Modern Xiaomi TVs and smartphones based on MIUI or HyperOS offer many ways to interact with each other, from simple screen duplication to full control of TV from the phone. However, many users face difficulties in the first setup: it does not find the device over Wi-Fi, there are delays in the image, then you need an adapter. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods of communication, their pros and cons, and also give checklists for quick diagnosis of problems.
The Xiaomi ecosystem is very specific, because the brand optimizes the interaction between its devices, for example, the Mi TV A Pro or Xiaomi TV Q2 series automatically detects Redmi or POCO smartphones on the same network, and the Mi Share feature allows you to transfer files without additional settings. But even if you have devices of different generations (say, Mi TV 4S 2018 and Xiaomi 13T), you can link them together - you need to choose the right protocol.
1. Wireless connection via Miracast (Screen Mirroring)
The most versatile way to duplicate the screen is Miracast technology, built into most Xiaomi TVs (starting with Mi TV 3) and Android 4.2+ smartphones. It works without the Internet, creating direct communication over Wi-Fi Direct, but has limitations: latency up to 100-150 ms and possible artifacts when watching videos.
To activate Miracast:
- ๐ฑ On the phone: open Settings โ Connections โ Transfer of the screen (or wireless display to the MIUI 12+).
- ๐บ On TV: Go to Settings โ Connection and sharing โ Wireless display.
- ๐ Select the name of your TV (for example, MiTV-AB1234).
- โ Confirm the connection on both devices.
Important: on Xiaomi TVs 2020-2023 release Miracast may not work if the network settings activated 5 GHz Only. Switch to 2.4/5 GHz Auto.
Turn it off. VPN phone-on|Make sure your TV and phone are on the same network (if you use a router)|Turn off the energy saving mode on your smartphone|Update the TV firmware to the latest version-->
2. Wi-Fi connection (DLNA and Mi Share)
If you donโt need to duplicate the screen, but just transfer photos, videos or music, DLNA or the proprietary Mi Share protocol will do. The first is supported by all Xiaomi smart TVs, and the second works only between the brand devices (for example, Redmi Note 12 and Mi TV P1).
Instructions for Mi Share:
- ๐ฑ On the phone: open the files โ Mi Share (or swipe down and tap on the Mi Share icon).
- ๐บ On TV: C Settings โ Connection and sharing โ Mi Share activate visibility.
- ๐ Select files on your phone and send them to TV.
For DLNA, use applications like BubbleUPnP (Android) or a TV's built-in media server. Limitation: not all video formats are supported (e.g.,.mkv with HEVC codec may not play).
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If the video slows down when transferring over DLNA, try converting it to MP4 (H.264) with a bitrate of no higher than 10 Mbps through the HandBrake app.
3. Wired connection via HDMI (MHL or USB-C)
For minimal delays (ideal for gaming or watching movies in high resolution), use a wired connection. Modern Xiaomi smartphones (starting with the Mi 9) support image output via a wired connection. USB-C, but require an adapter USB-C โ HDMI DisplayPort Alt Mode: The cost of this adapter is from 800 to 1500 โฝ.
Step-by-step:
- Buy a certified adapter (e.g. Xiaomi USB-C to HDMI or Baseus).
- Connect the adapter to the phone and HDMI-cable to the TV (port) HDMI 1/ARC preferably).
- On the phone, select External Display mode (could be called Duplicate Screen).
- On TV, select the HDMI signal source.
Which adapters won't work?
Advantages of the method:
- ๐ฎ Delay. <10 MS (ideal for cloud gaming or Stadia).
- ๐บ Support 4K@60 Hz and HDR10 (if there is a compatible adapter).
- ๐ The phone charges during use (if the adapter has a port). USB-C PD).
4. Control of TV from smartphone (Mi Remote app)
If you donโt need to duplicate the screen, but only control the TV (switch channels, adjust volume, launch applications), use the official Mi Remote app. It works on Infrared Port (IR) or Wi-Fi (for models with Android TV).
How to set up:
- Download Mi Remote from Google Play or AppGallery.
- Select the device type: TV โ Xiaomi.
- Follow the instructions on the screen (for the IR-Connect your phone to TV, for Wi-Fi โ connect to one network).
- Add the remote to your favorites for quick access.
Functions of the annex:
| Function | IR-connection | Wi-Fi connection |
|---|---|---|
| Channel management | โ | โ |
| Voice search | โ | โ |
| Launching apps (YouTube, Netflix) | โ | โ |
| Color temperature adjustment | โ | โ |
| Working without the Internet | โ | โ |
Miracast (screen duplication)|Wi-Fi (DLNA/Mi Share)|HDMI (wired)|Mi Remote (control)|Do not connect-->
5. Connect via Google Cast (Chromecast)
Xiaomi Android TVs (such as the Mi TV Q1 or Xiaomi TV A2) support Google Cast, a technology similar to Chromecast, which allows you to stream content from apps (YouTube, Netflix, Google Photos) directly to TV without duplication of the entire screen.
How to use:
- ๐ฑ Make sure your phone and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- ๐ฌ Open a supported app (like YouTube) and tap the Cast icon (๐บ).
- ๐ Select your TV (the name will be like this) MiTV-Q1-1234).
- ๐ฅ Video will start playing on TV and the phone can be used for control.
โ ๏ธ Note: If video is slowing when streaming via Google Cast, check your router settings. Prioritize traffic for Xiaomi devices in the QoS section or disable Band Steering (if you use a mesh system).
6. Solving Connection Problems
If your phone canโt see the TV or the connection is constantly broken, use this diagnostic table:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The TV is not displayed in the list of devices | Wi-Fi Direct is disabled on TV | Go to Settings โ Network โ Wi-Fi Direct and activate |
| Sound's there, no image. | Incompatible HDMI adapter | Use an adapter that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode |
| Delay in screen duplication | Network congestion 2.4 GHz | Switch to 5 GHz or use a wired connection |
| Mi Remote app doesn't find TV | IR-TV port blocked | Check if the port is closed with decorative panel or glass furniture |
โ ๏ธ Note: Xiaomi TVs with PatchWall firmware (Indian version) may have default Miracast support disabled. To enable it, go to Settings โ On TV. โ The software version and 5 times click on the Xiaomi Logo, then enter the code 12345.
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For stable operation of Miracast and Google Cast, use a router with support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) - this reduces latency and increases data transfer speed.
7. Alternative methods (for older models)
If you have a Xiaomi TV before 2018 (like Mi TV 2 or Mi TV 3S), some current techniques may not work.
- ๐ผ Use it. MHL-Adapter (for phones with Micro-USB and port) HDMI MHL TV).
- ๐ก Connect both devices to the router and use Plex Media Server or Kodi to stream.
- ๐ Buy an external Google Chromecast or Xiaomi Mi TV Stick (cost from 2500) โฝ).