How to open the settings of headphones Xiaomi: all the ways for different models

Why Access to Xiaomi Headphone Settings May Be Hidden

Xiaomi headphones are some of the most popular wireless gadgets on the market due to the combination of price, sound quality and functionality. However, many users face the problem: how to go into the settings of these devices if the headphones themselves do not have a screen or a physical menu?

Unlike Sony or Samsung headphones, where settings are often duplicated in their own apps and via a Bluetooth menu, Xiaomi’s process may differ depending on the model. For example, for AirDots Pro 2 you will need Mi Fit, and for Buds 4 Pro – already Xiaomi Wear. In addition, some functions (such as firmware) can only be accessed through ADB-commands or hidden button combinations.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to enter the settings of Xiaomi headphones – from basic to advanced, including solutions for cases when the application does not see the device or the headphones do not connect to the phone.

Method 1: Settings through branded Xiaomi apps

The main and most reliable way to change the settings of headphones is to use official applications. Xiaomi is gradually moving all devices to a single ecosystem, but so far three applications are relevant:

  • πŸ“± Mi Fit (for older models like AirDots or AirDots Pro)
  • 🩺 Xiaomi Wear (for new headphones, for example, Buds 4 Pro or FlipBuds Pro)
  • πŸ”„ Mi Home (rarely, but may be required for some smart features)

To go into the settings:

  1. Install one of the apps (links to Google Play or App Store).
  2. Connect the headphones to your phone via Bluetooth (if they are not already paired).
  3. Open the app and find the Device or Profile tab.
  4. Select your headphones from the list. You'll see the settings available here: equalizer, gesture control, firmware update, etc.

Important: If the headphones don't appear in the app, try:

  • πŸ”„ Reboot Bluetooth on your phone (turn off/on).
  • πŸ“± Update the application to the latest version.
  • πŸ”‹ Make sure the headphones are charged (at low charge they may not connect).
πŸ“Š What Xiaomi app do you use for headphones?
Mi Fit
Xiaomi Wear
Mi Home
I don't know/I don't use/

Table: Which app is suitable for your model

Model headphonesRecommended annexAvailable settings
AirDots (1/2/3 generation)Mi FitEquator, gesture control, firmware
Buds 4 Pro, FlipBuds ProXiaomi WearANC, transparent mode, button customization
AirDots Pro 2, Buds 3Mi Fit or Xiaomi WearDepends on the firmware version.
Redmi Buds (all models)Mi FitBasic sound and control settings

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for setting up through the application

Done: 0 / 4

Method 2: Settings via Bluetooth menu on smartphone

If your app doesn’t work or you don’t want to install it, you can change some of the settings through your phone’s Bluetooth menu, which is suitable for basic features like:

  • πŸ”Š Volume control (on some models).
  • 🎡 Choice of codecs (AAC, SBC, AptX – if supported).
  • πŸ”‹ Optimization of energy consumption.

Instructions for Android:

  1. Open Settings β†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Find your Xiaomi headphones in the list of connected devices and tap the icon βš™οΈ (gear).
  3. Depending on the model, there may be tabs Sound, Device or Additional.

For iPhone, the options are limited:

  • 🍎 You can only rename the headphones or forget the device.
  • 🚫 No sound and control settings (required Xiaomi Wear).

πŸ’‘

On some Xiaomi smartphones (such as Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5), there is a hidden option in the Bluetooth menu called β€œBluetooth Lab.” Enable it through search in settings – this will open up additional options for the headphones, such as connection priority or forced codec.

Method 3: Hidden button combinations on headphones

Some Xiaomi models support hardware combinations to reset, switch modes, or access hidden features, which can be useful if:

  • πŸ“΅ Headphones don't connect to the phone.
  • πŸ”„ We need to reset the settings to the factory.
  • 🎧 The interface regime must be enforced.

Warning: Incorrect use of combinations may result in resetting all user settings (including audio profile and Mi Account binding).

ModelCombinationAction.
AirDots (all generations)Hold both touch panels for 10 secondsReset to factory settings
Buds 4 ProTriple touch of left earphoneSwitching between ANC/transparent mode
FlipBuds ProHold the button on the body for 5 secondsCompulsory pairing regime
Redmi Buds 3 ProFour-fold touch of the right earpieceGame Mode on/off (low latency)
What to do if the combination does not work?
If the headphones do not respond to button retention, try: 1. Charge them to 100% (at low charge, some functions are blocked). 2. Clean the contacts on the case (for models with buttons) with an alcohol wipe. 3. Connect to another device (sometimes the headphones β€œhang” when connecting to one smartphone).

