How to connect Xiaomi headphones to your phone: a step-by-step guide

Xiaomi’s current wireless headphones, whether popular AirDots, advanced FlipBuds, or classic Mi True Wireless, require initial synchronization with a smartphone to get started, a process that typically takes less than a minute, but sometimes users face delays in detecting the device or difficulties in first pairing. Understanding the basic principles of Bluetooth protocol will help avoid typical errors.

In this article, we will not only discuss the standard algorithm of actions, but also consider the nuances of connecting to different operating systems, including Android and iOS. We will also pay attention to special features, such as low-latency mode for games, which is activated through system settings or third-party utilities.

Preparation of headphones for the first turn on

Before you try to find a device in the list of available, you need to make sure that it is in active search mode. Xiaomi’s new headphones often go into pairing mode automatically when they are first removed from the case, if they are fully charged. However, if the device has previously connected to another phone, it will have to be switched to the (pairing) mode manually.

For most models, such as Redmi Buds or Mi AirDots, it is enough to remove both headphones from the charging case. Indicators should start flashing white or blue, signaling readiness for connection. If the indicators are not burning, check for protective film on the charging contacts or make sure that the case is not discharged.

In rare cases, when the automatic start does not work, forced activation of the search mode is required, usually by pressing the touch zone on the headphones for a long time or holding the functional button on the case of the charging case. Retention time varies from 3 to 10 seconds depending on the particular model.

• 🔋 Make sure that the case and headphones are charged at least 20% for stable operation of the communication module.
• 📦 Remove both headphones at the same time so they sync with each other before connecting to the phone.
• 👀 Watch the indicator: Fast blinking usually means search mode, and slow blinking usually means waiting for the connection.
• 🧼 Check charging contacts for oxidation or protective film if the headphones are new.

⚠️ Warning: If you’re trying to connect headphones that were previously used with another phone, first remove them from the Bluetooth list on the old device or reset them, otherwise the phone may not see them in search mode.

Standard pairing through Android settings

The Android operating system provides the most complete access to control Bluetooth devices. To start the process, you need to activate the wireless module in the notification curtain or through the settings menu. Once Bluetooth is turned on, the system will automatically start scanning the surrounding space for available gadgets.

The Available Devices list should show the name of your model, such as Mi True Wireless EBs Basic or Redmi Buds 3 Pro. Clicking on the name initiates a pairing request, at which point you may need to confirm the access code, although for modern audio devices this happens automatically without entering numbers.

After a successful connection, the device status will be marked “Connected” with the battery level if the model supports telemetry transmissions. The system may also offer to install an additional application for advanced control, but the basic functions work immediately.

Importantly, the data protocol can affect sound quality. In advanced Bluetooth settings available through the developer menu, you can choose your preferred codec, such as AAC, SBC or proprietary LHDC for high-end models.

• 📱 Open the Settings. → Bluetooth and make sure the switch is active.
• 🔍 Click on Device Search or New Device if the automatic scan hasn’t started.
• ✅ Select your model from the list and wait for the status "Connected».

Features of connecting to the iPhone (iOS)

Apple smartphone owners can also successfully use Xiaomi headphones, although the functionality can be slightly limited compared to Android. the connection process is standard: you need to go to Settings → Bluetooth and select the device from the list. However, iOS does not support some proprietary high-resolution codecs, switching to AAC.

For full management of settings such as equalizer, firmware update or touch control setup, iPhone owners are strongly advised to install the Xiaomi Earbuds or Mi Home app from the App Store. Without it, the headphones will work just like a regular headset.

The iOS interface can display the left and right headphones differently, sometimes the system shows the total percentage, and widgets show the detail. If the charge does not display correctly, try reconnecting the device or updating the companion app.

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For better connection stability on your iPhone, turn off the Auto Switch feature in Bluetooth settings if you’re using multiple Apple devices at the same time.

It’s worth remembering that Siri’s voice assistant can be activated with double-touch if the feature is configured in the app or supported hardware. Voice commands work clearly, as Xiaomi’s microphones are well-compatible with iOS voice standards.

Use of Xiaomi Earbuds and Mi Home

To unlock the full potential of Xiaomi headphones, you need to use specialized software. The Xiaomi Earbuds app (or Mi Buds M8 in different regions) allows you to customize the equalizer, change the assignment of touch commands and update the built-in software.

Once the app is installed and all the permissions required (geolocation, Bluetooth, notifications) are given, it will automatically find the connected headphones. The interface will display the exact charge level of each headphone and case, as well as the firmware version. Regular firmware updates are important for fixing connection bugs.

You can activate Low Latency, which is critical for mobile gamers, in the settings menu, which synchronizes sound with the image, minimizing the lags in shooter or rhythm games, and noise reduction (ANC) and transparency settings are also available.

Some features, such as noise reduction management, may not be available without an active internet connection when you first set up the app downloads the device profile from the cloud, so make sure the smartphone is connected to the network.

Developer mode and codec sound

For users who want to maximize sound quality, there's a hidden Android settings section available. To get there, you have to click on the build number several times in the About Phone section. You can find Bluetooth settings in the Developer menu.

You can force the transfer codec to choose from here. The standard SBC provides basic quality, AAC is optimized for Apple and most Android smartphones, and aptX or LHDC (for Xiaomi flagships) give the best result. The choice of codec depends on the support of the headphone model itself.

You can also change the Bluetooth zoom in this section, which can sometimes help solve problems with quiet sound or interruptions, but you should change these settings with caution, since incompatible codec can lead to no sound.

Changing the settings in the developer menu can affect power consumption: High-resolution codecs require more channel bandwidth and put the battery of both the phone and headphones down faster.

Problem Solving: Headphones are not connected

It's not uncommon for a phone to fail to see the headphones or refuse to pair, and most often the reason is that the headphones are already connected to another device within range. Bluetooth doesn't always allow instant switching between sources.

Another common problem is overflowing the list of stored devices in the phone's memory. If there are many old gadgets in the Bluetooth list, a new one may not be added. The solution is to clear the list by removing unnecessary profiles.

If nothing works, you need to reset your headphones to factory settings. Different Xiaomi models have different procedures: you need to pinch your sensors for 20 seconds, you need to use a button on your case, and after reset, you need to re-register your headphones on your phone.

• 🔄 Turn off Bluetooth on all other devices that may have previously been used with headphones.
• 🗑️ Remove the headphone profile from the list of paired devices on your phone and try to connect again.
• 🔌 Put the headphones in the case, close the lid and wait 10 seconds before trying again.
• 📡 Make sure the phone is not in flight mode and the Bluetooth module is not locked by the power saving system.

⚠️ Warning: Reset erases all user settings and communication breaks from previous devices. You will have to re-pair with your phone.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

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Connection stability depends on the firmware version of the headphones and the absence of interference from other Wi-Fi routers or powerful Bluetooth devices nearby.