Setup remote on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8: a complete guide with tips from experts

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is one of the few budget smartphones that retains the built-in infrared port (IR transmitter), which allows you to use the device as a universal remote for TVs, air conditioners, music centers and other equipment. However, many users face difficulties in the first setup: the application does not find the model of equipment, commands are sent late, or the remote does not work at all. In this article, we will discuss all the ways to configure the infrared remote on the Redmi Note 8, including hidden functions and solutions to typical problems.

It is important to understand that the functionality of the IR port depends not only on the hardware capabilities of the smartphone, but also on the version of the MIUI firmware. For example, in older builds (MIUI 11 and below), the Mi Remote application may not be in the basic configuration, and in the new ones (MIUI 14+), it was replaced by Xiaomi Remote with an updated interface. We will take into account all these nuances and provide current instructions for any version of the software.

If you've never used an IR remote on a smartphone, don't worry: the setup process will take no more than 5-10 minutes. And for those who have tried it before, but have experienced errors, we've prepared a section on fault diagnosis and alternative control techniques.

1. Check for the presence of an IR port on the Redmi Note 8

Before you start setting up, make sure your Redmi Note 8 does have an infrared transmitter. Although most of the devices in this model have an infrared port, there are regional versions (for example, for some markets in Asia) where it may not be available.

How to check:

• 🔍 External inspection: The IR port is located at the top of the smartphone, next to the speaker, and it looks like a small black glass window (diameter). ~The photo below shows its typical location:
• 📱 Through Settings: Go to Settings → The phone. → Full specifications. Sensors should show Infrared port.
• 🛠️ Test using the engineering menu: enter the code ##6484## (Testing) in the phone application → Manual Test → IR If the port is running, a message will appear when you press the screen. IR Test Pass.

If you don't have an IR port, but you're sure your model should have one, there may be a problem with the firmware, which can help flashing to a global version of MIUI (e.g. MIUI Global Stable), but this is an extreme measure - try updating through Settings → System Update first.

2. Installation and configuration of the Mi Remote application

The standard app for managing equipment on Xiaomi is called Mi Remote (or Xiaomi Remote in newer versions), it is pre-installed on most devices, but if it is not available, download from Google Play or App Gallery (for Chinese firmware).

Step-by-step instructions for setting up:

1. Open the Mi Remote app (the icon with the remote image).
2. Allow access to camera and microphone (needed for scanning) QR-codes of some devices).
3. Choose the type of equipment: TV, air conditioning, DVD-Player, etc. For example, for TV tap on the icon TV.
4. Add a brand: If your brand is not listed, choose Universal. For rare brands (like Dexp or BBK), try to pick up the code manually (the Manual Setup item).

Testing teams

Power

Make sure the IR port is not covered with a cover or film |

Connect your smartphone to charge (setup can take up to 10 minutes)|

Check that the equipment is on the network and is within a radius of 5 meters |

Turn off the "Energy saving" mode on the TV/air conditioner (can block IR signals)-->

If the app doesn’t find your model, try alternative methods:

• 🔄 Update the database: in Mi Remote go to Settings → Update the device list.
• 📱 Use third-party apps: ZaZa Remote or AnyMote support more brands.
• 🔧 Manual Setup: In Mi Remote, select Manual Setup and scour the codes until the technique reacts.

3. Solving problems with the operation of the IR panel

Even after a successful setup, Redmi Note 8 users often face typical problems: the remote works every once in a while, commands are sent with a delay, or the equipment does not respond to signals.

Critical information: Redmi Note 8 with MIUI 12.5 and higher may trigger a bug that turns off the IR port after rebooting your smartphone. To fix this, go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Mi Remote → Permissions and enable AutoRun.

⚠️ Note: If after the update MIUI The IR port has stopped working completely, check if it is turned off in Settings → Additionally. → Special facilities → Infrared port. In some builds, this option is hidden — it may require a factory reset to activate it.

4. Alternative methods of control of equipment

If the standard Mi Remote app doesn't work, consider alternatives. They may be useful if:

• Your equipment is not supported in the Mi Remote database.
• You need advanced features (such as Wi-Fi management).
• The IR port on the smartphone is damaged.

Top.-3 alternative:

1. ZaZa Remote: 🌍 Supports more 1000 brand. 🔄 It has the function of training commands (you can copy signals from the original remote control). 📱 It works on the Redmi Note. 8 rootless.
2. AnyMote Universal Remote: 🎛️ Allows you to create your own macros (for example, one button to turn on TV) + switchover HDMI). 🔌 Supports Wi-Fi management for smart devices.
3. SURE Universal Remote: 🏠 Integrate with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. 📺 Has a built-in guide to TV programs.

If the IR port on your smartphone is faulty, but the technology supports control over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, use the official applications of brands.

• For Samsung TVs, it's called SmartThings.
• For LG air conditioners, LG ThinQ.
• Music Center: Sony Music Center.

5. Configure macros and advanced functions

One of the key benefits of using a smartphone as a remote is the ability to create macros (sequences of commands) and customize advanced scenarios, such as one button that you can turn on the TV, switch it to the desired one. HDMI-login and launch Netflix.

How to set up a macro in Mi Remote:

1. Open the app and select a device (such as a TV).
2. Slip on the icon... (three dots) in the upper right corner.
3. Pick the Macros. → Create a new macro.
4. Add commands in the desired sequence (e.g.: Power → HDMI1 → OK).
5. Save the macro and assign it a button on the app’s home screen.

For more complex scenarios (e.g., managing multiple devices at once), use the Tasker app in conjunction with AutoRemote.

• 🕒 Run schedule commands (for example, turning off air conditioning at night).
• 📍 Manage geolocation equipment (turn on the heater when you drive up to the house).
• 🤖 Integrate the remote with voice assistants (Alice, Google Assistant).

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If you use macros often, add the Mi Remote widget to the main screen of your smartphone. To do this, press the free space on the screen → Widgets → find Mi Remote and drag it to a convenient place.

6. Update firmware to improve the operation of the IR remote

If the IR port is unstable, the reason may lie in an outdated firmware version. Xiaomi regularly releases updates that fix bugs with the infrared port, especially in regional MIUI builds.

How to update firmware:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If a new version is available, download it and install it. Importantly, before upgrading, make sure that your battery is at least 50%.

If automatic updates don’t help, try manual firmware installation:

• Download the latest stable version of MIUI for Redmi Note 8 (codenamed ginkgo) from the official Xiaomi website.
• Move the firmware file (.zip) to the root folder of internal memory.
• Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update → Three Dots → Select a firmware file.

⚠️ Note: When you manually upgrade, never use firmware for other models (e.g. Redmi Note 8 Pro or Redmi Note). 8T). This can lead to a blink (completely inoperable) of the device.Always check the code name (ginkgo for Redmi Note 8).

7. Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)

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If your Redmi Note 8 doesn’t manage the hardware even after all the settings, check the IR port at the hardware level. To do this, download the IR Blaster Test app and test the signaling. If the test fails, the port is faulty and needs repair.