How to set up Xiaomi AirDots 3: the complete guide

Modern wireless headphones require careful initial configuration to ensure stable connection and high sound quality. Xiaomi AirDots 3 (also known as Redmi Buds 3) is based on the aptX Adaptive codec, which opens up wide possibilities for audiophiles, but requires competent activation of all functions. Many users immediately after purchase face difficulties in pairing or are unaware of the hidden capabilities of touch control.

In this article, we will take a look at the entire process of integrating the gadget into your ecosystem, learn how to properly perform the first connection, adjust gestures and update the software to the current version. Correctly configuring at the start of use will save you most of the problems with channel desynchronization and signal interruption in the future.

It’s worth noting that the functionality of the headset may vary depending on the operating system of your smartphone. Owners of Android devices will have access to an expanded settings menu, while iOS users will be limited to the basic functionality of the Bluetooth protocol.

First Including and Coupling with Android

The process of familiarizing yourself with the new device begins with the removal of headphones from the charging case. Unlike many competitors, the Xiaomi AirDots 3 automatically enters pairing mode on the first extraction, unless they were previously associated with another gadget.

On the smartphone, you need to activate the Bluetooth module and start scanning available devices. In the list of found gadgets, you will see a record of Redmi Buds 3 or Xiaomi AirDots 3, depending on the regional version of the firmware.

  • πŸ“± Open Bluetooth settings on your phone and make sure the switch is activated.
  • 🎧 Remove both headphones from the case at the same time, wait for the flashing of indicators.
  • πŸ”— Find the device in the list of available and click "ConnectΒ».
  • βœ… Wait for the β€œConnected” voice message and stop flashing indicators.

⚠️ Warning: If the lights don't flash white, maybe the headphones are dead or in sleep mode. 10-15 seconds and then retrieve again.

After a successful connection, the system may offer to install an additional application for advanced management. To fully activate the aptX Adaptive codec and configure the equalizer on Android, you must install a proprietary application. Without it, you will use the headset in the basic SBC or AAC mode.

πŸ“Š What kind of operating system do you have?
Android
iOS
HarmonyOS
other

Use of the Xiaomi Earbuds app

To unlock the full potential of the headset, the developers created a specialized application Xiaomi Earbuds. It is available in the Google Play Market and allows you to manage options that are not available through the standard Bluetooth menu. Once installed and authorized, the application will automatically detect the connected headphones and prompt to update their software.

Inside the interface, the user can access detailed charge statistics for each earbud and case, and it can also adjust the noise reduction mode if it is supported by a specific modification, or select the profile of the sound environment, and the equalizer allows you to adjust the frequencies to personal preferences, strengthening the bass or emphasizing high frequencies.

β˜‘οΈ Setup of the Xiaomi Earbuds app

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The gesture management section deserves special attention, where you can reassign actions for double, triple or long touch zone retention. Standard settings may not suit all users, so customization is a key advantage of the Xiaomi ecosystem.

Secret low-latency regime
Some versions of the app have hidden a "Game Mode" mode that minimizes the latency of sound, activated by a quick triple tap on the touch zone if the feature is included in the app's menu, which is critical for rhythm games and shooters.

Connection to iPhone and iOS

Owners of Apple devices can also use this headset, but the functionality will be significantly limited. iOS does not support proprietary codecs aptX Adaptive, so the sound will be transmitted in AAC format. This still provides high quality, but does not allow you to take advantage of all the technical capabilities of the model.

The pairing process on the iPhone is standard through the Bluetooth menu. Xiaomi Earbuds app at the moment is either not available in the App Store, or has a stripped down functionality, so you will have to manage the settings through standard means of the system. You can adjust the volume and switch tracks, but you can not change the gestures.

It is important to consider the peculiarities of the microphone in the iOS environment. When incoming calls, the system can default to use the phone's microphone, if you do not switch the sound source manually in the call interface. For conversations through messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram, the quality of communication depends on the stability of the Bluetooth connection.

