How to connect wireless headphones Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Introduction: Why Xiaomi wireless headphones require the right connection

Xiaomi wireless headphones are not just an accessory, but a full-fledged device with its own processor, firmware and settings. Incorrect pairing can lead to problems with sound, fast battery discharge, or even loss of functionality (for example, a microphone or touch buttons failure). Unlike wired counterparts, where it is enough to insert a plug, wireless communication requires synchronization using Bluetooth protocol according to the version of the chip, codecs and even the operating system of your device.

In this article, we’ll explore not only the basic connection, but also the hidden settings that the manufacturer doesn’t always advertise. For example, why Mi True Wireless Earphones 2 can connect to two devices at once, and Redmi Buds 4 Pro supports LDAC for high-quality audio β€” but only when set up correctly. You’ll also learn how to get around typical errors when headphones refuse to connect after updating the firmware or reset.

1. Preparing Xiaomi headphones for the first connection

Before pairing, make sure the headphones are charged (the indicator on the case should be white or green) and are in search mode. For most Xiaomi models, this mode activation occurs automatically when you first remove the headphones from the case.

  • πŸ”„ Reset to factory settings: Press the touch buttons on both headphones for 10-15 seconds until the indicators start flashing red and white. For Mi AirDots Pro 2, use the button on the case.
  • πŸ“± Disconnect from previous devices: Remove headphones from the list of conjugated devices in the Bluetooth settings on your phone/PC to avoid conflicts.
  • πŸ”‹ Charge check: if the indicator on the case flashes red, connect it to charge for 10-15 minutes. Minimum charge level for pairing is 20%.

For models with Mi AI Assistant support (such as Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro), install the official Mi Earphones app from Google Play or the App Store before connecting.

⚠️ Note: If Xiaomi headphones previously connected to an iOS device and now you're trying to pair them with Android, a double reset may be required.The fact is that Apple uses a proprietary protocol AAC, This sometimes blocks the connection to other systems.

πŸ“Š What kind of Xiaomi wireless headphones are you using?
Mi True Wireless Earphones 2
Redmi Buds 4 Pro
Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro
Mi AirDots Pro 2
Another model
I haven't bought it yet.

2. Connecting to a smartphone on Android

The algorithm for connecting to an Android device is universal for most models, but there are nuances for specific versions of the OS and MIUI firmware.

  1. Open Settings β†’ Bluetooth and activate the module.
  2. Remove the headphones from the case - they will automatically go into pairing mode (the indicators will flash white).
  3. In the list of available devices, find the name of your model (for example, "Mi True Wireless Earphones 2") and tap it.
  4. Confirm pairing if you request access to contacts or microphone (this is necessary for the voice assistant to work).

For devices on MIUI 12+, a pop-up will appear after the connection with a suggestion to install the Mi Earphones app. Do this to unlock additional features:

  • 🎧 Set up the equalizer (preset profiles: "Bases", "Voice", "Balance").
  • πŸ‘† Reassigning gestures (for example, double tapping to call voice assistant).
  • πŸ”„ Update firmware (critical for fixing plug-in bugs).

If the headphones are connected but the sound is interrupted or interference is heard, check the selected codec in the Bluetooth settings (optimum options: AAC for iOS or aptX for Android). On models with Qualcomm Chip (such as Redmi Buds 4 Pro), LDAC is available for Hi-Res Audio, but it may require manual inclusion in the developer settings.

β˜‘οΈ Checking a successful connection

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3. Connection to iPhone or iPad

While Xiaomi is optimizing its Android devices, the headphones work well with iOS, but with some limitations, such as the Mi Earphones app, which means you will lose access to the equalizer and firmware updates.

Instructions for iOS:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Bluetooth and turn on the module.
  2. Remove the headphones from the case and wait for their name to appear in the list of "Other devices".
  3. If the pairing request does not appear, reset the headphones (see section 1) and try again.

After connecting, check the sound quality:

  • 🎡 The iPhone is using a codec by default AAC, It provides a balanced quality, but can sag at a weak signal.
  • πŸ“± B Settings β†’ Music disable the option "Equalizer" (system equalizer iOS conflicts with the settings of headphones).
  • πŸ”‹ Xiaomi headphones on iOS discharge faster due to the features of the Bluetooth protocol from Apple. To extend the running time, turn off the background update of applications.

⚠️ Attention: iPad with iPadOS 15+ You may have a problem when the left earphone is plugged in and the right earphone isn't, and it's because of a bug in the stereo processing. Solution: Turn off the headphones, restart the iPad, and re-pair the pairing.

4. Connect to a laptop or PC (Windows/macOS/Linux)

Connecting to a computer requires taking into account the version of the Bluetooth module. For example, to work the aptX codec on Windows, you need a Bluetooth 5.0+ adapter and drivers from the manufacturer (not standard from Microsoft).

Windows 10/11

  1. Press Win + I, select Devices β†’ Bluetooth and other devices.
  2. Activate Bluetooth and click "Add Device".
  3. Select the type of Bluetooth device, wait for the headphones to appear in the list and click on them.

