Modern Smart TVs from the company Xiaomi offer a variety of ways to interact with mobile devices, and one of the key technologies here is Wi-Fi DirectThis feature allows you to stream multimedia content, photos, and videos from your smartphone or tablet directly to your TV screen without connecting to your home wireless network or router. Owners of this model Mi TV 4S People often look for a way to activate this mode for quick screen sharing or running files from external drives.
However, in the Android TV interface, which the TV firmware is based on, settings may be hidden or named differently than users expect. Understanding how it works wireless connection in the ecosystem MIUI TV, will help avoid confusion and save time. In this article, we'll cover all the details of activation, setup, and troubleshooting connection issues.
It is worth noting right away that depending on the software version, the path to the settings may differ slightly. Interface Android TV It's regularly updated, adding new features or rearranging old menus. So, if you don't find an item right away, it's worth checking for available system updates.
How Android TV technology works
Technology Wi-Fi Direct is a wireless communication standard that allows devices to connect directly to each other, bypassing an access point or router. In the context of television Xiaomi Mi TV 4S This means your smartphone can become a remote control or video source, using the TV's built-in Wi-Fi module as a receiver. This is especially useful if your home network is overloaded or temporarily unavailable.
Unlike a regular internet connection, this creates a local network between two devices. Bandwidth in this mode is often higher than when transmitted through a router, ensuring a more stable image when streaming high-definition video. However, it's important to remember that during operation Wi-Fi Direct The TV may temporarily lose access to the global Internet if it does not support simultaneous operation in two ranges or modes.
⚠️ Attention: When a direct connection is activated, some applications that require access to online services (YouTube, Netflix) may stop working, since priority is given to the local data transfer channel.
It is important to distinguish Miracast and clean Wi-Fi DirectWhile they technically use similar protocols, for the user the difference lies in the way the connection is initiated. Miracast often functions as a "screen cast," while Wi-Fi Direct can be used for file transfer or lower-level device control. TVs Xiaomi These functions are often grouped under the general name "Wireless Display" or "Broadcast".
Preparing equipment before setup
Before you begin changing settings in your TV menu, you need to make sure all your devices are ready to work. First, check that your Xiaomi Mi TV 4S Enabled and functioning correctly. Having the latest firmware is critical, as older versions may contain bugs in the wireless module.
It's also worth paying attention to the smartphone or tablet you plan to use for the connection. Your mobile device must have Wi-Fi enabled and, in some cases, geolocation enabled, as Android uses it to search for Nearby devices. Make sure your phone isn't in power-saving mode, which can block background network scanning.
To ensure successful synchronization, please follow these steps:
- 📱 Make sure your smartphone and TV are in close proximity (no further than 3-5 meters).
- 🔋 Check the battery level on your mobile device to prevent it from sleeping during the setup process.
- 📶 Disable VPN on both devices if they are active, as this may prevent detection.
- 🔄 Reboot your router, even if you plan to use Direct mode, to avoid channel conflicts.
If you use external USB Wi-Fi adapters (although in Mi TV 4S (They're built-in), make sure they're compatible. A standard TV antenna provides sufficient range, but metal objects or thick walls between devices can significantly reduce data transfer speeds.
Step-by-step instructions for activating the function
The process for enabling this feature may vary depending on your regional firmware version (Global or China), but the general steps are the same. First, you need to access the main system settings menu. To do this, press the menu button on the remote control and select the gear icon.
In the menu that opens, find the section responsible for connections. In the interface Android TV It's often called "Network and Internet" or simply "Network." Here, we're not interested in connecting to a Wi-Fi router, but in additional settings. Find "Network Settings" or "Advanced Network Settings."
☑️ Check before connection
Next, follow this algorithm:
- Go to
Settings → Network & Internet. - Select an item
Wi-Fi Direct(may be called "Direct connection"). - Activate the switch to the "On" position.
- Write down or take a picture of the device name that appears on the screen (for example, MI TV 4S-XXXX).
Once activated, the TV will enter connection standby mode. A message may appear on the screen indicating that the device is visible to others. You can now proceed to pairing your smartphone.
⚠️ Attention: If the "Wi-Fi Direct" option is missing from the menu, try resetting your network settings to factory defaults in the same menu section. This will clear saved passwords and may restore hidden options.
