How to distribute the Internet from Xiaomi phone to another phone: 5 working ways

Distributing the Internet from one Xiaomi smartphone to another is a task that users face in a variety of situations: from the lack of a router on a trip to the need to urgently connect a second phone to the network. Despite the apparent simplicity, the process has nuances, depending on the model of the device, version. MIUI In this article, we will examine all the current ways of organizing distribution, from the classic Wi-Fi hotspot to the little-known methods via Bluetooth and other devices. USB-cable, and how to avoid common errors, such as when the access point is not turned on or connected devices do not access the network.

We'll focus on Xiaomi models in recent years, like the Redmi Note 12/13, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13/14, where the hotspot interface has changed, and how to save battery power with a long hand, and why some operators (such as MTS or Tele2) can block this feature. If you've had problems trying to distribute the Internet, our step-by-step instructions with screenshots and videos will help solve them.

1. Preparation of Xiaomi phone for the distribution of the Internet

Before you turn on the access point, you need to follow a few key steps. First, make sure that your Xiaomi has activated mobile data. โ†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks and check if the switch is on next to yours SIM-If you have two SIMs, choose one that supports data transfer (usually indicated by an icon). 4G/5G).

Second, check your balance and plan. Some operators limit or completely block Internet distribution at certain rates. For example, Beeline may not have a hotspot feature available on unlimited social network rates. To avoid unpleasant surprises, check the terms with your operator in advance or temporarily connect the Internet Distribution option (cost from 50 rubles per day).

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Check the signal level: if you have 1-2 Network division, the speed of the distribution will be extremely low. Try to move closer to the window or use an external antenna (for some Xiaomi models there are adapters).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Battery charge: Internet distribution consumes up to 30-40% Charge per hour (depending on model) Connect your phone to charge if you plan to use it for a long time.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Update. MIUI: In older versions of the firmware, there are bugs with the hotspot. โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Version. MIUI.

โš ๏ธ Note: If you use Xiaomi with custom firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience), the handout function may not work well. MIUI.

๐Ÿ“Š What Internet Distribution Method Do You Use More Often?
Wi-Fi hotspot
Bluetooth
USB-cable
Never handed out.

This is the standard and most convenient method that all modern Xiaomi smartphones support. To activate it, follow the following steps:

  1. Open Settings and go to Network and Internet โ†’ Access Point and modem.
  2. Tap on the Wi-Fi hotspot (or Mobile hotspot in new versions of MIUI 14+).

Once you turn on the hotspot on the second phone, find the network you created in the list of available Wi-Fi and connect by entering a password. Note: if the connected device does not access the Internet, try turning off the VPN or firewall on the main phone.

The network name is the same as the one in the settings.|Password entered without errors|Mobile data is included on the main phone|On the connected device, the mode "Saving traffic" is disabled"-->

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Hotspot is off.The operator blocks the functionCall for support or change the tariff
Devices are connected, but there is no internet.Wrong APN settingsReset network settings in Settings โ†’ SIM-map โ†’ Settings of access points
Low speed of distributionWeak 4G/5G signalMove closer to the window or use a repeater
Hotspot shuts down on its own.Battery savings disable background processesAdd โ€œAccess Pointโ€ to exceptions in Settings โ†’ Battery โ†’ Battery Optimization

Method 2: Distribution via Bluetooth (saves battery power)

This method is less popular, but it has its advantages: it consumes significantly less power than Wi-Fi, and can be useful if you need to give away the Internet for a short time. However, data transfer rates will be lower (up to 3 Mbps versus 10-50 Mbps for Wi-Fi).

Instructions for setting:

  1. On both phones, turn Bluetooth on in the Quick Settings Panel or through Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ Bluetooth.
  2. On your main phone (Xiaomi), go to Settings โ†’ Network and Internet โ†’ Access Point and modem โ†’ Bluetooth modem.
  3. Turn on the function and wait for the second phone to detect the device, confirm pairing on both devices.
  4. On a plug-in phone in Bluetooth settings, find your Xiaomi, tap it and select Connect to access the Internet.

If the connection is not established, try:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reboot both phones.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Remove the old pairing and repeat the process again.
  • ๐Ÿ”ง Update the Bluetooth firmware (in rare cases, resetting network settings helps).

