The protective curtain (or "protective film") on the Xiaomi Mi 9 main camera is not just a decorative element, but an important detail to prevent dust and scratches from entering the lens glass. Over time, it wears out: it dims, becomes covered with microcracks or peels off at the edges. Many users are faced with the question: can you replace it yourself without contacting the service center? The answer is yes, but with caution.
In this article, we will look at the entire process from choosing a new curtain to installing it, including common errors that can damage the camera. You will learn what tools you need, how to properly remove old film without glue residue, and how original curtains differ from analogues. And also why you can not use alcohol to clean the glass of the camera before pasting a new film (this is critical for the quality of the photo!).
Why the curtain on Xiaomi Mi 9 needs replacement: signs of wear
The curtain on the Mi 9 is made of a thin polymer material with anti-reflective coating, and its protective properties deteriorate over time, which affects the quality of the images. Here are the key signs that it is time to change the film:
- 🔍 Wrapping and scratching: White stripes or cloudy areas are visible on the curtain, especially in bright light.
- 🌫️ Cloudiness: photos become less contrasting, there is a "smoke" in the pictures.
- 🧲 Separation at the edges: the film begins to "step away" from the body, dust falls under it.
- 💡 Glare in the photo: due to the damaged anti-reflective layer in the pictures appear parasitic lights.
If you ignore these symptoms, dust can penetrate the camera glass, and scratches on the curtain will cast shadows on the matrix, worsening the detail, for example, when shooting against the sun, damaged film creates a "starlight" effect that cannot be removed in the editor.
⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse wear and tear of the curtain with damage to the camera's glass itself! If the images show black dots (dust inside the lens) or blurring at the edges (damage to the lenses), replacing the film will not help - you need to repair the camera module.
What curtain to choose for Xiaomi Mi 9: original vs analogues
There are three types of curtains for the Mi 9:
| Type of curtain. | Advantages | Deficiencies | Price (rupe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original (Xiaomi) | Perfectly suited in size, optimal transparency, anti-reflective coating | More expensive than analogues, it is difficult to find on sale | 800–1200 |
| Premium analogues | Good quality, often with hydrophobic coating | It may differ in thickness, sometimes it is worse glued | 300–600 |
| Budgetary analogues | Low price, wide choice | It quickly becomes cloudy, can leave glue when removed | 100–250 |
For long-term use, we recommend the original curtain or premium analogues from the brands Olixar, Spigen or Nillkin. Cheap films often have insufficient transparency, which leads to a loss of brightness of images by 10-15% (according to DXOMark tests).
When buying, pay attention to:
- 📏 Exact dimensions: The curtain should completely cover the camera glass, but not go beyond the module.
- 🧴 Type of adhesive layer: optimally - silicone glue (leaves no traces when removed).
- 🔄 Easy installation: Some models come with an applicator for precise positioning.
Preparing for replacement: tools and safety
Before replacing the curtains, prepare the workspace and tools.
Alcohol wipes (70% isopropyl alcohol)|
Plastic mediator or credit card |
Tweezers with silicone tips |
Hair dryer (for heating glue)|
New curtain with applicator |
Scotch (for dust fixation)-->
Important: Don't use metal tools (knives, screwdrivers) - they can scratch the camera glass or the body of your smartphone. Also avoid paper wipes: they leave the villi.
⚠️ Note: If you have previously glued a protective glass on the camera, it will have to be removed with the curtain, in which case the risk of damage to the lens is higher - you better contact the service.
The replacement process is recommended in a well-lit room without drafts (dust is the main enemy!). If you have long nails, use gloves to avoid leaving prints on the adhesive layer.
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Before you start, take a photo of your smartphone camera on another device – this will help to position the new curtain accurately.
Step-by-step: how to remove the old curtain without damage
The most important step is to remove the old film.
- Warm glue: Heat the curtain with a dryer (warm air mode, 10-15 cm distance) for 20-30 seconds. This will make the glue more plastic.
- Edge smearing: Carefully tuck the angle of the curtain with a plastic mediator. If the film doesn't respond, repeat the heating.
- Slow removal: Pull the curtain at a 45° angle, parallel to the body. If it breaks, heat the problem area again.
- Removal of glue residue: Wipe the camera glass with an alcohol napkin, then with a dry microfiber. Don't push hard!
If the glue is not removed completely, use tape: glue it to a sticky area and sharply tear it off. Repeat until the surface is clean. Check the result at an angle - even microscopic residues are visible in the light.
What to do if the curtain is broken during removal?
Installation of a new curtain: the secrets of the ideal result
Now we're going to stick a new tape.
- Positioning: Combine the curtain with the camera, focusing on flash cutouts and sensors. Don't remove the protective layer from the glue!
- Fixing: Stick one edge of the curtain (such as the top), then gradually lower it down, smoothing it with a soft napkin.
- Bubble removal: If bubbles appear, gently push them to the edge with a mediator. Don't push too hard!
- Final check: Light the flashlight at an angle -- if you see rainbow swelling, there's dust under the curtain. You'll have to glue it back.
The key is, don't touch the glue with your hands. Even fingerprints can make it worse. If the curtain is stuck crooked, don't try to move it. Better remove it and stick it back.
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Use the wet installation method: before sticking, slightly spray the glass of the chamber with soap and water (1 drop of soap per 50 ml of water), this will allow you to adjust the position of the curtain for 1-2 minutes.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with a careful replacement, users make mistakes that spoil the result.
- 🧼 Use of household chemicals: Glass washing or acetone destroys the anti-reflective coating of the chamber. Use only isopropyl alcohol 70%.
- 🔥 Overheating by a hair dryer: Hot air can deform the plastic body of the camera module. Maximum temperature is 50°C.
- 🤏 Touching the glass of the camera: Fat marks from the fingers will then appear in the photo in the form of blurred spots.
- 📏 Wrong Curtain Size: If the film is larger than the original, it will pick up when using the cover.
Another common problem is the halo effect, which is the light rings around the light sources in the photo, and it happens when the curtain is skewed or dust is trapped under it, and then you have to glue the film.
⚠️ Warning: If you have purple glare after replacing the curtain, it's a sign that you've been using a low-transmission film.
Caring for the curtain: how to extend its service life
To make the new curtain last longer, follow simple rules:
- 🧴 Regular cleaning: Wash the curtain with a microfiber without alcohol (dry cleaning is enough).
- 📱 Use of a case: Case with a cutout under the camera will protect the curtain from scratches in the pocket.
- 🚫 Avoiding abrasives: Do not put your phone down on sandy or dusty surfaces.
- 💧 Moisture protection: After raining or washing your hands, dry the camera before shooting.
The average life of a quality curtain is 12-18 months. If you are actively using a smartphone, check its condition every 3-4 months. When the first scratches appear, it is better to replace the film immediately to avoid deterioration of the photo quality.
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Keep the spare curtain in the original packaging in a cool place. The adhesive layer loses its properties at temperatures above 30 ° C.