How to connect Xiaomi headphones with each other: a complete guide to synchronization

Xiaomi’s wireless headphones (Redmi Buds, Mi True Wireless, FlipBuds, and others) support a paired connection that allows two separate headphones to be used as a single stereo system, which is convenient when you want to share music with a friend, create surround sound, or just use both devices at the same time. However, not all users know how to properly connect Xiaomi headphones with each other β€” the process may vary depending on the model and firmware version.

In this article, we’ll look at all the current synchronization methods, including manual Bluetooth connectivity, automatic pairing, and solving common problems (e.g., when one earbud doesn’t find the other), and what models support this function, and what to do if standard methods don’t work, starting with the basics, without which the next steps may not work.

Important: Make sure that both headphones are fully charged (at least 50%) and are within range of Bluetooth (up to 10 meters without obstacles) before starting. If the battery is discharged, the pairing process can be interrupted, and the devices can β€œforget” each other.

Not all Xiaomi models support a paired headphone-to-earphone connection. For example, the budget Redmi Buds 3 Lite or the old Mi Basic Earphones do not have this feature. To check compatibility, refer to the specifications of your model on the official website or in the Mi Home app.

What Xiaomi models support connection between headphones

The dual headphone sync feature is not available in all Xiaomi devices, and here is the current list of supported models (as of 2026):

  • 🎧 Xiaomi FlipBuds Pro (all generations) – supports Dual Device Connection mode to connect to two sound sources simultaneously.

If your model isn't listed, it doesn't mean it's definitely not there. Some devices (like Redmi Buds 3 Pro) require a firmware update to activate the mode.

  1. Open the Mi Earphones app (download from Google Play or the App Store if not already installed).
  2. Connect the headphones to the phone via Bluetooth.
  3. Go to the Settings section β†’ Update the firmware.

Critical detail: Xiaomi headphones can only be connected within one model. For example, Redmi Buds 4 Pro do not sync with Xiaomi Buds 3T β€” Even if both models support the function.

πŸ“Š What Xiaomi headphone model you use?
Redmi Buds 4/5
Xiaomi FlipBuds
Mi True Wireless
Another model
I don't know.

Preparing headphones for synchronization: what to do before connecting

Before you start connecting, follow a few mandatory steps, and ignoring them is the main reason why Xiaomi headphones can’t see each other.

1. Reset the headphone settings (if they have already been connected to other devices).

- Put both earphones in the case.

Press and hold the button on the case (usually located behind) for 10-15 seconds until the indicator flashes red and white.

- Get the headphones out - they should automatically go into pairing mode.

2. Disable headphones from all devices manually:

- On Android: Go to Settings β†’ Bluetooth, find the headphones in the list and click "Forget the device".

- On iOS: Settings β†’ Bluetooth β†’ smack-in-the-ear button β†’ "Forget this device".

3. Check the firmware version through the Mi Earphones app. If an update is available, install it. Older versions of the software may not support pairing.

Make sure both earphones are charged|Reset the headphone settings|Disconnect headphones from all devices|Update the firmware through Mi Earphones|Place the headphones next to each other (within a radius of 1 meter)-->

⚠️ Warning: If one of the headphones has previously been connected to another smartphone or tablet, it may automatically try to connect to it, ignoring the second headphone.

Method 1: Automatic connection via case (for new models)

Modern Xiaomi headphones (such as FlipBuds Pro or Redmi Buds 5 Pro) support automatic synchronization when placed in a case.

  1. Put both headphones in the case and close the lid.
  2. Open the lid and wait until the headphones start flashing white (pairing mode).
  3. Take both earbuds out of the case. They should automatically connect with each other (the indicators will light up blue or stop flashing).
  4. Now connect them to your phone as a single device via Bluetooth.

If the indicators flash red, it means an error. Try repeating the process or resetting (see Preparation section).

Some models (such as Xiaomi Buds 4) require additional confirmation in the Mi Earphones app:

Open the application after automatic connection.

- Go to Settings. β†’ Dual Audio Mode (or similar item).

Activate the option to connect the second headphone.

πŸ’‘

If the headphones don't sync automatically, try putting them in a case for 30 seconds, then pull them out and wait 10 seconds. Sometimes this works better than repeatedly opening/closing the lid.

Method 2: Manual synchronization via Bluetooth (universal method)

If the automatic connection didn’t work, use the manual method.It’s suitable for most models, including the Redmi Buds 4 and Mi True Wireless 2.

1. Activate the pairing mode on both headphones:

- Get both earphones out of the case.

Press the touchpad (or button) on the right earphone for 5 seconds until you hear the beep and see a flashing white light.

- Repeat the same for the left earpiece.

2. Connect the first headphone to the phone:

- Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone.

In the list of available devices, select the name of your right earphone (e.g. Redmi Buds 4 Pro-R).

3. Add a second earpiece:

After connecting the first headphone, go back to the Bluetooth menu.

Find a second headphone (like the Redmi Buds 4 Pro-L) and plug it in.

On some models (FlipBuds Pro) after connecting the second headphone, they will automatically merge into one device.

If the headphones don't come together:

- Open the Mi Earphones app.

- Go to Settings. β†’ Stereo Mode (or Dual Mode).

- Press "Put the second headphone on."

Model headphonesDoes it support automatic synchronization?Is the Mi Earphones app required?
Xiaomi FlipBuds ProYes.No (but recommended for customization)
Redmi Buds 5 ProYes.Yes (for activation) TWS+)
Mi True Wireless Earphones 3No.Yes (required)
Redmi Buds 4Partially (only after update)Yes.

