Xiaomi’s modern true wireless headphones, whether they’re the popular Redmi AirDots, Mi True Wireless Earbuds, or the advanced Xiaomi Buds, have become the standard of mobility thanks to their no wires and compact form factor. The process of initial setup can seem confusing to beginners, especially given the differences in the left and right earbuds, as well as the nuances of pairing with different operating systems. Properly performing the first steps ensures stable connection and high sound quality in the future.
In this detailed guide, we will not only break down the basic algorithm of actions for Android and iOS, but also touch on hidden features that often go unnoticed. You will learn how to properly reset the settings of the headset if it stopped seeing the phone, and how to update the software to eliminate bugs.
Before we get to the practical steps, it’s worth noting that most Xiaomi models use Bluetooth 5.0 and higher, which provides low latency and energy savings. However, even the most advanced technologies require competent “primary initialization.” Ignoring simple rules, such as removing films from charging contacts, can lead to the fact that the headphones simply do not turn on.
Preparation of Xiaomi headphones for the first inclusion
Before trying to find a device on the Bluetooth list, you need to make sure that it is ready to work. Often users are faced with a situation where the case does not respond to the opening, which usually indicates a discharged battery or protective isolation. New Xiaomi devices on the internal contacts charge the headphones themselves and inside the case are often glued transparent films that block the current supply.
Carefully remove the headphones from the case and inspect the bottom of the case. If you notice a thin film on metal contacts, remove it. Then place the headphones back in the case and make sure that the charging indicators are on fire. Even if the device was recently purchased, it is recommended to charge for at least 30-40 minutes, since batteries can run to a minimum in warehouses.
⚠️ Warning: If the headphones don't light up when you put them in the case, check if they fit tightly to the contacts. Sometimes you need to press the headphones slightly or move them to close the chain.
An important aspect is understanding the logic of the indicators. In most models, such as the Redmi AirDots 2 or Mi True Wireless Earphones 2 Basic, the red indicator burns during charging and fades or changes color to white/green at full charge. For models with wireless charging, such as the Xiaomi Buds 3T Pro, the indication may differ, so the check with the manual will not be superfluous.
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Use a kit cable or certified analogue with a current of no more than 1A to charge the case to avoid overheating and battery degradation.
Step-by-step instruction pairing with Android
Android provides the most extensive management options for Xiaomi devices, especially if you have a smartphone of the same brand. First, you need to activate the wireless module in the phone settings. Go to Settings → Bluetooth and make sure that the slider is activated. Now it's time to move on to the connection process itself.
Remove both earphones from the charge case at the same time, at which point they should automatically go into pairing mode, as signaled by a fast flashing indicator (usually white or red and white). If the lights don't flash, it's possible that the headphones have already been paired with another device or require resetting. In normal mode, the name of your model should appear on the smartphone screen in the list of available devices, for example, Mi True Wireless EBs. Basic_R.
☑️ Algorithm of connection to Android
Once you click on the device name in the list, the system can request a pairing confirmation. Click on "Plug" or "OK." A successful connection is usually accompanied by a voice message "Connected" in the headphones themselves. If you own a Xiaomi or Redmi smartphone with a MIUI/HyperOS shell, the process can go automatically through the MIUI Pop-up pop-up, which appears immediately after opening the case cover next to the phone.
And you have to remember that the primary pairing is always through the right-hand-held Master, which then broadcasts the signal to the left, so sometimes there's only one device on the list, even if there's two, which is the standard behavior of TWS (True Wireless Stereo) technology.
Features of connecting to the iPhone (iOS)
iPhone owners can also enjoy Xiaomi sound, although the functionality will be somewhat limited compared to Android devices. To connect, open Settings and go to Bluetooth. Make sure the feature is enabled. As with Android, you need to remove both headphones from the case to activate search mode.
In the Other Devices list, your headset will appear on your iPhone screen. Tap it to start pairing. iOS may request permission to use the microphone and locate (for Find), which should be allowed for full functionality. Once successfully connected, status will change to Connected.
Without this app, headphones will work just like a regular Bluetooth headset.
⚠️ Note: On iOS, you can’t change the destination of touch zones (taps) without using the official app. By default, they will control playback and call Siri.
Solving Connection Problems and Resetting Settings
It's not uncommon for users to see the headphones but not connect, or only one headphone (mono mode) to connect, often due to left-right channel dissynchronization or errors in the Bluetooth cache. The first step should always be to completely reset the headset settings.
To perform a Hard Reset, place both headphones in a case. Then press and hold the touch zones on both headphones simultaneously for 10-20 seconds (or use the button on the case if it is provided by the model, for example, in Xiaomi Buds 3). The indicators should light up red and white several times, signaling a reset. After that, remove the device from the Bluetooth list on the phone ("Forget the device") and repeat the pairing procedure again.
If the problem persists, check the table below for a diagnosis of specific symptoms:
| Symptoms. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Phone can't see headphones | Case or headphones discharged | Charge the device for 30 minutes |
| Only one headphone works. | Dissynchronization of channels | Complete reset (Reset) |
| Intermittent sound | Interference or low charge | Get closer to the phone, charge. |
| No sound when playing. | Media profile not selected | In Bluetooth settings, select Media |
It's also worth checking the power saving settings on your smartphone. Aggressive energy saving modes can force the Bluetooth module to shut down or limit the background processes needed for stable communication. Add the headphone management app to battery exclusions.
Management and firmware update
Once successfully connected, it is recommended to update the headphone software immediately. Manufacturers regularly release patches that improve connection stability and noise cancellation quality. This will require the Xiaomi Earbuds app (for global versions) or Mi Home.
In the app, go to your device settings and find Firmware Update. Make sure the headphones are more than 20 percent charged and are near your phone. The upgrade process can take several minutes, during which time you can not close the app or remove the headphones far from the phone.
Why update the firmware?
You can also set up touch controls in the app menu, you can reassign actions for single, double or triple touch, for example, assign a triple touch to activate low latency game mode or switch tracks. For active noise reduction (ANC) models, mode switching is set up here.
⚠️ Warning: During firmware updates, the headphones may flash in an unusual mode. Do not put the headphones in the case until the process is complete, otherwise the device may fail.
Specifics of working with game mode and codecs
For gamers and video enthusiasts, a significant feature is Latency. Many Xiaomi models support a special game mode that minimizes the time of audio transmission, activate it through the application or triple tap (if configured), which may slightly reduce autonomy, but synchronization of sound and image becomes ideal.
Sound quality also depends on supported codecs. Budget models typically use an SBC or AAC codec, while flagship versions like Xiaomi Buds 3 Pro support LDAC or LHDC for high-resolution audio. Make sure that the Bluetooth settings (in the "Bluetooth Codecs" section of the developer menu) pick the preferred codec if your phone supports it.
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For maximum sound quality and minimal latency, always use LDAC/LHDC codecs and keep your phone in your trouser pocket or hand, avoiding body shielding.
If you use headphones to watch videos on YouTube or Netflix, modern models automatically synchronize latency, but in older games manually running game mode through the app would be the best solution.