In some interface versions Xiaomi This feature is integrated into the "Cast" menu. In this case, you need to find the "Cast" app in the program list or access it through the remote's quick access menu (the button with the screen image).
Pairing your smartphone and TV
Once the TV is visible, you need to set up your mobile device. The process varies depending on your smartphone's operating system. For Android users, the process is usually as automated as possible, while iOS users may require third-party solutions.
On Android smartphones, open Wi-Fi settings and find your TV's name in the list of available networks. It should match the name displayed on the TV screen. When selecting a network, you may be asked to enter a PIN, which will also appear on the screen. Xiaomi Mi TV 4S.
For iPhone and iPad users, the situation is as follows:
- 🍏 The built-in AirPlay function works through a standard Wi-Fi router, not directly through Wi-Fi Direct.
- 📲 Direct connection may require app installation Xiaomi Home or Mi Remote.
- 🌐 Make sure your iPhone's local network is enabled in its privacy settings.
Once paired successfully, a notification will appear on the TV screen informing you that a new device has been connected. From now on, you can use your smartphone as a touchpad, keyboard, or media source. Connection quality depends on the supported standards (802.11ac/n) of both devices.
What to do if the phone doesn’t see the TV?
Make sure "Mobile Data" isn't set as a priority on your phone. Try forgetting the network on your phone and then finding it again. Also, check if your antivirus software is blocking local connections.
Using built-in apps for broadcasting
The protocol itself Wi-Fi Direct only creates a communication channel. Client applications are required to transmit images or sound. In TVs Xiaomi a pre-installed set of programs optimized for working with the ecosystem MIUI And Android.
One of the main tools is the application Cast (Cast). It allows you to mirror your smartphone's screen or stream the contents of a media player. Launch the app on your TV, and it will begin searching for active devices within range.
It is also convenient to use the application to manage content. Google Home. It allows you to find Chromecast built-in devices that are integrated into Mi TV 4S. Operating algorithm:
- Open the app Google Home on a smartphone.
- Find your TV in the list Mi TV 4S.
- Click "Cast Screen" or "Cast Media".
If standard products are not suitable, go to the store Google Play There are dozens of alternatives available on TV. For example, the app AirScreen Adds AirPlay and Miracast support, improving compatibility with Apple and Windows devices.
Diagnostics and problem solving
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users often encounter difficulties. The most common issue is that the TV doesn't detect the phone or the connection keeps dropping. This could be caused by a software glitch or interference.
If the connection is unstable, try changing the Wi-Fi channel on your router, even if you're using Direct mode, as the module may be conflicting with itself. It's also worth checking to see if the TV is overheating, as the Wi-Fi module can reduce signal strength at high temperatures.
Table of errors and solutions:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The TV is not visible in the Wi-Fi list. | Direct mode is off | Enable in network settings |
| Connection error | Incorrect PIN code | Reset the request and re-enter |
| Low transmission speed | Interference or distance | Move closer to the TV, remove obstacles |
| Black screen during broadcast | DRM content protection | Some applications block the output |
In cases where nothing helps, an effective method is to completely reset the network settings. Go to Settings → Device → Reset and select Reset Network Settings. This will reset all Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings to factory defaults.
⚠️ Attention: The interface and menu item names may change after a firmware update. If you can't find the item you're looking for, consult the official user manual for your specific software version.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to play games on TV via Wi-Fi Direct with lag?
You can play games, but there will be some input lag. The technology isn't designed for fast-paced shooters where millisecond reaction times are crucial. For strategy or card games, the connection is perfectly adequate.
Does Wi-Fi Direct reduce internet speed on other devices?
Since the connection is direct, it doesn't overload the router's bandwidth. However, the TV's Wi-Fi module works more intensively, which could theoretically interfere with neighboring channels, but in practice, this is rarely noticeable.
Why does the sound disappear when connecting via Direct?
Check the audio output settings in the app you're streaming from. Sometimes the sound stays on your phone, but the picture goes to your TV. Select the audio output device manually in the Android volume menu.
Is it safe to share personal photos via Wi-Fi Direct?
Yes, the connection is encrypted, and data is not transmitted over the internet. However, make sure you're connecting to your TV and not to a neighbor's device with a similar name.