Xiaomiβs camera TVs are not just content viewers, but full-fledged multimedia centers with video, gesture recognition and even security features. However, many users are faced with the problem of where exactly the camera is hidden in their model, how to activate it and how to control it? This article will help to understand the nuances of the location of cameras in different series of Xiaomi TVs, from budget to premium, and also talk about hidden features that the manufacturer does not always mention in the instructions.
It is important to understand that not all Xiaomi TVs are equipped with cameras β their availability depends on the model and year of release. TV Q2 or Mi TV Master is often equipped with front-facing cameras for video calls, while budget options like Mi. TV A Pros don't have any. If you're not sure if your model has a camera, check the specifications on the official website or in the documentation. And if you have a camera but you can't see it, don't panic: some TVs have it hidden under a frame or pushed mechanically.
Which Xiaomi models are equipped with cameras?
Not all Xiaomi TVs have built-in cameras, and here is a list of popular series where the camera is either present by default or available in some versions:
- πΊ Mi TV Master Series (2020β2023) β premium models with 20MP retractable camera and support AI-recognition.
- πΊ Mi TV Q2/Q2 Pro - front camera 8β12 MP integrated into the upper frame.
- πΊ Redmi Smart TV X Series (2021β2023) β Budget options with 5MP camera for video calls.
- πΊ Xiaomi TV A Pro (Separate Modifications) β The camera is hidden under a decorative panel.
- π« Mi TV P1/E Series - most cases without a camera (except for special versions for China).
If your model doesn't make it to this list, it doesn't mean there aren't any cameras, like some TVs for the Chinese market. TV ES Pros are equipped with cameras, but in the global versions this module may not be available. TV, check:
- Sticker on the back panel (model and equipment are indicated).
- Settings menu: Settings β The device β Information on the system.
- Xiaomi official website by model number (enter it in search).
Where exactly is the camera located: 4 possible options
The manufacturer uses different approaches to placing cameras in TVs, and let's look at all the options available so you can quickly find the module in your model.
Retractable camera (premium series)
In flagship models such as the Mi TV Master, the camera is hidden at the top of the case and is automatically pushed when activated by video calling or facial recognition:
- π Privacy: The camera is physically closed when not in use.
- π― Shooting quality: These are usually 20MP modules with autofocus.
- π οΈ Dust protection: mechanism prevents dirt from reaching the lens.
To check if your TV has a retractable camera:
- Look at the top central part of the body - there should be a thin slit.
- Start a video calling app (such as Mi Video Call).
- If there is a camera, it will pop up with a characteristic click.
Built-in chamber in the upper frame
Most of the middle class models (Mi) TV Q2, Redmi Smart TV X) have a camera soldered into the top of the screen:
- πΌοΈ Visible: A small, circular or rectangular hole above the screen.
- π΅οΈ Hidden - under a black matte film (it can only be seen from a certain angle).
How to find it:
- Turn on the phone flashlight and light on the top frame - the camera will reflect light.
- In the settings menu, find the Camera or Video Calls section.
- If the camera is available but does not work, check if it is covered with a decorative sticker (relevant for some Chinese versions).
3.Camera under decorative panel
In some models (e.g. Xiaomi) TV A Pro) the camera is hidden under a removable panel at the top of the body:
- π It is easy to turn off the camera physically (with the panel removed).
- π¨ Keeping a minimalist design.
To access the camera:
- Carefully tuck the top panel with a plastic card (it is attached to the latches).
- Under the panel you will see the camera lens and possibly a microphone.
- To turn on the camera, you may need to install the panel back (some models have a closing sensor).
What to do if the panel is not removed?
External camera (rarely)
Some old models or special versions of Xiaomi TV It comes with an external camera that connects through USB or HDMI. These cameras are usually:
- π They have a connector. USB-A or Type-C.
- π¦ They come in a separate box (check the package).
- π οΈ Requires driver installation (relevant for models until 2020).
If you find a separate device with a lens in the box, it's probably a camera. Connect it to the TV and check the Settings menu. β Devices β Camera.
How to turn on and set up your camera on Xiaomi TV?
Finding a camera is only half the battle, and now you have to activate it and configure it, and it depends on the model of the TV and the firmware version. MIUI TV.
Step 1: Checking for a camera in the system
Before you set up, make sure the TV "sees" the camera:
- Go to Settings. β All settings β The device β Information on the system.
- Scroll to the Equipment or Sensors section.
- If the camera is connected, you will see the Camera: Yes.
If the camera is not detected:
- π Restart the TV.
- π Check the connection (for external cameras).
- π₯ Update the firmware through Settings β Update of the PO.
Step 2: Allowing Access for Applications
Even if the camera is physically present, applications may be blocked from accessing it to allow use of:
- Open Settings β Privacy β Application permissions.
- Select an app (such as Zoom or Mi Video Call).
- Activate the camera switch.
βοΈ Preparation of the camera for work
Step 3: Set up the quality of the shooting
In some models, the Mi TV Master, Q2 Pro) camera parameters can be adjusted:
- Open the Settings. β Camera (or Video Calls).
- Select the Permitted: 720p, 1080p or 4K (if maintained).
- Activate Autofocus and Image Stabilization (if available).
To improve the quality of video in low light conditions:
- π‘ Turn on Night Mode in the camera settings.
- π¦ Use an external light source (but donβt point it directly into the lens).
