How to connect Xiaomi headphones to a new phone: step-by-step instructions

The switch to a new smartphone is always accompanied by a desire to quickly configure all peripherals, and wireless headphones are often at the top of the list of priorities. Owners of the Xiaomi ecosystem value connection stability and sound quality, but the process of initial synchronization can raise questions for those who have encountered this for the first time. Modern models, whether Redmi Buds, Mi True Wireless Earbuds or wired versions with a digital interface, require the right approach to setup.

Unlike older Bluetooth gadgets, modern devices use more sophisticated encryption protocols and codecs, such as AAC and aptX, which requires careful attention to the pairing procedure. Errors in putting the device into visibility mode often lead to the fact that the phone does not see the headset, although it is working. Understanding the physical principles of the communication modules will help avoid typical errors and save time.

This guide covers all aspects of connectivity, from battery preparation to deep-tuning the equalizer through the system menu.We will look at the nuances of working with different versions of the Android and iOS operating system, as well as analyze specific features that are available exclusively in conjunction with Xiaomi devices.

Preparation of equipment and activation of the coupling mode

The first step should always be to check the battery charge in the case and the headphones themselves. If the device was in storage for a long time, the lithium-ion battery could discharge to zero, which blocks the Bluetooth module. Connect the case to the charger for 15-20 minutes, even if the indicators do not light up immediately.

To go into Airing Mode, you need to remove both headphones from the case at the same time. Most Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic or AirDots models start flashing white quickly, signaling readiness for connection. If this does not happen, you may need to force activation of the mode.

⚠️ Warning: Do not touch metal contacts on headphones during retrieval, as static electricity can knock the calibration of proximity sensors.

In some cases, especially when working with new phones, it is useful to pre-clear the list of conjugated devices on the smartphone, this will eliminate address conflicts and allow the new gadget to take a priority position in the list of trusted devices.

β˜‘οΈ Checking before connection

Done: 0 / 4

The process of pairing with Android and iOS

The Android and iOS-based smartphone connection algorithm has its own peculiarities due to differences in managing Bluetooth profiles. Xiaomi phones with MIUI or HyperOS shell often feature an instant pop-up, but it is only active when the screen is unlocked and Bluetooth is turned on.

For other Apple brands or operating systems, you need to use standard system search. Open settings, go to the wireless network section and start scanning. The name of your model should appear on the list of available devices, for example, Redmi Buds 3 Pro or Mi Wireless Earbuds.

  • πŸ“± On Android: Go to Settings β†’ Bluetooth and click on the device name.
  • 🍏 On iOS: Open Settings β†’ Bluetooth and select the gadget from the list of "Other devices".
  • πŸ”Š When requesting conjugation confirmation, click Connect or enter the 0000 code if the system requires a pin code.

If the device is not found within 30 seconds, put the headphones back in the case, close the lid and repeat the procedure in 10 seconds. Sometimes the module takes time to restart after a failed connection attempt. Also make sure that the distance between the phone and the case does not exceed one meter during setting up.

πŸ“Š What kind of smartphone do you have?
Xiaomi / Redmi / POCO
Samsung
iPhone
Other Android

Use of Mi Home and Xiaomi Earbuds

To reveal the full functionality of headsets, such as noise reduction (ANC) and touch control settings, it is recommended to use specialized software. the Xiaomi Earbuds application (or built-in plugin in Mi Home) allows you to configure the behavior of the device in detail to the individual needs of the user.

Once you install the app and log in to your Mi Account, the system automatically prompts you to add a new device. In the settings menu, you can update your headphone firmware, which often solves problems with desynchronization of sound or low volume. Firmware updates are critical for stability.

The following key functions are available in the annex:

  • πŸŽ›οΈ Customization of gestures: assigning actions to double or triple touch the sensor.
  • 🎚️ Equator: Selective sound profiles or manual frequency setting.
  • πŸ”‹ Monitoring: accurate display of left, right headphone and case charge in percentage.

⚠️ Attention: Updating the firmware of headphones can not be interrupted - this can lead to a complete loss of the module and require service repairs.

What to do if the app does not see the headphones?
Make sure the headphones are connected to the phone via system Bluetooth. The app only works as an add-on to the active connection. Also check if geolocation is enabled, as on Android this is a mandatory requirement for Bluetooth scanners to work.

Set up sound profiles and codecs

The quality of music playback depends on the chosen codec and equalizer settings. In the developer menu or in the phone audio settings, you can choose the priority data codec. For models with support for aptX Adaptive or LHDC, this will give a noticeable increase in detail.

The MIUI system equalizer offers many presets, but for fine tuning it is better to use the built-in capabilities of the headphone application. Low frequency correction (Bass Boost) can compensate for the lack of deep sound in open spaces, and raising high frequencies will improve the legibility of the vocals.

It is important to consider that turning on noise reduction (ANC) or transparency affects battery life. When these features are actively used, playback time can be reduced by 20-30%.

πŸ’‘

For maximum sound quality in the Bluetooth decoder settings, select the Best Sound Quality option, even if it will slightly increase latency when playing.

Table of compatibility and characteristics of codecs

Not all smartphones support the same set of audio codecs, which affects the final sound. Below is a table showing the dependence of quality on the data technology used. Choosing the right codec is a compromise between bitrate and connection stability.

CodecBitrate (example)Delay (Latency)Compatibility
SBC328 kbpsHigh (>200 ms)Universal (all devices)
AAC256 kbpsMedium (~150 ms)iOS, Android
aptX352 kbpsLow (~100 ms)Android (Qualcomm)
LHDC900 kbpsVery low.Flagships Xiaomi, Huawei

Using the LHDC codec allows you to transmit audio in 24-bit/96kHz resolution, which brings the quality of wireless sound closer to wired Hi-Res solutions. However, this codec requires support from both headphones and smartphones.

Diagnostics and Solving Connection Problems

If the connection is successful but the sound is missing or interrupted, you need to check the media settings. Sometimes the phone connects to the headset only as a call output device (HFP), ignoring the stereo sound profile (A2DP), this is solved by reconnecting in the Bluetooth settings.

A common problem is to desynchronize the left and right channels, where music is played in only one earpiece, and to correct this defect requires a full reset of the headphones, usually by holding the touch zones on both earphones for a long time (10-15 seconds) while they are out of the case.

  • πŸ”„ Reset: Press the sensors for 10 seconds before the indicator triples.
  • πŸ—‘οΈ Remove: Forget the device in the phone's Bluetooth menu.
  • πŸ”— Repeat: Re-interconnect as with a new device.

In rare cases, interference can be caused by other wireless devices operating at 2.4 GHz, such as Wi-Fi routers or microwave ovens. If problems are only observed in a certain place, try changing the location or disabling nearby devices.

πŸ’‘

Full reset of headphones (Hard Reset) solves 90% of program errors synchronization channels and problems with charging one of the modules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does the phone see the headphones but not connect?
Chances are the headphones are already paired with another nearby device and automatically connected to it.Switch off Bluetooth on the old device or reset the headphone settings.
Can I use only one headphone?
Yes, most Xiaomi models are mono-user. Take out one earbud, wait for it to connect, and then the second one. The sound automatically switches to mono mode.
How to increase the volume if it is not enough?
Check to see if Absolute Volume is included in the Android developer menu, and make sure the headphone app doesn’t have a volume limiter installed to protect your hearing.
Headphones are wet, what do we do?
Don't try to charge them right away! wipe with a dry cloth and put in a dry place for 24 hours.Even models with IPX4 protection can get short circuit charging contacts when moisture hits.