Xiaomi Yi Action Camera App Review Features and Tips

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app transforms your smartphone into a powerful remote control and editing hub, offering seamless connectivity, real-time preview, and intuitive media management for your Yi action cam. With features like 4K video transfer, customizable settings, and instant social sharing, the app enhances every adventure—making it a must-have tool for capturing and sharing high-octane moments effortlessly.

Key Takeaways

• Download the official app: Ensures full compatibility and access to all camera features.
• Use real-time preview: Frame shots perfectly with live view on your smartphone.
• Adjust settings remotely: Control resolution, exposure, and modes from the app effortlessly.
• Edit and share instantly: Trim and upload videos directly to social media in seconds.
• Enable GPS tagging: Track locations automatically via your phone’s GPS connection.
• Update firmware regularly: Unlock new features and fix bugs for optimal performance.

Why the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera App Is a Game-Changer for Adventure Lovers

Let’s be honest—action cameras have changed how we capture life’s wildest moments. Whether you’re skydiving, surfing, or hiking through the jungle, having a reliable, easy-to-use camera makes all the difference. The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera has long been a favorite among budget-conscious adventurers, offering solid performance at a fraction of the price of GoPro. But what really sets it apart isn’t just the hardware—it’s the app that brings it all to life.

As someone who’s tested dozens of action cameras, I’ve found that the companion app can make or break the experience. A clunky, confusing interface can ruin an otherwise great camera. But when it’s done right, the app becomes your co-pilot, letting you preview shots, tweak settings, and share content instantly—all from your phone. That’s where the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app steps in. It’s not perfect, but it’s surprisingly intuitive, feature-rich, and surprisingly stable for a free download. Whether you’re a first-time action cam user or a seasoned pro looking for a backup, this app might just surprise you.

Getting Started: Setting Up the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera App

Downloading and Pairing: First Steps

Setting up the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app is refreshingly simple. You can find it on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store by searching “Yi Action Camera” or “Yi Cam.” Once installed, open the app and turn on your Xiaomi Yi camera (the Yi 4K+, Yi Lite, or older models). The camera automatically enters Wi-Fi mode, broadcasting a network named something like “YDXJ_XXXXXX.”

Tap on that network in your phone’s Wi-Fi settings, enter the default password (usually “123456789”), and you’re in. The app will detect the camera within seconds. I remember the first time I paired mine—it took less than a minute, and I didn’t need to consult the manual. That’s a big win for usability.

Initial Setup Tips for Smoother Sailing

• Keep firmware updated: The app will often prompt you to update your camera’s firmware. Do it. These updates fix bugs, improve battery life, and add features. I once skipped an update and spent 20 minutes troubleshooting a laggy preview—don’t be like me.
• Use 5GHz Wi-Fi if available: On newer Yi models (like the 4K+), the camera supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Use 5GHz for faster data transfer and less interference, especially in crowded areas.
• Name your camera: The app lets you rename your device. I call mine “Trailblazer”—it’s silly, but it helps me identify it in crowded Wi-Fi zones.
• Enable auto-off: To save battery, set the camera to turn off after 1 minute of inactivity. The app makes this easy under “Settings > Power.”

Common Setup Hurdles (and How to Fix Them)

Sometimes, pairing fails. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own mishaps:

• “No camera found” error? Restart both the camera and your phone. Also, ensure your phone’s Wi-Fi isn’t connected to another network. The app can’t handle multiple connections.
• Weak signal? Move closer. The Wi-Fi range is about 10–15 meters, but walls and metal objects can cut that in half. I once tried filming a skateboard trick from 20 meters away—the preview froze, and I missed the shot.
• Password not working? Reset the camera by holding the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds. This restores the default password.

Core Features: What the App Can Do for Your Shots

Live Preview and Framing

One of the app’s best features is the live preview. Once connected, you see exactly what the camera sees on your phone screen. This is a game-changer for tricky shots. I once mounted my Yi on a helmet while biking through a forest. Without the app, I’d have had to guess the framing. With it, I could adjust the angle mid-ride and nail the perfect shot.

The preview runs at about 15–20 fps, which isn’t cinematic, but it’s smooth enough for framing. Pro tip: Use the gridlines (toggle in the app) to follow the rule of thirds. I always enable them—especially for landscape shots.

Remote Control and Settings Adjustment

The app acts as a full remote control. You can:

• Start/stop recording
• Take photos (with a 2-second delay for stabilization)
• Switch between video modes (e.g., 4K, 1080p, slow motion)
• Adjust exposure, white balance, and ISO
• Toggle electronic image stabilization (EIS)

I love using the app to switch to slow-motion mode while recording. For example, I filmed a friend’s dog leaping into a pool. At 120fps, the splash looked epic—and I didn’t have to touch the camera.

