Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones have become powerful multimedia centers capable of playing content in high definition. However, watching videos, photos, or playing games on a small display isn't always convenient, especially in a group. Wireless image mirroring technology comes to the rescue, allowing you to mirror your smartphone screen to a large TV display without wires.
In this article we will take a detailed look at How to connect to a TV via WiFi on an Android Xiaomi phone, using built-in features of MIUI or HyperOS. We'll cover various data transfer protocols, such as Miracast and DLNA, and also address common errors that occur when pairing devices from different manufacturers.
The setup process typically takes just a few minutes, but requires certain network infrastructure requirements. If you want to enjoy mobile content on a large screen without lag or artifacts, it's important to configure both devices correctly. Next, we'll cover the technical requirements and instructions.
Technical requirements and network preparation
Before you begin setup, you need to make sure your equipment meets the minimum requirements. A stable local network is key to successful synchronization. Both devices—the Xiaomi smartphone and the TV—must be connected to the same routerIf you have a dual-band router, it's best to have both devices operate at 5 GHz to minimize latency.
Many users make the mistake of connecting their phone to mobile internet (4G/5G) and their TV to their home Wi-Fi. In this case, live streaming via a local protocol is impossible because the devices are on different network segments. Check your router settings: sometimes the client isolation feature may be enabled by default, preventing devices from seeing each other within the network.
⚠️ Note: If your router is distributing two networks with the same name (SSID) for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, try temporarily separating them or forcibly switching one of the devices to a different frequency, as some older TV models do not see devices in the 5 GHz range.
It's also worth making sure your TV has the latest firmware version. Smart TV manufacturers regularly update their software, adding support for new codecs and security protocols. This is especially important for Android TV or Google TV, as updates often include patches for the Cast protocol.
Using the built-in "Cast" feature in MIUI
Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones feature a built-in screen mirroring tool based on the Miracast (Wi-Fi Direct) protocol. This method allows you to stream live images without the need for third-party apps. To activate this feature, pull down the notification shade and find the "Cast" icon.
If the icon isn't in quick access, you can find it in the settings. Go to the menu Settings → Connection and Sharing → BroadcastOnce activated, your phone will begin searching for available signal receivers. You may also need to launch the appropriate app on your TV, often called "Screen Share," "Miracast," or "Cast from Phone."
☑️ Check before connection
Select the name of your TV from the list of found devices. The pairing process may take 5 to 15 seconds. You may see a connection permission prompt on the TV screen, which you'll need to confirm with the remote. Once successfully connected, the image from your phone will appear on the big screen.
- 📱 Open the Curtain control panel and click "Broadcast".
- 📺 Turn on the signal reception mode on the TV (if it is not turned on automatically).
- 🔗 Select your device from the list of available networks.
- ✅ Confirm the connection request on the TV screen.
It's worth noting that when using Miracast, your phone may operate in screen clone mode, meaning you won't be able to use other apps without interrupting the streaming unless you enable this mode in the MIUI settings. Some Xiaomi models allow you to stream when the screen is off, but this depends on the MIUI version.
Streaming via Google Home and Chromecast
If your TV runs on Android TV or has built-in Chromecast support, the most stable method is to use the Google ecosystem. To do this, you'll need to install the app on your Xiaomi smartphone. Google Home, which often comes bundled with Google Play services.
This method differs from Miracast in that the transmission is not simply a screen video stream, but a command to the TV to play content via a link, which reduces the load on the phone's processor and saves battery life. However, for mirroring the entire screen (games, browser), use the "Screen Casting" feature, which is also available in the app menu.
Launch the Google Home app, and it will automatically find devices on your network. Select your TV from the list. In the control menu that opens, tap "Cast my screen." The system will notify you that your phone's audio and video will be streamed to your TV.
⚠️ Note: When streaming via Google Home, image quality may dynamically change depending on your Wi-Fi speed. If the image is choppy, try moving closer to the router or reducing the resolution in your phone's settings.
The advantage of this method is its voice control support and the ability to use your phone as a remote control. You can adjust the volume, pause playback, or launch specific YouTube videos directly on your TV without blocking your smartphone's interface.
