Connecting Xiaomi Airdots 3 Pro to a smartphone: full instructions with error solutions

Xiaomi Airdots 3 Pro wireless headphones have become a popular choice due to the combination of high-quality sound, convenient design and affordable price. However, even with such devices, users sometimes have difficulties when connecting for the first time – especially if it is a non-standard scenario (for example, connecting to multiple devices or after resetting). In this article, we will analyze all possible ways of pairing, including nuances for different operating systems, and give recommendations for adjusting the sound and eliminating typical errors.

It’s important to understand that Airdots 3 Pro supports Bluetooth 5.2, which provides stable connectivity and low power consumption. However, some features (such as Dual Device Connection or Game Mode) may require additional manipulation in the settings of the smartphone. If you are experiencing problems, do not rush to return your headphones to the store: 90% of the time the solution lies on the surface.

1. Preparation of headphones for the first connection

Before you start pairing, you need to make sure that the headphones Xiaomi Airdots 3 Pro are in the device search mode.

  • πŸ”‹ Charge the case to at least 30% – with a discharged battery, the indicator may not display the correct connection status.
  • 🎧 Remove the headphones from the case – they should automatically turn on (you will hear a beep).
  • πŸ”„ Activate pairing mode: Press the touch panels on both headphones simultaneously for 5-7 seconds until the indicators start flashing red and white.

If the lights flash only white, the headphones have already been paired with another device, in which case they should be reset (instructions in the next section). LED-Case indicator: If it burns red, it signals a low charge level, which can interfere with stable connection.

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If the headphones don’t respond to touch, try cleaning the touch panels with a dry wipe – fat or moisture can block the response.

2. reset Airdots 3 Pro settings to factory

If the headphones have been previously connected to another device or are not working properly, a complete reset may be required, which removes all stored Bluetooth profiles and returns the device to factory settings.

  1. Place both headphones in the case and close the lid.
  2. Open the case cover and hold the button on the back for 15-20 seconds until the indicator flashes red and white.
  3. Remove the headphones from the case - they will automatically go into pairing mode.

After reset, the Airdots 3 Pro headphones will appear in the list of available devices as Mi True Wireless Earphones 3 Pro. If the name does not appear, try rebooting the Bluetooth module on your smartphone (turn it off and turn it on again in the settings).

What to do if the reset button does not work?
If after a long hold of the button the indicator does not flash, check: 1) Case Charge (plug to charge for 10 minutes). 2) Integrity of contacts inside the case - sometimes oxidation interferes with proper operation. 3) Try to reset the headphones separately: remove one earpiece, hold the touch panel for 10 seconds, then repeat for the second.

3. Step-by-step connection to an Android smartphone

The process of pairing with Android devices (including smartphones Xiaomi, Samsung, Realme and others) takes no more than a minute.

  1. Open Settings β†’ Bluetooth on your smartphone and activate the module.
  2. Make sure the Airdots 3 Pro headphones are in pairing mode (flashing red and white).
  3. In the list of available devices, select Mi True Wireless Earphones 3 Pro and confirm your connection.
  4. After successful pairing, the indicators on the headphones will light up in blue (left) and white (right).

On some firmware (for example, MIUI 14+) after connecting, a pop-up will appear with a suggestion to install the Mi Earphones branded application. Its installation is not required, but it is recommended for accessing advanced settings (equalizer, gestures, firmware update).

Headphones are displayed in the list of connected devices|The sound is played synchronously in both headphones.|Indicators are lit blue/white (do not flash)|Bluetooth Settings: "Mi True Wireless Earphones 3 Pro"-->

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

While Airdots 3 Pro is optimized for Android, it is fully compatible with iPhone (iOS 12 and above).

  • πŸ“± No support. AAC-codec – the iPhone will use the SBC, Which can slightly degrade the sound quality.
  • βš™οΈ No proprietary application – settings equalizer and gestures will be unavailable.
  • πŸ”Š Sound Lag in Games – Turn off Dual Audio in Bluetooth Settings to reduce lag.

Instructions for connection:

  1. Open the settings β†’ Bluetooth on the iPhone.
  2. Hold the button on the Airdots 3 Pro case for 3 seconds to activate the pairing mode.
  3. In the list of devices, select Mi True Wireless Earphones 3 Pro and wait for the connection.

If the headphones are plugged in but the sound is interrupted, try turning off the Auto Switch between devices feature in Bluetooth settings on the iPhone.This often solves the communication cliff problem.

πŸ“Š What OS do you use to connect Airdots 3 Pro?
Android
iOS
Windows
MacOS
other

5. Sound tuning and gesture control

Once successfully connected, you can adjust the sound settings and control playback using touch panels on headphones.

Gesture.Action (by default)How to change
Double touch (left earphone)Previous Track / Calling the Voice AssistantThrough the Mi Earphones app
Double touch (right earphone)Next Track / Take the CallThrough the Mi Earphones app
Triple touch (any headphone)Activation of low delay mode (Game Mode)Not tuned in.
Hold 2 seconds. (any headphone)Deflection of incoming callNot tuned in.

For fine tuning of sound in the Mi Earphones app, you can:

  • πŸŽ›οΈ Equalizer with presets (Bases, Rock, Pop, Castomium).
  • πŸ”‡ ANC (Active noise cancellation: three levels of intensity.
  • 🎧 Transparency mode – skips surrounding sounds.