โš ๏ธ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) 9A or POCO M3) The Bluetooth modem may not be on the menu, but it's a hardware limitation, and then you're left with Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi. USB.

๐Ÿ’ก

If you need to give the Internet to a laptop or PC, but the Wi-Fi adapter broke, a Bluetooth modem can be a temporary solution, speed enough for instant messengers and mail, but not for streaming videos.

Method 3: Distribution through USB-cable (maximum stability)

Connection to USB It provides the most stable data transfer and minimal latency, but requires cable and a physical connection. This is ideal if you need to give the Internet to another phone to download large files or online games. USB-port (up to 480 Mbps for USB 2.0 and up to 5 Gbps for USB 3.0).

Step-by-step:

  1. Connect both phones with a USB-C cable โ€” USB-C or USB-A โ€” USB-C (depending on the models). Some Xiaomi (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) may require an OTG-enabled cable.
  2. On your main phone (Xiaomi), go to Settings โ†’ Network & Internet โ†’ Access Point and modem.
  3. Activate the option. USB-If it's inactive, check that the cable is connected correctly and the second phone is in Data Transfer mode (not Charging").
  4. On the connected phone in the network settings, select USB-Internet (the name may vary depending on the firmware).

If the connection is not established:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Try another cable (cheap cables often don't support data transfers).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reboot both devices.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ On Xiaomi, turn on Developer Mode and activate Debugging by USB (Sometimes it helps with driver problems).
Why? USB-The distribution may not work for some models?
On Xiaomi phones with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 9T or POCO M4 Pro) drivers sometimes have problems USB-In this case, it will help to install official drivers from the Xiaomi site or use a cable with a chip. FTDI (sold in electronics stores).

5. Method 4: Distribution through QR-code (quick connection)

In the latest versions MIUI 13/14 There is a convenient function of connecting to the hotspot through QR-It eliminates the need to manually enter a password and reduces the risk of error. Here's how it works:

  1. Enable a Wi-Fi hotspot on Xiaomi (as described in Method 1).
  2. Slap the icon. QR-code next to the network name (will appear after the hotspot is turned on).
  3. On the second phone, open the camera and point it at QR-The system will automatically prompt you to connect to the network.

This method is especially convenient if you need to connect multiple devices (for example, a phone, tablet and laptop). QR-code until all devices are connected.

โš ๏ธ Attention: If QR-The code is not readable, make sure the second phone is on auto mode. HDR In camera (sometimes it interferes with recognition), also check that the screen brightness on Xiaomi is set to maximum.

Method 5: Use of third-party applications (for advanced users)

If standard methods donโ€™t work (for example, an operator blocks a hotspot), you can use third-party applications like NetShare, PdaNet+ or ClockworkMod Tether, which bypass carrier restrictions but require root rights or additional settings.

Example of settings via PdaNet+:

  1. Download and install the app on both phones (available on Google Play and on the official website).
  2. On your main phone (Xiaomi), open PdaNet+ and select USB Tether or Bluetooth Tether.
  3. Connect your phones via USB or pair them via Bluetooth.
  4. On the second phone in the network settings, select USB/Bluetooth-Internet and confirm the connection.

Advantages of this method:

  • โšก Bypasses the blocking of operators (for example, at the tariffs of MegaFon "All for their own").
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Encrypts traffic (useful when connecting to public networks).
  • ๐Ÿ“Š Allows speed limits for connected devices.

Disadvantages:

  • ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Requires manual adjustment (can be difficult for beginners).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Increased battery consumption due to background processes.
  • ๐Ÿšซ Some apps (like NetShare) are paid after a trial period.

๐Ÿ’ก

Third-party Internet applications may violate the terms of use of your tariff, and if the operator detects a bypass of the lock, he can limit the speed or block the service. SIM-map.

7. How to save battery power when giving the Internet

Internet distribution is one of the most energy-consuming functions of a smartphone. To extend battery life, follow these tips:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Connect charging: if you give out the Internet for a long time, use an adapter with at least 18W (fast-charging).
  • ๐ŸŒ™ Include a dark theme: in Settings โ†’ Display. โ†’ It's a dark topic. It'll reduce the load on the screen.
  • ๐Ÿ“ด Disable unnecessary background processes: Close all applications except those required for distribution.
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Limit the number of connected devices: each new device increases the load on the processor.
  • โšก Reduce the brightness of the screen to a minimum or activate autobrightness.