FunctionAndroid (with an app)iOS (without an app)Android (without an app)
Codec of soundaptX Adaptive, AAC, SBCAAC, SBCAAC, SBC
Customization of gesturesComplete.Absent.Absent.
Update of the POThrough the appImpossible.Impossible.
Headphone searchThere is.No.No.

Setting up sensor control

Touchbar on Xiaomi AirDots 3 responds to touch and hold, providing control over playback and calls. Basic commands are set by default, but through the application they can be adapted to your habits. Understanding the logic of how sensors work will help avoid accidental activations while wearing.

Single touch is usually reserved for playback control (Play/Pause), A double serves to switch tracks. Long-term retention (about) 2 The sensor sensitivity is high, so the earphone correction in the ear can accidentally trigger the command.

  • πŸ‘† Single touch: Start/pause of track or answer to a call.
  • πŸ‘†πŸ‘† Double touch: Next track (set up).
  • βœ‹ Holding 2 seconds: Voice assistant or game mode.
  • πŸ”‡ Triple touch: Previous track (in some configurations).

⚠️ Attention: Don't press the sensor too hard. These are capacitive sensors, they can easily touch with your finger.

If you find that your headphones are delayed or not responsive at all, check the cleanness of the touch area. Fat or moisture may disrupt contact. You should also make sure that the app does not turn off the gesture control function.

πŸ’‘

To avoid accidental inclusions during sports, the application can disable gesture control or assign a function that is difficult to hold accidentally, such as calling an assistant.

Update firmware and reset settings

Regular software updates are key to the stable operation of the wireless peripheral. Xiaomi engineers periodically release patches that eliminate problems with desynchronization of the left and right channel, improve the microphone and optimize power consumption. You should check for updates through the Xiaomi Earbuds application.

The upgrade process requires the headphones to be in a case or connected to the phone, and the charge level was at least 30%. Interrupting the boot process can lead to incorrect operation of the device. If the update is successful, the headphones will automatically restart.

In case of critical errors, such as the failure of one earphone to connect or the lack of sound, you may need to completely reset to the factory settings. 10-15 seconds until the indicators flash red three times.

Emission sequence:


1. Put the headphones in the case.




2. Open the case lid.




3 Press and hold sensors on both headphones for 10 seconds.




4. Wait for triple flashing red.




5. Remove the device from the Bluetooth list on the phone and reconnect.

πŸ’‘

Resetting solves 90% of channel desynchronization and connection errors, and is the first step in any malfunction.

Optimizing Sound and Resolving Problems

Sound quality is directly dependent on the density of the ear canal adhesives. The Xiaomi AirDots 3 comes with interchangeable nozzles of different sizes. Size-fitting not only improves noise insulation, but also enhances the low frequencies, making the bass deeper and more saturated.

If you see interruptions in crowded areas with lots of Wi-Fi, try changing the priority of your connection. In some smartphones, in the For Developer section, you can change the Bluetooth Audio Codec or Bluetooth version, but this can lead to instability. It is best to keep your headphones and phone in your pockets of the same clothes.

Cleaning the speaker mesh is another important aspect of maintenance: Sulfur and dust can clog holes, resulting in a quiet sound or its complete disappearance in one of the channels. Use a soft dry brush or sticky tape for gently cleaning without pushing dirt in.

Why do headphones discharge quickly?
Fast discharge can be caused by background processes, high volume or battery ageing. Also check if the device search mode or maximum brightness of indicators is activated constantly (if it is set up). Make sure the contacts in the case are clean and the headphones charge up to 100%.
Can I use only one headphone?
Yes, Xiaomi AirDots 3 supports mono-use. You can only take out the left or right earphone from the case, and it will automatically connect to the phone. The second earphone will be in standby mode in the case.
What to do if the phone can’t see the headphones?
Make sure the headphones aren't connected to another device nearby. perform a setting reset (see section above). Reboot Bluetooth on your phone. If the problem persists, try connecting the headphones to another smartphone to prevent a Bluetooth module breakage in your phone.
Does AirDots 3 support wireless charging?
The standard version of Xiaomi AirDots 3 (Redmi Buds 3) is usually equipped with only a USB-C port for charging the case.Models with wireless charging support have the appropriate marking on the box or a separate name (such as the Pro version).