Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones boast powerful screens, but their screen size is often insufficient for watching movies in company or sharing photos. Fortunately, wireless data transfer technologies allow you to instantly stream content to a large TV screen using only a local Wi-Fi network. This eliminates the need for HDMI cables or special adapters, making the process as convenient and fast as possible.
The Android ecosystem on which the shell operates MIUI or HyperOS, provides several built-in tools for this task. Regardless of your TV—a Smart TV with its own interface or a traditional set-top box—there's a method that suits your specific hardware configuration. In this article, we'll cover all the working methods, from standard system functions to using third-party apps.
The main advantage of a wireless connection is the freedom from wires and the ability to control playback directly from your smartphone, from anywhere in the room. However, to ensure smooth data transfer without lag or artifacts, both devices must be configured correctly. The key to stable operation is that the phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi router subnet (5 GHz is preferable for 4K video).
Wireless Broadcasting Technologies: What's the Difference?
Before setting up, it's important to understand which data transfer protocols will be used. In the Android and Xiaomi worlds, three main standards are most common, each with its own operating characteristics and image quality. Understanding the differences between them will help you choose the best method for your situation.
The first and most common option is Miracast (often referred to as "Wireless Monitor" or "Broadcast"). This technology operates at the operating system level and allows you to completely mirror your smartphone's screen to your TV. The image is transmitted in real time, making it ideal for showing presentations, playing games, or navigating phone menus.
The second option is technology Google Chromecast built-inIt works differently: the phone doesn't broadcast the video stream, but only sends the TV a link to the content and a "play" command. This reduces the load on the smartphone's battery and allows the device to be used for other tasks while watching. The third method is DLNA, which is designed primarily for transferring media files (photos, videos, music) from the device's memory.
- 📺 Miracast: Full screen cloning, works without internet (via Wi-Fi Direct), but drains battery.
- 🌐 Chromecast: Playback control, low power consumption, requires support from TV or set-top box.
- 📁 DLNA: Transferring files from memory, not suitable for games or browsing.
⚠️ Please note: When using Miracast in fast-paced games, you may experience a slight delay (input lag) between pressing a button and seeing the action on-screen. This method may not be suitable for first-person shooters.
The choice of technology often depends not only on the user's preferences but also on the capabilities of the receiving device. If your TV supports all three standards, you can switch between them depending on the task. For example, Chromecast is more convenient for watching YouTube from your phone, while Miracast is more convenient for sharing a photo album with friends.
Preparatory stage: setting up the network and devices
A successful connection is impossible without properly prepared infrastructure. The first step is to ensure your router is working properly and is transmitting a signal. While some protocols (such as Wi-Fi Direct) can work without access to the global network, a stable router is essential for the initial handshake and for the Smart TV's functionality.
Both devices are smartphones. Xiaomi The device and the TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is critical. If you have a dual-band router broadcasting both the "Home_2.4G" and "Home_5G" networks, make sure both devices are on the same frequency. In some cases, client isolation at the router level can prevent devices from discovering each other.
It's also worth checking for software updates. This is often overlooked on TVs, but it's especially important in new firmware versions. Android TV or Tizen Transmission protocol errors are being fixed. On a Xiaomi phone, go to Settings → About phone → MIUI version and check for updates.
☑️ Connection Preparation Checklist
If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network, streaming may not work due to router security settings that isolate devices from each other. In this case, you'll need to switch to your main home network. Additionally, the "Power Saver" mode on your smartphone may limit background Wi-Fi activity, causing the connection to drop.
Method 1: Built-in "Broadcast" function (Miracast)
The fastest way to mirror an image is to use the native MIUI/HyperOS feature, which is based on the Miracast standard. This method requires no additional software and works out of the box on most modern Samsung, LG, Sony, and other TVs.
To activate, open the notification shade (swipe down from the top) and find the "Cast" icon. If it's not on the main screen, tap the pencil or three dots to edit the panel and drag the icon to the active area. After tapping, the phone will begin searching for available devices on the network.
You may need to manually start receiving a signal on your TV. This application is usually called Screen Mirroring, MirrorShare, Wireless Display or simply "Cast." Once the TV appears in the list on your smartphone, tap it to pair.
| Brand TV | Function name on TV | User actions |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Screen Mirroring | Select from the list of sources (Source) |
| LG | Screen Share | Launch the application from the home screen |
| Sony / Philips | Screen mirroring | Enable in network settings |
| Xiaomi / Mi TV | Wireless monitor | Automatic search |
Miracast transmission quality directly depends on the strength of the Wi-Fi signal. If you notice image blur or audio lag, try moving closer to the router. It's also worth noting that locking your phone's screen usually stops the streaming, as the system goes into sleep mode.
