Modern users often combine ecosystems using Apple smartphones in conjunction with affordable and high-quality peripherals from Chinese manufacturers. Connecting Xiaomi headphones to the iPhone is a standard procedure that opens access to high-quality sound without overpaying for the Apple brand. Despite the prevailing opinion about the difficulties of integrating Android accessories into the iOS environment, the pairing process is as simplified as possible thanks to the Bluetooth standard.
AirPods owners are used to instant connection, but Xiaomi models require manual pairing, which may come as a surprise to a beginner. In this article, we will discuss the algorithm for actions for various models, including: TWS-Headsets of the series Redmi Buds and Mi True Wireless, and also touch on the nuances of working with a proprietary application to expand the functionality.
The right setup allows you not only to listen to music, but also to use the microphone to make calls, activate voice assistants and adjust the touch control. The critical point is to completely discharge the case before first use, if the headphones were in storage for a long time, because lithium polymer batteries could go into deep discharge. Let's look at the process in detail.
Preparation of devices for the first pairing
Before any manipulations begin, make sure both devices are ready to go. iPhones must have Bluetooth module on and sufficient battery power to keep the process from being interrupted halfway. Xiaomi headphones must also be charged, as they consume more power in connection search mode than in normal playback.
Make sure your iPhone has the latest version of iOS installed. While older versions support the basic audio protocol, newer updates often contain security patches and connection stability improvements for peripherals. Check this in the Settings menu → Basic → Software Update.
It is also important to clear the list of previously used devices in Bluetooth settings if there are many “dead” profiles, which can speed up the search for a new gadget and avoid addressing conflicts. Simply click on the information icon next to the unwanted device and select “Forget this device”.
☑️ Connection readiness
Connection algorithm TWS-headphone
The process of connecting True Wireless Stereo headsets to Apple products is not complicated, but requires a certain sequence of actions. Unlike proprietary solutions, there is no magic window of customization, so everything is done through the standard menu of the system.
First, remove the headphones from the charging case. Most Xiaomi models automatically go into pairing mode when first extracted or after resetting. The indicator should start flashing white or alternately red and white, signaling readiness to search.
If the automatic mode is not activated, you need to use manual activation, you need to pinch the touch zones on both headphones at the same time or use a button on the case case case case if it is provided by the design of a particular model, for example, Mi True Wireless Earphones 2.
Next, pick up your iPhone and go to Settings → Bluetooth. The Other Devices list should show the name of your headset, such as Redmi AirDots or Mi True Wireless EBs Basic. Click on the name to initiate the connection.
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If the iPhone doesn’t see the headphones, put them back in the case, close the lid for 10 seconds, then open again and try to activate the button pairing mode on the case.
Customization of management through the Xiaomi Earbuds app
While basic audio playback works immediately after pairing, it requires the installation of special software to fully utilize all the features of the Xiaomi ecosystem. The official Xiaomi Earbuds app (formerly known as Mi True Wireless) allows you to fine-tune the behavior of the headset.
You can download the app directly from the App Store. Once installed and launched, the program will request permission to use Bluetooth and geolocation. Geolocation is necessary for the Device Search function, which helps you find the lost earphone on the map.
The following options are available within the application:
- 🎧 Update the firmware headphones to improve stability.
- 🎚️ Set up equalizer and sound profiles.
- 👆 Reassignment of touch touch touch (double, triple, long).
- 🔋 Accurate monitoring of the charge of each headphone and case.
Not all models support full app functionality, but budget series can have a limited set of settings, while flagship Mi Buds unlock the full potential. If the app can't see the connected headphones, try restarting Bluetooth on your iPhone.
Why can't the app see the headphones?
Compatibility and function table
Not all features work the same on all models, and here is a comparison table of the popular headphone lineup and its compatibility with iOS.
| Model | Annex | Noise suppression (ANC) | Transparency regime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Buds 3 Pro | Yes. | Yes (up to 35 dB) | Yes. |
| Mi True Wireless 2 | Yes. | No. | No. |
| AirDots 2 | Limited. | No. | No. |
| Mi Buds 4 Pro | Yes. | Yes (up to 48 dB) | Yes. |
As you can see from the table, support for active functions depends on the class of the device, the basic models provide only stereo sound transmission and track control, while advanced versions allow you to adapt the sound to the environment.
Solving Common Connection Problems
Sometimes the pairing process can be a mess, because users are faced with a situation where the phone sees the device but the connection does not occur, or the sound comes from only one earphone, often due to the desynchronization of the left and right channels.
If you hear sound in only one headphone, you need to perform the reset procedure to factory settings, usually by placing both earphones in the case, opening the lid, and pressing the reset button (or touch zones) for 10-15 seconds before the display appears.
⚠️ Warning: After reset, you must completely remove the headphone profile from the iPhone memory (Forget the device) and pair again, as with a new device.
Another common problem is intermittent sound or interference, which can be caused by interference from other wireless networks or physical obstacles, and try to move away from powerful sources of radiation, such as Wi-Fi routers or microwave ovens.
Optimization of sound quality and codecs
iOS has its limitations on audio codec support. While Xiaomi Android smartphones support aptX and LDAC codecs for high-resolution audio, the iPhone works primarily with the AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) codec.
This means that even if your Xiaomi headphones support high-bitrate codecs, when connected to an iPhone, they will work in AAC mode. However, don’t worry: AAC is the standard for Apple Music and iTunes, providing excellent quality and efficient compression.
To improve your sound perception, use the built-in iOS equalizer. Go to Settings → Music → Equalizer and select Late Night profile to increase the overall volume or Bass to amplify low frequencies, which is often required to compensate for the lack of aptX.
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iOS enforces the AAC codec for all Bluetooth headphones, so buying a headset that only supports aptX HD will not give you an increase in quality on the iPhone, but will provide better compatibility with Android in the future.