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

Modern Xiaomi Redmis are equipped with advanced Bluetooth modules, which allows you to instantly create a wireless ecosystem. However, the first pairing process often causes difficulties for users who have not previously encountered the MIUI interface.

In this article, we will discuss in detail not only the standard procedure, but also the hidden capabilities of the system. You will learn how to avoid desynchronization of audio and video, as well as what codecs your smartphone supports.

The MIUI shell interface has its own features that set it apart from pure Android. Understanding the logic of how the menu works will speed up the process of connecting any accessories. Let's move on to practical steps.

Preparation of the device and accessory for pairing

Before you look for a device on the list, you need to put the headphones in detection mode. Standard power on is often not enough for the primary connection. Most models require you to press the control button for 5-7 seconds before the flashing indicator appears quickly.

On a Xiaomi smartphone, make sure that the Bluetooth module is active. To do this, lower the notification curtain and press the appropriate icon. If you are doing this for the first time, the system can request location permission - this is necessary for scanning the periphery.

⚠️ Warning: Make sure the headphones aren't automatically connected to another nearby device.If they've been paired with your laptop or tablet before, they may try to connect to them bypassing the phone.

Distance between devices at the time of setting should be minimal. Obstacles in the form of walls or metal objects can significantly weaken the signal during the handshake stage. Also check the battery charge of the accessory, as it is consumed more intensively in search mode.

Step-by-step connection instruction via MIUI settings

The main way to set up is through the system menu. Open Settings and select Bluetooth. Here you will see the switch and the list of available devices. By clicking on the search icon or just updating the list, the phone will start scanning the airwaves.

When the name of your headphones appears in the Available Devices list (such as AirDots, Redmi Buds or the manufacturer's brand), click on it. The system initiates a pairing request. In some cases, it may be necessary to confirm a code that is usually 0000 or 1234, but modern models do not.

β˜‘οΈ Algorithm of successful connection

Done: 0 / 4

After the successful connection, the status will change to Connected, and the sound will be streamed through a new source, and if that doesn't happen, check the audio output settings under Sound and Vibration.

Use of quick menus and widgets

For power users, there is a faster way to manage. In the notification curtain MIUI is often available Bluetooth widget. Long-tap on the Bluetooth icon immediately opens the control menu, bypassing unnecessary transitions.

Some firmware versions have a floating ball or sidebar where you can add a quick-connect shortcut, which is especially handy if you change audio devices frequently throughout the day.

Also worth mentioning is the "Mi Connect" or "Xiaomi Earbuds" feature (for branded models), which when you open a case next to an unlocked phone, an animated window with a suggestion to connect can pop up, which is the easiest method for ecosystem owners.

πŸ“Š Which headphones do you use most often?
Branded Xiaomi/Redmi
Third-party brands (Samsung, Sony)
Chinese OEM-model
Old wired with adapter

Customization of sound quality and codecs

Once connected, it's important to set up data settings. Go to the Bluetooth menu, click on the gear next to the device name. Codec settings can be available here: SBC, AAC, aptX or LDAC. The choice depends on the standards your headset supports.

You can use the engineering menu or the special applications to view technical information, but the basic settings are also available on the system. High-resolution audio requires a more stable communication channel. If the sound is interrupted, try switching to the SBC codec.

CodecQuality.CompatibilityEnergy consumption
SBCBasic100% devicesLow.
AACGood.iOS, AndroidAverage.
aptXHigh.Qualcomm chipsHigh.
LDACHi-ResSony, flagshipsVery high.

In the "Advanced" section, sometimes the option "Absolute volume" is hidden. If the volume of the headphones and phone is out of sync, try changing the state of this switch, which solves the problem of quiet sound even at maximum.

Connecting gaming accessories and low latency

Minimal audio latency is critical for gamers, and some Redmi models (especially the Black Shark or K-series) have a Game Mode setting in their Bluetooth settings, which prioritizes data transmission by reducing latency.

For third-party gaming headsets with USB-Dongle (2.4 GHz) is a different procedure. OTG-Type-C cable or adapter, the system recognizes the device as an external sound card, in which case Bluetooth is not used, which eliminates interference.

⚠️ Attention: Low latency mode can drain the battery of the smartphone and the headphones faster. Activate it only when playing or watching videos where lip sync is important.

If you use specific game profiles, make sure that the appropriate equalizer is selected in the sound settings. Often, the Game profile removes the bass component for better audibility of steps.

Solution: If the device is not found

It's not uncommon for your phone to see headphones. First, reset your network settings. Go through Settings β†’ Connection and Sharing β†’ Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth. This will clear the error cache without deleting personal data.

Check if the list of paired devices is crowded. Xiaomi can store data on dozens of gadgets, which sometimes causes addressing conflicts. Remove old, unused profiles from the Bluetooth list.

Secret method of resetting TWS headphones
If standard on doesn't work, put the headphones in the case, press the buttons on both headphones (or a single case button) for 15-20 seconds before changing the color of the indicator, which will force the internal memory of the headset to reset.

It’s also worth checking the permissions for the Bluetooth system app. In the Apps menu, find the Bluetooth system process and make sure it has all the necessary rights, including access to location and phone.

Managing multiple devices simultaneously

Modern versions of Android and MIUI allow you to connect two audio devices at the same time, a feature called Dual Audio, which is to activate it, plug in the first headset, then run a search and connect the second.

You can have a "Translate to two devices" option on the Bluetooth menu, which is convenient when you need to share a sound with a friend or use different types of headphones, but it's worth remembering that the load on the communication module increases.

πŸ’‘

When two devices are connected, codec quality can automatically drop to SBC to ensure flow stability. If sound is important, use one device.

Switching between devices occurs automatically when media is played, and if one device leaves range, the sound will smoothly switch to the phone speaker or the second device, if this feature is supported.

Optimizing Bluetooth for energy savings

Constantly searching for devices consumes charge. In the MIUI battery settings, you can adjust the behavior of Bluetooth. It is recommended to turn off visibility for other devices when you do not plan new connections.

Use automation scenarios, such as setting your phone to turn off Bluetooth when connecting to your home Wi-Fi network or at night, which will extend Xiaomi Redmi’s autonomy throughout the day.

⚠️ Note: Do not leave Bluetooth enabled in public places with open access. Although modern protocols encrypt data, the risk of interception or spam via Bluetooth (Bluejacking) still exists.

Regularly update the firmware of the headphones themselves through branded applications (Mi Wear, Xiaomi Earbuds). Manufacturers often release patches that improve the stability of the connection with their phones.

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Connection stability depends not only on the phone, but also on the relevance of firmware on the headphones themselves.

Why does the phone see the headphones but not connect?
The most common problem is to desynchronize the security keys: remove the device from the list on your phone, reset the headphones (clamping the buttons) and try to re-address. Also check if the audio is occupied by another application.
Can I connect AirPods to Xiaomi Redmi?
Yes, it’s standard as any other headphone, but features like automatically switching between Apple devices and checking the widget’s charge won’t work without third-party apps from Google Play.
How to improve the quality of the microphone during conversation?
In Bluetooth settings, make sure that the HFP (Hands-Free Profile) profile is enabled. If there is a mode choice (HD Voice / Standard), select HD. Also check if the microphone on the headphones themselves is blocked with a finger or clothing.
What to do if the sound is behind the video?
Turn on Game mode in Bluetooth settings or in the headphone app. If the problem persists, try turning off Absolute Volume or lowering the bitrate in the developer settings (Bluetooth Audio Codec).