Why it is important to update the firmware on the Xiaomi TV
Xiaomi TVs (Mi series) TV, Redmi Smart TV, Mi TV A Pros) receive regular firmware updates that fix bugs, add new features and optimize performance. TV 5 Pro 2023 has Dolby Vision support for streaming services, and in Redmi Smart TV X improved processing HDR-Skipping updates, you risk running into Google Play bugs, slowing down the interface, or even security vulnerabilities.
But not all updates are equally useful. Sometimes new software versions can bring not only improvements, but also hidden limitations - for example, blocking the installation of third-party APKs on some models after upgrading to MIUI TV 3.0+. So before upgrading, you should study user feedback on forums like 4PDA or Xiaomi Community - they often discuss the pitfalls of specific versions.
In this article, we will discuss three official ways to upgrade (over the air, over USB, manually through Recovery), and how to roll back if something goes wrong.
Method 1: Automatic update over Wi-Fi (OTA)
The safest and most recommended method is an over-the-air update (OTA) that is suitable for most models, including the Mi TV 4S, Mi TV Q1 and Redmi Smart TV X50, with a stable Internet connection (preferably via an Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi).
Instructions:
- 📺 Turn on the TV and go to Settings → On TV. → Updating the system.
- 🔄 Click Check Updates. If the update is available, a notification with the version number will appear (e.g, MIUI TV 2.4.65).
- 📥 Click Download and wait until the download is complete (can take 5 to 30 minutes depending on internet speed).
- 🔧 After downloading, the system will prompt you to Install Now or Install later.
- 🔄 The TV will restart and install the update. Don't turn off power during the process (the screen will be progress bar).
If the Check Update button is inactive or if you fail to connect to the server, try:
- 🔌 Reconnect the Ethernet cable or reboot the router.
- 🕒 Change the update server (in some regions, it helps to change the server) DNS at 8.8.8.8).
- ⏳ Wait 1-2 days – sometimes updates roll out in waves across regions.
Internet speed ≥ 10 Mbps
Remote charge ≥ 50%
Free TV space ≥ 1 GB
VPN/proxy disabled
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⚠️ Attention: On Mi models TV 4A (2018) after updating to MIUI TV 2.3.50+ So, the solution is to reset the sound settings to Settings. → Sound. → Reset to factory.
Method 2: Update through USB-accumulator
If OTA does not work (for example, due to slow Internet or regional restrictions), you can install firmware manually through the Internet. USB-This method is suitable for all models, including the Mi. TV Stick and Mi TV Box, but requires care.
Steps:
- Download the firmware. 🌐Official: Xiaomi TV firmware available on the website mi.com/support (Select the model in the section TV). 🔍 Alternative: Forum 4PDA (Section "Firmware for Xiaomi Mi" TV»), But beware, informal builds can contain viruses. A firmware file usually has a.zip extension and weighs in. 1–1.5 GB.
- Prepare the flash drive. 💾 Use it. USB-volume-storage ≤ 32 GB formatted in FAT32. 📁 Copy the firmware file into the root of the flash drive (not the folder!). update.zip (crucial!).
- Install the update. 📺 Connect the flash drive to USB-TV port (usually located on the side or back). ⚙️ Go to Settings. → On TV. → Updating the system → Update through USB. 🔍 The system will automatically find update.zip And he'll suggest you install it.
The installation process will take 10-15 minutes. The TV will reboot several times, which is normal. If you have a black screen or logo hanging after the update, try hard reset (press the Power button on the remote for 10 seconds).
What to do if the TV doesn’t see update.zip?
| Model TV set | Supported Update Methods | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4A/4C (2018–2020) | OTA, USB | After upgrading to MIUI TV 2.3+, you may need to reset your audio settings. |
| Mi TV 5/5 Pro | OTA, USB, ADB | Dolby Vision only supports MIUI TV 3.0+. |
| Redmi Smart TV X | OTA, USB | Update to MIUI TV 2.4.50+ improves HDR, but may reduce the brightness in SDR-mode. |
| Mi TV Q1/Q2 | OTA, USB, Recovery | Nana QLED-Models update can reset color calibration. |
Method 3: Manually Update with Recovery (for experienced)
If the TV doesn't turn on or freezes on the logo after a failed update, you can try installing the firmware through Recovery mode, a method that is risky and requires accurate follow-up.
Step-by-step procedure:
- Download the firmware for Recovery. 🔗 Look for files marked recovery or fastboot on forums. TV 4A It's fine, for example, mi_tv_4a_recovery_2.3.40.zip. ⚠️ Do not use firmware from other models - this will lead to a blink (breakdown) of the device!
