Why the camera on the Xiaomi smartphone does not work: a full analysis of the causes and solutions

Are you trying to take a selfie or take a big moment, but the camera on your Xiaomi stubbornly refuses to work? Black screen, “Can’t connect to the camera” error, app freeze or blurry photos — these are problems faced by one in five owners of smartphones brand. the reasons can be in software failures and physical damage module. In this article, we will analyze all possible scenarios, from banal to critical, and give step-by-step instructions for each situation.

It's important to understand that the diagnostic algorithm depends on the symptoms, for example, if the camera produces a black screen, but Google Camera or third-party apps work, the problem is more likely the firmware. And if no application sees the camera, it may indicate a hardware defect, and we structured the material so that you can quickly find a solution for your particular case.

This article is relevant for all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi Note. 12/13, POCO X5/F5, Mi 11/12/13 and older devices on MIUI 12/13/14 If your model isn't mentioned, don't worry: 90% universal.

Basic checks: what to do first

Before you commit to a complex breakdown, follow 5 simple steps that solve the problem in 40% of cases:

• 🔄 Reboot your smartphone. Sounds trite, but many camera failures are due to temporary OS errors. Hold the power button for 10 seconds until the device shuts down, then turn it on again.
• 📱 Check the physical lock.Some models (like the Xiaomi 13 Ultra) have a mechanical privacy switch that physically turns off the cameras.
• 🔌 Clean the camera connector. Dust or dirt in the module area can block autofocus or sensors. Gently blow the holes with compressed air (do not use sharp objects!).
• 🛠️ Update the Camera app. Go to Google Play → My apps. → Updates and check for updates for the standard camera app.
• 📸 Try third-party software. Install an alternative camera (like an Open Camera or GCam) If it works, it's a problem in the native app.

If you've done this, the camera is up, great! If you haven't, move on to the next section. Pay special attention to the pro-third-party app item: if they can't see the camera, too, it almost always indicates a hardware or deep software problem.

2. Software failures: from settings to firmware

Most of the camera problems on Xiaomi are software related. Let’s look at typical scenarios and their solutions:

Resetting camera settings

Incorrect settings (e.g. manual settings) ISO or white balance) can lead to black screens or artifacts:

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Put it on the gear (⚙️) top-right.
3. Scroll down and select Restore Default Settings.
4. Confirm the action.

Clearing the cache and application data

Cached files or corrupted data can block the camera from working.

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Find the camera on the list and tap it.
3. Select Warehouse → Clear cache and Clear data.
4. Reset the device.

Update of firmware

Old versions. MIUI or HyperOS could be bugs affecting the camera:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If a new version is available, download it and install it.

If the update doesn’t help, try rolling back to the stable version (if you have beta) or installing firmware manually through Fastboot.

⚠️ Note: If after the update the camera stopped working, it may be due to the incompatibility of the camera module and the new version of the software. In this case, only a rollback or waiting for a patch from Xiaomi will help.

Conflict with other annexes

Some programs (such as Clean Master, DU Battery Saver or ad-blocking apps may restrict access to the camera:

• 🚫 Temporarily remove suspicious applications.
• 🛡️ Check the permissions in Settings → Confidentiality → Permits → Camera.
• 🔍 Start the device in safe mode (hold the power button). → Safe Mode. If the camera is working, it's third-party software.

3. Hardware problems: when to carry in the service

If the software methods didn't work, it's probably hardware, and here are the typical hardware malfunctions and their signs:

If you suspect a hardware breakdown, don't try to disassemble the smartphone yourself - it could lead to additional damage.Contact an authorized Xiaomi service center or a verified repair center.Average cost of replacing the main camera on Redmi Note models — 3 000–6 000 roubles, on flagships (Xiaomi) 13/14) — 8 000–15 000 ruble.

⚠️ Warning: If your smartphone was in a wet environment (for example, falling into water or used in the rain), do not turn on the camera - this can cause corrosion of contacts.

4. Specific problems of different models

Some Xiaomi models have unique camera diseases, and the most common ones are:

4.1. Xiaomi Redmi Note 10/11/12 — macrocamera

These models are often rendered inoperable by auxiliary macro camera (2 MP).

• 📷 When switching to macro mode, the screen becomes black.
• 🔍 The camera app gives an error Failed to start the camera.
• 🛠️ In Google Camera, the macro camera works, but in the native app – no.

Decision:

1. Update the firmware to the latest version MIUI 14 or HyperOS.
2. Install a modified version of GCam (e.g, BSG Shamim).
3. If nothing helps - disable the macro camera in the settings of the camera application (in some firmware there is such a point).

4.2. POCO X3/X4 — overheating and camera shutdown

On these devices, the camera may shut down due to overheating of the Snapdragon processor. 732G/860. The problem is aggravated when shooting video in 4K or use of GCam.

How to reduce heat:

• ❄️ Remove the cover during the shooting.
• 🔋 Close the background apps (especially games and social networks).
• 📽️ Reduce video resolution to 1080p.
• 🛠️ Set a performance limit in Settings → Battery → Performance mode.

