How to connect the remote to the Xiaomi TV without the remote: the complete guide

When a regular remote suddenly stops working or is lost, it can take anyone who owns a smart TV by surprise. Unlike older models with mechanical buttons, modern Xiaomi Mi TV and Redmi TV often lack a full control panel on the case, leaving the user one-on-one with a black screen. However, the lack of a physical remote control is not a reason for panic, since the Android TV ecosystem and the PatchWall shell provide several alternative methods of input commands.

There are many ways to regain control of your device using gadgets you probably have at hand: you can turn your smartphone into a universal controller, connect a regular computer peripheral, or take advantage of the features of HDMI-compatible devices. It is important to understand which method will suit your particular model, whether it is a global version or Chinese imports, as support for protocols may differ.

In this article, we will take a look at all the current options for connecting alternative control, from the simplest software solutions to hardware hacks. We will look at the nuances of setting up Bluetooth pairing, working over a Wi-Fi network and using external drives to install the necessary applications. Follow the instructions to quickly bring the TV back to life.

⚠️ Before you start any manipulations, make sure that the TV is connected to the mains and is in working condition (standby indicator burns), even if the screen is black.

Using a Smartphone as a Universal Remote

The most affordable and functional way to manage is to use a mobile application. Android and iOS smartphones can emulate the operation of an IR transmitter or transmit commands over a local Wi-Fi network. For Xiaomi and Redmi TVs with Android TV operating system, this is a standard feature that does not require complex configuration.

If your phone has an integrated infrared port (IR Blaster), you can use the Mi Remote app, which is often pre-installed on Xiaomi devices. In this case, the TV and smartphone do not need to be on the same network, line of sight is enough. If there is no IR port, you will need a Google Home app or Android TV Remote Control that works over Wi-Fi.

The Wi-Fi setup process requires both devices to be on the same local area network, and this is a critical point: if a router distributes 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks with different names, make sure that the TV and phone are connected to one of them. After launching the Android TV Remote Control app, click Device Search.

The TV will have four-digit code that you need to type into your smartphone, and once you confirm the pairing, the phone screen will turn into a touchpad, and you'll also have buttons to control volume and media functions, which allows you not only to switch channels, but also to fully type text in the search bar, which is much more convenient than poking buttons on the remote.

• 📱 Download the official Android app TV Remote Control from Google Play or App Store.
• 📡 Connect your smartphone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network (the same) SSID).
• 🔢 Enter. PIN-code displayed on the TV screen, in the application on the phone.
• 🎮 Use the on-screen trackpad to navigate the PatchWall interface.

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If the TV is not visible in the list of available devices, try temporarily disabling the “AP Isolation” function in your router’s settings.

Connection USB-keyboards and mice

The versatility of the Android platform allows you to connect standard computer peripherals to the TV through the Internet. USB-This is one of the most reliable ways if the Wi-Fi network is not available or the application on the smartphone is not running. USB-Dongle) mouse and keyboard instantly recognized by the system.

When you connect your mouse, you'll have a cursor on your screen, which makes it easy to navigate through menus, select apps, and enter passwords. The keyboard takes over navigation functions: arrows replace direction buttons, Enter works as an OK button, and Alt + Tab or special multimedia keys can emulate a menu return or call.

For wireless sets using a single USB-So if you're going to get a receiver, the process is as simple as possible: you plug it into the free port of the TV, and in a few seconds, the devices will be ready to go. If you only have a Bluetooth keyboard, you can try to connect it through the Settings menu. → Devices → Bluetooth, but this will still require initial access to the menu, which can be obtained, for example, through the Internet. HDMI-CEC.

Keyboards are particularly effective for typing text in a YouTube search engine or browser. Many users note that typing queries from a physical keyboard is much faster and more accurate. In addition, some keyboard models have special buttons for managing media that can duplicate the functions of the remote.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi TVs usually give out insufficient voltage to power powerful USB-Use only low-consumer peripherals or connect devices through USB-feed-in.