Using DLNA to view media files
If your goal isn't to duplicate the interface, but to view photos, videos, or listen to music stored on your phone, the DLNA protocol is best. Unlike Miracast, it doesn't burden the processor with constantly encoding the video stream, but simply transfers the file for playback on the TV.
To implement this method on Xiaomi, it's convenient to use the built-in File Explorer or Gallery app. Open the desired video file, tap the "More" button (three dots), and select "Send" or "Cast." Select your TV from the list of available devices.
An alternative and more functional option is to install a specialized media center application, for example, BubbleUPnP or VLC for AndroidThese programs can scan the network, find DLNA renderers (TVs), and send content to them in any format that the TV can decode.
| Parameter | Miracast (Broadcast) | DLNA (Media) | Chromecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Screen Stream (Real-time) | Files | Stream / Links |
| Using the phone | Limited / Blocked | Free | Free (like a remote control) |
| Battery consumption | High | Short | Average |
| Delay | Yes (depending on Wi-Fi) | No | Minimum |
When selecting DLNA, if the video is encoded in a rare codec, the TV may refuse to play it, whereas with Miracast, the phone itself decodes the video and sends the finished image.
Third-party applications for complex cases
In situations where built-in features don't work or the TV is only "smart" in name (not Smart TV), third-party solutions can help. TVs without Smart features require special HDMI set-top boxes (such as AnyCast) that emulate a Miracast receiver.
For Android TVs and set-top boxes, there are recorder and broadcaster apps such as AirScreen or Receiver for ChromecastThey are installed from the app store on the TV itself (via the Google Play Store on the TV) and create a virtual receiver that the Xiaomi phone sees.
Why doesn't the TV see the phone?
Often, the problem lies in the router settings. Make sure AP Isolation is disabled on the router. This feature is designed for guest networks and prevents devices from communicating with each other, allowing only internet access. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking local connections on your phone.
Another popular option is to use game streaming apps such as Steam Link or GameStreamIf you have a PC connected to your TV, the Xiaomi phone acts as a controller or second screen, while the computer handles the processing power.
When using third-party software, extended permissions are often required. MIUI can aggressively close background processes to save power, so you should select "No restrictions" mode for the broadcast app in the battery settings.
Troubleshooting connection and latency issues
The most common problem with a wireless connection is audio and video desynchronization or intermittent image flickering. This is a clear sign of insufficient Wi-Fi bandwidth. If the router is located far away or the wall is too thick, the 2.4 GHz signal may be unstable.
To minimize input lag when gaming, we strongly recommend using the 5 GHz frequency. It provides higher data transfer rates, although it has a shorter range. Also, enable "Game Mode" in your TV settings, which disables unnecessary image post-processing.
⚠️ Note: Smart TV interfaces and MIUI versions may differ. If you don't find the setting described, search for a similar one or consult the manufacturer's documentation, as menu locations often change with new updates.
If your phone sees the TV but the connection drops after a few seconds, try rebooting your router. A full DHCP table or a software glitch in the router's Wi-Fi module are common causes of connection interruptions. It's also worth checking if your router has a limit on the number of connected devices.
In some cases, static IP addressing can help. Go to your phone's Wi-Fi settings, select your network, and change the IP settings from DHCP to Static. Manually enter an address that matches the router's subnet to avoid address conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to connect a phone to a TV without a Wi-Fi router?
Yes, this is possible if your TV supports Wi-Fi Direct technology. This connects your phone directly to the TV's Wi-Fi module, creating a direct connection without the need for a router. You can also use an HDMI cable with a USB-C to HDMI adapter if your phone supports video output (MHL or SlimPort).
Why is there no sound during the broadcast, although the video is playing?
Most often, the problem is that the app you're streaming from isn't transmitting the audio stream using the selected protocol, or the wrong audio source is selected on the TV. Check if Bluetooth headphones are connected to your phone, as they could be intercepting the audio output.
Video is lagging when streaming from a Xiaomi. What should I do?
Try lowering the video resolution in the app settings (for example, in YouTube, select 720p instead of 1080p or 4K). Also, close background apps on your phone to free up CPU resources for encoding the video stream.
Does streaming work if VPN is enabled on the phone?
In most cases, a VPN connection blocks local data transmission, as all traffic is redirected through a remote server. To successfully stream, the VPN must be temporarily disabled.