Why Xiaomi AirDots Headphones Stop Working Together and How to Fix It
Xiaomi AirDots wireless headphones (including Pro, Pro 2, 3, Youth Edition) are built on TWS (True Wireless Stereo) technology, which involves automatic synchronization between the right and left earphones. However, users often experience a situation where one headphone connects to the phone, and the second is silent or works separately, the reasons for this behavior can be different from software failures to mechanical damage to contacts in the case.
In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by forced pair reset and re-synchronization, but it is important to understand that the procedure differs depending on the generation of the device. For example, AirDots 3 uses an updated BES2300 chip, and older models (Pro 2019) run on the Realtek RTL8763B - this affects the reset algorithm. In this article, we will discuss universal methods, as well as nuances for specific versions.
If you've tried rebooting your headphones or case before, but you don't get the results, don't rush to bring them to the service. Most likely, the problem is incorrect sequence of actions or missing details (for example, forgetting to remove the headphones from the list of conjugated devices on the phone), then step-by-step instructions with visual hints and parsing typical errors.
Preparing for synchronization: what to do before the reset
Before resetting your headphones, follow the mandatory preparatory steps. Ignoring them can lead to incomplete reset or even damage to the firmware (relevant for models with support for Xiaomi AI Assistant).
First, check the charge of the case and headphones. The minimum level for successful synchronization is 30% for each earphone and 50% for the case. If the indicators are red or do not respond at all, connect the case to charge for 15-20 minutes. AirDots 3 have a fast charging function: 5 minutes in the case gives 1 hour of work, but it is not enough to reset.
Second, remove the headphones from the list of conjugated devices on all the gadgets they've previously connected to, which is critical because:
- π± Android: Go to Settings β Connected devices β Bluetooth, find Mi True Wireless (or similar name), click on the gear and select Forget DeviceΒ».
- π iOS: Open Settings β Bluetooth, tap the βiβ icon next to your headphones and select βForget this deviceΒ».
- π» Windows/macOS: In the Bluetooth panel, find Xiaomi AirDots and remove them from memory.
Step three is to check the physical condition of the contacts. Take the headphones out of the case and inspect the metal connectors on the case and inside the case. If they are contaminated or oxidized, gently wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. On AirDots Pro 2 models, there is often a problem with the right earphone due to weak contact in the case - it needs to be pressed slightly when the lid is closed.
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If the headphones have been out of use for a long time, let them discharge to 0% before reset and fully charge them. This helps to reset the power controller.
Universal synchronization method for all AirDots models
This method works for 90% of Xiaomi devices, including AirDots, AirDots Pro, AirDots 3 and Youth Edition. If your model is older than 2020, additional steps may be needed (see next section).
Algorithm of action:
- Put both headphones in the case and close the lid.
- Connect the case to the power source (red / orange indicator will light up).
- Press and hold the button on the case for 15-20 seconds until the indicator starts flashing red and white alternately.
- Release the button. The headphones automatically sync (the indicator will turn white).
- Get the headphones out of the case β they must connect to each other (the phone will display one Mi True Wireless device).
If the indicator does not flash red and white, but only burns in one color:
- π Check the case charge (it may be discharged below 10%).
- π Try to hold the button for longer β up to 30 seconds.
- π΅ Make sure the headphones are not connected to the phone at the time of reset.
Headphones are displayed as one device in Bluetooth | Sound is played in both headphones simultaneously | The indicator on the case burns white when opened | Headphones automatically connect when removed from the case-->
Synchronization Features for Old Models (2018β2019)
Xiaomi AirDots first-generation headphones and AirDots Pro (released before 2020) have a unique reset algorithm that is different from current models, the main difference is the lack of visual indication on the case (or its incorrect operation), instead of flashing lights, you will have to focus on sound signals.
Instructions for AirDots (1st generation):
- Put the headphones in the case, close the lid.
- Hold the button on the case for 10 seconds until you hear a double beep.