If there is no sound after connection:

  • πŸ”Š Check if the headphones are selected as the default playback device (control panel) β†’ Sound).
  • πŸ”„ Update Bluetooth drivers through Device Manager.
  • 🎧 For models with aptX, install APTX Direct (free software for forced codec inclusion).

macOS

On a Mac, the connection is similar to iOS, but with nuances:

  1. Open System settings β†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Click "Connect" next to the headphones name.
  3. If the sound is distorted, go to Audio.-MIDI-configuration (in the Programs) β†’ Utilities) and set the sampling frequency 44.1 keto.
Why on Windows headphones connect like a β€œheadphone”
This is standard behavior for microphone devices. To change mode to Stereo, go to Control Panel β†’ Sound β†’ Device Properties and select High-quality Sound (A2DP) profile.

5. Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even with the right connection, users are faced with typical errors, and below is a table of solutions for the most common cases:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Headphones are not on the list of devicesThe pairing mode is not activated, low battery chargeReset the headphones (see section 1), charge the case up to 50%
The sound is interrupted or interference is heard.Codec conflict, weak Bluetooth signalIn Bluetooth settings, select the SBC codec (most stable)
Only one earpiece works.Failure of synchronization between headphonesPut both earphones in the case for 10 seconds, then remove.
The microphone doesn't work when calling.Incorrect Bluetooth profile (HFP instead of A2DP)In the phone settings, select "Use for calls"
Headphones are discharged quicklyBackground processes, high volume levelTurn off Adaptive Sound in the MIUI settings

If the problem is not solved, check the firmware version of the headphones.

  1. Install the Mi Earphones app.
  2. Connect the headphones and go to the About device section.
  3. If the firmware version is outdated, update it through the same application.

πŸ’‘

For models with ANC (active noise cancellation), turn off this feature when there is a weak Bluetooth signal – it increases the sound latency.

6. Additional settings and hidden functions

Xiaomi’s wireless headphones support features that the manufacturer doesn’t always mention in the instructions, and here are the most useful ones:

  • 🎡 Dynamic equalizer: the Mi Earphones app has an "Adaptive Sound" mode that automatically adjusts the frequencies to the music genre.
  • πŸ”Š Low Delay Mode: For games, activate Game Mode in the headphone settings (latency is reduced to 80 ms).
  • πŸ‘‚ Transparency setting: in models with ANC You can adjust the noise level (good for the street).
  • πŸ”„ Autoconnect: Headphones remember the last device and connect to it automatically when removed from the case.

For Redmi Buds 4 Pro and later, the dual connection feature is available, which allows headphones to be paired with both the phone and laptop to activate:

  1. Connect the headphones to the first device.
  2. Open Mi Earphones and go to Settings β†’ Dual Connection.
  3. Activate the option and connect the second device manually via Bluetooth.

If you use headphones to watch videos, turn off the ANC and select the aptX Low Latency codec (if supported) to reduce the out-of-synchrony of sound and picture.

πŸ’‘

The Mi Earphones branded app is a must for getting firmware updates that fix connection bugs and add new features.

7. How to extend the life of Xiaomi wireless headphones

Wireless headphones are miniature devices with limited battery life and electronic components, so that they last longer, follow the recommendations:

  • πŸ”‹ Charging: Use only the original cable USB-C (or a certified Qi charger for wireless charging models. Avoid overheating the case.
  • 🧼 Cleaning: once a month wipe the speakers with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol (do not use water!).
  • πŸ“΅ Storage: If you don’t use headphones for longer than a week, leave them in a 40-60% case (full discharge or 100% charge reduces battery life).
  • πŸ”Š Volume: Do not exceed 80% of the maximum volume – this will protect the speakers from distortion.

For touch-controlled models, avoid pressing your headphones with wet or dirty fingers - this can lead to false positives or damage to piezocells. If the headphones stop responding to touch, reset them to factory settings (see section 1).

⚠️ Note: Do not use Xiaomi headphones in lower temperatures -10°C or higher +40°C. Lithium batteries in such conditions lose capacity or swell. Also avoid storing the case near the magnets (for example, on the refrigerator) - this can disrupt the operation of Hall sensors responsible for automatic on / off.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting Xiaomi wireless headphones

Can I connect Xiaomi headphones to my TV?
Yes, but only if the TV supports Bluetooth. Most modern Smart TVs (e.g. Xiaomi Mi TV, Samsung QLED) have a built-in module. If it is not, use a Bluetooth transmitter (e.g. Avantek APTX), which connects to a 3.5 mm port or an optical one.
Why Xiaomi headphones only connect to one device?
This is a limitation of the Bluetooth protocol β€” most headphones support pairing with only one device at a time. Exception: models with dual connection (like Redmi Buds 4 Pro). To switch to another device, disconnect the headphones from the current one manually.
How to Reset Headphones If They Don’t Respond to the buttons?
If the standard reset (button clamping) doesn't work, try an alternative method: Put the headphones in the case and close the lid. Connect the case to charging for 5 minutes. Open the lid and press the button on the case (if any) for 20 seconds. If that doesn't work, contact the service center - there may be a malfunction of the controller.
Can I use Xiaomi headphones to make Discord/Zoom calls?
Yes, but you have to manually select your headphones as your I/O device in the app settings. In Discord: Settings β†’ Voice and Video β†’ I/O Device. In Zoom: Settings β†’ Audio. If the microphone doesn't work, update your Bluetooth drivers on your PC.
How to check the originality of Xiaomi headphones?
Original headphones have: Unique serial number on the case and in the Mi Earphones app. Xiaomi logo with a hologram on the package. Branded firmware (fakes often lack support for aptX or ANC). To verify the authenticity, scan the QR-Code on the box using the Mi Home app.