Owners of Xiaomi Yi 4K and Yi 4K Plus action cameras often face the need to update software to get new features and fix bugs. The firmware process may seem difficult for beginners, but with a clear algorithm of actions it takes only a few minutes.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail the two main ways to install a new version of the software: through the Yi Action mobile application and manually through a memory card. Each method has its own advantages, which depend on the current connection situation and battery status of the device.
Before you start manipulating, make sure your device is at least 50-60% charged. Unstable power during the process of writing data to flash memory can lead to irreversible consequences, turning the camera into a brick.
Preparation for the firmware update procedure
The first step is to prepare the equipment thoroughly, and you will need a Yi 4K camera, a fully charged battery and a computer with a card reader, or a smartphone with a card adapter.
Use only proven memory cards from well-known brands such as SanDisk or Kingston, with a speed class at least U3. A slow or damaged card can cause a firmware file write error that will interrupt the process at the initial stage.
⚠️ Warning: Before you start any action, be sure to remove the memory card from the camera and copy all the important photos and videos to your computer.
You also need to download the latest firmware, the manufacturer's official website or proven resources like 4PDA offer the latest stable builds, and don't try to stitch the device with versions designed for other models, such as regular Yi Action, as this is guaranteed to bring the gadget down.
☑️ Checklist of preparations
Method 1: Update via Yi Action
The easiest and most secure method for most users is to use the official Yi Action app for Android or iOS, which is good because the system itself checks the compatibility of the version and automatically downloads the desired file.
First, turn on the camera and connect your smartphone to the device's Wi-Fi network. If a new version is available, the app interface will have a pop-up notification. If it's not available, you can force the updates to be checked in the settings.
Once the download is confirmed, the data transfer process will begin, at which time the smartphone screen may go out, but the application will continue to work, the main thing is to stay close to the camera and make sure that the Wi-Fi connection is not interrupted.
- 📱 Open the Yi Action app and connect to the camera.
- 🔄 Go to the settings menu and select "Software Update».
- ⬇️ Click “Download” and wait until the process is over.
- ✅ Confirm installation and wait for the device to restart.
Once installed successfully, the camera will automatically restart. If this does not happen within 2-3 minutes, try turning the device off and on manually by holding the power button.
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Use a stable Wi-Fi connection with a good signal to avoid download breaks of the service pack through the application.
Method 2: Manual installation through SD-map
If the wireless update does not work or you want to install custom firmware, use the method with SD-This is considered more reliable in the face of poor Wi-Fi signaling. You'll need a computer to prepare the media.
First, format the memory card into the FAT32 file system. This is a critical step, since the camera bootloader only looks for the update file in the root partition with a specific file system. Use the standard OS tools or the SD Formatter utility.
The downloaded firmware file (usually with the.bin extension) should be renamed autoexec.elf or autoexec.dem depending on the type of update, and placed in the root of the memory card.
Proper location:
/ (Root of the map)
└── autoexec.elfPut the map in the camera that's been turned off, press the switch on and hold it, and the camera should vibrate and start the refresh process, as the flashing indicator will signal.
What if the camera doesn’t see the firmware file?
Compatibility table of versions and models
When searching for files, it is important to identify your model accurately. Yi 4K and Yi 4K Plus are similar on the surface, but have different hardware and incompatible firmware. Using an incorrect file will lead to critical errors.
| Camera model | Model code | Processor type | Max, permission. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yi 4K (Yi 4K Action Camera) | YAC.1616 | Ambarella H2 | 4K 30fps |
| Yi 4K Plus | YAC.1816 | Ambarella H2R | 4K 60fps |
| Yi 4K+ | YAC.1816 | Ambarella H2R | 4K 60fps |
| Yi Lite | YAC.1716 | Ambarella A12 | 4K 30fps |
Note the labeling on the bottom of the case or on the box. It's the model code that determines when choosing a file to download. The Ambarella processor requires different drivers and microcodes in different versions.
Typical errors and methods of their elimination
Users often experience problems during the firmware process, and one of the most common is that the camera flashes red and turns off, which can indicate low battery power or damage to the firmware file.
If the update is complete, but the camera is unstable, reset completely. In the settings menu, find Reset or Factory Reset, which will return the software settings to factory values, resolve configuration conflicts.
⚠️ If after the update the camera stopped turning on (only the red indicator burns), try to press the down button and the on button at the same time on the screen. 10-15 This could trigger a recovery mode.
Another common problem is the Card Error error when trying to record 4K video after the upgrade, in which case check the card's write speed. A bitrate of 100 Mbps or higher requires a U3 or V30 card.
Checking the result and new functions
Once you have successfully completed the procedure, you need to make sure that the new version is installed correctly. Go to the camera settings and select About or Software Version.
New firmware often brings not only bug fixes, but also new features, such as support for new shooting modes, improved stabilization algorithms, or battery optimization in standby mode.
- 📸 Check the operation of all shooting modes (Photos, Videos, Timelapses).
- 📡 Make sure the stability of the Wi-Fi connection with the application.
- 🔋 Check the battery life.
It is recommended to take several test shots and recordings in different lighting conditions, which will help to identify possible image artifacts or focus problems that may have appeared after the update.
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A successful update is not only a new version on the menu, but also a stable operation of all camera functions in real shooting conditions.