How to turn on and configure the IR port on Xiaomi Redmi 4X for home appliance management

The Xiaomi Redmi 4X is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2017, and is still in use today for its reliability and functionality. One of the hidden features of this model is the built-in infrared port (IR port), which allows you to turn the phone into a universal remote control for TVs, air conditioners, audio systems and other equipment, but many owners are not even aware of its existence or face difficulties when trying to activate it.

In this article, we will learn how to check for an IR port on your Redmi 4X, enable it through system settings or third-party applications, and configure control using the official Mi Remote app. We will focus on typical errors (for example, when the IR port is not detected or works with certain devices) and how to fix them. If you want to save money on buying separate remote controls or simply simplify the management of equipment in the house, this guide is for you.

Check the availability of an IR port on Xiaomi Redmi 4X

Before you try to turn on an infrared port, make sure your Redmi 4X model is equipped with one.The fact is that there are different versions of this smartphone (for example, for the Chinese and global markets), and not all of them have an infrared transmitter.

Here's how to check for it:

  • ๐Ÿ” External inspection: IR port on Redmi 4X It's located at the top of the body, next to the headphone jack (3.5 mm), and it looks like a little black glass window. If it's not there, your model probably doesn't support the function.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Check through Settings: Go to Settings โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Full specification. Sensors should have Infrared Port.
  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Using the app: Install any application to test sensors (e.g, CPU-Z Sensor Box and check if it is available IR Blaster's on the list.

If neither method has confirmed the presence of an IR port, then your Redmi 4X does not support this feature, in which case the alternative may be a Bluetooth remote or purchase an external IR adapter (for example, BroadLink RM4).

๐Ÿ“Š You have already tried using the IR port on your smartphone?
Yeah, it's working.
Yeah, but I couldn't set it up.
No, I didn't know about that function.
I don't have an IR port.

How to enable IR port in Android settings

You can't control the IR port directly through the Redmi 4X system settings -- unlike Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, there's no separate switch.

  1. Install the official Mi Remote app: The IR port automatically turns on when you first start this app. Download it from Google Play or Mi App Store (if you have global or Chinese firmware, respectively).
  2. Permissions Check: After installation, open Settings โ†’ Applications โ†’ Mi Remote โ†’ Permits and make sure that access to the Infrared Port is enabled.

If after installing Mi Remote, the application gives an error โ€œIPC port not detectedโ€, try the following steps:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reboot the phone.
  • ๐Ÿงน Clear the app's cache in Settings โ†’ Annexes โ†’ Mi Remote โ†’ Warehouse.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Check if the port is blocked by a cover or protective glass (especially if it covers the top of the case).

๐Ÿ’ก

If Mi Remote doesn't find your TV model, try picking the same brand of device from a different series. Often the control codes match.

Set up the Mi Remote app for managing machinery

Once the IR port is successfully activated, you have to configure the control of the specific devices, and let's look at the process in the case of a TV:

  1. Start Mi Remote and click โ€œAdd Deviceโ€.

If the application cannot determine the control codes, use the manual mode:

  • ๐Ÿ“บ In the "Televisions" section, select "Manual inputยป.

For other devices (air conditioners, audio systems), the process is similar, but additional settings may be required, such as the choice of operating mode (Heat, Cool, Fan) or temperature.

Install Mi Remote| Update firmware to the latest version | Clear the app cache | Make sure there are no physical barriers to the IR port | Check permissions to access the IR port-->

Compatibility of Xiaomi Redmi 4X with home appliances

The infrared port on Redmi 4X supports most popular brands, but there are some nuances: the following table is compatible with common devices:

Type of deviceSupported brandsNotes
TelevisionsSamsung, LG, Sony, Philips, Xiaomi, TCLSamsung may need to choose a model for 2015-2018.
Air conditionersDaikin, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Gree, HaierNot all modes (such as Ion or Turbo) can be supported.
Audio systemsYamaha, Pioneer, Sony, JBLSome models require manual code entry.
ProjectorsEpson, BenQ, XiaomiKeystone and Zoom may not work.

If your brand isnโ€™t on the list, try:

  • ๐Ÿ” Use universal codes (Mi Remote has a section called "Otherยป).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Update the code database in the application (in the Mi Remote settings there is an option to Update the list of devicesยป).
  • ๐ŸŒ Check regional settings: some codes are only available in the Chinese version of the app.
What to do if the IR port is unstable?
If the signal is interrupted or the device reacts with a delay, try: 1. Remove and re-add the device to Mi Remote. 2. Check the battery in the original remote (if it is discharged, the IR signal from the smartphone may not be recognized). 3. Make sure that the distance to the equipment does not exceed 5-7 meters, and there are no obstacles between the smartphone and the receiver. 4. Disable the energy-saving mode on the smartphone (it can limit the operation of the IR port).

Typical problems and their solutions

Even after setting up correctly, Redmi 4X users may encounter difficulties.

