Peel Mi Remote on Android Xiaomi: what is the program, how to use it and why you need it?

You opened up a list of apps on your Xiaomi smartphone and found a strange name, Peel Mi Remote. It doesn't delete like a regular program, takes up space in memory, and when you start it, offers to control equipment through an infrared port. What is it, why is it needed and why is it pre-installed on your device? In this article, we will discuss all the features of Peel Mi Remote, explain how to use it to control TVs, air conditioners and other equipment, and also tell you about hidden features that most users do not even know.

If you own a Xiaomi Mi 8, Redmi Note 7, POCO F1 or any other model with an infrared transmitting module, this app is your main tool for turning a smartphone into a universal remote. But even if you don’t have an infrared port, Peel Mi Remote can work over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth with some smart devices, which few people know. Next you will learn how to set up the application, add new equipment, solve problems and even remove it if it interferes.

What is Peel Mi Remote and why is it necessary for Xiaomi?

Peel Mi Remote is a pre-installed app from Peel Technologies that turns your Xiaomi smartphone into a universal remote control (PDC).

  • πŸ“Ά Infrared port (IR) – for control of TVs, air conditioners, audio systems and other equipment with an IR receiver (90% of consumer electronics).
  • πŸ“‘ Wi-Fi/Bluetooth β€” for compatible smart devices (e.g., Xiaomi Mi TVs) TV Air conditioners with Mi Home support).

The app was originally designed as an alternative to physical remotes, but has expanded over time.

  • πŸ“Ί Control TVs (including older models without Smart) TV).
  • ❄️ Regulate the temperature on air conditioners and split systems.
  • 🎡 Controlling Music Centers, DVD-player-projectors.
  • πŸ’‘ Turn on/off some smart lights and outlets (if they support IR control).

It’s important to understand that the Peel Mi Remote is not just a remote in your phone, but a complete ecosystem with a code base for thousands of devices. The app automatically determines the model of your equipment and downloads the necessary commands, but sometimes you need manual adjustment (more on this below).

πŸ“Š What equipment you most often control from a smartphone?
Television
Air conditioner
Audio system
Projector
Other

How to check if there is an IR port on your Xiaomi

Before using the Peel Mi Remote, make sure your smartphone supports infrared data transmission. Not all Xiaomi models are equipped with an infrared port - for example, the POCO X3 or Redmi 9 does not have one, but the Mi 11 or Redmi Note 10 Pro do.

  1. Visual inspection: The IR port looks like a small black or transparent window (usually at the top of the case next to the front camera or speaker) and is hidden under a safety net on some models.
  2. Through settings. Open Settings β†’ Connected devices β†’ Infrared port. If there is no partition, there is no port either.
  3. Using Peel Mi Remote. Run the app: if it suggests adding the device, the IR port is there; if it says, "Your device does not support IR," there is no port.

If you don’t have an IR port, but you have smart appliances (like a Xiaomi Mi TV or Wi-Fi air conditioner), you can still control it via the Peel Mi Remote, but only over the network.

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If you have an IR port, but Peel Mi Remote doesn't see the technique, try clearing the app's cache in your Android settings. Often this solves the device definition problem.

How to set up Peel Mi Remote

It takes no more than 5 minutes to set up an app, if you follow the algorithm, and we'll look at the process using a TV connection, but the same steps will work for an air conditioner, an audio system, or another device.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for Peel Mi Remote setup

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Step 1 Start and select the device.

  1. Open the Peel Mi Remote (remote icon on a blue background).
  2. Click Add Device (plus in the lower right corner).
  3. Select a category of equipment (for example, TV).

Step 2. Brand choice.

The app will offer a list of popular manufacturers (Samsung, LG, Sony, etc.) If your brand is not:

  • πŸ” Use the search (loop at the top).
  • πŸ“‹ Choose another brand and enter the name manually.
  • πŸ”„ If the model is not defined, try Universal (works with most devices).

Step 3. Testing the teams.

Once you select a brand, the app will offer you to test several code options. Point your smartphone at the equipment (distance - up to 5 meters) and press the buttons on the screen. If the TV reacts (on/off, changes channels), then the code is suitable. If not, choose another option from the list.

Step 4: Save and set up.

After successful connection:

  • πŸ“Œ Name the device (for example, "TV in the living room").
  • πŸŽ›οΈ Set the buttons on the screen (you can drag and drop them).
  • βš™οΈ Enable the Quick Access option to control the appliances directly from the lock screen.
What if Peel Mi Remote doesn’t find my model?
If your technique is rare or old, try: 1. Choose a brand with a similar name (for example, Thomson sometimes suits TCL). 2. Use a universal code (section "Other brand" β†’ "Universal"). 3. Update the codebase in the application settings (web required). 4. Write in support of Peel Technologies through the section Send feedback in the application - they can add your model in the next update.

