Modern Xiaomi and Redmi TVs running the Android TV platform offer users a wide range of multimedia content options. Instead of searching for movies directly in the TV menu or copying files to a flash drive, it's much more convenient to start playback directly from your smartphone. This is especially useful when you already have a browser open on your mobile device with the desired video or have downloaded a high-quality file that you don't want to stream via cable.
To implement this task, the devices must be in the same local network, that is, connected to the same Wi-Fi routerWireless data transfer technology allows you to turn your smartphone screen into a remote control and signal source, and your TV screen into a powerful display. There are several proven connection methods, each with its own setup features and advantages for different use cases.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the main streaming methods, from built-in system functions to third-party apps. You'll learn how to set up Mi Remote to manage how to activate the protocol Miracast for screen mirroring and how to use the built-in Chromecast for streaming video from browsers and apps. The right method depends on what you want to do: simply control playback or display the full image.
Network requirements and basic device preparation
Before starting setup, it's crucial to ensure both devices—your Android smartphone and Xiaomi TV—are connected to the same wireless network. If you have a dual-band router, make sure both devices can see each other, either on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band. Client isolation on the router can sometimes prevent devices from being detected, so in typical home settings, this setting usually doesn't require any adjustments.
You also need to check that the discovery feature is enabled on your TV. In Android TV, this is often called Google Cast or "Broadcast." Without active search status, the TV simply won't appear in the list of available devices on your phone, even if the Wi-Fi connection is stable.
Check your operating system version. On older versions of Android TV, the interface may differ, and some modern video codecs may not be supported. Update your TV software via the menu. Settings → About TV → System update often solves problems with unstable connections.
Using the Mi Remote app for control and broadcasting
One of the easiest ways to play a movie is to use the official app. Xiaomi Mi Remote Or use the built-in remote control on Xiaomi phones. This method is ideal if the video file is already on the phone's memory or accessible via a direct link. The app not only allows you to control volume and channel switching but also stream media files to the big screen.
To get started, launch the app on your smartphone and click the Add Device button. The system will prompt you to select the device type—choose TV and brand XiaomiThe phone will begin searching the local network. Once the TV is found, a connection permission request may appear on the TV screen, which must be confirmed with the remote.
After successful pairing, a "Media" button or file transfer icon will appear in the remote's interface. By clicking it, you can select a video from your phone's gallery. It's important to understand that in this mode, the phone acts as storage, and the TV decodes the video stream automatically, reducing the strain on the smartphone's battery.
⚠️ Please note: Media file transfer via Mi Remote may not work with protected content from paid online cinemas (DRM-protected). For streaming services, use mirroring methods or built-in apps on your TV.
Screen sharing via Miracast (Wireless Monitor)
Technology Miracast, known as "Wireless Monitor" on Xiaomi devices, allows you to mirror your smartphone's content to your TV. This means your TV displays exactly what's happening on your phone's screen in real time. This method is convenient for displaying photos, presentations, or videos from apps that don't have built-in Cast support.
To activate this feature on your Xiaomi TV, go to the apps menu and find the shortcut Wireless monitor (Wireless display). After launching the app, the TV will go into connection standby mode. On your smartphone, open the notification shade and find the "Cast," "Projection," or "Smart View" function (the name depends on your phone model). Select your TV from the list.
☑️ Miracast connection checklist
It's worth noting that when using Miracast, your smartphone actively uses its processor and Wi-Fi network resources to encode the video stream. This can lead to increased power consumption and heat generation. Furthermore, a slight image lag is possible, making this method less suitable for fast-paced games, but perfectly acceptable for watching movies.
| Parameter | Miracast (Broadcast) | Chromecast (Streaming) | DLNA (Media) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Full screen mirroring | Streaming link | File transfer |
| Load on the phone | High | Low (remote control) | Low |
| Ability to minimize applications | No (screen active) | Yes | Yes |
| Image quality | Depends on Wi-Fi signal | Maximum (native) | Depends on the file |
Using Chromecast built-in to stream video
The best way to watch online videos is to use technology Google Cast (Chromecast built-in). Unlike Miracast, the phone doesn't broadcast its screen image, but rather sends a link to the video stream to the TV. The TV automatically downloads and plays the video, ensuring maximum quality and a smooth experience.
