Modern Xiaomi Mi TVs and Redmi TVs often come with advanced Bluetooth voice control, but there are times when the device stops responding to commands, the batteries run out at the wrong time, or you just bought a new accessory to replace the lost one, in which case the standard button press may not work, and the user has to look for ways to force synchronization.
The connection process depends on your TV model and the type of remote control. Some remotes use a classic infrared port that does not require complex configuration, while more advanced voice search models need to pair through the system menu. Understanding the type of your device is the first step to successfully solving the problem.
In this guide, we will take a look at all the pairing methods available, from automatic detection to manually configuring through hidden menus, how to use a smartphone as a temporary remote, and what to do if standard methods fail, and the main thing is not to panic, because in 99% of cases the problem is solved by a simple sequence of actions.
Definition of the type of remote and preparation of equipment
Before you start to take action, you need to visually inspect your remote and understand how it works. Most modern Xiaomi models are equipped with hybrid remotes that can work through both infrared port and Bluetooth. If there is a microphone icon or voice input button on the body, then a Bluetooth connection is required for these functions to work fully.
First, check the batteries. Even if the remote is new, the batteries may have run out during storage. Use only high-quality alkaline batteries, because lithium analogs can produce voltage that the TV system perceives incorrectly, insert them while observing polarity, and make sure that the contacts in the compartment are not oxidized.
⚠️ Warning: Do not mix old and new batteries, as well as different types of batteries (salt and alkaline) this can lead to leakage of the electrolyte and damage to the electronics of the remote control.
If you plan to use your smartphone to set up, make sure it's connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the TV.Some methods will require installing the official Mi Remote or Xiaomi Home app. Also prepare the remote itself: if it was previously paired with another device, you may need to reset it.
Automatic pairing of Bluetooth-based remote
The most common way to connect the original voice control is to automatically sync when you turn on your TV. When you first turn on the new Xiaomi TV or after resetting, the system goes into peripheral search mode.
To start the process, press two buttons simultaneously: Home and Back (arrow to the left). Hold them for about 5-10 seconds by pointing the remote towards the bottom of the TV, where the reception module is usually located.
If a device is detected on the TV screen, confirm the pairing by pressing OK. The system will automatically set the required drivers and profiles. Once the process is completed, you will hear a characteristic audible signal, and the cursor on the screen will respond to movements if the remote supports air-mouse.
☑️ Checklist of successful pairing
In rare cases, automatic search may not start immediately. Try turning off the TV with a button on the case (not from the socket) and turning it on again, repeating the procedure with the buttons. Sometimes the system requires several attempts to initiate the Bluetooth module.
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The key is the exact distance: keep the remote 10-20cm away from the Xiaomi logo while pairing.
Manual setting through the system menu
If the automatic mode didn’t work, you can manually connect through the Android TV operating system settings. This method is especially useful if you have a working but uncomfortable remote, or use a keyboard/mouse for navigation.
Go to the settings menu by selecting the gear icon in the upper right corner of the home screen. Find Settings → Remotes & Accessories. This menu displays all connected devices. Click Add Accessory or Add Accessory.
The TV will go into active scanning mode, at which point you need to put your remote in pairing mode. For most Xiaomi and Redmi models, you need to press the menu and back buttons simultaneously, or voice search and settings. The combination may vary depending on the revision of the device.
| Model remote control | Button combination | Indication | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard BT | Home + Back | Blink blue | 2 meters |
| Gamer/Pro | M + Settings | Fast blinking. | 1 metre |
| Universal. | TV + OK button | Persistent light | 3 meters |
| Old models | Long press OK | No indication. | 0.5 meters |
When the remote name appears on the list of available devices on the TV screen, select it and press OK to confirm. The system may request permission to access the microphone if the remote is equipped with this feature. After the procedure, check all buttons, including volume control.
What if the remote is not visible on the list?
Using a Smartphone as a Remote Control
In a situation where the original remote is lost or broken and the new one is not yet connected, the only way to control is the smartphone.The Android TV operating system installed on Xiaomi TVs has built-in support for remote control over Wi-Fi.
Download the official Google Home app or the specialized Mi Remote (for IR-ported phones) from the Play Market or App Store. Make sure your phone and TV are on the same local network. Open the app and click on the add device or search remotes button.
The app will scan the network and suggest you connect to your TV, and the TV screen may have a confirmation code that you need to enter on your smartphone, and once you pair it successfully, the phone's interface will become a full-fledged remote with a touchpad, keyboard and media control buttons.
⚠️ Note: Wi-Fi control may have a small delay (lag) compared to a Bluetooth remote.This is normal for network protocols and is not a hardware malfunction.
This method is also convenient for entering text, for example, when searching for movies or entering passwords from Wi-Fi. Virtual keyboard on the smartphone screen significantly speeds up this process compared to repeatedly pressing buttons on a conventional remote.
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If the app doesn’t see the TV, check your router settings: AP Isolation must be disabled, otherwise devices on the same network won’t “see” each other.
Solving Connection Problems and Resetting Settings
Sometimes the connection process may not go smoothly due to software failures or interference. If the remote has stopped responding or connections are constantly broken, try resetting the Bluetooth TV fully, and this will not delete your applications, but update the list of associated devices.
To do this, go to Settings → About TV → Reset (or Factory Reset if other methods do not help). A softer option is to simply disconnect the TV from the power grid for 1-2 minutes, which will discharge the capacitors and reset temporary errors of the communication module.
Also worth checking for firmware updates. Manufacturers often release patches that fix peripheral compatibility issues. Go to Settings → About TV → System Update and run the check.
If nothing helps, there may be a problem with the hardware of the remote or receiver in the TV, and try connecting a third-party Bluetooth keyboard or mouse, and if they're stable, that's the problem with the remote.
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Router reboot often solves management problems through the application, as it updates DHCP-leases and eliminates the problem. IP-Local network conflicts.