What should I do if the broadcast is interrupted?
Frequent connection drops may be caused by Wi-Fi channel congestion. Try switching your router to a channel with fewer neighbors (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz) or force your phone to switch to 5 GHz mode. Disabling Bluetooth on your phone when not using it for control purposes also helps, as the signals can interfere.
Method 2: Google Home and Chromecast built-in
If your TV is equipped with an operating system If your Android TV or Chromecast is built-in, this method will be the most stable for watching videos. It allows you to stream content from apps (YouTube, Netflix, Chrome browser) without straining your phone's processor.
To get started, make sure you have the app installed on your smartphone. Google HomeIt's often preinstalled, but if not, you can download it from the Play Store. Open the app, and it will automatically find Chromecast devices on your Wi-Fi network.
Unlike Miracast, you can cast only a browser tab or a specific video, not your entire screen. Tap the "Cast" icon (the rectangle with waves) within an app (like YouTube) and select your TV. The image will appear on the big screen, and your phone can be used as a remote.
- 🎬 Open the video in the YouTube app on your phone.
- 📡 Click on the broadcast icon in the corner of the player.
- 📺 Select your TV from the list of available devices.
- ▶️ The video will start playing on TV, and your phone can be locked.
The advantage of this method is that it uses the TV's internet connection, not your phone's. This means an incoming call won't interrupt your viewing experience, and your smartphone's battery drains minimally. However, to cast a Chrome browser tab, your phone must remain active.
Method 3: Third-party apps for Xiaomi
In some cases, built-in tools may not recognize an older TV or may perform erratically. In these cases, third-party apps that use the DLNA protocol or proprietary compression algorithms can come to the rescue. For Xiaomi device owners, apps from the developer are especially relevant. Xiaomi Inc. and universal solutions.
Application MI Remote Mi Remote is often pre-installed on Xiaomi smartphones. While its primary function is IR port control, in some versions and for certain Mi TV models it allows you to open your media library and transfer photos. For broader compatibility, it's best to use the app Cast to TV or AllConnect.
These programs scan the network, find DLNA renderers (TVs), and allow you to send files to them. The interface of these apps usually resembles a file manager. You select a video or photo, press the "Play" or "Cast" button, and the content opens on your TV.
⚠️ Note: Third-party apps may contain ads or require a subscription to stream in high definition (4K). Free versions often limit quality or session length.
Using third-party software is especially useful if you need to transfer a file that can't be opened with standard tools or if you need a specific codec. However, for everyday use, Android's built-in methods are generally preferable due to their better optimization.
Troubleshooting and error recovery
Even with a perfect setup, situations may arise where devices "don't see" each other or the connection constantly drops. The most common cause is desynchronization of IP addresses or service caches. If the TV disappears from the list of available devices, try rebooting the router by unplugging it from the power outlet for 10 seconds.
Another common issue is an antivirus or firewall on the router blocking local connections. Check your router's security settings. Also, make sure "Allow connections" is enabled on your TV, or "Accept all devices" is checked if it's an older TV.
If there's sound but no picture (black screen), the issue may be with the content's DRM protection. Some streaming services prohibit screen recording or Miracast streaming, requiring Chromecast only. In this case, changing the streaming method will solve the problem.
In rare cases, a Wi-Fi protocol version conflict (for example, one device uses Wi-Fi 6 and the other an older standard) can cause instability. Try temporarily disabling "Wi-Fi 6" or "AX" mode in your router settings to test this hypothesis.
Why doesn't the TV detect my Xiaomi phone?
Most often, the problem is that the devices are on different subnets (for example, a guest network) or access point isolation is enabled. Also, check if your router has any MAC address restrictions.
Is it possible to transmit sound separately, without a picture?
Yes, using Bluetooth for audio while streaming video over Wi-Fi will cause desyncing. It's better to use "Audio Only" mode in music apps or connect a Bluetooth speaker directly to your phone.
Does broadcasting affect internet speed?
When using Chromecast (for online video), the traffic goes through the router to the TV, saving the phone. With Miracast, the phone can use the internet, but the primary channel is busy transmitting the video stream within the network, which can slightly reduce the overall Wi-Fi speed for other devices.