How to set up Xiaomi Redmi wireless headphones: a step-by-step guide

Modern. TWS-Xiaomi’s headphones and its sub-brand Redmi are deservedly popular for their excellent combination of price and sound quality, but like any smart device, they require the right initial connection and fine-tuning to unlock the full potential. Many users have difficulty pairing for the first time or are unaware of hidden features that improve communication quality.

In this article, we will take a look at the whole process, from removing the gadget from the box to calibrating the sound to your ear, you will learn how to reset the settings correctly if the device stops seeing the phone, and what applications will help manage the equalizer and touch areas. Proper configuration at the start will save you from problems with channel dissynchronization and signal interruptions in the future.

Before we get into the technical details, it’s worth noting that the Bluetooth protocol’s algorithms are constantly updated. So even if you’ve already used the brand’s previous models, newer versions of MIUI and HyperOS may have seen changes in the connection logic. Follow the steps below carefully to ensure the accessory works smoothly.

Primary preparation and activation of the device

The first step should always be to check the battery charge. New devices often come with partially discharged batteries for safe storage. Place the headphones in a case and connect it to the power source for 15-20 minutes, even if the indicators show full charge. This will calibrate the power controller and avoid sudden shutdowns during setup.

Once charged, you need to remove both headphones from the case at the same time, and this is the trigger that puts most Redmi Buds and Xiaomi Earbuds models into search mode, and if you only pull out one device, it may not go into pairing mode, waiting for a partner to sync with each other.

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Be sure to remove the protective silicone plugs from the charging contacts on the headphones themselves before first use, if they are present on your model.

Visually make sure the lights are good, and they flash differently on different models: white usually indicates connectivity, red indicates low charge, and if the light is constantly on and not flashing, it may already be paired with another gadget nearby.

The process of pairing with a smartphone

For owners of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones, the process is as simple as possible thanks to the MIUI ecosystem. When you open the case cover next to the charged phone, an animation with a suggestion to connect automatically pops up on the screen. This works through a special fast pairing protocol that does not require manual search in the Bluetooth menu.

If the automatic window doesn’t appear, or you’re using a different brand phone (Samsung, Honor, iPhone), you need to manually act. Open your Bluetooth settings on your smartphone and click β€œAdd a new device.” In the list of available gadgets, find the name of your model, for example, Redmi Buds 3 Pro or Xiaomi FlipBuds.

  • πŸ“± Make sure that the Bluetooth module on your phone is activated and visible to other devices.
  • πŸ”‹ Check that the case and the headphones themselves are charged at least 20 times%.
  • πŸ”„ If a device is found but not connected, remove it from the list of previously used devices and repeat the search.

It's important to understand the difference between simple connection and full synchronization of profiles. After the first connection, the phone can request permission to access contacts and call history, this is necessary for the speaker function to work and display the name of the caller. Without this permission, the headphones will only work as a headset for output.

β˜‘οΈ Checking before connection

Done: 0 / 1

Use of the Xiaomi Earbuds app

For deep audio tuning and gesture control, official sources recommend using the Xiaomi Earbuds app (formerly known as Mi Buds M8 or simply Xiaomi Buds). Without this software, you lose access to 70% of the device's capabilities, including adjusting noise cancellation and updating firmware.

Once you have the app installed and the headphones connected, the interface will tell you to select your ear type and your sound preferences. The algorithm will create a personalized audio profile. In the main menu, you can see the exact percentage of charge of each headphone separately, which is critical for controlling battery life.

⚠️ Note: Only download the app from official Google Play or App Stores. Third-party versions may contain malicious code or may not work properly with data transfer protocols.

There are several presets available in the equalizer settings section: Bass, Vocals, High Frequency. There is a manual frequency setting for audiophiles. There is also a touch response setting: double tapping, long pinching or swipes on the earpiece can be reassigned to your needs, for example, to call a voice assistant.

πŸ“Š What app do you use for headphones?
Xiaomi Earbuds (official)
Mi Buds M8 (old version)
Third-party players
I don't use any apps.

