Xiaomi’s modern Smart TVs are powerful multimedia centers that can not only stream high-resolution video but also run complex games. However, controlling games through a standard remote control is often uncomfortable and unintuitive, especially in dynamic genres like racing or fighting games, which is why connecting a full-fledged game controller becomes a necessity for a comfortable pastime.
The process of synchronizing the external manipulator with the Android TV operating system on which these TVs run can vary depending on the model of the gamepad itself and the version of the device’s firmware. You will have to choose between a wired and wireless connection, each of which has its own advantages. In this article, we will discuss all the stages of configuration in detail so that you can immediately start playing without unnecessary technical difficulties.
Before you start, make sure your TV is connected to the Internet to automatically install the necessary drivers or system updates. Also check the charge level on the connected device, as a discharged battery often causes unstable Bluetooth connection. Proper equipment preparation is the key to successful and fast setup.
Preparation of equipment and compatibility check
The first step is to determine the type of connection that your particular gamepad supports. Most modern controllers, such as DualShock 4, DualSense or Xbox Wireless Controller, work via Bluetooth protocol, which eliminates unnecessary wires. However, some budget models may require special USB-Adapter that is inserted into the TV port.
Note the operating system version of your Xiaomi Mi TV. Older versions of Android TV may not have built-in drivers for the latest controller models, in which case the system may simply not recognize the device, even if it is in pairing mode.
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Use the original. USB-cable for initial pairing if Bluetooth is not working – some controllers require wired confirmation when first activated.
If you plan to use a wired connection, make sure the cable length is sufficient for comfortable play on the sofa.Standard cables are often short, so you may need to purchase a USB Type-C or Micro-USB extension cord. Also check the free ports on the back or side of the TV.
- 🎮 Make sure the gamepad is compatible with Android or Android operating systems TV.
- 🔋 Charge the controller battery to at least 50% before the connection procedure begins.
- 📺 Check the TV ports for physical damage or contamination.
- 📶 Prepare the remote from the TV to navigate the system settings menu.
Wireless connection via Bluetooth
The most popular and convenient way is to use wireless connectivity. First, you need to put your controller in pairing mode. On Sony devices, this usually requires you to press the Share and PS buttons simultaneously, and on Xbox controllers, the sync button on the end of the case until the indicator flashes quickly.
Then take the remote from the Xiaomi TV and go to the main menu. You need to find the section responsible for peripherals. The path may vary slightly depending on the MIUI for TV shell, but most often it is in the general settings of the system. Find "Bluetooth" and activate scanning of new devices.
⚠️ Warning: Do not bring the gamepad too close to the Wi-Fi router or microwave oven during pairing, as this can cause radio interference and interrupt the device search process.
When the TV detects your gadget, its name will appear on the list of available devices. Press it with the remote to initiate the connection process. The system can request confirmation or automatically pair, after which the success notification will appear on the screen. Now the Bluetooth connection is installed and ready to go.
☑️ The algorithm of Bluetooth connection
Wired connection through USB-port
Using a cable provides minimal input latency, which is critical for competitive gaming. USB-cable to the gamepad and free port on the Xiaomi TV. Android system TV It is highly compatible and often recognizes class controllers. HID (Human Interface Device is automatically.
Unlike Bluetooth, you don't need to go through the search and pairing process, but if the device isn't immediately determined, try switching it to another device. USB-port, preferably one marked as USB 2.0, because they often have better compatibility with older data protocols.
If you use a powerful controller with backlight and vibration, this can put additional strain on the TV power supply, although in modern Xiaomi models this is rarely a problem.
| Type of connection | Delay (Latency) | Convenience | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth | Low/Mediocre | High (no wires) | Charged battery |
| USB wired | Minimum | Medium (limited cable) | Availability of a free port |
| USB Adapter | Minimum | High. | A specific dongle |
| Wi-Fi (Cloud) | Depends on the network. | High. | Stable Internet |
Setting up in the Android TV menu
Once the device is physically connected, software settings are often required. Go to Settings and select Device Settings. Here you need to find Accessory Adding or Bluetooth menus. If the device is already connected but not working correctly, try removing it from the list and pairing again.
In some cases, it may be necessary to install a third-party mapper app that reassigns commands to work properly. However, most modern games on the Google Play Store do not need this, as they have native support for standard controllers. Check the settings in the game itself by selecting the Gamepad control type.
If you use PatchWall TVs, interface navigation can also switch to joystick control, allowing you to use the left stick to navigate the menu, which makes content search much faster, and you'll have to pick up the standard remote again to turn it off.
⚠️ Note: After successful connection, it is not recommended to retrieve USB-Adapter or turn off the gamepad without first shutting down applications to avoid software failures.
What if the buttons work in reverse?
Addressing common problems
Often, users are faced with a situation where the TV sees the device but does not connect, in which case, try to reboot the TV completely, disconnecting it from the network for 10-15 seconds, which will clear the cache of the Bluetooth module and eliminate temporary software errors that may have accumulated during operation.
Another common problem is input delay or floating cursor, which can be due to a discharged controller battery or interference from other wireless devices, try to push the router or turn off unnecessary Bluetooth devices in the room, and check if the TV's RAM is overloaded with background processes.
If the gamepad stopped responding after the firmware update, the new version of the software may contain bugs, in which case it is worth checking the Xiaomi support forums or rolling back to the previous version of the system if possible, sometimes resetting the access settings in the developer menu helps.
- 🔄 Completely reset the TV by disconnecting from the socket.
- 🔋 Replace batteries or fully charge the wireless controller battery.
- 📡 Make sure there are no thick walls or metal barriers between the receiver and joystick.
- 🛠 Check for updates for a specific game app, not just a system.
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In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by completely restarting the TV or reconnecting the device to another device. USB-port.
Optimization of the gameplay
To maximize the enjoyment of playing on the big screen, it's important not only to connect, but also to adjust the image. Turn on Game Mode in your TV settings if it's available. This will turn off the extra software processing of the picture, reducing input lag to a minimum.
Also worth paying attention to the soundtrack. If you use Bluetooth headphones at the same time as a gamepad, make sure that the TV supports the simultaneous operation of two Bluetooth devices. Many Xiaomi models have this limitation, so sound can only be broadcasted through TV speakers or an external audio system.
Clean the paired list of devices in the Bluetooth menu regularly. Accumulation of old, unused profiles can slow down the communication module and cause conflicts when trying to connect a new accessory. Keep the ports clean and update the controller firmware via your PC if the manufacturer provides this option.