Xiaomi’s current wireless headphones and Redmi’s sub-brand have become some of the most popular gadgets due to their optimal price-to-sound ratio. However, after purchase, many users face initial difficulties in trying to activate the device. The process of initial activation and connection to the signal source seems simple, but often requires knowledge of certain nuances of the Android or iOS operating system.
In this article, we will discuss in detail how to pair Xiaomi headphones, what actions to perform first and how to avoid common errors. You will learn about the differences in the algorithms for connecting different models, the features of the Bluetooth module and how to solve problems if the gadget does not see accessories.
The correct initial setup ensures that the device will work smoothly in the future, that battery power is distributed correctly, and that no audio delays are encountered when watching videos or games. For most Mi True Wireless and Redmi Buds models, it is critical to remove both headphones from the case simultaneously to start the pairing mode.
Preparation of the device and charge check
Before you try to connect a Bluetooth headset to a smartphone, you need to make sure that both devices are ready to work. Often the reason for the inability to connect is a simple battery discharge in the case or the earphone itself. Put the case on wireless charging or connect it through a USB-C cable for 15-20 minutes, even if the indicators indicate the presence of power.
It's also important to check the status of the smartphone itself. Make sure that the wireless module is active and not in "flight" mode. Sometimes the system can "hang" and the radio module needs to be rebooted properly. Just turn off and turn on Bluetooth in the settings or through the notification curtain.
Make sure your phone has Mi Fitness or Xiaomi Earbuds installed if you plan to use advanced features. While basic pairing is possible without them, having proprietary software makes it much easier to diagnose and set up an equalizer, which is especially true for models with active noise cancellation.
⚠️ Warning: If the indicator on the case flashes red or does not light up at all, the problem may be oxidation of the contacts.
☑️ Connection readiness
The algorithm of the primary connection to Android
The process of connecting to Android smartphones (including MIUI and HyperOS) is standard on most models. First, you need to activate the pairing mode on the headphones themselves. This usually requires removing both earphones from the charging case, at which point they should automatically go to the standby mode of connection, signaled by a quick flash of the indicator (usually white or blue).
If you don't automatically start, you need to use a mechanical button. On most Mi True Wireless and Redmi Buds models, the pairing button is located on the outside of the case or inside between the seats. Press and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the indicator flashes often, which means that the device broadcasts a Bluetooth detection signal.
Now, take your smartphone and go to the settings menu. Open Settings → Bluetooth and click "Device Search." The list of available gadgets should show the name of your model, such as the Redmi Buds 3 Pro or Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2. Click on the name to complete the connection.
- 🔍 Find the model name in the list of available devices on the phone screen.
- 📱 Click on "Connect" and wait for the sound signal in the headphones.
- ✅ Check the status of the connection in the status bar – there should appear the icon of the battery headphones.
- 🎵 Play the test track to ensure that the sound is transmitted to both channels.
In some cases, the system may request permission to access contacts or microphones, which is necessary to ensure that the headset is working properly during calls, and confirm the request to use all the features of the device.
Connection with iPhone (iOS) and other systems
Owners of Apple equipment can also successfully use Xiaomi products, although the process may be slightly different from the lack of an instant pop-up with animation, typical of the original AirPods. However, the algorithm of actions remains similar to Android.
Remove the headphones from the case. If they don't blink automatically, press the touch pads on both headphones at the same time or use the button on the case, holding it for about 5 seconds. The device should appear on the iPhone screen in Settings → Bluetooth.
It is worth noting that for a full setup of noise reduction and gesture management on iOS, it is advisable to install the Xiaomi Earbuds application from the App Store. Without it, the headphones will work in basic mode, but you will not be able to update the firmware or change the touch management scheme.
⚠️ Warning: When connecting to an iPhone, make sure the headphones weren't previously paired with another Android device nearby.If yes, turn off Bluetooth on your old phone, otherwise the headphones can automatically connect to it, ignoring the iPhone.
For users of other operating systems, such as HarmonyOS or pure Linux, the procedure is standard: switch the headset to discovery mode and scan the network in the system settings.
Working with the Mi Fitness application and setting up
Once the connection is successful, it is recommended to fine-tune it through the official app, which allows you to unlock the full potential of the audio device. Download Mi Fitness (formerly Zepp Life) or Xiaomi Earbuds from the official app store. Register or log in to your Mi Account.
In the app, select Add Device and follow the on-screen instructions. The software will prompt you to update your headphone firmware if a new version is available. This is an important step, as updates often fix connection bugs and improve microphone performance.
Why update the headphone firmware?
The following settings are available inside the application:
- 🎚️ Equator: Elective modes (bass, vocals, balance) or manual frequency setting.
- 🎛️ Gesture control: Assigning double, triple touch or hold actions.
- 🔇 Noise suppression: mode switching ANC (Active, Transparency (transparency) and off.
- 🔋 Charge monitoring: accurate display of battery percentage for each headphone separately.
Don't ignore the ability to calibrate the controls. By default, settings can be uncomfortable, such as accidentally turning off music when you adjust your earphone. Reassign functions to your habits.
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If the app doesn’t see the headphones after connecting over Bluetooth, try removing the device from the Bluetooth list in your phone’s settings, putting the headphones in your case, closing the lid for 10 seconds, and then repeat the search procedure again.
Resetting settings and solving connection problems
If Xiaomi headphones don’t connect, only work with one ear, or the sound is interrupted, a full reset may be required, which returns the device to factory settings and clears the memory of previous pairings.
To perform the reset, place both headphones in the case and make sure they charge (indicators are on fire). Leave the lid open. Find the function button on the case (or use the touch zones on the headphones themselves if there is no button). Press and hold the button for 10-15 seconds. The indicator should blink several times (often red or white) and go out or change the blinking pattern.
Once reset, you need to go to the Bluetooth settings on your phone, find the old record of your headphones, and select "Forget the device" or "Unpair the pairing." Only then you can try to connect them as a new device.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Headphones not visible on the list | The pairing mode is not activated | Press the button on the case for 5 seconds |
| Only one headphone works. | Lost synchronization between L and R | Complete reset (Hard Reset) |
| Intermittent sound | Interference or low charge | Charge the device, move away from the Wi-Fi router |
| Quiet sound | Grid contamination or settings | Clean the grid, check the volume in the application |
A common problem is to de-synchronize the left and right channels. If the music is only playing on one side, put both earbuds in the case, close the lid, wait 10 seconds, then pull them out at the same time. If it doesn't work, just reset.
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Full reset solves 90% of problems with channel desynchronization and inability to connect, as it clears the internal buffer of headphone errors.
Features of connecting different models
Xiaomi’s audio lineup is extensive, and different models can have their own characteristics. For example, the Mi True Wireless Earphones series often features a button on the case, while the more budget Redmi AirDots may require simultaneous touch of sensors.
Neck-rimmed models, such as Mi Neckband Bluetooth Earphones, typically have an on button and a separate button for pairing mode (sometimes combined).
Gaming models such as Mi Gaming Earphones may require a special application to adjust the sound delay (Low Latency Mode). Make sure you use a compatible codec (such as aptX Adaptive) if your smartphone supports this technology.
Always pay attention to the color of the indicator. Blue or white usually means ready to connect, red is low charge or charging mode, and alternate flashing in red and blue is active search mode.