Timelapse is a technique that transforms slow processes into dynamic videos. On Xiaomi smartphones, this feature is built into the standard camera app, but not everyone knows how to use it effectively. If you've ever tried to capture a sunset, cloud movement or house construction, but the video is boring and drawn-out, timelapse will be your salvation.
In this article, we will discuss what timelapse is on Xiaomi Android devices, how to turn it on different models (from the budget Redmi to the flagship Xiaomi 13/14), what settings affect the final result, and what third-party applications will help to achieve professional quality.
What is timelapse and why is it needed?
Time-lapse refers to a method of shooting in which the frame rate is significantly lower than the standard one. For example, instead of the usual 24-30 frames per second, the camera takes 1 picture every 2-10 seconds, and then combines them into a video, resulting in a real-time hour compressed into a few seconds of the screen.
Where does this apply?
- 🌅 Nature: the movement of clouds, the blooming of flowers, the change of day and night.
- 🏗️ Construction: construction of buildings, repair of apartments.
- 🚗 Transport: traffic on the road, take-off of aircraft.
- 🎨 Creativity: the process of drawing, sculpting, assembling the designer.
On Xiaomi smartphones, timelapse is implemented through Hyperlapse (in new models) or Time-Lapse (in old ones), the main difference from regular video is automatic stabilization and the ability to select the interval between frames. For example, on Xiaomi 12T Pro, intervals from 0.5 to 60 seconds are available, which allows you to adapt to different scenarios.
⚠️ Attention: Timelapse is a heavy load on the battery and processor. With a long shot (more than 30 minutes), the smartphone can overheat. Use an external power bank or connect charging.
How to turn on timelapse on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
The mode launch algorithm depends on the MIUI version and the smartphone model, and below is a universal instruction for most devices (from Redmi Note 10 to Xiaomi 14 Ultra).
- Open the standard Camera app.
- Fly the shooting modes to the right to the item More (or Additional).
- Choose Time-Lapse or Hyperlapse (in new firmware).
- Press the badge. ⚙️ for interval settings (if available).
- Start shooting with the shutter button. Press it again to stop.
On some models (such as the POCO X5 Pro), the mode is hidden behind a long tap across the screen. If you don't find Time-Lapse, update the camera app via Google Play or check for mode in Camera Settings → Additional Modes.
Charge your smartphone at least 70% |
Install the smartphone on a tripod or stable surface |
Turn off autosleep mode in screen settings|
Check the vacant seat (1 hour timelapse) = ~1-3 GB)-->
Tip: If shooting is interrupted due to a screen lock, activate the Do not turn off screen in the notification curtain or battery settings (Settings → Battery → Optimization → Camera Application → Without restrictions).
Timelapse settings: interval, resolution, stabilization
Timelapse quality depends on three key parameters: frame spacing, video resolution, and stabilization. Let's take a closer look at these.
| Parameter | Recommendations | Consequences of Wrong Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Interval | 0.5–2 seconds for fast processes (transport), 5–10 seconds for slow processes (construction, sunset). | Too frequent footage → video too long; rare → jiggly image. |
| Permission | Full HD (1920×1080) for most tasks; 4K only in good lighting. | 4K in the dark → noisy image; low resolution → loss of detail |
| Stabilization | Enable Ultrastabilization or use a tripod. | The camera shakes → video is unfit for viewing. |
| Focus | Put the autofocus tap on the screen before shooting. | Autofocus during shooting → sharp jumps in clarity. |
Xiaomi smartphones with Leica cameras (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra) have Time-Lapse Pro mode with manual shutter speed and ISO settings, which allows you to shoot in low light conditions without loss of quality.
Example of optimal settings for shooting sunset:
- Interval: 3 seconds.
- Resolution: Full HD.
- Stabilization: tripod + software stabilization in the chamber.
- Focus: fix on infinity (tap on a distant object).
1-2 seconds |
3-5 seconds |
10.30 seconds |
More than a minute.-->
The Best Timelapse Apps on Xiaomi
The standard Time-Lapse mode in MIUI is suitable for basic tasks, but for professional results, it is worth considering third-party applications, which offer flexible interval settings, manual exposure and even post-shot processing.
Top.-3 time-lapse:
- 📱 Lapse It: Simple interface, support 4K, Built-in editor to speed up/slow down video.
- 🎥 Hyperlapse from Instagram: Automatic stabilization, integration with social networks.
- 📹 Framelapse: Manual settings ISO And the exposure, the support. RAW (power-user).
Example: Lapse It allows you to set the shooting interval to within milliseconds, and you can add transition effects, which is especially useful for shooting a star trail, where you need a 20-30-second interval.
⚠️ Attention: Timelapse apps often request permissions to access the camera and storage. Install them only from Google Play and check reviews - some "optimized" versions may contain adware.
How to remove a star trail on Xiaomi?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users have problems shooting timelapses, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to solve them:
- Screen flicker: This is caused by automatic exposure adjustment. Solution: tap the screen and select AE/AF Lock.
- Sharp spikes in brightness: the camera adapts to changing lighting. Solution: Use applications with manual ISO settings and shutter speeds (such as Framelapse).
- Video shake: even light vibrations spoil the result. Solution: tripod + stabilization enabled in the camera settings.
- Memory shortage: timelapse takes up a lot of space. Solution: shoot in Full HD instead of 4K or use a U3 microSD memory card.
Pay special attention to white balance. When shooting sunset or dawn, automatic balance can distort colors. Manually set the value of 5000-6000K for natural tones.
💡
If shooting is interrupted due to overheating, reduce the resolution of the video or use an external fan to cool the smartphone.
Timelapse processing: installation programs
The filmed timelapse rarely looks perfect out of the box.
| Programme | Advantages | Deficiencies |
|---|---|---|
| Adobe Premiere Rush | Automatic color correction, templates for social networks. | A paid subscription for export to 4K. |
| CapCut | Free, simple interface, transition effects. | Watermark for export without registration. |
| LumaFusion | Multi-track installation, support for RAW. | Hard for beginners, paid. |
The minimum processing shall include:
- Cutting off extra frames at the beginning/end.
- Color correction (increased contrast and saturation).
- Add music or sound effects (for example, CapCut has a library of free tracks).
Example: If you were filming a house in cloudy weather, Premiere Rush can increase the exposure by +0.5 and add a warm filter for a more attractive view.
💡
For smooth timelapse, use keyframes in editing programs – they will help gradually change the scale or position of the frame, creating a movement effect.
Comparison of timelapse on different Xiaomi models
Timelapse shooting capabilities vary depending on the smartphone model. Flagship devices (such as the Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Mix Fold 3) support shooting in 8K and have advanced stabilization, while budget models (such as the Redmi 12C) are limited to Full HD and basic settings.
| Model | Max, permission. | Intervals | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 14 Ultra | 8K | 0.5-60 sec. | Time-Lapse Pro mode, RAW support. |
| POCO F5 Pro | 4K | 1-30 sec. | Good stabilization, but no manual settings. |
| Redmi Note 12 | Full HD | 2-10 sec. | Basic functionality, no stabilization in 4K. |
The Xiaomi 12S Ultra (with a Leica camera) has a unique Astro Time-Lapse mode for shooting the sky, which automatically adjusts exposure and reduces noise, but requires the use of a tripod and external power.
⚠️ Note: On devices with Snapdragon processor 4xx (Like Redmi. 10A) timelapse 4K It can cause lag and overheating. HD.