Owners of Xiaomi Yi Smart Dash video recorders often face the need to update software to improve the stability of the device. New versions of the software may contain critical bug fixes, video recording optimization and new features for the mobile application. The upgrade process does not require complex technical knowledge, but requires strict adherence to the sequence of actions.
Incorrect firmware can lead to unstable operation of the gadget or complete system failure. Before starting the procedure, you need to make sure that the memory card is healthy and battery charge. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the steps, from preparing files to completing the installation.
Preparation for the renewal procedure
The first step is to carefully prepare the equipment. You will need the Xiaomi Yi Smart Dash DVR itself, a computer with Internet access and a microSD memory card. It is advisable to use a drive of no more than 32 GB, since older versions of firmware can not work properly with high-capacity cards.
Check the current version of the software in your device settings through the mobile app, which will help you see if the update is relevant for your model, also make sure that the recorder battery is fully charged, or connect the device to an external power source throughout the process.
⚠️ Note: Using fake or damaged microSD cards is the most common cause of failed upgrades. FAT32 before-file.
Download the current firmware file from the manufacturer’s official website or a trusted resource. The file usually has a.bin extension and weighs about 50-80 MB. Keeping the integrity of the downloaded archive is critical to the success of the operation.
Where to download the official firmware
Finding a secure source of files is key. Official files are often distributed through enthusiast forums or specialized sections on sites like 4PDA or XDA Developers. Avoid questionable sites that offer "accelerated" or "modified" versions, as they may contain malicious code.
Once you download the archive, unpack it. Inside you will find the main firmware file. It is important to check the checksum of the file, if such information is provided by the release author, to make sure that there are no errors in the download.
- 📂 Xiaomi official website or partner resources.
- 💬 Verified forum topics 4PDA and Mi Community.
- 📁 GitHub repositories if the project is open source.
- 🔒 Checking the digital signature of the file before installation.
Store the downloaded file in the root directory of the memory card. Do not put it in folders, otherwise the device system will not be able to detect it.
Installation instructions through SD-map
The installation process begins with the media preparation, insert the memory card into the computer and copy the firmware file to the disk root, and make sure that there are no other system files on the card that may conflict with the update process.
☑️ Checklist before installation
Insert the memory card into the Yi Smart Dash DVR turned off. Press the turn on button. The device automatically detects the update file and prompts you to start the process. The screen can flash or emit audible signals to confirm the start of work.
During the update, the indicator will flash a certain color, usually blue or yellow. Under no circumstances remove the memory card or turn off the device at this point.
⚠️ Warning: If the indicator is red or the device is emitting intermittent signals, stop the procedure immediately.This may indicate that the firmware version is incompatible with your hardware revision.
Once the process is complete, the device will restart automatically, and the first run may take longer than usual, as the system performs the initial setup of the file tables.
Update via mobile application
A more modern and convenient way is to use the Yi Dash app on your smartphone, which allows you to update the software without removing the memory card if the device is connected to the Internet via the phone's Wi-Fi hotspot.
Open the app and go to the settings of the connected device. If a new update is available, the system will notify you of this. Press the "Update" button and follow the instructions on the screen.
The advantage of this method is that it automatically checks the compatibility and integrity of files, and the application downloads the package itself and sends it to the recorder, but the speed of the update depends on the connection speed between the phone and the device.
Make sure the phone does not go into sleep mode during data transfer, and a disconnection of the connection can lead to a boot error and the process will have to start again.
Compatibility table of versions and models
It is important to understand which version of the firmware is right for your device. Xiaomi Yi Smart Dash models may have different hardware revisions, indicated by codes on the case or in the system.
| Model of the device | Regional version | The latest stable version | Release date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yi Smart Dash (International) | Global | 1.2.5.8 | 2018-05-10 |
| Yi Smart Dash (China) | CN | 2.5.1.12 | 2019-01-15 |
| Yi Dash Cam Pro | Global | 1.0.9.4 | 2017-11-20 |
| Yi Smart Dash (Old HW) | Global | 1.1.2.3 | 2016-08-05 |
Using firmware from another model, such as the Chinese version on the global, can cause the device to "brickle"; always check the model number on the sticker under the case with the firmware description.
Critical: Firmware for models with the prefix "Pro" or "2" is categorically not suitable for the first version of Yi Smart Dash.
Possible mistakes and ways to solve them
Even if you follow all the rules, there may be failures. If the device does not see the update file, check the map formatting. The file system must be strictly FAT32, the exFAT or NTFS format is not supported.
If the update is stuck at a certain percentage, try using a different memory card, and often the problem lies in the slow write speed of the drive or its physical wear and tear.
- ❌ File Not Found: File is not rooted or renamed.
- ❌ Verify Failed Error: File is damaged when downloaded or written.
- ❌ Low Battery Error: Battery Less Than 20%.
- ❌ Black screen after update: Full reset required).
What do you do with a brick?
In the case of a cyclic reboot, you may need to create a special empty file with the name factory_reset It's going to force you to reset your settings.
Resetting settings after update
After the new version is successfully installed, it is recommended to perform a full reset, which avoids conflicts between the old configuration files and the new system, through the settings menu in the application or a physical button.
Find a hole that says Reset on the body of the device. Use a paper clip or a special needle to press the hidden button. Hold it for 5-10 seconds before the beep.
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After resetting, reset the date and time, as well as cyclic recording options, to avoid losing important video fragments.
Once reset, the device will reboot with factory settings, you will need to reconnect it to Wi-Fi and log in to your Yi account, which is a standard procedure to ensure that the system is clean.
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Full reset after firmware eliminates 90% of software errors and ensures stable operation of new features.