Virtual reality (VR) It has long ceased to be fiction - today it is available even on budget smartphones. Xiaomi did not remain on the sidelines: many models of the brand support the development of the new model. VR-The mode of operation, allowing the immersion in 3D-But what is it in practice? What is the point of this feature if you don't have an expensive helmet like the Oculus Quest? And most importantly, how do you activate the mode on your Redmi, POCO or Mi?
In this article, we will discuss VR-Xiaomi mode from the technical and user side: from the principles of operation to the step-by-step configuration. you will learn which models support the function (including old and new devices), how to connect compatible accessories, and why sometimes the mode may not work. And also, let's reveal the hidden feature. MIUI, allowable VR without additional glasses (spoiler: it is not quite a "full" virtual reality, but an interesting life hack).
What is it? VR-mode on Xiaomi smartphones
VR-Virtual Reality (from English Virtual Reality - "virtual reality") - a special display mode on a smartphone that adapts the picture for viewing through the VR-In the normal state, the screen shows one image, and in the VR-It splits into two slightly biased images (one for each eye) and creates a volumetric and immersive effect.
On Xiaomi, VR-mode is implemented at the level of the MIUI system and works in tandem with:
- 📱 Compatible smartphones (list below)
- 👓 VR-The original Xiaomi glasses (like the original Xiaomi) VR Play 2, and third-party)
- 🎮 Applications (games, videos, 3D-tour)
It's important to understand: VR-The mode itself does not turn the smartphone into a full-fledged VR-It just prepares the screen for the glasses, and without them, you'll see a forked image that's not comfortable, but even without the accessories, you can use the mode for some tasks, as we'll talk about in the section on non-standard use.
What Xiaomi models support VR-mode
Not all Xiaomi smartphones can work with virtual reality.
- 🔹 Gyroscope (required for tracking head movements)
- 🔹 High resolution screen (from Full) HD, Otherwise, the picture will be pixelated)
- 🔹 Processor with OpenGL support ES 3.0+ Vulkan
- 🔹 MIUI 8 and newer (there is no mode in the older versions)
List of officially supported models (current for 2026):
| Series | Specific models | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi | Mi 5/5s/5s Plus, Mi 6/8/9/10/11, Mi Mix/Mix 2/Mix 3 | Flagships with powerful processors and AMOLED-screens are the best choice for VR |
| Redmi Note | Note 5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12 (except Lite versions) | Budgetary models with IPS-screens; on the Note 12 Pro+ works best |
| POCO | POCO F1/F2/F3/F4/F5, POCO X3/X4/X5 Pro | Optimal Price/Performance for VR |
| Black Shark | All models (Black Shark 1/2/3/4/5) | Actively cooled gaming smartphones are ideal for long-term VR-session |
⚠️ Note: On devices with MediaTek Helio G-series (e.g. Redmi) 9A or POCO M3) VR-The system may be unstable due to weak GPU. Also not supported models with a screen below 720p (Like Redmi. 8A).
How to check VR support on your Xiaomi?
How to turn it on VR-Mode on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
Activation. VR-It takes less than a minute to get ready, and here's a general guide for all supported models:
- Make sure your smartphone is on a gyroscope. Go to Settings → Additional Features → Sensors and activate the gyroscope option (if any). On some models, the sensor works always.
- Connect. VR-Glasses (if you use them) for Xiaomi VR Play 2 you need to insert the smartphone into the slot and fix the clips. For third-party glasses (for example, Google Cardboard), follow their instructions.
- Open Settings → Screen → VR-mode (on some firmware, the path may differ: Settings → System → Additional → VR-mode).
- Activate the switch Turn on VR-The screen will split, that's normal.
- Run a compatible app (such as YouTube VR, Google Cardboard, or MIUI VR).
💡 Useful advice: If there is no item in the settings"VR-mode, try to update MIUI Up to the latest version or install the app MIUI VR From GetApps (Xiaomi's official store), some firmwares have hidden mode and activated only through software.
Charge your phone at least to 50%|Release. 1-2 GB memory|Turn off energy saving|Turn on the gyroscope|Install VR-attachment-->
Top.-5 applications VR Xiaomi
No specialty software. VR-It's useless. Here are the apps that we've tested that work on this. MIUI lagless:
- YouTube VR — Google's official 360 viewing app°-Video, supportive 4K 60 FPS, there's a search function VR-content.
- Google Cardboard is a basic app for getting acquainted with VR. Includes demo tours, simple games and customization of points.
- MIUI VR (Only for Xiaomi – a brand launcher for VR-Offers optimized settings and access to Chinese VR-Services (requires registration in Mi Account).
- VR Player – Player for local players 3D-Video supports formats. SBS (Side-by-side, and OU (Over-Under).
- Beat Saber (VR) is a popular rhythm game adapted for mobile VR. Requires a powerful processor (Snapdragon 845+).
⚠️ Note: Some apps (such as Netflix) VR) To get around the restriction, install Magisk and SafetyNet Fix module.
Frequent VR Problems on Xiaomi and Their Solutions
VR-The mode can work incorrectly even on supported models:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The screen doesn't split. | There is no support at the firmware level | Update MIUI or install custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience) |
| Strong image blur | Low screen resolution or incorrect focusing of glasses | Adjust the distance between the lenses and the screen; try another app |
| Lags and brakes | Weak processor or overheating | Close the background applications, turn on the performance mode in Settings → Battery |
| Sensor doesn't track movement. | The gyroscope is disabled or faulty | Check the sensor in AIDA64; if it doesn’t work, bring it to the service. |
If nothing works, try resetting to factory settings (Settings → About Phone → Settings Reset).
💡
To reduce the heat during VR, use a cooling case or point a fan at the phone. Overheating above 45 ° C can cause a forced shutdown of the mode.
Non-standard use of VR-mode without glasses
Few people know, but VR-The Xiaomi mode can be used without VR-So here are some life hacks:
- 🎬 Viewing 3D-Movies: Include VR-mode, run the video in format SBS (Side-by-Side) and look without glasses, just cross your eyes. 3D will be weak but noticeable.
- 🎮 Split screen games: Some games (e.g. Minecraft) PE) into VR-It's a different perspective for each eye, and you can play it together on the same screen.
- 📱 Screen testing: Forked image helps to identify broken pixels or color rendering problems (compare left and right sides).
Unique feature MIUI: firmware VR-The mode allows you to run two apps at once — one on each "half" of the screen. This is an undocumented feature, but it works on the Mi 10 and the other. POCO F3 s MIUI 12.5+.
💡
VR-The glasses-free mode is more of a fun feature than a useful feature.
The future of VR on Xiaomi: what to expect in 2026-2026
Xiaomi is actively developing the direction of virtual reality, but so far focused on the development of the new technology. AR-Glasses (Augmented Reality) and Mixed Reality (MR). Expected in 2026:
- 🆕 Xiaomi VR Glasses - new glasses with resolution 4K and support for the Mi AI Assistant for voice control.
- 🤖 Integration with HyperOS: New shell (replacement) MIUI) Provides improved support VR/AR.
- 🎮 Cloudy VR-Gaming: Partnership with NVIDIA GeForce Now for streaming AAA-virtual reality games.
But for the fullest VR-Experience on Xiaomi smartphones is still required:
- 🔋 Battery capacity of 5000+ mic (VR battery-drive).
- 🔥 Refrigeration system (liquid or active).
- 📶 Stable Wi-Fi 6 for cloud services.
If you’re planning to buy a smartphone specifically for VR, look for the Black Shark 5 Pro or POCO F5 Pro – they’re optimally balanced in price and performance.