If you've ever searched the Internet for information about Xiaomi TVs, you've probably come across a mysterious expression called "God's Eye," a term that's rife with myths: some claim it's a secret spy sensor, others claim it won't turn on without it, and still others confuse it with an infrared port.
In this article, we’ll look at all the origins of the term, show where similar elements in Xiaomi (and Redmi) TV are actually located, explain their real purpose, and give instructions on how to interact with them, and dispel some of the most persistent myths, including that the “eye of God” can block the TV if the remote is mishandled.
What is the Eye of God and Why is it Searched for on Xiaomi TVs?
The term “eye of God” has no official reference to Xiaomi, but is a slang name coined by users.
- 🔴 Infrared (IR) receiver - a sensor that receives signals from the remote control.
- 🔵 Light sensor – automatically adjusts the brightness of the screen depending on the light in the room (not in all models).
- 🟢 Camera or presence sensor – in premium models (e.g. Mi) TV Master Series: Camera for video calls can be built in.
Why the "eye of God"? There are several versions.
- External similarity: An IR receiver often looks like a small round window on a TV frame.
- The myth of the “all-seeing eye”: some users think that through this sensor Xiaomi “watches” them (spoiler: no).
- Translation errors: Chinese instructions sometimes use the term «» (shén zhī yǎn, literally "the eye of God"), which refers to the IR port.
In practice, 90% of the questions about the “eye of God” are reduced to two problems:
- The remote is down. → Users are looking for where to send them.
- TV doesn't respond to commands → suspect a "eye failure».
Where exactly is the “eye of God” in different Xiaomi models
The location depends on the model and year of release, and below is the table with the most popular Xiaomi and Redmi TVs (2018-2026).
| Model | The "eye of God" type | Location. | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4A/4C/4S (2018–2020) | IR receiver | Lower frame, center or right | Round translucent window (∅ 3.5 mm) |
| Redmi TV X50/X65 (2020–2021) | IR receiver + light-sensor | Lower frame, left of the logo | Two windows: one round (IR), the second rectangular (light sensor) |
| Mi TV Q1/Q2/Q2Q (2021–2023) | IR receiver | Lower right corner (under the screen) | Miniature window, almost invisible |
| Mi TV Master OLED (2022–2026) | IR receiver + camera (in some versions) | Camera - upper frame in the center; IR - lower frame on the right | The camera looks like a black circle (∅ 8 mm), IR as usual |
⚠️ Note: In models with ultra-thin frames (for example, Xiaomi) TV A Pro) The IR receiver can be hidden behind a translucent film, which is easy to miss. If the remote is not working, hold it close to the bottom of the screen and try all the corners.
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To find the IR receiver accurately, turn on the camera on your smartphone and point the remote to it. When you press any button in the camera window, you will see a shimmer of purple light — this is the IR transmitter.
How to check if the “eye of God” (IR receiver) works
If the TV doesn't respond to the remote, the problem isn't always the "eye of God." First, rule out other causes:
☑️ Diagnostics of a non-functioning remote
If everything is fine, but the commands do not pass, we test the IR receiver:
- Turn on the camera mode on the smartphone (not a photo, but a video or just a camera).
- Point the remote to the IR receiver of the TV and press any button.
- Look at the smartphone screen: if the receiver is working, you will see a purple flicker in the camera window (the IC signal is not visible to the eye, but is fixed by the camera).
🔹 If there's no flickering:
- 🛠️ Perhaps the IR receiver is contaminated - wipe it with a soft napkin (without alcohol!).
- 🔌 The problem may be in the motherboard (repair required).
🔹 If there is a flicker, but the TV does not respond:
- 📱 Try resetting the remote to factory settings (instructions in the section below).
- 🔄 Update the TV firmware – sometimes software bugs block processing of IR signals.
What to do if the IR receiver is broken?
Myths about the “eye of God”: what is true and what is fiction
There are so many legends associated with the term “eye of God” that it’s time to figure out what is true.
Myth 1: “Through the Eye of God, Xiaomi is Watching Users”
🔹 Reality: No Xiaomi TV transmits video or audio through an infrared receiver, even in models with a camera (e.g. Mi). TV Master) it's disabled by default and activated manually for video calls. Data is not sent to China - that would violate the rules. GDPR and local privacy laws.