โš ๏ธ Note: If after the update MIUI The IR port stopped working, try to roll back to the previous firmware version or reset the Mi Remote app to the factory settings. In some cases, reinstalling the application with pre-cleaning data helps.

Problem 1: Mi Remote does not see the IR port.

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Solution: Check if the port at the core level is off. IR Blaster Test from Google Play.If the test shows an error, you may need to flash the device.

Problem 2: The buttons on the remote are not working properly (for example, the volume increases instead of switching the channel).

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Solution: In Mi Remote, select a different model from the list or manually select the code. Also check if the IR signal conflicts with other remotes in the room.

Problem 3: The IR port only works after the phone is restarted.

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Solution: This may be battery optimisation. Open Settings โ†’ Battery and productivity โ†’ Optimize the battery and turn it off for the Mi Remote app.

Problem 4: Some features (e.g., Smart) TV or 3D-regime.

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Solution: Redmi IR port 4X Supports only basic commands. Advanced features may require an original remote or a dedicated application (e.g., Peel Smart Remote).

๐Ÿ’ก

If none of these methods worked, check the integrity of the IR port with a test application (e.g. IR Tester), which may be physically damaged and require repair.

Alternative applications for technical management

If Mi Remote doesn't suit you, you can use third-party apps that often offer more extensive functionality, such as creating macros (sequences of commands) or managing over Wi-Fi.

Top.-3 alternatives:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Peel Smart Remote: Supports over 100,000 devices, there is a smart home mode for automation.
  • ๐ŸŽฎ Sure Universal Remote: Allows you to control not only the IR, but also the IR Wi-Fi/Bluetooth (for example, Xiaomi TV Or Amazon Fire Stick).
  • ๐Ÿ”ง IR Blaster (by ClockworkMod): For advanced users, supports manual frequency input and custom commands.

When choosing an alternative application, pay attention to:

  • ๐Ÿ”’ Security: Some applications request unnecessary permissions (e.g. access to contacts).
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Compatibility: Check user reviews with Redmi 4X.
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Paid Features: Free versions may have a limit on the number of devices.

Important: When using third-party applications, the IR port can drain the battery faster, as they often run in the background. Track the charge consumption in the Settings โ†’ Battery section.

How to extend the life of an IR port on Redmi 4X

An infrared transmitter is an electronic component that can fail over time. To avoid breakdown, follow these tips:

  • ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Avoid mechanical damage: do not drop the phone or press on the top of the case, where the port is located.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Control the temperature: Do not use the IR port when your smartphone overheats (for example, while charging or playing games).
  • ๐Ÿงผ Keep the port clean: wipe it with a soft napkin (without alcohol!) once every 2-3 months.
  • โšก Do not use uncertified charges: power surges can damage not only the battery, but also other components, including an IR transmitter.

If the IR port has stopped working, you can try to restore it:

  1. Reset your phone to factory settings (Settings โ†’ Additional โ†’ Restore and Reset).
  2. Flash the device through the Mi Flash Tool (for power users only!).
  3. Replacing the IR port with the Redmi 4X costs an average of 800-1 500 rubles (2026).

โš ๏ธ Warning: If you notice that the IR port has become worse after a phone drop or moisture hits, don't try to disassemble the device yourself. 4X The IR transmitter is soldered to the motherboard, and its replacement requires special equipment.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the IR port on Xiaomi Redmi 4X

Can IR port be used to manage equipment from other brands, such as Apple TV or Bose?
In theory, it does, but Mi Remote doesnโ€™t support Apple TVs or some premium audio systems (like Bose or Bang & Olufsen), and try apps like Sure Universal Remote or check compatibility on the manufacturerโ€™s website.
Why does the IR port only work with some devices in my home?
This is due to different IR protocols, for example, older Sony TVs (before 2010) can use unique codes that are not supported by the Redmi 4X. The solution is to try universal remotes or adapters like the BroadLink RM Pro+.
Can IR port be controlled via voice assistant (e.g. Alice or Google Assistant)?summary> Direct integration is not, but you can create a workaround: Set up control of equipment via Mi Remote. Create shortcuts for commonly used commands (e.g., "Enable TV") on the home screen. Use voice commands to run these shortcuts through Google Assistant (e.g., "OKay, Google, open Turn on TV"). Full automation will require a smart speaker (e.g. Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker) and the Home Mi app.
How to transfer remote settings from one Xiaomi phone to another?
Mi Remote doesnโ€™t have a customization export feature, but you can use a workaround: Take screenshots of device codes and save them to the cloud (like Google Photos); write down the sequence of devices added (brand โ†’ model โ†’ code); on a new phone, repeat the setting manually; Alternatively, use synced apps via account (like Peel Smart Remote).
Is it safe to use an IR port to manage ATMs or alarms?
No, it is strongly discouraged. Redmi 4X IR port is not designed to work with security systems, because: IR signals can be intercepted using special equipment. There is no data encryption (unlike RFID or Bluetooth LE). ATM and alarm manufacturers use proprietary protocols that are incompatible with smartphones. For such purposes, use only original remotes or certified devices.