How to use the IR port on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: the complete guide

What is an IR port and why it is needed in a smartphone

The infrared port in the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 is a built-in module that allows you to turn your smartphone into a universal remote control, which allows you to control TVs, air conditioners, music centers and other household appliances that support IR signals, the main advantage is that you do not need to search for native remotes or buy additional accessories.

Unlike Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, the IR port operates on a line of sight principle: the signal is transmitted only in range (usually up to 5-7 meters) and requires no obstruction between the smartphone and the device being controlled. This makes it reliable for home use, but limits the possibilities compared to smart protocols. In the Redmi Note 9, the IR port is located at the top of the case, next to the headphone jack.

It’s important to understand that not all Xiaomi models have an IR port, such as the Redmi Note 10 lineup that doesn’t have one, and the Redmi Note 9 Pro is still there. Check the specifications of your model before buying or using it, which will save you time and nerves.

How to check if there is an IR port on your Redmi Note 9

Before you try to set up an IR port, make sure it's actually in your device. In the Redmi Note 9 (M2003J15SC model for the global market), the module is present, but in some regional versions or modifications it may not be present.

• 🔍 External inspection: On the top end of the smartphone (near the 3.5 mm audio jack), there should be a small black or gray oval sensor, which may be barely noticeable, but in bright light it can be seen.
• 📱 Through Settings: Open Settings → Connected devices → Infrared port. If there is no partition, there is no port.
• 🛠️ Specifications: Check the official Xiaomi website or services like GSMArena by entering the exact model of your device.

If the IR port is missing, but you need to control the equipment from a smartphone, consider alternatives: Bluetooth remotes (for example, Xiaomi Mi Remote) or Wi-Fi devices with support for Mi Home or Google Home.

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse the IR port with a proximity sensor or a front camera. The IR port sensor looks like a small glass window, not like a lens hole.

How to turn on and configure an IR port on Redmi Note 9

The infrared port in Redmi Note 9 does not require a separate turn on – it is activated automatically when the application is first started for management.

1. Update MIUI: Make sure your smartphone has the latest firmware version installed. Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update.
2. Install Remote: By default, MIUI preinstalled the Mi Remote app. If it's not available, download it from Google Play.
3. Permit: When you first start, allow access to Camera (to scan devices) and Location (to identify regional remote databases).

Once installed, the app will automatically scan Xiaomi’s database and prompt you to add devices, so if your appliances are not recognized, you can manually select a brand and model from the list or use the training feature (discussed below).

Step-by-step: how to add a device to Mi Remote

Adding a new device to the Mi Remote app takes no more than 2-3 minutes.

1. Open the app and click on plus (+) in the upper right corner.
2. Choose the category of equipment: TV, air conditioning, DVD-player.
3. Specify a brand: for example, Samsung, LG or Gree. If your brand is not, choose Other.
4. Confirm the model: the app will offer multiple firmware options for your device. Choose one that works (if you're not sure, try it one by one).
5. Test the buttons: Press the Test and check if the technique responds to commands (e.g., on/off).

If the automatic search doesn’t work, use manual training:

• 🎯 Click Add Manually at the bottom of the screen.
• 🔄 Point the IR port of the smartphone on the remote from your equipment (distance 2-5 cm).
• 📱 Press and hold the button on your home remote until Mi Remote records the signal.

Save the device you have configured, and it will now be displayed on the app's home screen, and you can add a few remotes (like a TV and air conditioner) and swipe between them.

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If the app doesn't recognize your appliance, try to choose a brand from another country, for example, for Chinese air conditioners, Midea firmware is sometimes suitable even if your model is from another manufacturer.

Common Problems and Their Solutions

Despite the convenience, the IR port on the Redmi Note 9 can malfunction.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the app: Go to Settings → Applications → Mi Remote → Storage → Clear the data. After that, add the device again.

⚠️ Warning: Some cases with metallized inserts or magnets may block the IR signal. If problems started after buying a new case, check this out.

Hidden functions of the IR port: what Mi Remote can do

Mi Remote offers more features than it first appears, and here are a few hidden features that will make it easier to use:

• 🔄 Macros: You can create a chain of commands that can be executed at a single click, like turning on the TV, switching to the computer. HDMI-login and launch Netflix.
• 📱 Home screen widget: Add Mi Remote widget for quick access to frequently used devices without opening the app.
• 🌍 Cloud Sync: If you have multiple Xiaomi devices, remotes can be synced through your Mi Account.
• 🎮 Game mode: Some TVs have special buttons available to run games (e.g. Sony PlayStation).

To create a macro:

1. Open Mi Remote and select the device.
2. Press three points (⋮) top-right.
3. Pick the Macros. → Create a macro.
4. Add the commands in the desired sequence and save.

Macros are especially useful for home theaters, where you need to control the TV, receiver and projector at the same time, and you can also set off timers — for example, to turn off the air conditioner an hour after you go to bed.

Alternative applications for IR port management

If you don't like the standard Mi Remote app, you can use third-party software, which often offers a wider database or a user-friendly interface.

• 📺 ZaZa Remote: Supports more than 800,000 devices, has a learning feature and create your own remotes.
• 🌡️ SURE Universal Remote: Can manage smart devices via Wi-Fi and IR, integrates with Google Assistant.
• 🎵 Tango Remote: Specializes in music systems and home theaters.

When choosing an alternative application, pay attention to:

• Support for your Redmi Note 9 (not all programs work correctly with MIUI)
• Russian language (many Chinese applications do not have it)
• User reviews about the stability of the IR signal.

Third-party applications may require permission to access the IR port in system settings. If the application does not see the port, check the permissions in Settings → Applications → [Program name] → Permissions.

⚠️ Note: Some third-party apps may contain advertisements or collect data about the devices you use.

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The standard Mi Remote app is optimized for Xiaomi and usually runs more stable than third-party counterparts. Use alternatives only if the basic program does not cope with your technique.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the IR port on the Redmi Note 9