How to set up a radio on a Xiaomi smartphone: from basic setup to problem solving

Introduction: why FM-Xiaomi radio doesn’t work like other smartphones

Smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO Historically, they have a non-standard approach to implementation. FM-Unlike most Android devices, where the radio chip is activated via a standard app, additional setup is often required, from installing third-party apps to using headphones as an antenna. The reason lies in the architecture of the Qualcomm Snapdragon and MediaTek hardware platform, which Xiaomi integrates with its own shell. MIUI.

Another feature is the lack of built-in FM-transmitter 2021 year of release (for example, Xiaomi) 12/13 series, Redmi Note 11/12). In such cases, radio only works through streaming (Internet radio), but not through air frequencies. This article will help you understand how to configure the radio on your device - whether it is a classic radio. FM or modern alternatives.

Verification of support FM-Radio with your Xiaomi model

Before you try to set up a radio, make sure your smartphone is physically supportive. FM-Even if the specs say there's a chip, the manufacturer can turn it off at the software level:

• 📱 Models with hardware FM-chip (2020 year and earlier: Redmi Note 9/10, POCO X3, Mi 10 Lite, Redmi 9A/9C. These devices can receive radio without the Internet.
• 🌐 Models without hardware FM (2021–2026): Xiaomi 12/13/14, Redmi Note 11/12, POCO F4/F5. Radio is only available through apps like TuneIn Radio or Radio Garden.
• ⚠️ Exceptions: Some regional versions (e.g. India) may have FM-chips even in new models. Check through the settings → The phone. → Full specifications.

If your model doesn't support FM hardware, go to the Internet radio section. If you have support, read on.

Method 1: Configuring the built-in FM-radio MIUI

On devices with MIUI 12 and later (such as the Redmi Note 10 or POCO M3), the built-in radio application can be hidden to activate it:

1. Connect the wired headphones (they act as an antenna) wireless headphones will not work!
2. Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
3. Search for FM Radio or Radio.
4. If the application is found, click Enable and add it to the main screen.

If you don’t have a built-in radio, download the official Mi Radio app from AppGallery (for regions where it’s available) or use alternatives like NextRadio (requires root rights on new models).

Check the support FM model|Connect the wired headphones|Update. MIUI last-minute|Install the NextRadio app (if necessary)-->

⚠️ Note: On smartphones with MIUI Global embedded radio can be disabled due to licensing restrictions, in which case only third-party software will help.

Method 2: Use of third-party applications (NextRadio, Spirit FM)

If the built-in radio is missing or not working, the best alternatives are NextRadio and Spirit FM. They support most Qualcomm and MediaTek chips, but require the right setup:

To install Spirit FM on new models (Redmi Note 11 and later) you will need to unlock the bootloader and obtain root rights.

1 Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool.


2. Install TWRP and run Magisk.




3. In Magisk, activate the Spirit FM Enabler module.

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If the radio doesn’t catch the station, try using headphones with a longer cable – they work better as an antenna.

How to Keep Your Favorite Radio Stations

Maintenance of stations in MIUI Radio or NextRadio is automatically clicked on ❤️ or ⭐. But if you want to export the list to transfer to another phone, do the following:

• 📋 In NextRadio: Open Settings → Export stations (file saved in.csv format).
• 🔄 In Spirit. FM: Use the Backup function in the menu (saves settings to the cloud).
• 📱 To transfer to another Xiaomi: copy the file /sdcard/NextRadio/favorites.csv through the conductor.

If you use Internet radio (such as TuneIn), the stations sync to your account automatically, but you have to manually save them to listen offline.

Problem Solving: Radio is not working or catching well

If the radio does not find the station after setting up or is constantly interrupted, check the following points:

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi smartphones with Snapdragon processor 7xx/8xx (for example, POCO F3 Xiaomi 11T) FM-The chip can be turned off at the core level, and then only custom firmware can help. ROM radio-enabled.

• 🎧 Problem: Radio doesn't turn on without headphones.Solution: Use Spirit FM root-rights or connect headphones through the adapter (if the Type-C connector).
• 📶 Problem: Weak signal, constant noise/interference Solution: Try changing the region in your radio settings (e.g., choose Europe over Auto).
• 🔄 Problem: After the update MIUI Solution: Reverse to previous firmware or install NextRadio.

If nothing helps, check if it is off. FM-chipset → Additionally. → Regional settings. Some firmware options FM Radio is hidden under the item Special Opportunities.

Method 3: Internet radio as an alternative to FM

If your Xiaomi doesn't support FM hardware, it's Internet radio, and the benefits are:

• 🌍 Access to stations from all over the world (e.g, BBC Radio 1 or Radio Lighthouse).
• 🎵 Ability to listen to podcasts and recorded broadcasts.
• 📱 It works without headphones and root rights.

The best Internet radio apps on Xiaomi:

To save traffic in TuneIn Radio, turn on the option Low quality (Settings → Sound Quality). You can also download the programs in advance through Podcasts → Download.

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Internet radio is the only option for new Xiaomi models (2021-2026), where hardware is used. FM-chip.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions