How to connect Bluetooth headphones Xiaomi to the phone Xiaomi: the full guide

Owners of the Xiaomi ecosystem often face the need to quickly connect their devices, whether they are popular Redmi AirDots, Mi True Wireless Earbuds or wired models with an adapter. The synchronization process in the MIUI shell or the new HyperOS is optimized for instant recognition of brand accessories, but sometimes requires manual intervention or resetting. Understanding the principles of the Bluetooth protocol and the features of the MIUI interface will allow you to avoid typical errors on the first launch.

The Chinese giant’s smartphones are equipped with advanced wireless communication modules that support high-resolution codecs such as AAC, aptX and even LDAC in flagship models. Proper connection setting is not just a matter of convenience, but also a way to unlock the full potential of an audio device. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the stages of pairing, from activating search mode to fine-tuning the equalizer.

It is worth noting that operating system algorithms may vary slightly depending on the version of Android and the specific model of the phone. However, the basic logic of actions remains the same for the entire model range, including the Redmi Note series, Xiaomi Mi and POCO. We will consider both standard scenarios and complex cases that require deep diagnostics.

Preparation of the device and activation of the coupling mode

The first and most critical step is to put the headphones in visibility mode, and many users mistakenly believe that simply turning on the power is enough to detect the gadget on the phone, in fact, for the initial connection, you must force the Pairing Mode mode, which makes the device visible to external scanners.

In the case of fully wireless models (TWS), the procedure usually involves long-term retention of touch zones or physical buttons on the case case. Indicators should start flashing white or red-blue, which signals readiness for data transfer. If you use Mi Headphones overhead models, look for a separate button with a Bluetooth logo or power icon.

⚠️ Warning: Make sure the headphones aren't currently connected to another smartphone or tablet.Priority is often given to the last known device, and the Xiaomi phone may just "not see" the headset while it's busy.

For wired models connected via a 3.5mm or USB-C connector, no pairing is required because it uses a digital or analog signal. However, if you use a Bluetooth adapter inserted into the charging port, it also needs to be put into search mode, usually by triple pressing the control button.

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If the indicators don’t flash the right color, try completely discharging the case and headphones, and then charging them to 100% – this often calibrates the power controller.

Step-by-step connection instruction via MIUI settings

After the accessory is ready, we move to the main interface of the smartphone. The MIUI shell action algorithm is standardized, but has its own features depending on the firmware version. You need to open the main menu and find the Settings icon, which is usually located at the top of the application list or in the Tools folder.

In the menu that opens, find the Bluetooth section. In modern versions of HyperOS, it can also be accessed through the notification curtain by holding the wireless module icon with your finger. Make sure the activation slider is translated to the "On" position. The smartphone will automatically start scanning the surrounding space.

Your headset should appear on the Available Devices list, and it can appear as Redmi Buds 3, Mi True Wireless EBs Basic, or simply as the model code. Tap the name, and the system initiates a pairing request. In some cases, you may need to confirm the access code, although for Xiaomi devices this happens automatically thanks to the Fast Pair protocol.

If the device is found but the connection is not happening, try removing it from the list of previously used (if there is one) and repeat the procedure. Sometimes it helps to reboot the Bluetooth module by turning off and re-enable the switch in the settings.

Use of Mi Quick Connect and pop-up windows

One of the key features of Xiaomi's ecosystem is fast connectivity, and when you open a case with headphones next to an unlocked smartphone, a special animated window should appear on the screen, and it's not just a picture, it's a functional widget that displays the charge of each headphone and case separately.

This feature requires that the phone has Bluetooth and geolocation active, and that it logs into Mi Account. The pop-up not only connects the device, but also quickly checks the charge level without going into the deep settings menu, which is especially convenient for AirDots and Buds.

You can find a Bluetooth setting that says, "Show Bluetooth device charge level," or something like that. Make sure it's activated. This will let you see the percentage of charge right in the notification curtain. Some premium models, like the Mi Buds Pro, also have a firmware update right through this pop-up.

Customization of sound and audio codecs in the engineering menu

For audiophiles and users who want to squeeze the most quality, setting up the codec is important. By default, the system chooses the most stable codec, but you can force the switch to a higher quality one if your hardware supports it. This will require access to advanced Bluetooth settings.

Go to Settings → About Phone and quickly tap 7-10 times on either MIUI Version or Kernel Version to activate Developer Mode. Then go back to the main settings menu, go to Additional → For Developers. Find the Bluetooth-related section.

In the developer menu, find the Bluetooth Audio Codec. Click on it and select an available option, such as aptX Adaptive or LDAC. Note that both devices (both phone and headphones) must support the selected standard, otherwise the sound may disappear or switch to SBC.

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Choosing an LDAC or aptX HD codec greatly improves sound detail, but can increase power consumption and reduce connection stability in places with a lot of interference.

Solving problems with connection detection and stability

Despite the fact that things are fine, there are sometimes crashes. If a Xiaomi phone can't see the headphones, the first thing you need to do is check if the phone has "forgotten" the device before. Go to the list of paired devices, click on the gear next to the headphone name, and select Disable or Forget the device.

Often the problem lies in a crowded Bluetooth cache. Cleaning up the system service data can help. Go to Settings → Apps → All Apps. Click three dots in the corner, select Show System Processes. Find in the Bluetooth list, go to Memory and click Clear Everything →

⚠️ Warning: After the Bluetooth service data is cleared, all previously stored pairs will be deleted. You will have to reconnect the watch, car stereo and other gadgets.

Also, check to see if the system is blocking Bluetooth in the background. In battery settings, make sure that system services are not set a strict power saving limit. Sometimes antivirus programs or cleaners can aggressively end the process of finding devices.

If nothing works, reset your headphones to factory settings. For most Xiaomi models, this is done by placing both headphones in a case, opening the lid, and pressing the button on the case (or touch areas) for 15-20 seconds before changing the color of the indicator.

Additional features and management through Mi Wear

To expand the functionality, it is recommended to install the official Mi Wear app (formerly Xiaomi Wear) or Xiaomi Earbuds from Google Play. These utilities allow you to customize touch control, update the headphone firmware and select noise reduction modes (ANC).

You can assign double or triple touch actions to the app, such as setting up track switching, activating Google Assistant or Xiao AI. There's also a headphone search feature available: if you lose one of them in the room, the app will make it squeak loudly.

Remember to update your headphone firmware regularly through the app. Manufacturers often release updates that fix problems with desynchronizing audio in video or improve the microphone performance when calling. The current version of the software is the key to stable operation in conjunction with a smartphone.