How to set up Xiaomi headphones over Bluetooth: detailed instructions for all models

Xiaomiโ€™s wireless headphones are some of the most popular on the market for their combination of price, sound quality and functionality. However, even experienced users sometimes have difficulty initially setting up, connecting to different devices or activating additional features. In this article, weโ€™ll look at all the stages of tuning, from basic pairing to fine sound parameters and gesture control.

The peculiarity of Xiaomi headphones (whether AirDots, Buds or FlipBuds) is that they often require not only a standard Bluetooth connection, but also the installation of a proprietary Mi Earphones app to unlock the full potential. We will tell you how to avoid typical mistakes, for example, when one of the headphones does not connect or the sound is interrupted, and also give tips on optimizing your work on Android, iOS, Windows and even Smart. TV.

If you just bought a headphone or have problems after updating your firmware, this guide will help you understand all the nuances, starting with the simplest: how to turn on your headphones and prepare them for the first connection.

1. Preparing Xiaomi headphones for the first connection

Before you connect your headphones to your phone or other device, you need to activate them properly and pair them in a way that may vary slightly depending on the model, but the overall layout is the same for most Xiaomi devices.

First, take the headphones out of the case (if it's a case model) and make sure they're charged. The indicator on the case or the headphones themselves should be white or green, which means that the charge is sufficient to work. If the indicator is red or flashing, plug the case into the charger for 10-15 minutes.

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Charging the headphones: put them in a case and connect the case to the network. ~1.5 hours.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Factory reset: If the headphones have already connected to another device, a reset may be required (press the button on the case or headphones for 10-15 seconds before the indicator flashes).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Compatibility: Check if your device supports Bluetooth 5.0 or higher โ€“ this ensures a stable connection.

To transfer the headphones to pairing mode, perform one of the actions (depending on the model):

  • ๐ŸŽง For Xiaomi AirDots (all generations): get both headphones out of the case โ€“ they will automatically turn on and go into search mode.
  • ๐Ÿ”˜ For Xiaomi Buds 3/4 FlipBuds: Press the touchpad on both headphones on the 3 A few seconds until you hear the beep.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ For older models (such as Mi Basic): Press and hold the physical button on one of the headphones until the indicator flashes.

โš ๏ธ Note: If the headphones don't go into pairing mode, check if they're not completely discharged. Some models (AirDots Pro 2, Buds 3 Pro) require a minimum charge (at least 10%) to activate Bluetooth.

๐Ÿ“Š What Xiaomi headphone model you use?
AirDots (1/2/3 generation)
Buds (3/4/Pro)
FlipBuds
Another model
I haven't bought it yet.

2. Connecting to a smartphone on Android

The Android smartphone is the most common scenario, and it's important not only to connect the headphones properly, but also to configure them through the Mi Earphones app, which gives you access to advanced features.

Steps for connection:

  1. Open the Settings. โ†’ Bluetooth on your phone and make sure the module is on.
  2. Activate the pairing mode on the headphones (as described in the previous section).
  3. In the list of available devices, find the name of your model (for example, Mi True Wireless Earphones 2) and tap on it.
  4. Confirm the pairing if a request appears.

Once you have successfully connected, you can install Mi Earphones (available on Google Play) and it allows you to:

  • ๐ŸŽ›๏ธ Set up the equalizer (bass, high frequencies).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Update the firmware of headphones (critical for stable operation).
  • ๐ŸŽง Check the charge level of the case and each headphone separately.
  • ๐Ÿ‘† Customize control gestures (for example, double touch for pause).
Model headphonesSupported version of BluetoothDo you need an app for full functionality?
AirDots (1st generation)4.2No (the basic functions work without the application)
AirDots Pro 25.0Yes. ANC equalizer)
Buds 45.3Yes (for spatial sound)
FlipBuds Pro5.2Yes (for setting up) ANC gesture)

โš ๏ธ Note: Some Xiaomi smartphones (e.g. Redmi Note) 10/11) Headphones can connect automatically when you first turn on Bluetooth, if they are new. In this case, additional pairing is not required - just confirm the connection in the pop-up window.

Make sure Bluetooth is on on your phone |

Activate the pairing mode on the headphones |

Find headphones in the list of devices and connect|

Install the Mi Earphones app (if necessary)|

Check the sound in both headphones-->

3. Connection to iPhone (iOS) and features of the work

While Xiaomiโ€™s headphones are optimized for Android, they work well with the iPhone, but there are a few nuances: not all features (like gestures or other features) are included. ANC) It can be available without the app, and it is not officially supported on iOS.

Instructions for iPhone:

  1. Open Settings โ†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Activate the pairing mode on the headphones.
  3. In the list of Other devices, find the name of your model (for example, Mi True Wireless Earphones Basic 2) and tap on it.
  4. Wait for confirmation of connection (it can take up to 10 seconds).

