Xiaomi’s current smartphones feature a built-in infrared port (IR) that allows you to turn the device into a universal remote control, a feature available on most models – from the budget Redmi Note to the flagship Xiaomi 14 – and works through the proprietary Mi Remote app, but many users either do not know about its existence or face difficulties in setting up.
In this article, we will discuss not only the basic steps of how to turn on the remote on Xiaomi and add a TV, but also advanced scenarios: control air conditioning, set up macros for multiple devices, as well as solving typical problems like “the remote does not find equipment” or “buttons work with delay.”
Which Xiaomi phones support the remote?
Not all Xiaomi smartphones are equipped with an IR port, but here are the key points to pay attention to:
- ✅ There is an IR port: most models of the Redmi Note line (starting with the 5-series), POCO X, Mi 8/9/10/11/12/13/14, Specialty devices like Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S.
- ❌ No IR port: all models POCO F (except for) POCO F3 GT), Redmi A-series, as well as most devices for the global market (for example, Xiaomi 12 Lite).
- 🔍 How to check: look at the top of the phone -- the IR port looks like a little black glass next to the front camera. Or check the model specifications at mi.com.
If your smartphone is not equipped with an IR port, the alternative is a Bluetooth remote (such as Xiaomi Mi Smart Home Remote) or Wi-Fi control applications (for smart technology), but the functionality of such solutions is limited – they will not replace full-fledged IR control for old technology.
Installation and configuration of the Mi Remote application
Mi Remote is pre-installed on all supported devices, and if it is not available, download it from Google Play or Mi App Store (for Chinese firmware).
Step-by-step instructions for initial setting:
- Open the Mi Remote app and provide all the permissions you request (camera, location, files).
- Click Add Device and select a category (e.g., "TV", "Air Conditioning").
- Specify your brand. If it's not on the list, select Another and follow manual command instructions.
- Point the phone's IR port to the device and press Test. If the technology responds, save the settings.
Tip: If the app doesn't find your TV or air conditioner, try a similar model of the same brand, for example, for rare Chinese TVs, templates from TCL or Hisense will suit.
☑️ Preparation for Mi Remote setup
Adding and managing multiple devices
One of the key benefits of Mi Remote is that you can control multiple devices at once, for example, you can set up a remote for your TV, air conditioner, and music center, and then switch between them with one tap.
To add a new device:
- Open Mi Remote and tap on the + icon in the upper right corner.
- Select a category (e.g., "Projector" or "Fan").
- If the brand is not available, use the Learning feature (not available on all phone models) and you will need the original remote control.
For quick switching between devices:
- 📺 Swipe left/right on the screen to change the active remote.
- 🔄 Click on the device icon at the top of the screen and select the one you want from the list.
- ⭐ Add frequently used devices to Favorites (star next to the name).
How to remove an unnecessary device?
If you often use the same sequence of commands (e.g., turn on your TV, switch HDMI sign in, or start Netflix), create a macro:
- Go to the Macros. → Create a macro.
- Add commands in the desired sequence (e.g., "On TV → Source → HDMI1 → Launch Netflix").
- Save the macro and assign it a shortcut on the home screen.
Advanced Features: Smart Home Management and Rare Techniques
Many users are unaware that Mi Remote can interact not only with traditional appliances (TVs, air conditioners), but also with some smart home devices.
- 💡 IR-controlled smart lamps: Some Yeelight or Philips Hue models (with IR) support basic commands like on/off or changing colors.
- 🚪 Curtains and blinds: if they are equipped with an IR receiver (for example, Xiaomi Aqara Curtain in compatibility mode).
- 🎧 Audio systems: even some Sonos or Bose sound panels can be controlled via IR.
For rare devices that are not in the Mi Remote database, use the Learning function:
- In the main menu, select Add Device → Training.
- Point the original remote and phone at each other (IK ports to meet).
- Press the button on the original remote and then on the phone screen to record the command.
- Repeat for all the necessary buttons and save the template.
💡
If the Learn feature is not available in your Mi Remote version, try installing a modified firmware (such as third-party Mi Remote Pro).
Another hidden possibility is voice command control.
- Activate Google Assistant or Alice from Yandex.
- Say, for example, “OK Google, turn on the TV through Mi Remote.”
- If the command doesn’t work, check the voice settings in the Mi Remote app itself.
Solving common problems with Mi Remote
Even with the right setup, users face difficulties, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The remote doesn't find the device. | Incompatible brand or model | Try to choose a close model or use the "Learning" function. |
| Teams are running with a delay | Weak IR signal or interference | Bring the phone closer (up to 3 meters) and remove obstacles |
| The app flies off at launch | Outdated version or conflict with firmware | Update Mi Remote and phone firmware to the latest version |
| Some buttons are not working. | Incomplete command template for model | Add the missing buttons through “Learning” or select another template |
Special attention should be paid to the problem of delay of commands. If the signal passes, but the reaction of the technique is delayed:
- 🔋 Check the phone’s charge – at levels below 15%, the IR port may not work well.
- 📶 Make sure there are no infrared sources nearby (such as incandescent or sunlight).
- 🔄 Reboot the phone and equipment you are trying to control.
💡
If Mi Remote stopped working after updating the phone’s firmware, try rolling back the app version via APK or resetting it in the Android Apps menu.
Alternative applications for IR management
If Mi Remote is not satisfied with functionality or stability, consider alternatives:
- 🌍 AnyMote Universal Remote: Supports more brands and has advanced macros, but requires the purchase of a premium version for full functionality.
- 🔧 ZaZa Remote: specializes in rare devices (e.g. old ones) DVD-player).
- 🏠 BroadLink: works not only on IR, but also on IR RF (radio frequency, which increases the control capacity.
When choosing an alternative, consider:
- ✔️ Compatible with your phone model (some apps don’t work on your phone) MIUI system constraints).
- ✔️ Russian language and support for your devices (check reviews on Google Play).
- ✔️ Security: Avoid applications with suspicious permissions (e.g. access to the app) SMS or contact).
If you decide to use a third-party app, export the settings from Mi Remote first (if possible) – so you save time on re-configuring.
Security and confidentiality when using an IR remote
While IR management seems harmless, there are a few nuances worth remembering:
⚠️ Note: Some IR management applications (especially from lesser-known developers) may request excessive permissions, such as access to geolocation or contacts.
To minimize the risks:
- 🔒 Use only the official Mi Remote app or proven alternatives from the list above.
- 📱 Check the permissions of the application in Android settings (Settings) regularly → Annexes → Mi Remote → Permits).
- 🔄 Update your phone’s app and firmware – this closes vulnerabilities that can be used to intercept IR signals.
It is also worth remembering that IR signals can be intercepted using special equipment (for example, IR sniffer). Although this is unlikely in a home environment, do not use an IR remote to control security-related devices (for example, smart locks), for this purpose, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi with encryption is better suited.