Control via HDMI-CEC and game consoles

HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) technology allows devices connected via HDMI to control each other. If you have a game console (PlayStation, Xbox), an Apple TV or an Android box, you can use their remotes to control the TV itself.

On Xiaomi TVs, this feature is often called Mi Remote or simply HDMI Control. If it was turned on earlier, then when the console is turned on, the TV will automatically switch to the desired input, and the console remote will be able to adjust the volume and on / off the screen, this creates a single management ecosystem without having to look for a native DU.

Owners of PlayStation 4/5 or Xbox consoles can use standard gamepads or special media remotes, which often come with the bundle. Once activated by the CEC, navigation on the TV menu becomes available through the console interface, which is especially convenient if the main remote is lost and the smartphone is discharged.

Installation of applications through USB-accumulator (ADB)

If standard methods don’t fit, you can go the advanced user’s way and install a third-party control app directly onto the TV through the TV. USB-This method requires that the TV be allowed to install applications from unknown sources. APK Remote Control for Android, for example, CetusPlay or Remote Control for Android TV.

Download first. APK-You put it on your computer and you put it on a flash drive. USB-The TV port: Using a file manager (if you have one on the system) or a previously connected mouse, find the file and start the installation. Once installed, the app will allow you to control the TV over Wi-Fi, even if the standard Google service does not work.

For a deeper setup, you can use debugging on ADB (Android Debug Bridge. If you have developer mode on your TV, you can connect to it from your computer over the network and install the app as a team. IP-TV addresses, which can be found in the router menu or through the application on the phone, if it somehow sees the network.

adb connect 192.168.1.XX:5555


adb install remote_control.apk

Using third-party launchers or control utilities can extend functionality, such as some apps that allow you to create macros or control your TV via smartphone voice commands with greater accuracy than standard tools. APK-files so as not to introduce malware.

• 💾 Download. APK-Control application file (e.g., CetusPlay) on PC.
• 🔌 Write the file down. USB-flash drive formatted in FAT32.
• 📺 Insert the flash drive into the TV and find the file through the built-in file manager.
• ⚙️ Allow installation from unknown sources in the window that appears.

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Installing a third-party APK via USB is the only way to get a remote if standard Google services are blocked or not working in your area.

Hardware reset and joystick button

As a last resort, if software methods are unavailable and the remote is lost, you can try to use hidden controls on the TV body. Many Xiaomi Mi TV models have a small joystick or button under the logo, which is usually hidden or requires pressing with effort. It is designed for basic control.

Single tapping of this button often causes a signal source menu or a simple settings menu. Holding the button for 5-10 seconds can trigger the Factory Reset process.This is a radical method that will delete all your data, accounts and settings, but return the TV to the "out of the box" state, where initial settings are sometimes possible without a remote (via a phone).

The location of the button varies: some models have it at the bottom of the center, others have it at the side of the back. Be careful when pressing the case so as not to damage the matrix. If the button does not respond, it may be locked software or physically absent in your revision.

⚠️ Warning: Resetting to factory settings will remove all installed apps and logins. Use this method only if other methods do not help and you are ready to reconfigure the TV.

Purchase of a universal IR panel or adapter

If none of the software methods are suitable, the most reliable solution is to buy a replacement. Universal remotes with support for Xiaomi codes are inexpensive and available in any electronics store. Before buying, make sure that the remote supports the Android TV protocol, not just the usual TV functions (on, volume).

The alternative could be to buy. USB Or a Bluetooth adapter for the remote. Some universal DUs are sold with a USB-So you can use whistles that are inserted into the TV and emulate the keyboard, and that bypasses the problem of not having an IR receiver or having problems with Bluetooth connectivity.

Also worth considering is the original Mi Bluetooth Voice Remote, which can be ordered online or purchased from a service center, and is usually automatically paired at close distance to the TV while on, but sometimes requires a combination of buttons (usually Home + Back at the same time).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)