On iOS, you can't:

  • โŒ Update the headphone firmware.
  • โŒ Set up an equalizer via Mi Earphones.
  • โŒ Use certain gestures (e.g. triple touching).

But the basic functions -- sound, microphone, pause/play -- will work smoothly. To check the microphone, call another phone or record a voice message.

๐Ÿ’ก

If the headphones connect to an iPhone, but only one of them has sound, try forgetting the device in the Bluetooth settings and reconnecting it, a common problem when pairing it for the first time.

4.Configure via the Mi Earphones app: a breakdown of all functions

Mi Earphones is the key to unlocking all the power of your headphones, available only for Android (requires version 6.0 and higher) and allows you to fine-tune the sound, control and even check the battery status.

Status of the device

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Shows the charge level of the case and each headphone.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Displays the current firmware version and offers an update if available.
  • ๐ŸŽง Checks the connection status (left/right headphone).

2. Sound effects

  • ๐ŸŽ›๏ธ Equator with presettings (bass, vocals, balance) or manual tuning.
  • ๐Ÿ”Š ANC (Active noise reduction โ€“ available in AirDots Pro 2, Buds 3 Pro, FlipBuds Pro.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Transparent mode โ€“ lets out external sounds for safety on the street.

3.Gestural control

In this section, you can reassign actions for touches or buttons (depending on the model):

  • โฏ๏ธ Double touch: pause/playback or call voice assistant.
  • ๐Ÿ“ž Triple touch: skipping track or disconnecting ANC.
  • ๐Ÿ”‡ Retention: Enabling transparent mode or turning off sound.

Important: Once you update your firmware through the app, the headphones can automatically reset your gesture settings. Check them after each update.

How to update the firmware through Mi Earphones?
1. Connect the headphones to your phone. 2. Open the app and go to the "Firmware Update" section. 3. If a new version is available, click "Update" and wait until it's finished (don't turn off Bluetooth!). 4. Once updated, the headphones will reboot automatically.

5. Connection to PC (Windows) and Mac

Using Xiaomi headphones with a computer is as easy as using a smartphone, but there are a couple of things to consider: Windows, for example, sometimes requires additional codec customization for stable sound.

For Windows 10/11:

  1. Turn on Bluetooth on your PC (via Start โ†’ Settings โ†’ Devices โ†’ Bluetooth).
  2. Activate the pairing mode on the headphones.
  3. In the list of devices, select your model and click Connect.
  4. After connecting, go to Control Panel โ†’ Sound and install the headphones as the default device.

For the Mac:

  1. Open System settings โ†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Click Connect next to the name of your headphones.
  3. In the audio menu (System settings โ†’ Sound), select the headphones as the output device.

If the sound is interrupted or interference is heard:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reconnect the headphones.
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Make sure there is no interference from other Bluetooth devices (such as a wireless mouse).
  • ๐Ÿ”ง In Windows Sound Settings, select the codec AAC or SBC instead of aptX (if available).

โš ๏ธ Note: On some Windows laptops, the headphones can connect as Headset instead of Stereo. To fix this, remove the device in Bluetooth Manager and reconnect.

6. Connecting to Smart TV and other devices

Modern Smart TV (For example, from Xiaomi, Samsung or LG) It supports Bluetooth headphones, which is convenient for watching movies without interference, but the process may vary depending on the TV model.

For Xiaomi TV:

  1. Open the Settings. โ†’ Bluetooth and devices.
  2. Turn on device search.
  3. Activate the pairing mode on the headphones and select them in the list.

For Samsung/LG TV:

  1. Go to Settings. โ†’ Sound. โ†’ Sound output โ†’ Bluetooth device.
  2. Select Add the device and connect the headphones.

If the TV doesn't find the headphones:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Check if yours is supported. TV Bluetooth 4.0 or higher.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Restart the TV and try again.
  • ๐Ÿ“ก If Bluetooth is not available, use a Bluetooth transmitter (connects to the audio output). TV).

Xiaomi headphones can also be connected to:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Game consoles (PS5, Nintendo Switch โ€“ Bluetooth adapter required).
  • ๐Ÿ’ป Tablets (iPad, Samsung Tab).
  • ๐Ÿš— Automagnets with Bluetooth support.

๐Ÿ’ก

To connect to game consoles (for example, PS5) You will need a separate Bluetooth adapter because they do not support direct synchronization with most headphones.

7. Solving common problems

Even after you set it up properly, users sometimes have the typical problems of one earbud not working, the sound is interrupted or the headphones are discharged quickly, and we'll look at the most common cases and how to fix them.

