How to connect Xiaomi headphones to iPhone 13: the full guide

Modern users often face the need to integrate accessories from different manufacturers into a single ecosystem. iPhone 13 is a powerful device that works well not only with the original AirPods, but also with third-party solutions, including popular models from Xiaomi and Redmi.

Apple smartphone owners can expect high-quality sound and basic control functionality when using the Chinese brand headsets. Despite the lack of some specific features available in conjunction with Android devices, the basic playback and microphone functions work correctly. In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithm of actions that will allow you to enjoy music without delays and breaks of communication.

Before you get into the technical steps, it’s worth noting the importance of battery power in the case. Make sure Xiaomi headphones are in the case and have enough charge for pairing mode, as a discharged battery can prevent the device from being detected. Also check that your iPhone 13 has a wireless module on and is active.

Preparation of equipment for first switching on

The first step to sound quality is to properly prepare the audio device. Many users make the mistake of trying to search for the gadget in the phone settings, forgetting to activate the search mode on the headphones themselves. For models of the Mi True Wireless Earbuds or Redmi Buds series, the procedure may differ slightly, but the general principle remains the same.

You need to remove the headphones from the charger case, which in most cases automatically puts them in standby mode, unless they were previously paired with another phone, and if the headset has already been used, you will need to enter Bluetooth visibility mode.

Note the indicators on the case case case or the headphones themselves. Blinking lights usually signal readiness to connect. For some Xiaomi models, you need to press and hold the function button on the back or inside of the case for a few seconds until the indicator flashes white or blue.

⚠️ Warning: If the indicator is red or does not light up at all, first place the case on the charge.

It is also important to check the version of iOS on your smartphone. Although Bluetooth is a standardized protocol, older versions of the operating system may not work properly with new audio codecs.

Step-by-step connection instruction through iOS settings

Once you've prepared the gadgets, you can go to direct pairing. The iOS operating system has an intuitive interface that allows you to manage all the wireless connections in one place. The process takes no more than a minute if you follow the algorithm.

Take your iPhone 13 and unlock the screen. Find the Settings icon on the main table and go to the menu. You need the Bluetooth section, which is usually located in the second setup group immediately after air mode and Wi-Fi.

Make sure the Bluetooth slider is activated and lit green. The phone will automatically search for available devices within range. The Other Devices list should show the name of your headset, such as the Mi True Wireless EBs Basic or Redmi Buds 3 Pro.

• 📱 Click on the device name in the list available on the iPhone screen.
• 🔗 Confirm the pairing request if it appears in a pop-up window.
• ✅ Wait for the “Connected” status next to the headphone name.
• 🎧 Check the sound by running any media file.

In some cases, the system may request permission to access contacts or microphone.To make the headset work properly, especially if you plan to use it for calls, you must provide all the permissions requested. Apple's security protocol requires confirmation for each new device.

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If the headphones don't appear on the list, try closing the case cover, wait 5 seconds and open it again, which will restart detection mode.

Using the Xiaomi Earbuds app for iOS

Although basic connectivity works without additional software, to unlock the full potential of accessories Xiaomi recommends using a specialized application. the official application Xiaomi Earbuds (or Mi Buds depending on the region and model) allows you to customize the equalizer, update the firmware and change the purpose of touch buttons.

Download the app from the App Store by searching for your model or brand name. After installation, run the program. It automatically scans the surrounding space for compatible devices. If the headphones are already paired through system settings, the app will prompt you to connect them for an extended configuration.

Inside the app, you can see the exact charge level of each headphone and case, which the iOS system menu does not always display correctly for third-party devices, and there is a choice of noise reduction modes available if your Xiaomi model supports ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) technology.

Don't ignore the firmware updates that come through the app. Developers regularly release patches that improve connection stability with Apple devices and fix microphone bugs. The update process takes a few minutes and requires the headphones to be in a case next to the phone.

Sound tuning and gesture management

Once the app is successfully connected and installed, it’s time for fine tuning. Standard iOS settings allow you to adjust the overall volume and balance, but Xiaomi’s specific features require special attention.

In the app, you can reassign actions for double, triple or long pressing, for example, on the left earphone it is convenient to call Siri voice assistant, and on the right - to switch tracks, which greatly improves the comfort of use in everyday life.

For music lovers, the equalizer is important. In the Xiaomi Earbuds app, presets (bass, vocals, classics) are available that change the frequency characteristic of the speaker. You can create your own profile if the standard ones do not suit you.

• 🎵 Open the app and go to the section "Sound settings».
• 🎚️ Choose your favorite preset equalizer or adjust sliders manually.
• 👆 Go to the “Management” menu to set up gestures.
• 🔊 Activate transparency or noise reduction mode if available.

It’s worth remembering that some complex gestures can conflict with iOS system commands. If you notice that the headphones don’t react as expected, try resetting the app’s control settings to factory ones.

Solving Common Connection Problems

Even if all instructions are followed, there can be technical difficulties. A Bluetooth connection is a technology that depends on a variety of factors, including radio interference and software failures. Most problems are solved by simple actions that do not require a visit to the service center.

If the iPhone 13 doesn’t see the headphones or the connection is constantly interrupted, the first thing to do is to perform “Forget the device.” To do this, in the Bluetooth menu, click on the “i” icon next to the headphone name and select the appropriate item.

A common cause of problems is the desynchronization of the left and right headphones (when only one is playing), in which case a full reset of the headphones to the factory settings helps, usually by holding the button on the case for a long time (10-15 seconds) until the color of the indicator changes.

⚠️ Warning: When you reset your headphones, all your saved profiles are deleted, and you'll have to reconnect them not only to your iPhone, but to other devices they've been linked to.

Also, problems can be caused by a crowded Bluetooth cache on the iPhone itself. Try rebooting your smartphone. If that doesn't work, you can try resetting your network settings, but remember that this action will delete all stored Wi-Fi passwords.

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90% of connection problems are solved by Forget Device and re-pairing Bluetooth switched off and on.

Features of codecs and sound quality

An important aspect of using the Android headphones and iPhone bundle is support for audio codecs. Xiaomi devices often use the aptX or AAC codec to deliver high-quality audio. However, iOS only supports the AAC and SBC codec.

This means that if your headphones are sharpened to aptX, they will work in AAC mode on your iPhone. For most users, the difference is almost invisible, since AAC is the standard for Apple Music and YouTube. However, audiophiles may notice that there are some nuances in the high frequencies.

However, the microphones in Xiaomi headphones usually work correctly, as the narrowband channel used for voice transmission is standard for all devices.

If you use headphones for games, note the latency. On iOS, the latency can be slightly higher than on Xiaomi’s native Android smartphones, due to the way the system handles the audio stream. This is not critical for watching videos, but it can be felt in dynamic shooters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)