Xiaomi TVs can be reflashed for many reasons, from bugs in the current version of the software to the desire to get new features. However, the process requires caution – the wrong actions can turn the device into a “brick”. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of updating the firmware for models Mi TV 4/4S/4A/4C/5/5X, Redmi Smart TV and others, including official and alternative methods.
It's important to understand that firmware via OTA (over the air) and manual installation via USB or ADB are different processes with their own nuances. We'll describe each in detail, specify where to download the official firmware files for your model, and warn against typical errors. If your Xiaomi TV is stuck on the logo or does not turn on after a failed update, at the end of the article you will find a recovery manual.
1. Preparation for flashing: what you need to know
Before you start, check out three critical parameters:
- 📋 Model TV: Find it on the back sticker or in the Settings menu → About TV, firmware for Mi. TV 4S 55" and Redmi Smart TV X50 non-interchangeable!
- 🔄 Current version of the software: write it down (for example, MIUI TV 2.0.123) This will help you choose the right update file.
- 🔌 Power supply: connect the TV to the network via the original cable, and the discharge during the firmware will cause irreparable damage to the bootloader.
Also prepare:
- 💾 A flash drive. FAT32 up to 32 GB (for manual firmware).
- 🖥️ Computer with Mi program TV Assistant (for firmware through the ADB).
- 📡 Stable Internet connection (if you update by air).
⚠️ Note: The firmware with a lower version of the software (downgrade) on Xiaomi TVs is often blocked by the manufacturer.
2. Official ways to update firmware
The manufacturer recommends two methods: automatic Internet update (OTA) and manual installation via USB.
Updating by Air (OTA)
The easiest and safest way is if:
- 🌐 The TV is connected to the Internet.
- 🔄 Official updates are available for your model.
- ⚡ No critical failures in the TV.
Instructions:
- Open Settings → About TV → Update system.
- Click Check for updates.
- If an update is found, confirm the installation and wait for the reboot.
Update time: 10 to 30 minutes. Don't turn off power or press the buttons on the remote control!
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Automatic updates over the internet are the safest way to do so, but require a stable network connection and are not always available for older models.
Manual update via USB
If OTA doesn’t work or you want to install a specific version of the software, use this method. Download the firmware from the official Xiaomi website (TV section).
Algorithm of action:
- Unpack the downloaded archive and copy the update.zip file to the root of the flash drive (not to the folder!).
- Put the flash drive in. USB-TV port (preferably in the USB 2.0).
- Go to Settings → About TV → System Update → Update via USB.
- Select the file and confirm the installation.
It's going to take 15 to 40 minutes, and the TV will reboot a few times, which is normal.
Format the flash drive in FAT32|
Download the firmware from the official website |
Rename the file to update.zip (if required)|
Remove the flash drive safely before connecting to the TV
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3. Alternative firmware methods
If the official methods don't work (for example, the TV doesn't turn on), you have to use advanced methods, they require experience and can void the warranty.
Firmware via ADB (for experienced users)
The method is suitable for restoring the TV after a failure or installing custom firmware.
- 🖥️ Computer with Windows or Linux.
- 🔌 Cable USB-A — USB-A (for connecting TV to PC).
- 🛠️ Utility. ADB Tools and drivers for Xiaomi TV.
Step-by-step:
- Turn on USB Debugging Mode on your TV (in Settings → For Developers). If the TV doesn't turn on, use Fastboot.
- Connect the TV to your PC and check the connection with the command: Adb devices should display the device (e.g. 192.168.1.100:5555).
- Download the firmware in.img format and flash it: adb sideload update.zip
⚠️ Attention: Wrong team ADB It can erase data or block the bootloader. Use only verified firmware files!
Firmware via Fastboot (for "bricks")
If the TV doesn't respond to the remote and doesn't turn on, you have Fastboot mode.
- Turn off the TV from the network, press the Power button on the case and connect the power cable.
- Hold the button for 10-15 seconds until the Fastboot logo appears.
- Connect TV to PC and use the command: fastboot flash system.img
List of commands for complete reflashing:
fastboot flash boot boot.img
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
fastboot flash system system.img
fastboot rebootWhat if the Fastboot doesn’t recognize the TV?
4. Where to download firmware for Xiaomi TV
Use only official sources to avoid viruses and corrupted files:
| Source | Reference | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Official Xiaomi website | mi.com/global/service/update | Firmware for all models, but updates are delayed. |
| Xiaomi (Mi Community) Forum | c.mi.com | Betas and experimental versions. The risk of bugs is higher. |
| 4PDA | 4pda.to/forum | Custom firmware and patches, for power users only! |
| GitHub (unofficial builds) | github.com (search by model) | Root-access firmware, the warranty is off. |
Before downloading, check:
- 🔍 The match of the TV model and the firmware version.
- 📅 File Release Date (Older versions may contain vulnerabilities).
- 🔒 Integrity of the archive (compare) MD5-hash).
💡
If Xiaomi doesn’t have firmware for your model, try searching by platform code (e.g., by using the platform’s code, mstar_6a938 for Mi TV 4A). It can be recognized in the service menu (the Menu button on the remote). + 123654).
5. Typical errors and their solutions
Even if you follow the instructions, you can have problems.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The TV does not see the update.zip file | Wrong file name or flash drive format. | Rename the file to update.zip, format the flash drive to FAT32. |
| Error E: Signature failed verification | A damaged or unofficial firmware file. | Download the firmware again from the official website. |
| TV hovers on logo after firmware | Incompatible version of the software or interrupted update. | Try flashing through Fastboot or contact the service. |
| No sound/image after the update | Reset settings or driver conflict. | Perform reset to factory settings (Settings → Restore and Reset). |
If the TV stops turning on after a failed firmware:
- Shut it off the grid for 10 minutes.
- Try to log in to Fastboot (Power + Power button).
- If it does not help, you need to solder the flash memory (only in the service center).
6.Restore TV after failed firmware
If the Xiaomi TV does not turn on or hovers on the screensaver, act according to the algorithm:
Reset via service menu
For models on the MStar or Amlogic platform:
- On the remote, press sequentially: Menu → 1 → 3 → 6 → 9 (for some models: Menu → 4 → 6 → 8 → 0).
- In the service menu, select Reset to Factory.
- Confirm the reset and wait for the reset.
Firmware via UART (advanced method)
If Fastboot is not available, you can still connect to UART (requires soldering skills).
- Disassemble the TV and find UART contacts (usually signed by TX, RX, GND).
- Connect the USB-to-TTL adapter to your PC and use Putty or Screen.
- Enter commands to flash through the console.
⚠️ Attention: Working with UART It takes a lot of electronics experience, and it can take the motherboard out of action!
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If the TV doesn't respond to the remote and doesn't turn on, try resetting through the service menu first. Only if that doesn't work, go to Fastboot or UART.