Problem 1: One earphone is not connected

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Check the charge of both headphones (possibly one is more discharged).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reset the headphone settings (press the button on the case for 15 seconds).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Remove the headphones from the list of Bluetooth devices on your phone and connect again.

Problem 2: The sound is interrupted or distorted

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Make sure there are no obstacles between the phone and the headphones (walls, furniture, etc).
  • ๐Ÿ”ง In Bluetooth phone settings, turn off Absolute Volume (on some Xiaomi smartphones).
  • ๐ŸŽต Try changing the codec in the developer settings (Settings) โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Build Number โ€“ tap 7 times to activate).

Problem 3: Rapid battery discharge

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Turn it off. ANC, If you donโ€™t need it, it will significantly reduce your work time.
  • ๐Ÿ“ด Close the case when you are not using headphones (they automatically turn off).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Update your firmware through Mi Earphones โ€“ newer versions often optimize power consumption.
Problem.Possible causeDecision
Headphones are not onBattery dischargedPut it in the case for 30 chargers.+ minute
The sound is only in one headphone.Synchronization failureReset the settings and connect again
Noises when talkingInterference from other devicesTurn off other Bluetooth devices nearby
The microphone is not working.Wrong Bluetooth profileIn your phone settings, select "Phone Call" instead of "Media"

โš ๏ธ Warning: If after all the manipulations, one of the headphones still does not work, check it on another device.

8 Additional Advice on the Use of

To make headphones last longer and delight with high-quality sound, follow these recommendations:

Headphone care:

  • ๐Ÿงผ Wipe the speakers and body with a dry wipe (do not use alcohol or wet wipes).
  • ๐Ÿšซ Avoid water even if the model has protection. IPX4 (It only protects against splashes).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Keep your headphones in your case โ€“ this prevents loss and mechanical damage.

Sound optimization:

  • ๐ŸŽต For music, use the equalizer settings in Mi Earphones (e.g., boost hip-hop bass).
  • ๐Ÿ”Š Turn off the calls. ANC โ€” It improves the quality of the microphone.
  • ๐ŸŽง In noisy places (metro, street) turn on transparent mode to hear the surrounding sounds.

Saving charge:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Turn off your headphones when not in use (even if they are in a case, they can slowly discharge).
  • ๐Ÿ“ต Turn off Bluetooth on your phone if the headphones arenโ€™t connected.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Update your firmware regularly โ€“ new versions often optimize your power consumption.

๐Ÿ’ก

If you often lose a case with headphones, attach a keychain with a Bluetooth tracker (for example, Xiaomi Mi Smart Tag) to it, which will help you quickly find it through the Mi Home app.

Following these tips will extend the life of your headphones and make them as comfortable as possible. If you are planning to buy a new model, look for the Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro or FlipBuds 2 โ€“ they offer the best value for money in 2026.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up Xiaomi headphones

Can you connect Xiaomi headphones to multiple devices at the same time?
Most Xiaomi models (with the exception of the FlipBuds Pro) do not support multi-point (simultaneous connection to two devices).To switch between a phone and a PC, you need to manually disconnect the headphones from one device and connect to another. In the future, Xiaomi may add this feature to new models.
How to reset Xiaomi headphones to factory settings?
The way you reset depends on the model: For AirDots and Buds: put your headphones in your case, then press the button on your case for 15-20 seconds until the indicator flashes red and white. For FlipBuds: pinch the touchpads on both headphones for 10 seconds. After reset, the headphones will automatically reboot and be ready for a new connection.
Why are Xiaomi headphones running out quickly?
Main causes: ๐Ÿ”‹ On. ANC Transparent mode (increases energy consumption by 20-30%). ๐Ÿ“ถ Weak Bluetooth signal (earphones spend energy on maintaining the connection). ๐Ÿ”Š High volume (speakers consume more power) To extend the running time, turn off unnecessary functions and keep the headphones closer to the signal source (for example, the phone in your pocket, not in your bag).
How to update the firmware on Xiaomi headphones?
The firmware update is only available through the Mi Earphones app: Connect your headphones to your phone. Open the app and go to the firmware update section. If a new version is available, click Update and wait until it's complete (don't turn off Bluetooth!). Updates usually improve connection stability, sound quality and battery life.
Can I use Xiaomi headphones for calls?
Yes, all Xiaomi models support phone call mode, but the quality of the microphone depends on the model: ๐ŸŽค AirDots and Buds (basic models): medium-quality microphone, suitable for short conversations. ๐ŸŽค AirDots Pro 2, Buds 3 Pro: improved noise-canceling microphones, suitable for long-term calls. ๐ŸŽค FlipBuds Pro: Best microphone quality in the line, optimized for conferencing. ANC Keep the microphone closer to your mouth.