Important: Low-latency mode (Game Mode) is automatically activated when games start, but it can be manually enabled with triple tap, in which the audio delay is reduced to 80 ms, but battery life is reduced.

6. Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even after connecting properly, users sometimes experience problems, and here are typical scenarios and ways to fix them:

⚠️ Warning: If one of the headphones is not working, check if the smartphone is activated Mono-audio mode (on Android: Settings) β†’ Special facilities β†’ Audio. β†’ Mono-audio. Turn it off!

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Headphones are undetectableFailure of the Bluetooth module of the smartphoneReboot your smartphone and reset your headphones
The sound is interrupted.Interference from other devices (Wi-Fi, microwave)Reconnect your headphones at a distance of <1 m from your phone
Different volumes in headphonesContamination of speakers or balance failureClean the speaker grids and reset the sound settings
The microphone is not working.Headphones are connected as a "playback device"In Bluetooth settings, select Headset (HSP) profile

If Airdots 3 Pro headphones suddenly turn off during a conversation, try turning off the Absolute Volume feature in the Android developer settings (path: Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ Assembly Number (7 taps) β†’ Developer settings β†’ Turn off absolute volume).

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Most connectivity problems are solved by consistently performing three actions: resetting headphones, restarting the smartphone, re-pairing.

7. Connect to Multiple Devices (Multipoint)

Dual Device Connection allows Airdots 3 Pro to connect to two devices at the same time (e.g., a smartphone and a laptop).

  • πŸ“± The main device is the one to which the headphones were connected first (priority for incoming calls).
  • πŸ’» The second device can only play audio (the microphone will not work).
  • πŸ”„ Automatic switching only occurs when sound is played on the second device.

How to set up:

  1. Connect the headphones to the first device (for example, a smartphone).
  2. Activate the pairing mode on the headphones (retain touch panels 5 seconds).
  3. Connect them to the second device (laptop) via Bluetooth Settings.
  4. In the Mi Earphones app, enable the option of Dual Device Connection.

If the headphones don’t switch automatically, manually disconnect them from the current device (in the Bluetooth menu) – they must connect to the second one within 5-10 seconds.

8. Update firmware and Verification

The manufacturer periodically releases firmware updates for Airdots 3 Pro, fixing bugs and adding new features. You can only check and update the software through the official Mi Earphones app (available for Android and iOS).

Instructions:

  1. Connect the headphones to your smartphone.
  2. Open the Mi Earphones app and go to the firmware update section.
  3. If a new version is available, click Update and wait for the process to complete (don’t turn off the headphones!).

The current firmware version can be found in the same app section, with the latest updates as of 2026:

  • V12.5.4.0 - fixes microphone problems in calls
  • V12.3.8.1 – Improved connection stability with iOS
  • V12.1.6.0 β€” support added LC3-codec (for Android 13)+).

⚠️ Warning: Don't interrupt the upgrade process! If the headphone battery runs out during firmware, they may stop turning on. Charge the case to 100% before starting.

What to do if the update is suspended?
If the update process is β€œhang” in the β€œPreparation” or β€œInstallation” phase: 1. Place the headphones in the case and close the lid for 10 seconds. 2. Remove them and try again. 3. If the problem repeats, reset the headphones to factory settings and try again. At the very least, contact Xiaomi with the headphone model and firmware version.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Airdots 3 Pro

Can I use one headphone separately?
Yes, Airdots 3 Pro supports Mono mode. To do this: Remove only one headphone (right or left) from the case. It automatically connects to the smartphone as a mono device. To return to stereo, place both headphones in the case for 5 seconds, then remove them together. Note: mono mode reduces the operating time by about 20%.
How to check the battery level?
Find out the charge of the case and headphones in several ways: πŸ“± On Android: Bluetooth status next to the device name shows the percentage of charge. 🍎 On iOS: in the Battery widget (add it to the home screen). πŸ”‹ Po Po Po LED-Indicator on the case: Green - charge >60% Orange β€” 30–60% Red β€” <30%
Why do headphones discharge quickly?
The life of Airdots 3 Pro from one charge is up to 7 hours (s) ANC β€” If the battery goes down faster, check it: πŸ”Š Volume – at maximum energy consumption increases by 30%. 🎡 Active functions: turn off ANC or a game mode if you don't need it. πŸ“± Codecs: on Android, select SBC instead AAC (Bluetooth β†’ Additionally. β†’ Sound quality). πŸ”„ Battery status: If the headphones are older than 2 years, battery capacity may have decreased. To calibrate the battery, completely discharge the headphones (before automatically switching off), then charge the case to 100% without interruption.
Can I swim or shower with these headphones?
Xiaomi Airdots 3 Pro have a degree of protection IP54, signifies: πŸ’§ Resistant to splashes of water (rain, sweat). ❌ You can not immerse in water (shower, pool, bath). 🧼 It is not recommended to use in wet areas (for example, in a sauna). Once moisture is injected, wipe the headphones with a dry napkin and let them dry 1-2 hours before charging.
How to reset the settings if the headphones do not respond?
If the Airdots 3 Pro doesn't turn on or react to touch, do a forced reset: Place both headphones in the case and connect the case to charge. Hold the button on the case for 30 seconds (even if the indicator doesn't blink). Remove the headphones - they should automatically go into pairing mode. If this doesn't work, the problem may be a hardware malfunction (for example, a discharged case battery or a damaged controller).