Setting up noise reduction and transparency

Flagship models like the Redmi Buds 4 Pro or Xiaomi Buds 4 feature active noise cancellation (ANC). The app can choose from three modes of operation: Noise Reduction, Transparency and Off. The transparency mode amplifies external sounds, which is useful when crossing the road or talking to the cashier without removing the headphones.

Noise suppression is also regulated, and there are adaptive modes, which are adaptive modes, and fixed levels, and it's worth remembering that activating ANC significantly increases battery power consumption, reducing battery life by 20-30%.

Mode of workDescription of functionImpact on the battery
ANC On (Max)Complete cutting off of external noiseHigh.
TransparencyTransmission of external soundsAverage.
OffPassive noise insulationLow.
Wind ModeWind noise suppressionAverage.

Some users complain about the effect of "vacuum" or pressure in the ears when noise cancellation is turned on, which is an individual feature of perception. If you feel discomfort, try switching to "light noise cancellation" mode or using conventional silicone mounts for better tightness without active wave suppression.

Control of sensor and voice commands

Touch control is one of the most convenient features, but it's addictive. The default default scenarios are one touch to answer a call, double to pause music. However, in the Xiaomi Earbuds app, you can reassign actions. For example, long-clamp left earphone can be set to switch between noise reduction modes.

The voice assistant (Google Assistant, Siri or Xiao AI) usually requires triple touch or long retention to activate. Make sure that the phone settings allow microphone access for selected assistants. In noisy rooms, voice commands may not work properly due to noise-canceling algorithms.

  • πŸ‘† Single touch: Play/Pause or answer the phone.
  • πŸ‘†πŸ‘† Double touch: Next track or Re-set.
  • βœ‹ Long press: Regime change ANC or activation of assistant.
Secret sensor settings
In some versions of the firmware, you can adjust the sensitivity of the sensor to avoid accidental triggers when adjusting the earpiece in the ear.

Update firmware and reset settings

The manufacturer regularly releases microcode updates that fix connection errors and improve the quality of the microphone. It is better to check the updates immediately after purchase. For this, go to the About Headphones section in the app and click on Check Updates. The process takes about 2-3 minutes, during which time the headphones should be near the phone.

If the headphones stopped connecting, the sound became quiet or disappeared in one channel, a full reset will help. For most Redmi and Xiaomi models, the procedure is as follows: place the headphones in the case, open the lid and press the function button on the case case for 10-15 seconds until the indicator flashes orange or white.

⚠️ Warning: After resetting, all personalizations, including equalizer settings and renaming the device, will be deleted. You will have to re-match your headphones to your phone as if they were a new device.

In the rare cases where a software reset doesn't work, you may need to clear the Bluetooth list on the phone itself. Go to Bluetooth settings, find your headphones, tap on the gear and select "Forget the device" or "Cancel pairing." Only then do the reset on the case.

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Regular firmware updates are the only way to get new features that weren’t available when you bought the headphones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why do the headphones connect to only one channel (left or right)?
This is a classic sign of desynchronization between the left and right earbuds: place both earbuds in the case, close the lid, wait 10 seconds, then pull them out at the same time. If it doesn't work, do a full Hard Reset via the button on the case.
Can I use Xiaomi headphones with iPhone?
Yes, basic features (sound playback, microphone) work perfectly. However, the Xiaomi Earbuds app on iOS has limited functionality or may not be available in some regions.
How do you turn up the volume if it’s not enough?
Check the Absolute Volume settings in the Android developer menu or in the Bluetooth settings of a particular phone. Also make sure that the app equalizer does not turn down the overall volume. Sometimes cleaning the speaker mesh from earwax helps.
Headphones are discharged quickly, even though they're recently purchased. Is that normal?
New headphones must be charged according to specification (usually 4-6 hours without a case). If the discharge occurs in 30-40 minutes, perhaps battery failure. Check whether the maximum noise cancellation is constantly on, which accelerates the flow.