How to reset Xiaomi headphones to factory settings

Modern wireless headsets from Xiaomi and its sub-brands Redmi and Poco are famous for their autonomy and high-quality sound, but even the most advanced electronics sometimes require rebooting logic circuits. Users often face situations when the device stops seeing the phone, the sound becomes intermittent or one of the headphones simply stops working in pairs.

The reset process does not require special technical knowledge or expensive equipment, but it requires a strict sequence of actions. Incorrectly performing steps can lead to the gadget remaining in search mode and unable to connect to the smartphone. It is important to understand that this procedure will completely clear the internal memory of accessories from stored Bluetooth profiles.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the algorithms of actions for different series of devices, as the methods can vary depending on the generation and model. We will look at both classic options with physical buttons and software methods through touch control. Careful study of the instructions will allow you to quickly reanimate your favorite audio system without going to the service center.

Preparation for the discharge procedure and diagnosis of problems

Before we take any drastic measures, we need to make sure that the problem is really a software failure, not a dead battery or mechanical damage. Often users try to reset the settings on a device that just requires recharging, which leads to false conclusions about the malfunction. Make sure that the case and the headphones themselves have enough charge, otherwise the process can be interrupted halfway, which is critical for some models.

The next important step is to remove the old profile from your smartphone memory. If you try to reset without removing the device from the Bluetooth list, the phone may automatically try to reconnect with the saved (erroneous) settings. This will create a conflict, and you will not be able to complete the setup again.

⚠️ Warning: Before starting any manipulations, be sure to turn off Bluetooth on all devices that have previously been paired with headphones to avoid automatically reconnecting during the process.

There are several signs that clearly indicate the need to perform Hard Reset, and if you see at least one of them, the reset procedure is the most likely way to solve the problem.

  • 🎧 One earpiece works, and the second is silent or makes quiet clicks.
  • πŸ“± The smartphone sees the device, but the connection occurs with an error or immediately breaks.
  • πŸ”‹ Indicators on the case or headphones flash differently than described in the instructions (for example, a constant red light).
  • πŸ”Š The sound became deaf, the microphone disappeared or the touch buttons stopped working.
πŸ“Š What problem are you facing?
The earphone is not working.
Sound problems
Not visible by the phone.
It's working fine.

Universal Reset Method for Most TWS Models

Most modern models, such as the Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic, Redmi Buds 3 and their counterparts, use a standard reset algorithm through a function button on the charging case, which is the most common and effective method for restoring synchronization between the left and right channel.

First, put both headphones in the charge case and make sure they sit on the contacts correctly. The indicators on the devices themselves should light up, signaling the start of charging. If the indicators are not burning, wipe the contacts with dry cloth, as oxidation can interfere with the process.

Find a function button on the case case body, depending on the model, it can be located on the back wall, on the end, or inside between the headphone compartments, and pressing this button for a long time triggers pairing or resetting.

β˜‘οΈ Algorithm of action

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You need to hold the button for 10-15 seconds, at which point the LED light will start to change its mode of operation: it can often flash white or alternately light up red and white, this is a signal that the device’s memory is cleared and ready for a new (mating).

Once the indicators are turned off or go into standby mode, close the case cover. Now open it again and press the button once briefly to activate visibility mode. On your smartphone, in Bluetooth settings, find a new device and pair as if with a new gadget.

Resetting headphone settings without a button on the case

Some budget or specific models, such as individual versions of the Mi Sport Bluetooth or older headsets, do not have a physical button on the charger, in which cases Xiaomi engineers have provided an alternative method of controlling through the touch panels of the headphones themselves.

This requires more precision and coordination, because you have to simultaneously act on the sensors of both headphones. Take the devices out of the case and make sure they're on. If they're off, turn them on manually or just pull them out of the charger.

Touch the touch zones on both headphones simultaneously and hold your finger for 5-7 seconds. This usually turns off the device, but if you hold your fingers longer (up to 10-15 seconds), you can enter reset mode. The indicators should blink several times, confirming the success of the operation.

⚠️ Note: When using the sensor method, it is important to touch the control areas, and not just hold the device by the leg or body, otherwise the command will not be recognized by the controller.

There is also a combination for some models where you need to perform a series of taps, for example, five quick taps of the right earphone can initiate a reset, and the exact sequence is better specified in the user manual of a particular model, since the firmware may differ.