⚠️ Attention: On models with ANC (Long-term retention of buttons can lead to overheating of microphones.Do not use combinations more than 1 time in 5 minutes.

Method 4: Adaptation through ADB (for advanced users)

If standard methods don’t work, and you need to force firmware updates or change hidden settings, you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), which is only suitable for Android devices and requires:

  • πŸ–₯️ Computers with installed ADB-driver.
  • πŸ“± Included debugging by USB phone-on.
  • πŸ”§ Knowledge of the basics of working with the command line.

Example of commands to work with Xiaomi headphones:

adb devices # Checking the connection of the device


adb shell dumpsys bluetooth # View information about Bluetooth devices




adb shell am start -n com.xiaomi.bluetooth/.device.DeviceDetailActivity # Opening the hidden Bluetooth menu

Warning: Wrong ADB-commands can disrupt your phone's Bluetooth stack, and use this method only if you are confident in your actions or follow proven instructions.

πŸ’‘

ADB allows you to access hidden headphone settings, but requires technical knowledge. For most users, branded applications or Bluetooth menus are enough.

Method 5: Update the firmware of headphones

Sometimes access to settings is blocked due to outdated firmware. Xiaomi regularly releases updates for its headphones, which:

  • 🎡 Improve sound quality.
  • πŸ”‹ Optimize battery consumption.
  • πŸ› οΈ Fixing connection bugs.

To update the firmware:

  1. Open Mi Fit or Xiaomi Wear.
  2. Go to the headphone section of your headphones.
  3. Find the Firmware Update (usually in the About Device or Settings menu).
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen. Don't turn off the headphones during the process!

If the update does not appear:

  • 🌍 Check out the Mi Account region (some updates are coming out first in China).
  • πŸ“Ά Connect to Wi-Fi (mobile Internet updates may be blocked).
  • ⏳ Wait 1-2 days – sometimes Xiaomi servers download updates in portions.

⚠️ Note: If during the firmware update, the headphones become depleted or disconnected, they may stop turning on.

Solving problems with access to settings

If none of these methods worked, here are the typical causes and solutions:

Problem 1: Headphones are not displayed in the app

  • πŸ”„ Solution: Remove the headphones from the list of Bluetooth devices on your phone, then plug in again.
  • πŸ“± Solution: Reinstall the Mi app Fit/Xiaomi Wear.
  • 🌐 Solution: Check if the firewall is blocking or VPN Access to Xiaomi servers.

Problem 2: Settings are grey (inactive)

  • πŸ”‹ Solution: Charge headphones to 100% – some features are blocked when low charge.
  • πŸ“‹ Solution: Check if the headphones are tied to your Mi Account (some models make it a must).

Problem 3: Headphones are connected, but there is no sound

  • 🎧 Solution: From the Bluetooth menu on your phone, select Phone Calls and Media (not just Media) profile).
  • πŸ”Š Solution: Check if the mode is activated ANC Transparent mode – they can drown out the sound.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi headphone settings

Can you change the equalizer without a proprietary application?
No, most Xiaomi models only have the equalizer available through Mi Fit or Xiaomi Wear. However, you can use third-party apps like Wavelet or Equalizer FX on Android, but they will use phone-level settings rather than headphones.
Why Xiaomi’s headphones don’t have LDAC or aptX mode?
Xiaomi uses the AAC (for iPhone) and SBC (basic) codec in most models. Only flagship models like the Buds 4 Pro support aptX Adaptive. If you need LDAC, consider Sony or Samsung headphones.
How to Reset Xiaomi Headphones If They Don’t React?
For most models: Put your headphones in your case and close the lid. Hold the button on your case (if you have one) or the touchpads on both headphones for 15 to 20 seconds. The indicators should flash red and white, which is a reset signal. If this doesn't help, the headphones may be faulty.
Can I use Xiaomi headphones with iPhone?
Yes, but with limitations: 🍎 Basic functions (sound, calls). ❌ Unavailable: Equalizer, firmware update, gesture control (partially). πŸ”§ For full functionality, you need an Android smartphone.
Where to find firmware for Xiaomi headphones manually?
Xiaomi does not officially distribute firmware separately from apps. If the update does not come automatically: Check forums like Xiaomi.eu or 4PDA. Make sure your model supports manual updates (not all headphones allow this). Contact Xiaomi Support with the model and firmware version (you can find out in the app). ⚠️ Warning: Installation of unofficial firmware may result in loss of warranty or inoperability of the device.