How to connect AirPods to Xiaomi Redmi: instructions with solutions to problems

Connecting Apple AirPods wireless headphones to Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is a challenge that many users face. Although both devices support Bluetooth 5.0+, the pairing process is not always smooth. In this article, we will discuss three working methods of connecting, explain why errors can occur, and give practical tips for optimizing sound.

It’s worth noting that AirPods were originally designed for the Apple ecosystem, so some features (like automatic switching between devices or activating Siri) on Xiaomi won’t work. However, the basic features — listening to music, talking on the phone and gesture control — are available in full.

If you've tried to connect your headphones before but have problems (e.g. AirPods don't show up in the list of devices or the sound is interrupted), at the end of the article you'll find a table of solutions to the most common bugs. FAQ-A block with answers to frequent questions, including compatibility with specific Redmi models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro)+ or Redmi 10C).

1. Preparation before connection: what to check

Before you start pairing, make sure both devices are ready to go, and here are some key points that are often overlooked:

• 🔋 Headphone and case charge: AirPods should be charged at least 20%. If the indicator on the case flashes orange, plug it into charging for 10-15 minutes. USB-C or wireless charging (if supported).
• 📱 Bluetooth version on Redmi: Make sure your smartphone supports Bluetooth 5.0 or later. For example, Redmi Note 9 Pro has Bluetooth 5.0 and Redmi 12 has 5.3. → The phone. → Full specification.
• 🔄 Reset previous connections: If AirPods were previously paired with another device (such as an iPhone), you need to “forget” them in the settings of that device or reset the headphones themselves. To do this, press and hold the button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the indicator flashes white.

It’s also worth updating the firmware on Redmi, as older versions of MIUI may have bugs with Apple devices. Check the updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update. If a new version is available, install it before pairing.

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If your Redmi doesn’t see AirPods, try turning on Visibility for All mode in Bluetooth settings. Go to Settings → Bluetooth → Additional → Visibility of the device and select Always Visible.

Method 1: Standard Bluetooth connection

This is the simplest and most versatile method that works on all Redmi models (from Redmi 8 to Redmi Note 13 Pro+).

1. Open the AirPods case and make sure the headphones are inside. On the back of the case, press and hold the pairing button (round button under the lid) for 3-5 seconds until the indicator flashes white.
2. On Redmi, go to Settings → Bluetooth and turn on the module (slider in the upper right corner).
3. In the list of available devices, look for AirPods (the name can be displayed as AirPods Pro, AirPods 3 or just AirPods).

Once connected successfully, the indicator on the AirPods case will turn green (or go out), and the list of Redmi devices will appear as Connected. You can now listen to audio or call.

The indicator on the case is lit green |AirPods are displayed in the Bluetooth list as "Connected" |The sound is played without delay |The microphone works when calling-->

Important: If the sound is interrupted or there are delays, go to the Bluetooth codec settings (more on this in Section 4).

Method 2: Connect via the AirBattery application (for advanced features)

The standard Bluetooth connection does not allow some AirPods features, such as displaying charge levels or gesture control, but you can install a third-party AirBattery app (available on Google Play), which emulates working with iOS and adds:

• 📊 Monitoring the charge of the case and each headphone separately.
• 🎧 Customizing gestures (for example, double touching to switch tracks).
• 🔍 Search for headphones on the map (if they are lost).
• 🔄 Automatic reconnection when opening the cover.

Instructions for setting:

1. Download and install AirBattery from Google Play.
2. Connect AirPods to Redmi in the standard way (see Section 2).
3. Open the app and provide all the necessary permissions (access to Bluetooth, notifications and location).
4. In the main menu of the application, select your AirPods - a control panel with charge level and settings will appear.

Note: On some Redmi models (e.g. Redmi 9A), the AirBattery may not work as smoothly due to processor limitations, and in this case, try an alternative application called AndroPods.

Method 3: Connect via Developer Mode (for power users)

If standard methods don’t work, you can try turning on developer mode on Redmi and manually modify Bluetooth settings.

• 🔄 AirPods are connected but immediately shut down.

Instructions:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (Tap 7 times in a row) After that, the Settings menu will appear item For Developers.

Return to Bluetooth settings, find your AirPods and tap the icon ⚙️ Select additionally and install it: