How to use X96 Mini TV Box — simple step-by-step guide (client-friendly)

Below is an easy, clear guide you can give to clients. Language is simple so anyone can follow.

Quick checklist (what you need)

X96 Mini TV Box
HDMI cable
Power adapter (5V/2A)
TV with an HDMI port
Remote control + fresh batteries
Wi-Fi name & password (or Ethernet cable)
Optional: USB drive, mouse or air-mouse

Help and Support

1. Connect the hardware

Place the X96 Mini near the TV on a flat surface with airflow.
Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the box and the other into the TV (note which HDMI port).
If using wired internet, plug an Ethernet cable into the box.
Connect the power adapter to the box and a wall socket. The box should power on.
Put fresh batteries into the remote and point it at the box.

2. First boot (first time setup)

Turn on the TV and select the HDMI input you used (press Input/Source on the TV remote).
The X96 Mini will show a welcome screen. Pick English and choose United Kingdom or your time zone.
Select display resolution — choose Auto or 1080p 60Hz for most TVs.
Connect to Wi-Fi: go to Settings → Network → Wi-Fi, pick your network and enter the password.
Allow any system update prompts and restart if asked.

3. Understand the Home screen

The launcher shows apps and favourites.
Use Home to return to main screen, Back to go back, and Menu for options.
The top bar shows time, network and notifications.
Long-press an app to move or remove it from the launcher.

4. Install and open apps

Open Google Play Store. Sign in with a Google account.
Search for apps: YouTube, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ITVX, etc. Tap Install.
Open the app and sign in to your service account if required.
Keep apps updated via Play Store → My apps.

5. Watch streaming and live content

Open the streaming app and choose a show.
For live TV apps, sign in with the provider and follow their menus.
If you use a subscription service, make sure the account is active.

6. Play local files from USB or microSD

Plug a USB drive into the box.
Open the File Manager or a media player app (e.g., VLC).
Browse to the USB and play videos, music or photos.
If subtitles don’t show, use the player’s subtitle menu to load them.

7. Use the remote and control tips

Power / Home / Back / OK / Arrows are the main buttons.
For typing, use the on-screen keyboard or connect a USB keyboard.
For easier navigation, a wireless air-mouse or USB mouse works great.
If the remote behaves badly, replace batteries or re-pair (remove batteries 30s then reinsert).

8. Bluetooth & accessories

To pair Bluetooth: Settings → Remotes & Accessories → Add accessory.
Put headphones or gamepad into pairing mode and select them on screen.
For better sound, pair a Bluetooth speaker or use HDMI to AV receiver.

9. System updates & app updates

Check system: Settings → About → System update → Check for updates.
Update apps in Google Play Store → My apps → Update all.
Restart the box after big updates.

10. Storage, cache & speed tips

If the box gets slow: Settings → Apps → select app → Clear cache.
Uninstall apps you don’t use.
Keep at least 1–2 GB free for smooth performance.
Use an external USB drive for extra storage.

11. Sideloading apps (advanced, be careful)

Settings → Security → allow Install unknown apps for your downloader app.
Use a trusted source only (avoid unknown APKs).
Sideloading can risk malware—only do this if you know the source.

12. HDMI-CEC & audio settings

Enable HDMI-CEC (TV menu names vary: Anynet+, Bravia Sync, Simplink) to control power/volume with one remote.
For sound: Settings → Sound → choose PCM/Stereo if you use TV speakers; use Passthrough only if your soundbar supports it.

13. Factory reset (last resort)

Settings → Backup & Reset → Factory data reset → Confirm.
This will erase apps and data. Back up any important files first.
Some boxes have a reset pin hole: press with a toothpick while powering on to enter recovery.

14. Troubleshooting — quick fixes

No picture / No signal

Check TV input (HDMI1/2). Re-seat HDMI cable. Try a different HDMI port or cable.

No Wi-Fi

Reboot router and box. Move box closer to router. Use Ethernet if possible.

Apps crash or freeze

Clear app cache, update app, or reinstall it. Restart the box.

Remote not responding

Replace batteries. Ensure clear line of sight. Try a USB mouse as backup.

Slow performance

Close background apps, clear cache, uninstall unused apps, or use a USB storage drive.

15. Best practices & maintenance

Keep the box ventilated and away from very hot devices.
Use good quality HDMI and short cables where possible.
Do regular updates (system + apps).
Label cables for easy troubleshooting.
Recommend a wired Ethernet connection for stable streaming.

Quick 1-minute recap for clients

Connect HDMI, power and internet.
Select TV input and run first-time setup.
Sign into Google, install apps.
Use remote or mouse to navigate.
Update system & apps, and use USB for local media.

Short WhatsApp message clients can send for support

“Hi — I’ve connected my X96 Mini. TV shows HDMI input but no picture. I’ve tried switching HDMI ports and rebooting the box. Please help.”