Modern car gadgets require constant attention from the owner, and the Xiaomi Mi Dash Cam is no exception: Regular software updates ensure the device's stable operation, fix bugs in video recording and improve nighttime shooting algorithms. Many users ignore notifications about the new version, which can lead to unstable operation or a lack of new features.
The process of installing the current version of the software may seem complicated only at first glance. There are several proven methods that allow you to perform this procedure quickly and safely. In this article, we will discuss in detail the automatic and manual methods, as well as the typical mistakes that Mi Home Smart Camera owners face.
Before you start to act, you need to prepare the device. Make sure the memory card is in good condition and the recorder battery (if you have one in your model) is charged. Power stability is critical, interruption of the data record can damage the file system. Let's look at what tools you will need to successfully complete the operation.
Preparation for the firmware update procedure
The first step is to check the current version of the software, which requires connecting the registrar to the Wi-Fi network via the Mi Home or 70mai app (depending on the model and region), and in the device settings, you will see the current build number, which you need to compare with the latest release on the official website.
You will need a high-quality microSD memory card. It is advisable to use a 16-64 GB drive with a speed class of at least Class 10. Low write speed can cause errors when copying firmware files or failures in the video recording process.
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Use a memory card only from proven brands (Samsung, SanDisk, Kingston) as cheap counterparts often fail after several overwriting cycles.
Also make sure you have access to a computer or laptop with a card reader. If you plan to manually upgrade your device, it will be through your PC that you download and transfer files. Without an external memory card reader, you will not be able to manually install them.
Automatic updates via Mi Home app
The easiest and safest way to do this is to use OTA (Over-The-Air) technology, so your smartphone needs to be connected to the Internet and the DVR needs to be connected to the Wi-Fi hotspot. Open the Mi Home app, select your device from the list, and go to settings.
In the control menu, find the item responsible for the version of the software. If a new version is available, the system will prompt you to install it. Press the "Update" button and wait for the process to be completed. At this time, the application interface may not be available, and the indicator on the device housing will start to flash.
⚠️ Warning: Do not turn off the registrar power or leave the application during boot time. interruption of the process at this stage may cause the device to stop turning on.
Once installed successfully, the gadget will automatically restart, which usually takes 2 to 5 minutes depending on the size of the update. If the update does not start automatically, try restarting the app or reconnecting the device to the network.
Manual installation via memory card and PC
If the automatic method doesn't work or you want to install a specific version of the firmware, use the manual method. First, download the firmware file (usually with the.bin or.zip extension) from the official resource. Unpack the archive if necessary to get an executable file.
Put the memory card in the card reader of your computer. Format the drive into the FAT32 file system if it's not already formatted. Copy the firmware file into the root directory of the memory card. Don't put it in folders, the device just can't find it.
☑️ Checklist of manual installation
Remove the memory card from your computer and paste it into the DVR switched off. Connect the device to the power source. The system automatically detects the update file and prompts you to start installing. Confirm the action by pressing the appropriate button on the case or in the application.
It is important to monitor the status indicator. During the recording of data in memory, the flash drive is in intensive mode, and after the process is completed, the device will sound or voice notification of a successful update.
Compatibility table of models and versions of software
Different DVR models require different versions of software, and installing inappropriate firmware can cause the device to fail completely. Below is a table with the main models and supported versions.
| Model of the device | Regional version | Maximum version of the software | Year of release |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Dash Cam 1S | Global / China | 1.2.5_1911 | 2018 |
| Mi Dash Cam Pro | Global | 2.1.0_2020 | 2019 |
| Mi Rear View Camera | China | 1.0.8 | 2017 |
| 70mai A500S | Global | 1.4.2 | 2020 |
Pay attention to the region of the device. The Chinese version (CN) and the global version (GL) may have hardware differences. Flashing the Chinese version to the global version often requires complex manipulations and can lock the device.
Risks of regional change
Resolving errors during the update
One of the most common problems is the message "Update failed" or "File not found." This is often due to the wrong memory card file system. Make sure that the formatting is done in FAT32, not NTFS or exFAT, which the registrar may not recognize.
Another reason is a corrupted firmware file, which might not have been downloaded from the Internet, check the checksum of the file, or try to download it again using another Internet connection.
⚠️ Warning: If the device is stuck on the logo after the update, try to remove the memory card and press the reset button with a thin object.
Sometimes the problem lies with the app itself. The outdated version of Mi Home may not work properly with new communication protocols. Update the app on Google Play or the App Store to the latest available version before starting the procedure.
Set up parameters after installation
After a successful update, it is recommended to reset to factory settings, which will avoid conflicts between old configuration files and new program code. Go to the settings menu and select Reset or Factory Reset.
Reconfigure your video settings. Pay attention to resolution and frame rate. The new firmware may offer new modes, such as WDR (wide dynamic range) or improved nighttime shooting, that were previously unavailable.
Check the motion sensors and the G sensor, the calibration of these modules may have been lost, and take a ride to make sure that the recorder correctly detects the beginning of movement and saves video during sharp maneuvers.