Xiaomi’s electric scooters are equipped with front-facing cameras to improve navigation, travel or safety features. However, not all users want the camera to work all the time — whether for privacy reasons, battery saving or simply because the feature is not in use. Camera tape is a popular solution, but it needs to be done carefully so as not to damage the optics, body or electronics.
In this article, we will discuss all ways to disable or mask the camera on Xiaomi electric scooters (including models). M365 Pro, Pro 2, 1S, 4 Pro et al. You will learn which materials are safe for optics, how to remove the protective glass without scratching, and what to do if the camera stops working after sticking. We will also consider alternative methods – from software shutdown to physical locking while preserving the original look of the scooter.
We warn you that improper actions can lead to loss of warranty or damage to sensors. If you are not sure about your skills, contact the Xiaomi service center.
Why do users tape the camera on an electric scooter?
The reasons range from the trivial to the technical, and here are the most common ones:
- 🔒 Privacy: The camera can accidentally record video or transmit data via the Mi Home app (relevant for models with the feature) AI-recognition).
- 🔋 Saving charge: The camera consumes energy even in standby mode, which reduces mileage by 5-10%.
- 🚫 Unnecessary feature: many use a scooter only for riding, and the camera remains useless.
- 🛡️ Damage protection: Optics can be easily scratched when falling or being transported.
- 📵 Software problems: The camera can glitch by producing errors in the application (e.g., Error) 0x12 Xiaomi M365 Pro).
In some EU countries, the use of cameras on scooters in public places is regulated by law, for example, in France, recording videos without the consent of passers-by can incur fines of up to 45 000. €. Videotape camera helps avoid legal problems.
What materials can be used for the sealing?
Not all adhesives are suitable for scooter optics.
- ✅ No traces after removal.
- ✅ Does not block IR sensors (if they are near the camera).
- ✅ Resistant to moisture and temperature changes (scooter operated on the street).
- ❌ It does not contain acids (can damage the protective glass).
Here are the proven options:
| Materials | Pluses | Cons | Suitable for models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scotch painter (3M, Tesa) | It doesn't leave glue, it's easy to remove. | It can fall off in the rain. | All models. |
| Black tape. | Full light-blocking, cheap. | The glue can stay on the glass. | M365, Pro 2 |
| Protective film for smartphone cameras | Transparent, doesn't spoil the view | Does not block the entire shooting | 1S, 4 Pro |
| Silicone case with stub | Protects against blows, removable | Expensive, not for all models | Pro 2, Essential |
| thermals + black-paper | Reliable locking, 100% locking | Hard to remove without a trace. | Anybody but Lite. |
Important: Never use superglue or double-sided scotch – they will damage the camera’s protective glass and scooter body.
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Before sticking, wipe the area around the chamber with alcohol - this will remove fat and improve material adhesion.
Step-by-step: how to seal the camera without damage
The process depends on the model of the scooter, but the overall scheme is the same. M365 Pro 2:
Turn off the scooter (press the power button for 5 seconds)
Remove the battery (if the model is collapsible)
Wipe the camera and body with a lilaless napkin
Prepare the selected material (cut by size)-->
Step 1: Dismounting of the protective glass (optional)
On some models (such as the Xiaomi 4 Pro), the camera is protected by a separate glass.
- Tap the glass with a plastic map from the corners.
- Heat with a hair dryer (temperature not above 50)°C) if the glue is not amenable.
- Clean the remains of glue with alcohol or a special means (3M Adhesive Remover).
Step 2. Applying the material
For paint scotch or tape:
- Cut a piece 1-2mm larger than the camera.
- Stick to avoid bubbles (use a credit card to smooth out).
- Cut the surplus with scissors.
For the protective film:
- Soak the glass with water with a drop of soap.
- Apply the film and squeeze the water with a rubber spatula.
- Dry with a dryer at minimum power.
Step 3. Checking.
Turn on the scooter and launch the Mi Home app, and if the camera is not detected, it's done right. If you have a Camera not responding error, check:
- Are the infrared sensors closed (they may be near the camera)?
- Did not get glue on the contacts of the plume (relevant when dismantling the glass).
What if the scooter does not turn on after the scooter is glued?
Alternative ways to turn off the camera
If the sealing seems unaesthetic or unreliable, consider these options:
- 📱 Software Disable: In the Mi Home app, go to Device Settings → Camera. → Disable.Con: the function is not available on all models.
- 🔌 Disconnection of the plume: requires disassembly of the scooter. Suitable for Xiaomi M365 (The camera plume is separate from the main board).
- 🖥️ Firmware without camera support: some custom firmware (for example, CFW) Allows you to disable the camera at the software level.
- 🛡️ Installation of the plug: 3D-Printed camera covers (sold on AliExpress) Do not spoil the view, easily removed.
Firmware warning:
⚠️ Warning: Inept software updates can lead to a controller lock (Error 36 error).If you are not sure, use only official firmware from Mi Community.
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The safest way is to program shutdown through the app, and if you don't, choose removable materials (paint tape, silicone case).
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even a simple procedure can go wrong. Here are the typical blunders:
- 🧴 Using aggressive solvents (acetone, gasoline) to clean glass - they cloud the optics.
- ✂️ Cutting the material with a knife, you can scratch the body. Use scissors with rounded ends.
- 🔥 Overheating by a hairdryer when removing glass - plastic scooter deforms at a temperature above 60°C.
- 📸 Closing the IR sensors will lead to errors in the system ADAS (if there is).
How do you check if you have closed the sensors?
Start the scooter and look at the indicators in the Mi Home app:
- If a red exclamation point is burning next to the camera icon, the optics are a problem.
- If the yellow light flashes, the sensors are blocked.
Advice for models with ADAS (Xiaomi 4 Pro, Electric Scooter 3):
⚠️ Warning: If the scooter starts to brake or issue obstacles warnings on its own after sticking it, you have blocked the laser or ultrasonic sensor.
How to get it back: removing material without traces
If you want to return the camera to working condition, proceed carefully:
For the protective film.
- Tuck the corner and pull at a sharp angle.
- If there are sticky traces, use a sticker remover.
If the camera does not work after the material is taken:
- Check the integrity of the plume (on collapsible models).
- Update the firmware through Mi Home.
- Reset the scooter settings (press the power button and brake for 10 seconds).