A loop (or headset with a microphone) is an indispensable accessory for drivers, gamers, streamers and those who often talk on the phone. Xiaomi smartphones support connecting such devices in several ways, but the process does not always go smoothly. In this article, we will analyze all possible methods of connection, from the classic 3.5 mm audio jack to modern Bluetooth 5.3, and also solve typical problems: why the loop is not determined, why the microphone does not work or the sound is interrupted.
It is important to consider that Xiaomi is gradually abandoning the traditional audio jack in flagship models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Xiaomi 14 does not have it). In such cases, you will have to use a wireless connection or USB-C adapter → 3.5 mm. We will dwell on each option in detail, including nuances for specific lines (Redmi, POCO, Mi).
1. Connecting the loop through a 3.5 mm audio jack (if any)
The easiest and most reliable way to do this is to use the standard 3.5mm jack, which is available in most budget and mid-budget Xiaomi models, such as:
- 📱 Redmi Note 10/11/12 (except for the Pro versions)
- 📱 POCO X3/X4/X5
- 📱 Xiaomi 11 Lite and older flagships (Mi) 10T, Mi 9)
To connect the loop:
- Insert the headset plug into the connector before clicking (do not make excessive efforts!).
- On the phone screen, a notification will appear about connecting headphones with a microphone.
- Open any call app (Phone, WhatsApp, Telegram) and check that the loop microphone is used by default.
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If the sound is too quiet, check the volume settings in Settings → Sound → Media Volume. For the microphone, adjustment is available in Settings → Additional → Special Features → Microphone Amplification (on some firmware).
⚠️ Attention: If the loop connects but the microphone doesn't work, the problem may be that the plug is incompatible. 3-contact connector instead of standard 4-contact (CTIA/OMTP). In this case, the adapter or the replacement of the loop will help.
2. USB-C connection (for models without 3.5 mm connector)
Xiaomi’s flagship smartphones of recent years (Xiaomi 12/13/14, Redmi K50/K60, POCO F4/F5) are devoid of audio jacks.
- Use a USB-C connector loop (e.g., Xiaomi Type-C Earphones).
- Buy a USB-C adapter → 3.5 mm (original from Xiaomi or certified).
Instructions for the adapter:
- Connect the adapter to the USB-C port of the phone.
- Put the loop in the adapter. The screen will show a notification about the connection of analog headphones.
- Check the microphone in the Dictaphone app or during the call.
| Model phone | Support for 3.5 mm | Recommended adapter |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13/13 Pro/13 Ultra | ❌ No. | Xiaomi USB-C to 3.5mm (MDY-12-EC) |
| Redmi K60/K60 Pro | ❌ No. | Adapter with 24-bit/96kHz support (e.g. UGREEN 20768) |
| POCO F5/F5 Pro | ❌ No. | Any adapter with a CS43131 chip for high-quality sound |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | ✅ Yes. | Not required |
⚠️ Attention: Cheap adapters without a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) can produce background noise or distort sound. For high-quality voice recording (for example, for streams), it is better to choose an adapter with an external DAC, such as iBasso DC05.
3. Wireless Bluetooth connection
The most versatile way is to connect the loop over Bluetooth. It works on all Xiaomi models, including the newest. Most modern headsets (for example, Xiaomi AirDots, Baseus Bowie WM01, JBL Tune 130NC>) support A2DP (for sound) and HFP/HSP (for microphone).
Step-by-step:
- After connecting, check that your device is selected in the call settings (Settings → Applications → Phone → Call settings) as the sound source and microphone.
If the loop is connected but the microphone is not working:
- 🔄 Reconnect the device (forget it in Bluetooth settings and reconnect it).
- 📱 Check the permissions for the microphone in Settings → Confidentiality → Permits → Microphone.
- 🔊 In some firmware MIUI You need to manually select the loop as an input device to Settings → Sound. → Additionally. → Sound input.
Make sure the loop is charged.|Disable other Bluetooth devices|Update the phone firmware|Check the compatibility of profiles (A2DP/HFP)-->
4.Configure the loop as the main device for calls
Often the loop is plugged in, but the sound is going through the phone's speaker as it rings.
- During the call, click on the speaker icon in the call interface and select your headset.
- Or close all apps and restart the call - sometimes MIUI resets the audio settings.
- For Continuous Choices: Go to Settings → Connected devices → Bluetooth settings → ⚙️ (near your noose) → Use it for calls.
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (Especially global) the option to use for calls may not be available, in which case resetting Bluetooth settings will help:
Settings → Applications → Application Management → Three dots (⋮) → Show all → Bluetooth → Storage → Clear dataAfter reset, you will have to reconnect the loop, but the problem with the microphone usually disappears.
5. Solving Connection Problems
If the loop is not defined or is not working smoothly, check the following points:
What if the loop is connected, but the sound is interrupted?
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| No noose is in place. | The pairing mode is not activated | Hold the power button on the headset for 5-10 seconds |
| The microphone is not working. | Not selected as an input device | Check the settings → Sound → Sound input |
| The sound is coming through the phone. | Resetting Bluetooth settings | Clear the Bluetooth app data (see above) |
| The loop is off. | MIUI Energy Conservation | Turn off Settings → Battery → Optimize the battery for Bluetooth |
If nothing works, try connecting the loop to another device (like a laptop or tablet) if the problem persists, the headset malfunctions. If the other device is working, the problem is the phone or hardware firmware (like a damaged Bluetooth module).
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Xiaomi phones with MIUI 14+ have dual audio feature, allowing you to use the phone’s loop and speaker at the same time. Activated in Settings → Sound → Dual audio (not available on all models).
6. Features for specific Xiaomi models
Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique nuances when connecting headsets:
- 📱 Xiaomi 13T/13T Pro: Supports Bluetooth LE Audio and codec LC3, But for stable operation of the loop, you need to update the firmware to MIUI 14.0.5+.
- 📱 Redmi Note 12 Turbo: Some batches had a microphone bug in Bluetooth headsets - fixed by updating to V14.0.4.0.TMTCNXM.
- 📱 POCO F4 GT: It has a separate game mode that can block the connection of new Bluetooth devices. → Special facilities → Turbo-playing mode.
- 📱 Xiaomi Civi 3: Due to its compact body, it may not catch the Bluetooth signal at the top of the phone well.
For models with HyperOS (new firmware instead of MIUI, which debuted in Xiaomi 14), the connection process does not change, but the option has appeared Quick switch audio devices – hold the volume slider while playing music to select a loop.
7. Alternative ways of connecting
If standard methods do not work, consider the following options:
- 🎧 FM-Transmitter (for old car loops): Connects to USB-C and broadcasts FM-Radio. Example: Nulaxy KM18.
- 🔌 Bluetooth adapter for 3.5 mm: Converts wired loop to wireless (e.g. Avantek) BTA-200).
- 💻 PC Connection: If your phone doesn’t see the loop, connect it to your computer and use Xiaomi PC Suite for sound transmission.
⚠️ Attention: When in use FM-The audio quality of transmitters will be worse than that of direct connection, and they can interfere with radio stations in the range of 87.5-108 MHz.
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If you use a loophole frequently for in-car calls, consider buying a magnetic holder with NFC (like Xiaomi Mi Car Phone Holder 1S).It automatically connects a Bluetooth headset when you install the phone.