Owners of modern Smart TVs from the company Xiaomi often face the need to quickly transfer content or display images from a mobile device to a large screen without using a router. Technology Wi-Fi Direct allows you to create a direct wireless connection between gadgets, bypassing the home network. However, users often wonder: where exactly on the TV Mi TV This option is hidden and why it may not appear in the menu.
Unlike standard Android boxes, the interface MIUI TV or Google TV has its own navigation features. Often, the function isn't displayed on the home screen, but is buried deep in system settings or even depends on the firmware version. Understanding the connection architecture will help you avoid unnecessary steps and quickly set up streaming videos, photos, or games.
In this article, we'll detail the access point search algorithm, explain the difference between Miracast and Wi-Fi Direct, and provide solutions to common device visibility issues. You'll learn how to properly prepare your TV and smartphone for a stable connection.
What is Wi-Fi Direct and why is it needed on a Smart TV?
Wi-Fi Direct — is a wireless communication standard that allows devices to connect directly to each other without the need for an access point or router. In the context of televisions Xiaomi This technology is the foundation for the function Miracast, which is responsible for mirroring a smartphone's screen. When you want to show a presentation or video from your phone, this protocol creates a virtual cable between the devices.
The main advantage of this technology is its high data transfer speed and its independence from the signal quality of your home internet connection. Even if your router is overloaded or located far away, direct connection will remain stable. This is especially important for watching high-definition videos. 4K, where channel throughput is important.
It is important to understand what is on TV Mi Box And Mi TV Stick This feature is often implemented through built-in system services that are activated automatically when attempting to connect from an external device. The user doesn't always need to manually enable visibility mode, as the TV can operate in the background, waiting for connections.
- 📡 Direct data transfer without using a router.
- 🎬 Supports high-quality video streaming without buffering.
- 🔒 WPA2 connection encryption to protect transmitted data.
Despite its convenience, the technology has its limitations. For example, when Wi-Fi Direct is active, the regular internet speed on the connected smartphone may decrease because the radio module switches to TV mode. This is worth considering if you plan to simultaneously download files to your phone.
Finding a function in the MIUI TV and Google TV interface
The location of the wireless connection settings directly depends on the version of the operating system installed on your Xiaomi TVIn older models with a shell MIUI TV (based on Android 6-8) the path to the settings may differ from the current versions with Android TV 9.0+ or Google TVLet's look at the main search scenarios.
In most cases, there's no clear "Wi-Fi Direct" switch. Instead, the system relies on device discovery. You need to navigate to the main settings menu using the remote control. Navigation is accomplished using the directional buttons, and selection is made using the center button. OK.
⚠️ Note: The menu may be adapted in some regions and on certain Xiaomi TV models. If you don't see the options described below, check for system updates or change your region in your profile settings.
For owners of TVs with the classic MIUI interface, the process usually looks like this: open the "Settings" section, then go to the "Network & Internet" or "Connections" tab. This is where the wireless settings are located. The new Google TV interfaces follow a similar logic, but the menu design is more minimalist.
If you are using an external set-top box Mi Box S, then you should search in the "Applications" section. Often, the system streaming app is located there separately. It's also worth paying attention to the status bar at the top of the screen: it may show an indicator that the connection is ready.
Step-by-step instructions: how to enable and configure the connection
To activate connection standby mode, follow these steps: First, press the Home button on the remote to access the home screen. Then, move the cursor to the upper right corner and select the gear icon—this is the entrance to Settings.
In the menu that opens, find the "Network & Internet" section. Inside, look for the "Wi-Fi" option. Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled. Below the list of available networks, you'll often find a "Wi-Fi Settings" or "Advanced" option. This is where the visibility switch for external devices may be located.
☑️ Preparing your TV for connection
Once the module is activated, the TV will begin broadcasting a detection signal. On your smartphone, go to the display settings and select "Cast," "Smart View," or "Projection." Your device should appear in the list of available devices. Xiaomi TVClick on it to pair.
A connection confirmation prompt may appear on the TV screen. Use the remote control to press "Accept" or "Confirm." Your smartphone's screen will then be mirrored to the TV. To disconnect, simply disconnect on your phone or turn off the TV.
In some cases, you may be required to manually enter the PIN code displayed on the TV screen. Be careful when entering characters, as navigating the remote control's numeric keypad can be difficult. Use the directional buttons to select numbers and the center button to confirm.
Using the built-in Wireless Display app
On many TVs Xiaomi A special app, called "Wireless Display" or "Miracast," is preinstalled. It serves as an intermediary for incoming connections. You can find it in the general list of all installed apps.