On Xiaomi models that support reverse charging (such as the Xiaomi 11T Pro or Redmi Note 11 Pro+), you can distribute the Internet and charge another phone wirelessly at the same time, but this further drains the main device, so use the feature only in extreme cases.

8. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even when set up properly, Xiaomi users often face problems when sharing the Internet, and letโ€™s look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Mistake.Reason.Decision
"Can't turn on the access point."Conflict with VPN or firewallTurn off VPN in Settings โ†’ Connections โ†’ VPN and try again.
The hotspot turns on but immediately turns off.Operator restriction or MIUI failureCheck balance or reset network settings in Settings โ†’ SIM-map โ†’ Resetting network settings.
Low speed of distribution (less than 1 Mbit / s)Fare limit or weak signalCall the carrier to see if your rate supports the distribution, and try changing your Wi-Fi range to 5GHz (if supported).
Devices are connected, but the internet is not working.Wrong APN settingsReset the settings. APN: Settings โ†’ SIM-map โ†’ Settings of access points โ†’ Reset.
Hotspot not visible to other devicesFailure of the Wi-Fi moduleReboot your phone or turn on/off the plane mode.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the network settings to factory:

  1. Go to Settings โ†’ System โ†’ Resetting settings.
  2. Select Network Reset (not to be confused with a full reset!).
  3. Confirm the action and restart the phone.

After resetting all stored Wi-Fi networks and passwords will be deleted, but the hotspot problem is solved in 90% of cases.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I share the Internet with Xiaomi on iPhone?
Yes, but there are nuances. On an iPhone, when you connect to a Xiaomi hotspot, sometimes you don't have Internet access because of differences in encryption protocols. To fix this, on Xiaomi, in your hotspot settings, select the WPA2 PSK security type (not WPA3). On your iPhone, forget the hotspot network and connect again. If the problem persists, try distributing the Internet via USB or Bluetooth.
How many devices can be connected to Xiaomi hotspot?
The maximum number depends on the model: Budget models (Redmi 9A, POCO M3) - up to 5 devices; Medium segment (Redmi Note 11, Xiaomi 11 Lite) - up to 8 devices; Flagships (Xiaomi 13 Pro, Mix Fold 2) - up to 10 devices; however, the more devices are connected, the faster the speed drops and the battery goes down.
Why is the operator blocking the distribution of the Internet?
Operators block hotspot for several reasons: ๐Ÿ’ฐ Commercial policy: Internet distribution is considered a โ€œpremiumโ€ feature for which you want to get an additional fee. ๐Ÿ“ก Network congestion: mass distribution creates a high load on towers, which worsens the quality of communication for other subscribers. ๐Ÿ“œ Tariff conditions: some tariffs do not initially provide for distribution (for example, "Internet only for smartphones"). To bypass the lock, you can: Change the tariff to the one where the distribution is allowed (for example, MTS "Ultra" or Beeline "Everything is possible"). Use third-party applications (but this may violate the operator's rules), connect the option "Distribute the Internet" (cost - from 3 to 15 rubles per day).
How to increase the range of the hotspot on Xiaomi?
The standard range of a Wi-Fi hotspot on Xiaomi is about 10 meters indoors and up to 20 meters in open areas: ๐Ÿ“ถ Use an external antenna: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi Mi 10) sell adapters to connect the antenna via a wireless antenna. USB-C. ๐Ÿ”„ Change the Wi-Fi channel: in the hotspot settings, select channel 1, 6 or 11 (they are less prone to interference). ๐Ÿ  Place the phone higher: the signal is better propagated without obstacles (for example, on a cabinet or hanging mount). ๐Ÿ”‹ Use a repeater: connect a device like Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi Repeater to a hotspot to amplify the signal.
Can I share the Internet with Xiaomi on Smart TV?
Yes, but there are limitations: ๐Ÿ“บ Modern TVs (Samsung) QLED, LG OLED, Xiaomi TV) Connect to the hotspot like normal devices. ๐Ÿ”Œ Older models (released before 2018) may not support modern encryption protocols (WPA3). In this case, on Xiaomi in the hotspot settings, select WPA2 PSK. ๐ŸŽฎ For streaming videos (Netflix, YouTube), the speed of the hotspot may not be enough. USB-modem (if) TV supports the connection USB).