Xiaomi’s modern wireless headphones have become the standard of quality in the budget and mid-range segment, offering users excellent ergonomics and a stable connection. However, the initial setup process often raises questions for those who encounter the device for the first time, especially given the differences in the operating systems of smartphones. Proper pairing is not just about turning on music, but the foundation for the correct operation of all functions, including noise reduction and touch control.
In this detailed guide, we will break down all the steps of connecting Xiaomi True Wireless Earphones, AirDots, Redmi Buds and Mi True Wireless models to Android and iOS devices. You will learn about the intricacies of Bluetooth protocol, how to fix typical bugs and how to activate hidden features through a proprietary app.
Preparation of headphones and smartphone for pairing
Before starting the synchronization process, make sure that both devices are ready to work. First of all, check the charge level in the case and the headphones themselves, as a discharged battery can prevent the transition to visibility mode. If the indicators on the case do not light up when you open the lid, put the device on charge for at least 15-20 minutes.
The second important step is to activate the Bluetooth module on your smartphone. To do this, go to Settings → Connections → Bluetooth or use the notification curtain by swiping from top to bottom. Make sure the slider switches to the "On" position and the phone starts searching for available devices around.
⚠️ Note: If your headphones have previously been connected to another smartphone, they may automatically try to connect to it when turned on.To successfully connect to a new device, you must first turn off Bluetooth on your old phone or remove the headphones from the list of stored devices.
Keep in mind that the distance between the gadgets at the time of setting up should be minimal.It is optimal to keep Xiaomi True Wireless Earphones and the phone at a distance of no more than 10-15 centimeters from each other, avoiding physical obstacles in the form of walls or metal objects that can shield the signal.
Step-by-step instructions for connecting to Android
Android provides the most extensive functionality for managing Xiaomi accessories. To begin pairing, remove both headphones from the charging case. At this point, the indicators should start flashing, signaling the transition to pairing mode (Pairing Mode).
On the smartphone screen, the name of your model should appear in the list of available devices, for example, Mi True Wireless EB20 or Redmi AirDots 3. Click on it to initiate the connection process. In some cases, the system may request confirmation of the access code - usually 0000 or 1234, but most often the pairing is automatic.
☑️ Checking connection readiness
Once you've successfully connected, you'll hear a distinctive beep or a voice notification called Connected in the headphones themselves. You can now play the test track to make sure that the sound is transmitted to both channels. If the sound is coming from only one earphone, place both back in the case, close it and repeat the extraction procedure.
For Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone owners, the process can go even faster thanks to the Mi Connect feature. When you open the case cover next to the unlocked phone, an animated window can pop up on the screen offering to connect the device. This is a specialized protocol that speeds up the setup without having to climb into the Bluetooth menu.
Features of connecting to the iPhone (iOS)
Apple devices are standard Bluetooth protocols, so there should be no compatibility issues, but the interface will be different. As with Android, open the case with Xiaomi headphones and wait for the flashing of the indicators. Go to Settings → Bluetooth on your iPhone or iPad.
In the list of “Other devices” find the name of your headset. Note that iOS does not support proprietary pop-ups Xiaomi as fully functional as native Android smartphones, so you will have to rely on the standard menu system.
It is worth noting that for the full operation of all functions, such as setting up the equalizer or reassigning touches, iPhone owners will necessarily need to install a third-party application. Without it, the headphones will work only in the basic audio playback and call reception mode, depriving you of the possibility of fine-tuning.
Why can't iPhones see headphones?
Setup through the Xiaomi Earbuds app
To unlock the full potential of your headset, experts recommend using the official Xiaomi Earbuds app (formerly known as Mi Earbuds), which is available in the Google Play Market and App Store. Once installed, launch the application and give it the necessary permissions to access geolocation and Bluetooth, otherwise scanning devices will not be possible.
In the app's main menu, you'll see a map of your headphones with the current charge level of each channel and case, and you'll find advanced settings like noise reduction (ANC) mode, transparency mode, or standard mode, and you can also update your headphone firmware, which often improves connection stability and sound quality.
| Function | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| equalizer | Frequency setting (bass, high) | All models. |
| Touch management | Set up actions for 1, 2, 3 presses | Most models |
| Headphone search | Audible signal to search for a lost device | Depends on the model. |
| Update of the PO | Installation of new versions of firmware | All models. |
Pay special attention to the touch control section. By default, the settings may not be convenient for all users. You can turn off double-pressing if it often works accidentally, or call the voice assistant to triple-tapping. All changes are applied instantly and stored in the memory of the headphones themselves.
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If the app doesn’t find the headphones, try forcibly closing it in Task Manager and running again by pre-reconnecting Bluetooth.
Solution: Headphones are not connected
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users sometimes encounter situations where pairing is impossible, and one of the most common reasons is that the left and right headphones are out of sync, in which case the phone sees two devices with the same name or does not see them at all.
To fix this problem, you need to perform a full reset (Hard Reset). Put both headphones in the case and leave the lid open. Press and hold the touch zones on both headphones simultaneously for 10-15 seconds (or use the button on the case, if it is provided by the model), until the indicators flash red several times.
⚠️ Warning: When performing a reset, make sure the case is charged. Interrupting the reset process due to battery discharge can cause the microcontroller inside the headphones to malfunction.
Another cause of problems may be a crowded list of Bluetooth devices in your phone’s memory. If you have a lot of old gadgets, delete unnecessary entries. Also try Forget Device in your Bluetooth settings for your Xiaomi, and then repeat the connection procedure again.
If nothing works, check if your phone is activated in flight or power saving mode, which may limit the Bluetooth module. In rare cases, cached data from Google Play services that can be cleared through Settings → Apps → Google Play Services → Memory → Clear cache conflicts.
Optimizing sound and eliminating delays
Users who use headphones for games or video watching often complain about the desynchronization of sound and picture. Modern Xiaomi models support AAC and SBC codecs, and the top versions are aptX Adaptive. To activate high-quality codecs, go to Settings → For developers (the path may differ depending on the MIUI shell or HyperOS).
In the developer menu, look for the “Bluetooth Audio Codec” section and select the high-bitrate codec available for your model. This can greatly improve the detail of the sound, but it’s worth remembering that using high-resolution codecs sometimes increases power consumption and can slightly increase latency in games compared to basic settings.
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For minimal delay in games, use Game Mode if it is supported by a headphone model and activated by triple tapping or through an app.
The environment also affects the quality of communication. 2.4GHz Wi-Fi routers, microwave ovens, and other wireless devices can cause interference. If you're in an area with a lot of networks, try moving away from the source of interference or switching the router to 5GHz to free up the air for Bluetooth.
Regular cleaning of speaker mesh is also important for maintaining sound quality.Sulphur and dust can clog holes, making the sound quiet and deaf.Use a soft dry brush or sticky tape for gently cleaning, avoiding moisture entering the body.