What to do if sensors do not respond?
If the touch control isn't working, try first to completely discharge the headphones before turning them off, and then put them on charge. Sometimes this reboots the touch panel controller.

Once you've done the steps, put the headphones back in the case, close it and wait about 10 seconds. Then re-extract them. If the procedure is successful, they should automatically go into device search mode, as signaled by a flashing indicator.

Instructions for Redmi Buds and Poco Earbuds

Redmi and Poco often use a unified platform with the main Mi models, but may have their own peculiarities in the logic of how LEDs work. For popular models such as Redmi Buds 3 Lite or Poco Buds Pro, the procedure is standard, but requires attention to color indication.

Place the headphones in a case with the lid open. Find the reset button (usually round, on the back). Press and hold it. Unlike standard models, here the indicator can flash red several times before going into pairing mode, which means that the factory settings are restored.

If you have an active noise cancellation Pro, make sure the noise-cutter mode is off before the procedure starts. Active modes can block entry to the reset service menu.

Below is a table with the specifics of the display for different series, which will help you understand where the process is:

ModelAction.Indication of successRetention time
Mi True WirelessThe button on the caseWhite flashing15-20 seconds
Redmi Buds 3The button on the caseOrange light10 seconds.
Poco Buds ProThe button on the caseGreen flashing10 seconds.
Mi Sport (neck)Power buttonBlue/Red7 seconds

πŸ’‘

Use the Xiaomi Earbuds app to check the battery status and firmware version after reset – this will help make sure the device is working correctly.

Reset wired and neck Bluetooth headsets

Wired headphones with Bluetooth modules, such as the Mi Sport Bluetooth series, have their own specifics. They do not have a case, so all the control logic is focused on the control buttons located on the wire or control unit.

To perform the reset, these devices typically use a combination of volume and turn on buttons. Make sure the headset is off. Then simultaneously press the on button and the volume button (or decrease, depending on the model).

Hold the combination until the indicator lights up in purple or flashes red and blue quickly, which means that the Bluetooth module has switched to Pairing Mode and the memory of previous connections is cleared.

Some models, such as the Mi Neckband Bluetooth Earphones Pro, may need to hold the power button for 20-25 seconds. Don't let go of the button at the first beep - wait for the color change of the indicator.

⚠️ Warning: Do not connect neck headsets to a charger with a current above 1A during the reset procedure, voltage surges may disrupt the controller's flashing process.

Once the reset is successful, the device will automatically shut down or go to standby mode. Turn it on in the standard way and try to find it in the list of available devices on the phone.

Solving Common Problems After Resetting

Even after completing all the steps successfully, there can be nuances that require additional intervention: Often users complain that the phone sees the device but does not connect, or the connection is there but there is no sound, most of the time this is solved by re-clearing the Bluetooth list on the smartphone.

Go to your phone's Bluetooth settings, find the name of your headphones in the Forgotten Devices or Saved Devices list, and click "Forget" or "Delete." Only then do the search again, a critical step that is often ignored.

If the problem persists, try resetting your network settings on your smartphone, which will affect not only Bluetooth, but also Wi-Fi, so be prepared to re-enter your network passwords, but this is guaranteed to eliminate software conflicts on the Android or iOS side.

πŸ’‘

Full problem solving cycle: Headphone reset + Bluetooth phone removal + Smartphone reboot = 99% success.

In the rare cases where one earphone still doesn't work, leave both earbuds in a case with the lid open on charging for 30-40 minutes. Sometimes the deep discharge of one of the modules takes time to "wake up" and synchronize with the main (lead) earbud.

Why can't the phone see the headphones after the reset?
Most likely, the headphones have not gone into pairing mode. Make sure the light flashes. If not, repeat the reset procedure, holding the button longer. Also check if they are connected to another device nearby.
Can I drop my headphones without a case?
For most TWS models, the case is necessary, because it initiates the reset through its button, and without the case, you can only try touch control if the model supports it, or discharge them to zero.
Are the equalizer settings reset?
Yes, when completely reset to factory settings, all user sound profiles, touch control settings and noise reduction parameters return to default values.
What if the light is red and does not flash?
This could mean battery error or deep drain. Leave your headphones on charge for an hour. If things don't change, you may need to change the battery or repair.
Does the reset affect the guarantee?
No, the software reset is a normal function of the device and is not a reason for denial of warranty service if the seals were not damaged.