Myth 2: “If you close God’s eye with tape, the TV won’t turn on.”
🔹 Reality: The TV will be turned on by a button on the case or via Wake-on-LAN (if supported). The IR receiver is only for the remote. TV Lux OLED), where closing the sensor can turn off automatic awakening when approaching.
Myth 3: “God’s eye glows red when the TV is spying.”
🔹 Reality: Xiaomi TVs don’t have any lights that flash when “surveillance” is on.The red LED (if any) signals standby or recording from an external device (for example, when connecting the camera through a camera). USB).
Myth 4: “If you point a laser at God’s eye, the TV will burn.”
🔹 Reality: A laser pointer won't hurt an IR receiver -- it's designed for infrared, not visible light -- but a powerful laser (1 watt) can damage a screen matrix if you point it directly at it.
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All the "god's eye" scare stories are about not understanding its real purpose, but it's actually a common technical element that doesn't pose a threat to privacy or security.
How to Reset or Reconfigure the Remote if the Eye of God Doesn't React
If the IR receiver is functional but the remote doesn't work, try reconnecting it.
For a standard IR panel (included):
- Remove the batteries from the remote for 10 seconds, then insert back.
- Press and hold the Menu buttons. + OK simultaneously for 5 seconds.
- Hold the remote to the TV at a distance of 10-15 cm and press Power. If the indicator on the remote flashes 2 times - communication is restored.
For Bluetooth remote (for example, Xiaomi Mi) TV Bluetooth Remote):
- Go to Settings → Devices → Remote and accessories.
- Select “Add remote” and follow the instructions on the screen.
- If the remote is not, reset it to factory settings: pinch Back + Home for 10 seconds.
⚠️ Attention: In Xiaomi models TV P1 And newer after resetting the remote, you may need to re-assign to your Mi Account. If the TV requests a password, use the same one as for your Xiaomi smartphone (if tied to one account).
Alternative management options:
- 📱 Mi Remote app (available for Android and iOS).
- 💻 Web interface by IP-TV address (enter in the browser) http://[IP_television]:8080).
- 🎮 Connect the game controller via Bluetooth (e.g. Xiaomi Game Controller).
Xiaomi models with a camera: where the real “eye” and how to turn it off
In premium Xiaomi TVs (e.g. Mi) TV Master Series or Mi TV Lux OLED) It does have a camera, but it's not related to the eye of God:
- 📹 Video Calls via Zoom, Google Duo or Mi Video Call software.
- 👤 Facial recognition for personalized recommendations (optional).
- 🏠 Smart home: The camera can act as a presence sensor for automation (e.g., turn on the TV when you appear).
Where is the camera:
- In Mi TV Master OLED — upper central part of the frame (black circle) ∅ 8 mm).
- In Mi TV Lux Transparent Edition - hidden behind translucent glass in the upper corner.
How to completely disable the camera:
- Go to Settings. → Confidentiality → Camera.
- Select “Switch off camera” or “Physical off” (in some models).
- For a complete lock, seal the camera with opaque tape (does not damage the device).
⚠️ Note: In TVs with a presence sensor (e.g. Mi) TV Q2 75) A complete shutdown of the camera may disrupt Auto Wake (automatically turn on when approaching).In this case, leave the camera on, but disable access to all applications in the privacy settings.
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To check if the camera is using any app without your knowledge, go to Settings. → Annexes → Rights of annexes → Cut off access to all programs except system.
What to do if the “eye of God” interferes: physical blockage and alternatives
Some users want to physically lock an IR receiver or camera for privacy reasons or interference from other IR devices (such as air conditioning).
For the IR receiver:
- 📌 Put black tape on it or opaque tape on it, and it won't hurt the TV, but the remote won't work.
- 🔄 Use Bluetooth remote or control from your smartphone.
For the camera:
- 🚫 In the settings, select “Physical Disconnect” (if available).
- 🛡️ Plug a light-proof sticker (special for webcams are sold).
What NOT to do:
- ❌ Cover the IR receiver with foil or metal objects - this can cause overheating.
- ❌ Trying to pick out the camera will void the warranty and may damage the plume.
🔹 Alternative: If you are concerned about privacy, disconnect the TV from the Internet or use it in guest mode (without being tied to a Mi Account), in which case even the theoretical possibility of “surveillance” will be excluded.