Xiaomi’s popular AirDots 3 wireless headphones (often called Redmi Buds 3) are a modern solution for those looking for a balance between sound quality, active noise reduction and affordable price. Many users are immediately faced with the question of how to get started to unleash the full potential of the Bluetooth headset. Despite the apparent simplicity of the device, there are a number of nuances related to pairing, gesture control and working with a mobile application.
In this detailed guide, we will discuss all aspects of interaction with the device: from initial activation to fine-tuning the equalizer. You will learn how to correctly reset settings in case of a problem and what hidden functions are available through the official software. Proper use of all the features of the gadget will allow you to enjoy clean sound and stable connection in any conditions.
Before we get to specifics, it’s important to note that the model supports high-quality audio protocols, which means that to get a better sound, you need to properly configure the signal source. Next, we’ll look at each stage of setup and operation in detail.
First Enabling and Activating the Device
The process of getting started with Xiaomi AirDots 3 requires several sequential steps, as the device comes with protective films on charging contacts. These films isolate batteries, preventing self-discharge during storage in stock. The first step is to remove both headphones from the case and carefully remove the transparent stickers from the metal contacts.
After removing the insulation, place the headset back into the charging case and close the lid. The indicator on the front should light up, signaling the start of the charging process. If the indication does not appear, check the connection of the USB-C cable to the power source. Full battery activation takes a few minutes, after which the gadget is ready to pair.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to turn on the headphones without removing the protective films from the contacts. In this case, the device will be in deep sleep and will not respond to pressing or trying to connect.
It's important to wait until the headphones themselves (if they're inside the case when you open them) or the LEDs on the case show the charge level, and then you can switch to synchronization with your smartphone, and the right initial activation will ensure that the power management system works properly in the future.
☑️ Primary activation
Connection with Android and iOS devices
Connecting Xiaomi AirDots 3 to the phone is automatic on the first run, but requires the right sequence of actions. Open the charge case cover, without removing the headphones themselves. On the front panel should start flashing white indication, which means switching to pairing mode (Pairing Mode).
Go to your smartphone's Bluetooth settings and start searching for new devices. The list of available gadgets will show a record of "Redmi Buds 3" or "Xiaomi AirDots 3." Click on the name to connect. Once successfully synchronized, the voice assistant will notify you of the connection status in English or Chinese.
- 📱 For Android: Open the notification curtain and select Bluetooth.
- 🍏 For iOS: Go to Settings» → «Bluetooth».
- 🔄 If the device is not found, press the touch zones for 5 seconds.
- 🔋 Make sure the case is charged at least 20 times%.
It's worth noting that when you reconnect, it's instantaneous: just open the case lid next to the phone you've already set up. The automatic connection is stable, but if you change the phone, you'll need to manually search the new device's settings.
Control of touch panels and gestures
Xiaomi AirDots 3 is devoid of physical buttons, with full touch zones on each headphone leg, making it easier to operate, but requiring sensitivity. Standard gesture configuration allows you to control playback, calls and voice assistant.
Solo taps of either side usually pause the track or resume playback. Double taps of the right earpiece to the next track, the left one to the beginning of the track, or switches to the previous one when you quickly re-press it. Triple taps activate a voice assistant like Google Assistant or Siri.
⚠️ Warning: When touching the touch zone, try not to press the earphone too tightly against the ear so as not to disturb the tightness of the landing.
To answer an incoming call, you just need to double-task any headphone, and you can end the conversation by holding your finger on the sensor for two seconds, and if you find the standard circuit uncomfortable, you can change it through the Xiaomi Earbuds app, reassigning the functions to your discretion.
How do I turn off voice prompts?
Working with the Xiaomi Earbuds app
To fully unlock the functionality of Xiaomi AirDots 3, it is strongly recommended to install the official Xiaomi Earbuds app (available on Google Play and App Store).This software interface provides access to settings that are hidden in the standard Bluetooth menu, where you can update the firmware, adjust the equalizer and change the behavior of the sensors.
The Sound section offers a graphical equalizer with several preset modes: Balance, Bass, High Frequency and Custom Mode. You can manually adjust frequencies to achieve the perfect sound for your music genre, and activates the low latency mode (Game Mode), which is critical for gaming and video watching.
| Function | Description | Where to find out. |
|---|---|---|
| Headphone search | It sends a loud signal to search for a lost device. | The Service tab |
| Update of the PO | Install new versions of firmware to improve stability | The device tab |
| Transparency regime | Including external microphones for audible environment | Main screen / Gestures |
| Noise management | Adjusting the level of active noise reduction (ANC) | Noise suppression tab |
Regularly checking the About section ensures that the current version of the software is installed. Developers periodically release updates that fix connection errors and improve the microphone algorithms. The update process cannot be interrupted, as this can lead to complete failure of the headset.
Setting up noise reduction and sound modes
One of the key features of Xiaomi AirDots 3 is the Active Noise Reduction (ANC) system, which effectively cuts off low-frequency noises such as the hum of the transport engine or the operation of the air conditioner. Switching between the Noise Reduction, Transparency and Normal modes is carried out by long pressing on the touch panel (about 2 seconds).
In transparency mode, external microphones start to broadcast ambient sounds inwards, allowing you to hear ads on the subway or talk to someone without taking off your headphones, which is especially convenient in urban environments where it's important to stay alert. Sound processing algorithms automatically adjust to the level of external noise.
- 🔇 ANC On: Maximum reduction of external noise.
- 🔊 Transparency: Transmission of external sounds for safety.
- 🎵 Normal: Turning off all handlers for clean sound.
- 🎮 Game Mode: Reduced audio latency for games (via the app).
Remember, active noise reduction increases energy consumption. If you're in a quiet room, switch to normal mode to save battery life. The effectiveness of ANC depends on the density of the earpieces to the ear.
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For maximum efficiency of noise reduction, it is critically important to choose the right size of the silicone nozzle, ensuring full tightness of the ear canal.
Case Charging and Status Indicators
The autonomy of Xiaomi AirDots 3 depends on proper battery maintenance. The case is equipped with a Type-C port for connecting the cable. During charging, the indicator on the front panel burns orange, and when fully charged changes color to white. Full charging of the case takes about 2-2.5 hours.
The display also tells you the status of the headphones themselves. When you take them out of the case, the LED can flash, showing the charge level. If the indicator is lit red, the device requires immediate recharging. Using the original cable or certified analogues guarantees a safe current speed.
⚠️ Note: Do not use chargers for smartphones with higher power 10-15 W (especially fast charging) 30W+), as this can damage the power controller of the small battery case.
To extend the battery life, try not to discharge the headphones and case to zero. The optimal use case is to charge with a balance of 15-20%. Store the device in a dry place at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight and frost.
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Wipe the metal contacts on your headphones and inside your case with a dry cotton swab once a month. Contact oxidation is a common reason that headphones stop charging in the case.
Frequent problems and their solution
In the process of operation, users may face typical problems, such as out-synchronization of the left and right earphones, quiet sound or connection difficulties, most often this is solved by simply resetting the settings to the factory. To do this, you need to put the headphones in the case, open the lid and pinch the sensors on both earphones simultaneously for 10-15 seconds until the indicator flashes orange 3 times.
If the sound is quiet or gone in one channel, check the balance settings in your smartphone and make sure that the speaker grid is not filled with earwax. Regular cleaning of the mesh with a soft brush helps to preserve the sound quality. It is also worth trying to remove the device from the Bluetooth list and perform the pairing again.
If the software reset didn’t help, you may need to update the firmware through the application.If the problem is hardware in nature (for example, one earphone is not charging at all), you may need to replace the contacts or battery in the service center.