4.3. Xiaomi 12/13 Pro - artifacts on the main camera

Flagship models with Sony sensor IMX707 Sometimes they suffer from green spots or stripes in the photo, which is due to a flaw in the firmware of the image processing.

Decisions:

• 📲 Update the firmware to the latest version (in HyperOS this bug is fixed).
• 📷 Use GCam with the processing disabled HDR+.
• 🔧 In manual settings, turn off the camera AI-Processing and improving nighttime images.

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If you have Xiaomi 11T pro 12T Pro and camera freeze when shooting video, try to disable stabilization in the settings of the camera app.

5. Problems after updating or firmware

Updates MIUI HyperOS sometimes breaks the camera:

5.1 The camera stopped working after the update

If the problem occurs immediately after the update:

1. Restart the device (sometimes double reboot helps).
2. Clear the Camera app cache and data (see section 2.2).
3. Check the forums (for example, 4PDA XDA-Developers – other users may have encountered the same problem and there is a temporary solution (e.g., a rollback to a previous version).
4. If nothing helps, reset to factory settings (don’t forget to make a backup!).

5.2 The camera is not working after manual firmware

If you have installed custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS, Pixel Experience), the problem may be:

• 📌 Lack of camera drivers in firmware.
• 📌 Incompatibility of the version MIUI Camera with your device.
• 📌 Incorrectly spelled parameters in the build.prop file.

Decisions:

• Install a compatible version of GCam or ANX Camera.
• Check if there is a patch for your model (e.g., Fix Camera Patch on the camera). 4PDA).
• Re-flash the device with full cleaning (fastboot) -w).

⚠️ Warning: If you've been flashing your device through a Fastboot and the camera has stopped working, check if the partition persists has worn off. Losing it can cause the camera and other modules to fail. It can only be restored through the use of a reset. EDL-service-centre.

6.The camera works, but bad: blurry, noise, artifacts

If the camera is turned on, but the image quality leaves much to be desired, the reasons may be as follows:

Dirt on the lenses

Dust, fingerprints or scratches on the camera glass degrade the quality of the images.

1. Turn off the device.
2. Use soft lilaless fabric (for example, for glasses) and an alcohol napkin.
3. Gently wipe the camera glass in circular motions without pressing hard.
4. To remove dust from under the glass, contact the service.

Problems with autofocus

If the camera is not focusing:

• 🔍 Check if the autofocus sensor is closed (a small hole next to the main camera).
• 📱 Switch to manual mode and try to adjust focus manually.
• 🛠️ If autofocus is buzzing but not working, it's a sign of engine failure.

Noise in the photo (especially in the dark)

Too high. ISO Or long exposures can lead to digital noise, to reduce noise:

• 🌓 In manual settings, limit. ISO 3200.
• 📸 Use a tripod or stabilize your phone when shooting.
• 🔧 Turn off Night Mode if it degrades quality.
• 📲 Install GCam with settings HDR+ Enhanced.

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If the blur appears only in certain conditions (for example, when shooting in the 4K 60fps), The problem might be the limitations of the processor. Try lowering the resolution or frame rate.

7.The camera does not work in specific applications

Sometimes the camera runs in one application but doesn't work in another.

7.1 Does not work on WhatsApp, Instagram or TikTok

If the standard camera works, but not on social networks:

• 🔄 Update the problem app.
• 📱 Clear the cache and application data (similar to section 2.2).
• 🛡️ Check the permissions: Settings → Confidentiality → Permits → Camera.
• 🔧 In the application settings, turn off and re-enable access to the camera.

7.2. does not work on Google Meet or Zoom

Camera problems in video conferencing applications are often related to:

• 🌐 Poor Internet connection (check speed with Speedtest).
• 🔌 Conflict with VPN firewall.
• 📱 Lack of microphone permissions (yes, it affects the camera too!).

Decision:

1. Reconnect to Wi-Fi or mobile internet.
2. Turn it off. VPN.
3. In the application settings, reset the camera settings.

7.3 Does not work on Snapchat or B612

These apps often use native image processing algorithms that may conflict with Xiaomi drivers.

• 📲 Install an older version of the app (e.g. Snapchat 11.80.0.38 often runs more stable than newer versions).
• 🔧 In camera settings, turn off AI-effects and beauty.
• 📷 Use GCam to shoot and then upload a photo to Snapchat.

8.When to contact the service: checklist before the visit

If you have tried all the methods in this article, but the camera still does not work, it is time to contact the service.

In the service center you can offer:

• 🛠️ Diagnosis (usually free or for 500-1000 rubles).
• 🔧 Flip-in EDL-The problem is software-based, but standard methods do not help).
• 📷 Replacement of the camera plume (from 1500 rubles).
• 🔄 Replacement of the camera module (from 3000 rubles).
• 🔋 Motherboard repair (if the problem is in the camera controller).

Average prices for camera repair in Xiaomi (Moscow, 2026):

⚠️ Note: If your smartphone is warranty, do not think to disassemble it yourself - this will void the warranty! Contact the official Xiaomi service center (the list is on the website). mi.com/ru/service). The warranty repair of the camera usually takes 7–14 days.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi camera