To use this method, you don't need to install any additional software if you use popular services like YouTube, Netflix, or online movie theaters. Simply open the video in the app on your phone and tap the rectangle icon with waves (the Cast symbol), which is usually located in the corner of the video player. Select your Xiaomi TV from the list that appears.
Why might video lag during broadcasting?
If video is constantly buffering when using Chromecast, the problem is most often related to your Wi-Fi speed. Try switching your router to the 5 GHz channel, as it provides the higher throughput needed for 4K content.
The main advantage of this method is the ability to use your phone while watching. You can switch to a messenger, answer a call, or go online, and the TV playback will not be interrupted. In this case, the phone functions solely as an advanced remote control.
⚠️ Note: Some apps may block streaming if the app versions on your phone and TV are significantly different. Regularly update YouTube and other streaming services through the Google Play Store on both devices.
Format compatibility issues and solutions via VLC
Users often encounter a situation where the TV does not recognize a video file or plays it without sound. This occurs due to the lack of support for certain codecs (for example, DTS or older formats AVI) in the standard Android TV player. In such cases, third-party solutions that work with the DLNA protocol come to the rescue.
The optimal solution is to install the application VLC for Android Both to a TV (via the app store) and to a smartphone. VLC has built-in codecs and can convert the stream on the fly if the TV can't read the file natively. In the app on your phone, select the video, press the "Play" button, and choose "Render" or "Cast." Then, select your TV.
An alternative method is to use the "Local Server" feature in file managers. Many modern file explorers (for example, File Commander or ES File Explorer) have a built-in DLNA server launcher. By activating this, you make your phone's folders visible to your TV. Your phone will appear on your TV in the Media Player or Gallery app under the Network or LAN section.
When streaming large files (4K, high bitrate) via DLNA, ensure your Wi-Fi signal is stable. Stream interruptions can cause audio and video to become out of sync. In such cases, it's preferable to use a wired connection or, if possible, reduce the file's bitrate beforehand.
Optimizing your Wi-Fi network for stable streaming
Movie viewing quality directly depends on your wireless network's bandwidth. The standard 2.4 GHz band may not be stable enough to transmit high-resolution video (Full HD and 4K) due to congestion from nearby routers and household appliances.
It's recommended to configure your router so that your TV and phone operate in the 5 GHz band. This standard provides higher data transfer speeds, although it has a shorter range. If your TV is located far from the router, consider using Wi-Fi repeater or PowerLine adapters, which transmit internet through electrical wiring.
It's also worth checking your router settings to ensure QoS (Quality of Service) is enabled. If this option is enabled, configure traffic priority for your TV or smartphone. This will reserve a portion of the bandwidth specifically for the video stream, preventing image stuttering, even if other devices on the network are actively downloading files.
What should I do if my phone doesn't see the TV in the list of devices?
First, check that both devices are connected to the same network (SSID). Make sure the TV isn't in "Guest Network" mode, which isolates the devices from each other. Also, try rebooting the router and both devices. Sometimes, temporarily disabling the VPN on your smartphone can help, as it can change the local IP address and hide the device from the local network.
Is it possible to stream video via mobile internet (4G/5G)?
Miracast and DLNA technologies only work within a local Wi-Fi network and don't use mobile data to transmit the signal between devices. However, Chromecast can work differently: if the video is in the cloud, the phone can send a command to the TV, and it will download the video automatically if it has its own internet connection. However, this method is not suitable for directly transferring a file from a phone to a TV without a router.
Why does the picture flicker when broadcasting via Miracast?
A choppy picture indicates insufficient Wi-Fi bandwidth or high levels of interference. Try reducing the distance between the router and your devices. If you live in an apartment building, changing the Wi-Fi channel in your router settings to a less congested one (e.g., 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz) can significantly improve the situation.