Hidden features of Peel Mi Remote, which few people know

Most users use the Peel Mi Remote only as a replacement for the standard remote, but the app has useful features that make life easier:

FunctionDescriptionHow to turn it on
Voice controlControl voice technology through Google Assistant (e.g., β€œOK Google, turn on the TV on Channel 1”).In Peel settings, select Voice Assistant β†’ Connect.
Macros (scenarios)Record a sequence of commands, like turning on the TV, switching to HDMI and launching Netflix at a single click.Add the device. β†’ Additionally. β†’ Macros.
Wi-Fi OfficeControl smart devices (such as Mi TV or Yeelight) without an infrared port.Select the Smart Home category when adding a device.
Cloud remoteManage appliances at home, even if you are offline (via your Peel account).Sign up for Peel and enable Remote Access.

One of the most useful things is macros. Imagine you come home, and instead of turning on the air conditioner, the TV and the audio system separately, you press one button on your smartphone, and all the devices start in the right mode. Or at night, with one tap, you turn off all the equipment in the room, which saves time and makes using a smart home really convenient.

Another little-known feature is device synchronization: If you have multiple Xiaomi smartphones (for example, personal and work), you can export Peel Mi Remote settings through your Mi Account and not reconfigure everything.

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The macros in Peel Mi Remote even work with different brands, for example, you can record a script that turns on a Samsung TV, switches Gree air conditioner to 24Β°C and launches the Yamaha sound bar β€” all with a single button.

Typical Peel Mi Remote Problems and How to Solve Them

Despite the convenience, users often encounter bugs in the Peel Mi Remote, and we have collected the most common problems and ways to fix them:

⚠️ Note: If after the Android Peel Mi Remote update, check the app's permissions. Often the system resets access to the IR port or microphone (needed for voice control).

  • πŸ”΄ The app doesn't see the tech. Reasons: IR port is contaminated (wipe it with a soft napkin); device is too far (5-7 meters maximum); Wrong code (try another brand or generic option).
  • πŸ”„ Commands are sent, but the equipment is not responding. Solution: Reboot the smartphone and the device. Update the codebase in the Peel settings. Check if the case is blocking the IR port.
  • πŸ“± Peel Mi Remote won't open or crash. Actions: Clear the app cache and data in your Android settings. Update Peel via Google Play. If it doesn't work, reinstall (see section below).

If none of these methods worked, try alternative applications for managing the technique:

  • πŸ“Œ Mi Remote Controller (official from Xiaomi, but with a smaller codebase).
  • πŸ“Œ AnyMote Universal Remote (paid but supports rare models).
  • πŸ“Œ ZaZa Remote (Simple Interface, Works Without Registration).

Important: Some alternatives require root rights to work fully with the IR port, and if you are not willing to risk the warranty, you should stay on the Peel Mi Remote and wait for the update.

How to remove or disable Peel Mi Remote on Xiaomi

If you don't use an infrared port or prefer another app to control your app, you can disable or remove Peel Mi Remote.

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi 9 or Redmi) K20) Peel Mi Remote is a system application and is not removed by standard methods, in which case only disabling or using it will help. ADB-teams (see below).

Method 1. Disconnect (without root).

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Application Management.
  2. Find the Peel Mi Remote on the list.
  3. Click Disable (the button will become active if the application is system).
  4. Confirm the action. The app will disappear from the menu, but it will remain in memory.

Method 2: Removal via ADB (for experienced users).

If you are ready to use the computer and ADB commands, do:

adb shell pm uninstall --user 0 tv.peel.app

This command will remove Peel Mi Remote for the current user without root permissions. For complete removal (requires an unlocked bootloader), use:

adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 tv.peel.app

Method 3: Removal by root.

If you have root access, use any file manager with superuser rights (such as Root Explorer) and delete the files:

  • /system/priv-app/PeelApp
  • /system/app/PeelApp (if any)

After removal, the IR port will remain operational, but you will have to install third-party applications to control the equipment.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Peel Mi Remote

Can I use Peel Mi Remote without the internet?
Yes, Peel Mi Remote works offline to control the IR port. The Internet is only for: Initial configuration (download codebase), updates to the list of supported devices, remote control over Wi-Fi. If you have already added technology to the application, it will work without a network connection.
Why does Peel Mi Remote ask for access to contacts and location?
The app requests these permissions for: Contacts – synchronize devices between your gadgets (if you use a Peel account); Location – determine the region for correct work with local brands of equipment (for example, in Russia and China different standards of infrared signals); If you are confused, you can refuse access – the basic functions will remain functional.
How to transfer Peel Mi Remote settings to another smartphone?
There are two ways: through a Peel account. Sign up for an app and log in to a new device, all saved remotes will be automatically downloaded. Through backup. Use applications like Titanium Backup (requires root) or manually copy files from /data/data/tv.peel.app.
Can you control your appliances through Peel Mi Remote from another brand (not Xiaomi)?
Yes, but with reservations: Samsung, Huawei or Realme smartphones with an IR port can install Peel Mi Remote from Google Play, but the codebase may differ. Some features (for example, quick access from the lock screen) work only on Xiaomi.
Why does Peel Mi Remote show ads and how to turn them off?
The free version of the app contains banner ads. You can remove them by: Buying a Peel Premium (cost ~300 rubles / year), disabling personalized advertising in Google settings (Settings β†’ Google β†’ Advertising). Using an ad blocker (for example, AdGuard), but this can disrupt the application. On some Xiaomi firmware (for example, MIUI 13), the adverts are disabled automatically after registering with Mi Account.