Xiaomi AirDots 2 wireless headphones (also known as Mi Earbuds Basic 2) have deservedly become one of the most popular models in the budget segment. However, even a time-tested device can encounter software errors that affect connection stability or sound quality, which is the case when developers release microcode updates that fix bugs and improve algorithms.
The process of firmware on these headphones does not occur “over the air” directly, as in newer models, and requires the use of special software on the smartphone. Users need to know that the standard Bluetooth menu on Android or iOS will not allow this procedure. You will need a specialized tool that will mediate between the headset and the update server.
In this article, we will discuss all the nuances of how to properly update Xiaomi AirDots 2 to avoid errors and not turn the gadget into a “brick”. We will consider the preparation of equipment, choosing the right application and step-by-step algorithm of actions that guarantees a successful result.
Preparation for the update: equipment and software
Before you start the direct flashing procedure, you need to make sure that your smartphone is ready. Since the update will be downloaded from the Internet and transmitted to headphones via Bluetooth, it is critical to have a stable Wi-Fi connection or a confident signal of a 4G/5G mobile network.
The main tool for working with the first and second generation AirDots headphones is the Xiaomi Earbuds app (formerly known as Mi True Wireless Earphones), which is the official software that allows you not only to update the device, but also fine-tune its settings.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure that the case and the headphones are at least 50% charged. The upgrade process can take 5 to 15 minutes, and battery discharge is not allowed at this point.
It’s also worth noting that successful synchronization requires that the headphones be paired with the phone on which the app is installed. If you plan to update the firmware but the headphones were previously connected to another device, first perform pairing reset in your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings.
☑️ Firmware readiness
Installation and configuration of the Xiaomi Earbuds application
Once you download and install the Xiaomi Earbuds app on your smartphone, you will need to perform an initial setup. Launch the program and provide the necessary permissions for using Bluetooth and geolocation. Without access to geolocation, the Android operating system can block the search for Bluetooth devices with low power consumption.
In the main menu of the app, click the add-on button. The system will automatically start looking for compatible headsets within range. Make sure that the Bluetooth on the phone is on and the headphones are in pairing mode (usually the indicators flash white when removed from the case).
When the app detects your AirDots 2, the headphones and the Connect button will appear on the screen. After a successful connection, you will be taken to the main control screen, which will display the current charge level of each earphone and case, as well as the version of the installed software.
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If the app doesn’t see the headphones, try putting them in a case, closing the lid for 10 seconds, and then reopening and removing both headphones at the same time.
Step-by-step instructions for updating the firmware
The update process in the Xiaomi Earbuds app is as simple as possible, but requires care. On the main screen, where the connection status is displayed, look for the "Software Update" or "Firmware Update". If a new version is available, a red indicator or update icon may be lit next to the current firmware number.
Click on the "Check Updates" or "Update" button. The app will contact Xiaomi's server and, if your Mi Earbuds Basic 2 model has an up-to-date version, prompt you to download it. Agree to the terms of use and start the process.
Once loaded, the installation phase will begin, at which point the headphones can make distinctive sounds or flash flash indicators intermittently, and it is strictly forbidden at this point to open the case, remove the headphones or try to connect them to another device, let the process complete itself.
⚠️ Warning: During firmware installation, the headphones may temporarily disconnect from the phone. Don't panic or try to reconnect them manually - this will interrupt the process.
Once the installation is complete, the app will notify you of the success and the headphones will automatically restart. After that, it is recommended to place them back in the case for 10-15 seconds, and then remove them for re-pairing.
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The most critical stage is the moment of writing data to the headphone chip. In these 2-3 minutes, the device should be in close proximity to the phone (no more than 10 cm).
What to do if the update is not installed
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users can encounter errors, and one of the most common problems is the message "Update failed" or the process hangs at a certain percentage, most often due to unstable Internet connection or interference in the Bluetooth channel.
If you encounter an error, the first thing you should do is reboot your smartphone and the headphones themselves. Put the headphones in your case, close the lid, wait 30 seconds, then open again. Then remove the device from the Bluetooth list in your phone settings ("Forget the device") and pair it again through the app.
Sometimes the problem lies in the cache of the Xiaomi Earbuds app. Go to Android settings, search the application list for "Xiaomi Earbuds", go to the Memory section and click "Clear Cache". After that, try to start the update process again.
- 📶 Make sure you’re in a Wi-Fi reception zone, as a firmware file can weigh a few megabytes.
- 🔋 Check that the case is charged: low voltage can lead to failures when writing data to flash memory of headphones.
- 📱 Close all background apps on your phone to free up the resources of the Bluetooth module for stable data transfer.
What to do if only one indicator is on?
Comparison of firmware versions and correctable errors
Xiaomi rarely publishes detailed changelogs for budget headphone models, but user experience analysis reveals major improvements. Newer firmware versions for AirDots 2 are typically aimed at optimizing Bluetooth and improving left-right-channel synchronization.
In early versions, users often complained about sound dissynchronization when one earphone outpaced another, or about intermittent connection breaks when the phone is in your pocket, and the updated algorithms are designed to minimize these delays and stabilize the signal.
Also worth noting is the microphone, which often adjusts noise reduction thresholds in new versions to make speech more legible in windy weather or noisy spaces, but it's not a miracle, because the hardware of the budget model limits the possibilities of software improvements.
| Parameter | Old firmware. | New firmware |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Stability | Frequent gaps in a radius of 5-7 meters | Confidential signal up to 10 meters without obstacles |
| Latency (Latency) | Noticeable when watching the video | Reduced, lip synchrone and sound minimal |
| Autonomy | Standard. | Optimized energy consumption in standby mode |
| Loudness | Standard. | In some versions, the maximum level is increased. |