Modern smartphones have powerful cameras, but to create high-quality selfies or group shots often lacks distance and stability. Monopods from Xiaomi have become a popular solution thanks to the combination of affordable price, aviation-grade aluminum alloy and convenient ergonomics. Properly connecting the device is the first step to obtaining the perfect shots without lubrication and jitter.
The process of pairing Bluetooth monopods usually takes only a few minutes, but users often have difficulty finding a device or setting up buttons. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to connect a Xiaomi monopod to your phone, look at the features of working with the Mi Home application and answer frequently asked questions.
Whether you’re using the classic wired model or the latest version with Bluetooth 5.0, the basic principles remain the same. The main thing is to make sure that your smartphone’s operating system is compatible with the accessory firmware version. All modern Xiaomi models (Mi Selfie Stick, Mi Selfie Stick Tripod, Mi Wireless Selfie Stick) use Bluetooth Low Energy protocol to transmit shutter commands.
Preparation of Xiaomi monopods for the first launch
Before you start pairing, you need to properly prepare the device. Xiaomi monopods come in a compact fold, and the control panel (button) can be hidden inside the handle or secured in a special groove. Remove the device from the package and make sure that the battery is charged. To charge, you usually use a Micro-USB or USB-C port located on the end of the handle.
It is important to check the status indicator, which reports the current mode of operation. If the indicator flashes blue, the device is in search mode and ready to connect. In some models, activation requires a short press on the main button or hold it for 3-5 seconds. Without activation of the pairing mode, the phone will not be able to detect the accessory.
⚠️ Warning: Do not forcefully push the telescopic tube apart if it is locked. Make sure the locks are unlocked so as not to damage the slip mechanism.
For stable operation, it is recommended to immediately update the firmware of the remote through the official application. This eliminates the shutter delay and adds support for new camera features. Older versions of the software may not work correctly with the latest Android and iOS updates.
Instructions for connecting Bluetooth monopods
The main method of connecting most models, such as the Mi Selfie Stick and Mi Wireless Selfie Stick, is via the standard Bluetooth interface. Open your smartphone settings and go to the wireless connection section. Make sure the Bluetooth module is activated and visible to other devices.
Press and hold the button on the monopod handle for about 3-5 seconds until the indicator blinks quickly. This means that the device has entered detection mode. On the phone screen, a name like Xiaomi Selfie Stick or Mi Bluetooth Shutter should appear on the list of available devices.
☑️ Checking before connection
Once the handle is successfully connected, the indicator on the handle will stop flashing and will burn with a steady light or slowly pulse. Now you can open the camera app and take a test shot by pressing the button on the monopod. If the photo is not taken, you may need permission to access the camera for the Bluetooth system service.
Set up through the Mi Home app
For advanced functionality and precise corner calibration (especially in electric models), the Mi Home ecosystem is used. Download the application from Google Play or the App Store and log in to your Xiaomi account. Add a new device by selecting the Photo and Video category or scanning QR-packet.
In the application interface, you can adjust the sensitivity of the gyroscope, the speed of rotation, and create automation scenarios. For example, a monopod can automatically rotate when a notification is received or start recording at a certain sound. These functions require constant active connection and permission to work in the background.
⚠️ Note: When you first run the application may request permission to determine the location. This is necessary for the Bluetooth scanner to work in Android, without this device search may not be possible.
The Mi Home interface also allows you to switch modes between Android and iOS, which changes the button combinations for zooming and switching cameras. Make sure you choose the right device profile for your operating system.
Features of connecting wired models
Some budget or specialty models can use a wired connection via a 3.5 mm connector or USB-C. In this case, Bluetooth is not required. Simply insert the plug into the corresponding slot of the smartphone.
When wired, the volume buttons on the monopod can be used to control zoom or switch cameras, depending on the settings of the camera app. If the buttons don't work, check if the phone is in Charge Only mode in the USB settings.
The wired connection provides minimal latency and does not require charging the monopod itself, since the power is taken from the phone. However, the length of the cable limits the angle of view and usability. For a selfie, this is ideal, since it eliminates the battery discharge of the smartphone via Bluetooth.
| Model monopod | Type of connection | Compatibility | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Selfie Stick | Bluetooth 4.0 | Android 4.4+, iOS 8.0+ | Aluminum case, 360° angle |
| Mi Selfie Stick Tripod | Bluetooth 5.0 | Android 5.0+, iOS 9.0+ | Built-in tripod, removable remote |
| Mi Wireless Selfie Stick | Bluetooth + Wi-Fi | Android 6.0+, iOS 10.0+ | Stabilization, 180° turn. |
| Yunteng VCT-1688 | Bluetooth / Wire | Universal. | Hybrid connectivity |
Solutions and Connection Problems
If the phone doesn't see the monopod, try restarting Bluetooth on your smartphone or forgetting the device in the paired list and repeating the procedure again. Often, cleaning the Bluetooth app cache in Android settings helps. Make sure the monopod isn't connected to another device nearby.
If the button doesn't take a photo, check the camera's app settings. Some third-party cameras don't support external control buttons. Try using the standard Camera app or Google Camera. Also make sure that the Bluetooth settings for the connected device are ticked with "Sound" and "Input" (HID).