⚠️ Note: On iPhone, the process may be different. Some Xiaomi models do not support pairing with Apple devices due to iOS restrictions.In this case, use an Android smartphone for initial synchronization, and then connect the headphones to the iPhone as a single device.

Method 3: Sync through the Mi Earphones app (for older models)

If your headphones don’t support automatic or manual Bluetooth connectivity, try using the official Mi Earphones app.This method works for Mi True Wireless Earphones 2, Redmi AirDots 2 and other models without the feature. TWS+.

1. Install the Mi Earphones app from Google Play or the App Store (for iOS, availability depends on the model).

2. Connect one earphone to the phone via Bluetooth.

3. Open the app and wait until it determines the headphone model.

4. Go to the Settings section β†’ Stereo Mode (or Dual Mode).

5. Click "Connect the second headphone" and follow the instructions on the screen.

The app will prompt you to activate pairing mode on the second headphone (usually you need to hold the touchpad for 3-5 seconds). Once successfully connected, both earphones will work as a stereoopara.

What to do if the app does not see the headphones?
1. Make sure the headphones are connected to the phone via Bluetooth (not just in the case). 2. Restart the Mi Earphones app and give all the necessary permissions (Bluetooth, location access). 3. Check if your model supports the app – some budget headphones (like Redmi Buds 3 Lite) don’t have this feature. 4 Try using another smartphone (preferably on Android 10).+).

Typical problems and their solutions

Even if you follow the instructions correctly, Xiaomi headphones may not connect with each other, and let’s look at the most common mistakes and ways to fix them.

Problem 1: Headphones connect to the phone separately, but do not combine into a stereo pair.

  • πŸ”„ Reboot Bluetooth on your phone (turn off and turn on the module).
  • πŸ“± Remove both headphones from the Bluetooth device list and reconnect.
  • πŸ”‹ Check battery power – if the level is below 30%, sync may not work.

Problem 2: One earphone is not in pairing mode.

  • πŸŽ›οΈ Reset the headphone (hold the button on the case for 10 seconds).
  • πŸ”Š Check whether the earphone emits an audio signal when holding the touch panel (if not, a malfunction is possible).
  • πŸ“² Update the firmware through Mi Earphones.

Problem 3: The headphones connect, but the sound is only in one.

  • 🎡 In the Mi Earphones app, check the sound balance (Settings) β†’ Sound. β†’ Balance L/R).
  • πŸ”„ Reconnect the headphones to the phone.
  • πŸ› οΈ If the problem persists, it is possible that the speaker in one of the headphones is damaged (diagnosis is required).

Problem 4: On the iPhone, the headphones don’t sync.

  • 🍎 Use your Android device for initial setup, then connect to your iPhone.
  • πŸ”„ Update iOS to the latest version (new versions have improved support) TWS+).
  • πŸ“± Check if the Low Energy mode is blocking Bluetooth.

πŸ’‘

If neither method worked, check if your model supports paired connectivity.Some Xiaomi budget headphones (like the Redmi Buds 3 Lite) are physically unable to work in stereo pair mode with another headphone.

Additional functions with a pair connection

Synchronizing two Xiaomi headphones gives you access to advanced features that are not available when using a single device.

  • 🎢 Volumetric sound: In the Mi Earphones app, activate the mode 3D Audio or Surround Sound (Available for FlipBuds Pro and Buds 4 Pro).
  • πŸ”€ Switching between devices: Headphones can be connected to two smartphones at the same time (for example, to a phone and a laptop).
  • 🎀 Separate use of microphones: When calling, you can choose which headphone to use for conversation (useful in noisy places).
  • πŸ”‹ Optimized consumption: In paired mode, the headphones automatically distribute the load, increasing the running time to 30%.

To activate these functions:

  1. Open Mi Earphones and go to Settings β†’ Additionally.
  2. Select the option you want (e.g., Dual Device Connection to connect to two devices).
  3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Some models (such as Redmi Buds 5 Pro) have Game Mode available, which reduces the sound latency when paired – this is useful for watching videos or games.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pair Xiaomi headphones with other brands (for example, AirPods)?
No, the paired connection function only works between the headphones of the same model and the brand, technically due to synchronization protocols, which each manufacturer has its own, even Xiaomi and Redmi headphones (although this is one brand) of different series may not connect with each other.
Why did the headphones stop connecting after the firmware update?
Sometimes newer firmware versions reset the sync settings. In this case: Reset the headphones (hold the button on the case for 10-15 seconds). Repeat the connection process from scratch. If the problem persists, roll back the firmware via Mi Earphones (if the previous version is available).
How to turn off the pair mode if it is no longer needed?
To separate the headphones: Place both earphones in the case. Open the Mi Earphones app and go to Settings β†’ Stereo mode. Press "Disable the second earphone." Reset (optional) and then the headphones will work independently.
Can you use a pair connection to listen to different audio streams (for example, music and podcast at the same time)?
No, in stereo mode, both earbuds play the same audio stream. Separate streams will require each earbud to be connected to a separate device (but this will turn off pair mode).
Why does the battery quickly go down when paired?
In stereo pairing mode, the headphones use more energy to synchronize data between each other. To extend the time: Turn off the function ANC (Active noise cancellation, if you don't need it, turn the volume down to a comfortable level (high volume increases consumption), use a case to recharge during breaks.