Step 4: Using a camera for video calls
The main application of the camera in Xiaomi TV β It's a video link:
- Install a call app (Zoom, Google Meet, Mi Video Call).
- Register or log in to your account.
- Start the call, the camera will activate automatically.
If the image is not transmitted:
- π Restart the application.
- π΅ Check if the camera is physically closed (e.g., retractable mechanism).
- π Make sure the microphone is also allowed in the settings.
π‘
If the camera is running late, try connecting the TV to the network via an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi β this will reduce the lags when making video calls.
Hidden Camera Features in Xiaomi TV
Many users use the camera only for video calls, but it can do more than that. Consider the non-obvious features that the manufacturer doesn't always advertise.
1. Facial recognition for logging in
In the models with MIUI TV 3.0 and later camera can be used for biometric authorization:
- π€ Set up facial recognition in Settings β Accounts. β Biometry.
- π The TV will unlock when you appear in front of the screen.
- π‘οΈ The feature only works with front cameras of 8 MP and higher.
2.Gestural control
Some flagship models (Mi) TV Master) supports gesture control through the camera:
- π Wave your hand left/right to switch channels.
- β Raise your hand to pause the video.
- π Make a fist to get back on the menu.
To activate:
- Go to Settings. β The device β Gestures.
- Turn on the camera control option.
- Take a short calibration (follow the instructions on the screen).
3. Nanny mode (monitoring of the premises)
Camera in Xiaomi TV It can work as a baby monitor or surveillance system:
- πΆ Enable mode in Settings β Camera. β Monitoring.
- πΉ The TV will record video when motion is detected.
- π Notifications will come to the smartphone through the Mi Home app.
Limitations:
- π Videos are only stored for 24 hours (no cloud storage).
- πΆ Requires a stable connection to Wi-Fi.
4. AR-Mask and effects for video calls
In the firmware MIUI TV 4.0 and newer available AR-camera-filters:
- π Change in background (blurring or replacing with an image).
- π Virtual glasses, hats and other accessories.
- π¨ Facial color correction.
To use:
- During the video call, click on the Effects icon (usually in the upper right corner).
- Choose the right filter.
- Adjust the intensity with a slider.
π‘
Face recognition and gesture control are only available on TVs with MediaTek 9650 processors and later. Check the chipset model in the system settings.
Camera problems and their solutions
Even new Xiaomi TVs can have camera problems, and letβs look at the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The camera's not turning on. | Physical lock (closed by a panel or the retractable mechanism jammed) | Check if the camera is closed. For retractable models, try to push the mechanism manually (no effort!). |
| Image blurred | Dirt on the lens or autofocus disabled | Wipe the lens with a soft cloth. Turn on autofocus in the camera settings. |
| The camera is running with a delay. | Weak Internet connection or processor overload | Connect the TV to an Ethernet cable. Close the background apps. |
| Apps don't see the camera | No permits or outdated firmware | Update the TV software. Check the permissions in Settings. β Confidentiality. |
| The camera turns on itself. | Failure of the motion sensor or malware | Turn off the monitoring in the settings. Reset the TV to the factory settings. |
If none of these things worked, it could be a hardware problem.
- Contact Xiaomi support via the official website.
- If the TV is guaranteed, contact the service center.
- For self-diagnosis, check the camera through ADB (technical skills required).
How to check the camera through ADB?
Privacy: How to disable or block the camera?
Many users worry about the security of the built-in camera, and if you're not using it or fear unauthorized access, there are several ways to disable or lock the camera.
1. Software shutdown
The easiest way is to lock the camera through settings:
- Go to Settings β Privacy β Application permissions.
- Select the Camera and disable access for all applications.
- Some models have a separate switch to turn off the camera in the Device section.
Physical closure of the chamber
If you want to completely shut down the camera:
- π For retractable cameras: Do not use functions that require activation.
- πΌοΈ For built-in cameras: seal the lens with opaque tape (do not use tape - it leaves traces!).
- π§ For models with a removable panel: remove it and disconnect the camera plume (requires disassembly).
π‘
If you are gluing the camera, use special stickers for webcams β they do not leave sticky marks and are easily removed.
3. Disconnection through the service menu
For power users, there is a way to fully deactivate the camera through the service menu:
- Turn on Developer Mode by pressing the Build Number 7 times in the system settings.
- Go to Settings. β For developers β Debugging.
- Find the option to turn off the camera or Disable Camera HAL.
β οΈ Note: Disabling the camera through the service menu may cause some applications (e.g., video players with screen recording function) to crash.
4. Reset to factory settings
If you suspect that the camera has been hacked or is not working properly, do a full reset:
- Go to Settings β System β Resetting settings.
- Select Reset all settings (app data will be deleted!).
- After the reboot, the camera will return to factory parameters.
FAQ: Frequent questions about the camera in Xiaomi TV
Can I connect an external camera to Xiaomi? TV, if it's not included?
Why the camera in Mi TV Master's not coming forward?
Can I use a Xiaomi camera? TV streaming on Twitch or YouTube?
How do I know if the camera is currently on?
Can I use a Xiaomi camera? TV Video surveillance when the TV is turned off?
Now you know where the camera is on your Xiaomi TV, how to set it up, and what hidden features it supports. If you have any questions about a particular model, check out its name and firmware version to get a more accurate instruction. Keep your privacy in mind: if the camera is not in use, it's best to keep it off.