Xiaomi TVs are some of the most popular smart TVs on the market due to the combination of price, quality and functionality. But even with such devices, sometimes problems arise: for example, the remote control (DU) stops working after resetting, changing batteries or buying a new universal remote. In this article, we will discuss how to correctly prescribe a remote control for a Xiaomi TV, including original and third-party models, and what to do if synchronization fails.
The process of binding the remote depends on the type of device: the original Bluetooth remote (as in the Mi TV 4S/5 Pro) synchronizes differently than the IR remote (for example, from Redmi Smart TV). It is also important to consider the firmware version - in new updates MIUI TV algorithm can change. We will look at all the current methods, including manual tuning, resetting the connection and diagnosing malfunctions.
If you bought a universal remote (for example, Xiaomi Mi Remote or a model from another brand), it can also be tied, but you will need to enter special codes. Below you will find a code table for popular TV models and instructions for their use.
1. How to determine the type of remote of your Xiaomi TV
Before you start setting up, you need to understand what type of remote is used in your model, and the synchronization method depends on this:
- πΆ Bluetooth remote - works without line of sight, connects as a wireless device, used in most modern models (Mi) TV 4A/4S/5/5 Pro, Mi TV Q1/Q2).
- π¦ Infrared (IR) remote - requires direct visibility, works through an infrared port, more often found in budget series (Redmi Smart). TV, old Mi models TV 3).
- π Universal remote β can support both types of connections, but requires manual tuning.
To find out the type of remote:
- Look at the bottom of the remote β if thereβs a Bluetooth label or a BT logo, itβs a Bluetooth model.
- Check for an infrared emitter (a small glass window at the top).
- Look at the manual for the TV or find a model on the Xiaomi website β the specifications always indicate the type of control.
If you're not sure, try this test: point the remote to your smartphone camera and press any button. If you see a flashing light in the lens, it's an IR remote. If nothing flashes, but the remote works, it's probably Bluetooth.
2. Linking the original Bluetooth remote to Xiaomi TV
The original Bluetooth Remotes sync to the TV automatically when you first turn on, but if the connection is lost (for example, after resetting or replacing batteries), you will need to re-assign.
βοΈ Preparation for synchronization of Bluetooth-based remote
- Reset your current connection (if the remote has previously been paired): Go to Settings β Bluetooth and Devices β Remote and select Delete Device.
- Activate the pairing mode: Press and hold the Menu + OK buttons on the remote simultaneously for 5 seconds until the indicator starts flashing.
- Search for remote on TV: In the Settings β Bluetooth and Devices menu, select Add Device.The TV should find a remote called Mi Remote or Xiaomi RCxxx.
- Confirmation of connection: Press OK on the TV when the pairing request appears. The indicator on the remote will stop blinking - the connection is established.
If the TV doesn't find the remote, try:
- π Replace the batteries in the remote (even if they seem to work).
- πΆ Restart the TV (Settings) β On TV. β Reboot).
- π Update the TV to the latest version.
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If some buttons do not work after pairing (for example, volume control), try resetting the remote to the factory settings: press Back + Home for 10 seconds.
3. IR remote synchronization with Xiaomi TV
Infrared remotes (like Redmi Smart TV) don't require pairing -- they're point and press. But if the remote doesn't respond, you may have lost the settings or need to reprogram. Here's how to fix this:
- Check the remote: Point the remote to a smartphone with the camera on and press any button. If you see a blink in the lens, the remote is good.
- Resetting the IR port settings on the TV: Go to Settings β Devices β DU remote β Resetting IR settings.
- Manual code setting (if the remote is universal): Hold the Setup (or Set) on the remote until the indicator blinks, then enter the code for Xiaomi (see the table below).
| Model TV set | Code for the IR remote | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4A/4S (2018β2020) | 0178, 0180 | Suitable for most universal remotes |
| Redmi Smart TV X50/X65 | 0195, 0211 | Re-entry may be required |
| Mi TV 5 Pro | 0205, 0183 | For remotes with 4K support |
| Mi TV Q1/Q2 (2021β2023) | 0220, 0176 | Requires an updated firmware |
If none of the code works, try auto-search:
- Hold the Setup on the remote until you blink.
- Press 9-9-1 (for most universal remotes).
- Point the remote to the TV and press Power every 2 seconds until the TV turns off.
- Save the code by pressing OK or Setup.
What if the IR panel only works from a close range?
4. Linking the universal remote to Xiaomi TV
Universal remotes (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Remote Universal or models from Huayu, One For All) support Xiaomi TV, but require manual tuning.
- Brand Selection: Find the Brand (or Set) button on the remote and hold it until the indicator blinks. Then enter the Xiaomi code from the instructions or table above.
- Checking the health: Press Power β if the TV reacts, the setup was successful.
- Customize additional buttons: Some features (such as starting Netflix or adjusting HDR) may not work, in which case you will need to program each button separately (see the remote manual).
If the universal remote doesnβt find Xiaomi in the list of brands, try:
- π Use codes for Android TV (e.g. 0171, 0184).
- π± Install an app from the remote manufacturer (for example, Mi Home for Xiaomi Mi Remote) and perform the setup via your smartphone.
- π Update the remote firmware (if supported).
π‘
Universal remotes often do not support voice control and quick access buttons (for example, Prime Video or YouTube).
5. Problem Solving: The remote is not tethered
If none of these methods worked, the reasons and solutions are:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The remote is not on the list of Bluetooth devices | Firmware failure or conflict with other devices | Reset the network settings (Settings β Network β Reset) and repeat pairing |
| The IR panel only works from a close distance. | Weak signal or contamination of the IR port | Wipe the remote transmitter and receiver on TV with alcohol, replace the batteries |
| Buttons react with a delay | Overload Bluetooth connection | Disable other Bluetooth devices (earphones, gamepads) and reconnect the remote |
| The remote is tethered, but it's not working. | Firmware incompatibility | Update TV to the latest version of the software (Settings β About TV β System Update) |
If the problem persists, try a hard reset of the TV:
- Turn off the TV for 1 minute.
- Press and hold the Power button on the TV for 15 seconds.
- Connect the power and re-tether the remote.
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After resetting the TV, you may need to reset your Wi-Fi and log in to your Xiaomi account.
β οΈ Note: Do not use the Reset button on the back of the TV to reset β this will result in complete data loss and require flashing through the service center.
6. Alternative ways to control Xiaomi TV without remote control
If the remote is lost or broken, you can control the TV in other ways:
- π± Mi Remote app (available for Android and iOS):
Third-party apps such as Unified Remote or Yatse will also be suitable for smartphone management, but they require a local network connection setup.
7. How to protect the remote from repeated failures
To avoid problems with the remote in the future, follow these recommendations:
If you use a universal remote, save the setting codes in a safe place (such as in notes on your phone).
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The original Xiaomi remotes are designed for 2-3 years of active use. If the remote starts to "glutch" more often than once a month, consider buying a new one - repairs will cost more.