How to connect Xiaomi AirDots 3 to iPhone via Bluetooth: full instructions with solutions to problems

Xiaomi AirDots 3 wireless headphones (or Redmi AirDots 3 in some regions) have become a popular choice due to the combination of high-quality sound, compact design and affordable price. However, many iPhone users face difficulties when connecting for the first time — devices are not in place, the sound is interrupted or one earphone does not work. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step synchronization algorithm for iOS, and also reveal the hidden Bluetooth settings in the iPhone that affect the stability of the connection.

Unlike Apple AirPods, which automatically connect to Apple’s ecosystem, AirDots 3 requires manual adjustment. But that doesn’t mean it’s a complicated process — just know a few key things: for example, why an iPhone can’t see headphones even in search mode, or how to reset AirDots 3 if they were previously paired with another device. We also tested compatibility with the latest iOS versions (including iOS 17.4) and identified the optimal codec for audio transmission.

Preparation of headphones Xiaomi AirDots 3 to connect

Before you start syncing with your iPhone, make sure the headphones are ready to connect. A common mistake users make is trying to connect to headphones that are in standby or discharged.

Here's what we need to do:

• 🔋 Charge the case and headphones, minimum charge level for successful connection — 30%. Check the charge can be on the indicator on the case: white light - charge higher 60%, orange — 30-60%, red-less 30%.
• 🎧 Remove the headphones from the case. They should automatically turn on (white light flashes). If this does not happen, press and hold the touchpad on each earphone for 3 seconds.
• 🔄 Reset previous connections (if the headphones have already been paired with another device). To do this, quickly press the touch panel of any headphone three times - you will hear the reset sound signal.

If the headphones flash red, it means they are in reset or discharged, in which case the connection to the iPhone will be impossible. Also note the firmware of the headphones - in older versions (up to 1.4.6) could be bugs compatible with iOS.

Step-by-step: how to connect AirDots 3 to the iPhone

Now, let's get to the main process. Follow the instructions carefully, the order of the action is important.

1. Activate Bluetooth on your iPhone. Go to Settings → Bluetooth and turn on the switch. Make sure Air Mode is off, it blocks all wireless connections.
2. Put both headphones back in the case. Open the cover. Press and hold the button on the back of the case for 5 seconds until the indicator flashes white and red alternately.

Find the headphones in the list of devices

iPhone

"Redmi AirDots_3_R"

"Redmi AirDots_3_L"

Confirm the connection.

0000

1234

If the headphones don’t appear on the list, try the following:

• 🔄 Reboot Bluetooth on iPhone: Disable and turn on the module again in the settings.
• 📱 Reboot your iPhone – sometimes system processes block your search for new devices.
• 🔌 Check the case: if the indicator on it does not blink, connect it to charging for 10 minutes.

Headphones charged (>30%)|

Bluetooth on iPhone enabled |

Headphones in pairing mode (blinking white/red)|

The case is open and is next to the iPhone-->

Customization of sound and microphone after connection

After successfully connecting Xiaomi AirDots 3 to the iPhone, it is recommended to optimize the audio settings for better perception. By default, iOS uses the AAC codec, which provides balanced sound quality and connection stability. However, in some cases, it is better to manually choose SBC (for battery saving) or aptX (if your iPhone supports it).

How to change the settings:

1. Open the settings → Bluetooth on the iPhone.
2. Press the badge. ℹ️ near the Redmi AirDots_3.
3. In the Audio section, select your preferred codec (if the option is available).
4. Activate the "Use for calls" option if you plan to talk through headphones.

To improve the sound quality, you can also:

• 🎵 Enable the Equator in the Music or Spotify app (we recommend preset "Basic Boost" for AirDots 3).
• 🔊 Turn off "Noise Reduction" in the special features settings if the sound seems muffled.
• 📞 For calls, activate Transparent Mode (if supported) to better hear the interlocutor in a noisy environment.

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If you hear a hissing sound at high volume, reduce the sound level on your iPhone to 80% – this is due to the limitations of the Bluetooth AAC codec.

Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even after a successful connection, Xiaomi AirDots 3 users may face typical problems.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting your network settings on your iPhone: Settings → Basic → Resetting or Resetting iPhone → Resetting your network settings. This will delete all stored Bluetooth devices, but often resolves connection issues.

How to Update AirDots 3 Firmware for Better iPhone Compatibility

The manufacturer regularly releases firmware updates for Xiaomi AirDots 3, which improve the stability of the connection with devices on iOS. the latest current version at the time of 2026 is 1.7.2, which fixes bugs with automatic reconnection and supports the aptX Adaptive codec (for iPhone with an A12 chip and later).

To update the firmware:

1. Download the official Mi Home or Xiaomi Wear app from the App Store.
2. Connect the headphones to the iPhone via Bluetooth.
3. Open the app and go to Devices → Headphones → Settings → Firmware update.
4. If an update is available, follow the instructions on the screen. Don't interrupt! This can take up to 10 minutes.

After the update, the headphones will automatically restart. You can check the current version of the firmware in the same application or by a combination of taps on the touch panels (5 times quickly press the right earphone).

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The firmware update via the Mi Home app is only available for iOS 14 and later. On older versions of iOS, use your Android smartphone to upgrade.

Xiaomi AirDots 3 compared to other models for iPhone

If you’re choosing between Xiaomi AirDots 3 and other wireless headphones for iPhone, there are a few key options to consider: iOS compatibility, sound quality and usability. We compared AirDots 3 to popular alternatives:

Xiaomi AirDots 3 favorably differ in price/quality ratio, but inferior to Apple AirPods in integration with iOS (for example, there is no automatic switch between Apple devices), but they support aptX, which gives an advantage in sound quality on compatible iPhones (models with an A12 chip and newer).

Tips for extending the life of headphones

To make Xiaomi AirDots 3 last longer, follow these guidelines:

• 🔋 Charge the case correctly: use the original cable USB-C Avoid fast charging with higher power. 10W — It reduces the battery life.
• 🧼 Clean your headphones once a week with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol (do not use water.
• 🌡️ Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not leave your headphones in the sun or in the cold (below 0)°C) Optimal range: 10-35°C.
• 📵 Keep it in a case when not in use – it protects against dust and mechanical damage.

It's also worth turning off automatic firmware updates in the Mi Home app if you're not having trouble with your headphones.Some updates may be detrimental to iOS compatibility.

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If the headphones start to discharge faster, complete a full discharge/charging cycle: discharge them to 0%, then charge the case to 100% without interruption. This helps calibrate the power controller.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting AirDots 3 to iPhone