- Open the case cover - the indicator should flash red (standby mode).
- Get your headphones out β they automatically sync (youβll hear a single squeak in each).
For AirDots Pro (2019), the process is more complicated:
- π Headphones emit three short signals when successfully reset.
- π If you hear one long signal - the reset did not occur, repeat the attempt.
- π΄ After reset, connect your headphones to your phone manually: in the Bluetooth list, select Mi True Wireless Earphones Pro.
Important: AirDots Pro 2019 headphones may require firmware updates to work properly with modern smartphones. If synchronization fails, check the software version through the Mi Home app (Smart Devices section).
What to do if the button on the case does not respond?
Solving Typical Problems After Synchronization
Even after a successful reset, users face a number of problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| One earpiece doesn't make sound. | Incomplete synchronization or firmware failure | Repeat the reset, then manually connect the headphones via Bluetooth |
| The headphones are connected separately. | It is in the phoneβs memory as two devices. | Remove both headphones from the Bluetooth list and perform a reset |
| The sound is interrupted or there is interference. | Weak Bluetooth signal or interference from other devices | Restart your phone, disable other Bluetooth devices |
| Case indicator doesn't burn. | Battery discharged or controller damaged | Connect the case to charging for 1-2 hours, if it does not help - check the cable / power supply |
If the headphones are connected after synchronization, but the sound is only in one, try:
- In the Bluetooth settings of the phone, find Mi True Wireless and turn off the Monosound option (if any).
- In the Mi Home app, check the volume balance between the headphones (Section "Sound settings").
- Update the headphone firmware (relevant to AirDots 3 and newer).
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If the headphones are synchronized but the sound is missing from one, the problem may be with the phone's settings, not the AirDots themselves.Check volume balance and turn off monosound modes.
Updating the firmware as a way to fix problems
For Xiaomi AirDots 3 and later, firmware updates are available that fix synchronization errors and improve connection stability. You can check the relevance of the software through the official Mi Home app (available for Android and iOS).
How to update firmware:
- Install the Mi Home app and log in.
- Connect the headphones to the phone via Bluetooth.
- Open the app, go to Profile β My Devices β find Mi True Wireless Earphones.
- If an update is available, a notification will appear. Click Update and wait until it is completed (don't turn off the headphones!).
For AirDots Pro 2 and older models, the firmware update is only possible via a PC using the Xiaomi Flash Tool.
- π₯οΈ Windows computer 7/10/11.
- π Type-C cable (to connect the case).
- π₯ Official firmware from en.miui.com.
β οΈ Warning: Continuous firmware updates via PC can cause headphones to be blocked if the process is interrupted. Use only original firmware files and monitor the case charge (at least 50%).
Hardware malfunctions: when synchronization is not possible
If all the software methods have been tried, but the headphones are still out of sync, the problem may lie in the hardware.
- π Battery in case or headphones (does not hold a charge, does not supply power to the chip).
- πΆ Bluetooth module (especially after falls or moisture infestation).
- π Contacts between case and headphones (oxidation, pollution).
- ποΈ Synchronization controller (found on cheap clones of AirDots).
Check the performance of headphones can be as follows:
- Try connecting each earphone individually to your phone, and if one of them isn't identified at all, the problem is with its Bluetooth module.
- Look at charging indicators: if the headphone in the case does not blink when connecting to the power, the battery or controller is defective.
- Shake the headphones: if you hear a foreign noise (for example, rattling), it is possible that internal contacts have broken off.
In most cases, repair headphones Xiaomi AirDots is not cost-effective β the cost of replacing the board or battery is comparable to the price of new headphones. However, if the device is warranty, contact the service center Xiaomi with a check. For models AirDots 3 and later available extended warranty program (up to 2 years), covering battery defects.
β οΈ Warning: Don't try to disassemble the headphones yourself - the body is glued together and the internal plumes are extremely fragile, which will lead to loss of warranty and can permanently disable the device.