- Prepare the flash drive. 💾 Format it in FAT32 and rename the firmware file to update.zip. 📁 Place the file in the root of the flash drive.
- Boot into Recovery. ⏻ Turn off the TV from the socket. 🔌 Connect the flash drive to USB-port. 🔘 Press the Menu button on the remote (or Volume)+ on the TV body) and, holding it, turn the TV on the network. 🖥️ Hold the button for 10-15 seconds until the Recovery menu appears).
- Install the firmware. 🔧 In the Recovery menu, select Apply update from USB (Control - Volume buttons and OK). 📄 Select a file update.zip and confirm installation. ⏳ Wait until the process is completed (the process may take up to a later date). 20 minute).
- Reboot. 🔄 After successful installation, select Reboot system now.
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If the TV doesn’t load even in Recovery, try the deaf-stitching method. UART-The port (requires soldering skills and special equipment). Contact the Xiaomi service center - self-repair in this case is fraught with motherboard breakdown.
⚠️ Attention: On Mi models TV Q2 (2022 – Incorrect Recovery update could lead to loss of Netflix and Disney license keys+. They can be restored only through the service center with the provision of a check for purchase.
How to roll back the firmware to the previous version
If the TV gets worse after the update (for example, there are lags in the interface or artifacts on the screen), you can try to return the old version of the software. However, Xiaomi does not officially support downgrade, so the process is fraught with risks.
Recoil options:
- 🔄 Through Recovery: Download old firmware (for example, MIUI TV 2.2.30 for Mi TV 4A) and set it as described in Method 3. Note that after a downgrade, you may need to reset your settings.
- 📥 Through ADB: For advanced users, you need to connect to the TV on the TV. ADB And manually flash the old version. update.zip /sdcard/ adb shell reboot recovery
- 🔧 If a self-return led to errors, contact the authorized Xiaomi service with a request to reflash the device.
Warnings:
- 🚫 Recoil on the older version MIUI TV 2.0 may deprive you of support for new apps (for example, YouTube will stop working).
- 🔒 On some models (e.g., Mi). TV 5 Pro) after downgrade, Google Play is blocked until the next update.
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Before rolling back, make sure to back up your settings through Settings → System → Backup. This will save your accounts and image/sound settings.
Solving Common Errors in Updating
Even if you follow the instructions, you can get into trouble. Let's look at the typical problems and their solutions.
| Mistake. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| No update found (when checking OTA) | Regional restrictions or an outdated version of the software. | 🌍 Change the region to India or Hong Kong (sometimes updates appear there earlier). 🔄 Try to upgrade through USB. |
| Failed to install the update (error 7) | A damaged firmware file or lack of memory. | 🗑️ Clear the cache in Settings → Warehouse → Clear the cache. 🔄 Download the firmware and repeat the installation. |
| TV hangs on logo after update | Conflict with user settings or firmware incompatibility. | ⚙️ Make a hard reset (click the power) + Volume+ 10 seconds). 🔧 If it doesn’t work, go through Recovery. |
| No command in the Recovery menu | Wrong button combination or damaged Recovery. | 🔘 Try another combination (e.g., Power). + Menu). 📥 Install the firmware through ADB sideload. |
If none of the methods worked, check:
- 🔌 Power supply: On models of Mi TV 4S unstable power supply may interrupt the upgrade. Try another cable or socket.
- 📡 Internet: For OTA-You need a stable connection if you use Wi-Fi, go to Ethernet cable.
- 🛠️ Hardware malfunctions: If the TV turns off during the upgrade, there may be a problem with the motherboard or memory.
How to check the firmware version and keep track of updates
To find out the current version of the software on your Xiaomi TV, go to:
Settings → About TV → Version MIUI TV
This is the following:
- 📌 Version number (e.g., version number, MIUI TV 2.4.65).
- 📅 The build date (shows how relevant your firmware is).
- 🆔 Model of device (e.g, L43M6-6ARU for Mi TV 4A 43").
To keep up with the new updates:
- 🔔 Enable automatic verification in Settings → Updating the system → Auto-update.
- 📱 Subscribe to the official Xiaomi channels on Telegram or Twitter, where new versions are announced.
- 💬 Keep track of topics in forums: 4PDA (Xiaomi Mi TV) Xiaomi Community (English.)
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On mi-firmware.com, you can track the update history for a particular TV model, including the changelog for each version.