By launching this app, you put your TV into active standby mode. A logo and a message will appear on the screen indicating that the device is ready to connect. In this mode, the TV creates a temporary network to which your smartphone will connect.
What if the app is not on the list?
If you don't find the "Wireless Display" app in the menu, try using the app search (the magnifying glass in the menu) and searching for "Miracast" or "Display." In some firmware versions, it may be called "Projector" or "Cast." If your search doesn't yield any results, your TV model may not support native Miracast without external apps.
The advantage of using a separate app is stability. It allocates more system resources to processing the video stream, reducing the likelihood of lag. Furthermore, the device name can be frequently changed in the app's settings to make it easier to find in the list of smartphones.
Keep in mind that running the Wireless Display app can consume significant power and heat up your TV's processor. If you're not using the casting feature, it's best to close the app and return to the home screen.
Comparing Technologies: Wi-Fi Direct, Miracast, and Chromecast
Users often confuse these terms, considering them synonyms. However, technically, they are different protocols, although in TVs Xiaomi They often work in tandem. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right connection method for your needs.
| Characteristic | Wi-Fi Direct | Miracast | Chromecast built-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection type | Direct (P2P) | Direct (via Wi-Fi Direct) | Via a local network (router) |
| Need a router | No | No | Yes (required) |
| Screen sharing | Transport layer | Screen mirroring | Streaming content from apps |
| Phone battery consumption | High | High | Low (phone control) |
Miracast actually uses Wi-Fi Direct As a transport protocol for transmitting video streams, Miracast is essentially a Wi-Fi Direct connection. It's an industry standard supported by most Android and Windows devices.
Chromecast built-in Google Cast works differently. It requires both the TV and phone to be on the same Wi-Fi network, which is set up by a router. Here, the phone acts merely as a remote control, sending commands to the TV to download videos from the internet. This frees up the smartphone's processor and saves battery life.
The choice of technology depends on the situation. If you don't have a router handy or it's unstable, use Miracast/Wi-Fi Direct. If you want to stream YouTube or Netflix videos in high quality, Chromecast is better, as it provides smoother playback.
Troubleshooting: TV doesn't detect phone
One of the most common issues is when the phone doesn't find the TV in the list of available devices. This could be caused by a software glitch, an antivirus blocking it, or incorrect date and time settings. Check that the time on both devices matches.
Sometimes a simple Wi-Fi restart helps. Turn off Wi-Fi on your TV in the settings, wait 10 seconds, and then turn it back on. Do the same on your smartphone. It's also worth checking that "Data Saver" or "Airplane Mode" isn't enabled on your phone, as these can block device detection.
⚠️ Warning: Antivirus software on your smartphone or firewalls on your router (if you're connecting via a network) may block ports needed for device detection. Try temporarily disabling your protection to check.
If the problem persists, try resetting the network settings on your TV. Go to Settings → Device → Reset (or a similar method). This won't delete your apps, but it will update your network configurations. In extreme cases, a full factory reset will help.
Alternative connection methods and third-party applications
If built-in functions Xiaomi TV If they don't work correctly, you can always use third-party solutions. The Google Play Store on your TV offers many apps that implement the Wi-Fi Direct protocol more flexibly. Popular ones include AirScreen, ApowerMirror And TV Cast.
Application AirScreen It perfectly emulates the AirPlay (for iPhone) and Miracast protocols. Once installed and launched, it creates a virtual device that is easily discovered by smartphones. This often solves compatibility issues with older versions of Android on phones.
For iOS device users (iPhone, iPad), not all Xiaomi models have native AirPlay support. In this case, installing an AirPlay emulator from the TV app store is the only way to get full streaming without purchasing an Apple TV.
Is it possible to connect a phone to a TV without Wi-Fi?
Yes, if your phone and TV support Wi-Fi Direct, they can connect directly even if the router is turned off or unavailable. The TV will automatically create a hotspot for your phone.
Why is there no internet on my phone when connecting via Wi-Fi Direct?
This is normal behavior. When connecting to Wi-Fi Direct, the phone's Wi-Fi module switches to a direct connection with the TV and loses connection to the router. Internet access on the phone will not work during this time.
How do I change the TV name in search?
Go to Settings → Device → About TV (or "General Settings"). Find the "Device Name" field and enter a new name. It will change after a reboot.
Does Mi Box 3 support Wi-Fi Direct?
Yes, the Mi Box 3 and newer versions support this standard, but functionality may be limited by Android TV system settings. It's better to use the built-in "Cast" feature.
Does Wi-Fi Direct affect home internet speed?
No, since the connection is established directly between the devices, bypassing the router. However, if the phone uses the same radio module for both connections (which is rare), speed may drop.