try these combinations (for 4-digit remotes):

Method 2: Automatic search

If manual input does not help, use the autosearch function:

1. Press and hold the Setup (or Set) on the remote until the indicator flashes.
2. Dial 991 (for most general purpose remotes).
3. Point the remote to the TV and press Power every 2 seconds until the TV turns off.
4. Save the code by pressing OK or Setup.

The original Xiaomi

Universal (IR)

Bluetooth remote from a third-party manufacturer

I'm using my smartphone.

Another option-->

3. Connect the remote via the Mi Remote app

If the physical remote is lost or broken, the official Mi Remote app (available for Android and iOS) will be a temporary alternative, allowing you to control your TV via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, simulating all the features of the original remote, including voice search and app launch.

Instructions for setting:

1. Install the Mi Remote app from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Connect your smartphone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Launch the app and select Add Device → TV → Xiaomi.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen: the app will automatically find the TV on the local network.
5. To control via Bluetooth, activate it on your smartphone and confirm the pairing on TV.

Note: Mi Remote app does not support Xiaomi TVs older than 2018 (e.g. Mi Remote) TV 3S). Use these models for the IR-Remote or third-party solutions like Yatse.

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If the app does not find the TV, check if the Network Management settings are enabled in the TV settings (Settings → Network → Network Management → HCL).

4. Diagnostics of remote control problems

If the remote is not working or is not working correctly, first determine the type of malfunction:

• 🔋 The remote doesn't respond at all: check the batteries (even new ones can be discharged), clear the contacts in the compartment. Try "reset" the remote by removing the batteries for 1 minute.
• 📶 The remote works only close to the surface: the problem with IR-transmitter (possibly contaminated or damaged) and rinse the transmitter lens with alcohol.
• 🔄 The remote controls not all functions: reset the remote settings (for universal – see the manufacturer’s instructions).
• 📱 Bluetooth remote shuts down: check for interference from other devices (Wi-Fi routers, microwaves.

For a deep diagnosis:

1. Check the response of the TV to commands from the remote control through the camera of your smartphone: turn on the camera, point the remote control at it and press any button. IR-signal, remote is in good working order.
2. Test the remote on another TV (if possible) to help eliminate the problem with the TV.
3. Update the TV firmware: go to Settings → About TV → System Update.

⚠️ Warning: If after updating the firmware stopped working Bluetooth-controller, reset the settings of the TV (Settings) → System system → Resetting. This will return factory pairing options, but delete all installed apps and accounts.

5. Alternative ways to manage Xiaomi TV

If the remote is lost or broken and the Mi Remote app is not suitable, consider these options:

• 🎮 Gaming controllers: Bluetooth gamepads (such as Xiaomi Game Controller or DualShock 4) can be used to navigate the menu. Connect them via Settings → Devices → Bluetooth.
• 🖱️ Mouse and keyboard: Connect via Bluetooth or USB-Easy to enter text and navigate.
• 📲 Voice assistants: Xiaomi TVs support Alice (Yandex), Google Assistant and Xiao AI. Activate voice search with a button on the remote or say “OK, Google".
• 🌐 Remote browser management: Some models (e.g. Mi) TV 5 Pro) support web interface at http://[IP-TV address]:8080. Find out. IP You can set up → Network.

For advanced users, a way to manage via ADB (Android Debug Bridge) is available, which requires activating the developer mode on the TV:

1. Go to Settings → About TV and 7 times click on the Android TV version to turn on the developer mode.
2. Return to Settings → Device → For developers and activate Debugging over USB.
3. Connect the TV to your PC via USB and use ADB commands to control, for example: adb shell input keyevent 23 # Volume + adb shell input keyevent 3 # Home

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ADB-Connectivity is suitable for automating tasks or restoring the TV after a failure, but requires technical skills.

6. Buying a new remote: original vs universal

If you can't restore the old remote, you'll have to buy a new one.

For Xiaomi Mi TVs TV 5 and newer recommended original Xiaomi Mi remote TV Bluetooth Voice Remote (model) L19B or L20B). It supports voice input and has a touchpad to control the cursor. TV 4A) simple IR-Xiaomi Mi Remote remote (L10A).

When buying a universal remote, pay attention to the support of the NECx2 protocol - it is used by Xiaomi TVs for extended teams. Popular models: BroadLink RM4 Pro, Xiaomi Mi Universal Remote, One For All URC 7940.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi TV remotes