File Management and Playback

After a shoot, the app lets you browse all media on the camera’s SD card. You can:

• Play videos/photos directly on your phone
• Download files for editing
• Delete unwanted clips
• Create albums (e.g., “Hiking Trip 2023”)

Download speeds depend on Wi-Fi strength. A 1-minute 4K video takes about 30–45 seconds. I usually download clips at night to save battery and avoid interrupting my adventure.

Time-Lapse and Burst Mode

The app makes advanced modes easy to use. For time-lapse, you can set intervals from 0.5 seconds to 10 minutes. I used this to film a sunset over a lake—set it to 1-second intervals, and the result was stunning.

Burst mode (3–10 shots per second) is great for fast action. I captured a skateboarder mid-air with 5 shots in a second. The app lets you pick the best one later.

Advanced Features: Unlocking the App’s Hidden Potential

GPS Tagging and Geotagging

Newer Yi models (like the 4K+) support GPS via the app. When enabled, your videos and photos are tagged with location data. This is perfect for travel vlogs or documenting hikes.

I used this feature on a 5-day trek through the Andes. When I reviewed the footage, I could see exactly where each shot was taken. The app syncs with your phone’s GPS, so accuracy is solid—within 5–10 meters.

Voice Control (Yes, Really!)

Believe it or not, the app supports voice commands on select models. Say “Yi, take photo” or “Yi, start recording” to control the camera hands-free. It’s hit-or-miss—works best in quiet environments.

I tried it while kayaking. “Yi, take photo!” worked once. The second time, the wind drowned it out. Still, it’s a fun feature for selfies or when your hands are wet.

Custom Presets and Pro Mode

Experienced users will love Pro Mode. The app lets you save custom settings (e.g., “Sunset Mode” with warm white balance, low ISO). I have presets for:

• “Snow Mode” (high exposure to avoid washed-out snow)
• “Night Mode” (low ISO, EIS on)
• “Sports Mode” (120fps, burst mode)

You can switch between presets in seconds. No more fiddling with settings mid-hike!

Live Streaming to Social Media

Want to stream your adventure live? The app supports RTMP streaming to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch. Just enter your stream key, and you’re live.

I tested this during a live bike tour. The stream was stable for 20 minutes, but the 4K video dropped to 720p due to bandwidth limits. Still, for casual use, it’s a cool feature.

Performance and Limitations: The Real-World Truth

Battery Life and Overheating

Using the app drains your camera’s battery faster. Why? The Wi-Fi module and live preview are power-hungry. Here’s what I’ve seen:

• With app connected: 60–70 minutes of recording (vs. 90–120 minutes standalone)
• Live preview only: 20–30 minutes of continuous use

Tip: Use the app to start recording, then disconnect. The camera keeps filming, and you save battery.

Overheating is another issue. I once recorded 4K video for 45 minutes with the app connected. The camera got warm, and the preview froze. Let it cool for 10 minutes, and it was fine.

Stability and Bugs

The app is generally stable, but I’ve had glitches:

• Random disconnects: The camera sometimes drops Wi-Fi. A quick power cycle fixes it.
• Laggy preview: Occurs in crowded Wi-Fi areas. Switch to 5GHz if possible.
• File corruption: Rare, but I lost a 2-minute clip once. Always back up files ASAP.

Xiaomi releases updates every few months. Check for updates regularly—they often fix these issues.

Compatibility and Device Support

The app works with most Xiaomi Yi cameras, but features vary:

Camera Model	Live Preview	GPS	Voice Control	Streaming
Yi 4K+	Yes (1080p)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Yi Lite	Yes (720p)	No	No	No
Yi 4K	Yes (1080p)	No	No	No
Yi Original	Yes (720p)	No	No	No

Note: Older models lack some features, but the core app experience is consistent.

Pro Tips and Tricks to Master the App

Optimize Wi-Fi Performance

• Use 5GHz: If your camera supports it, switch to 5GHz for faster, more stable connections.
• Clear cache: Go to your phone’s Settings > Apps > Yi App > Storage > Clear Cache. This fixes lag.
• Restart regularly: I restart the app and camera every 2–3 hours to prevent glitches.

Edit and Share Like a Pro

The app doesn’t have editing tools, but you can:

• Trim clips: Use the “Play” mode to select start/end points, then download only that section.
• Create highlights: Download key clips first, then delete the rest to save SD card space.
• Share directly: After downloading, use Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to post. Add hashtags like #XiaomiYi or #ActionCamera for visibility.

Use the App Off the Beaten Path

For extreme adventures, try these hacks:

• Remote trigger: Mount the camera on a drone or pole, then use the app to trigger it from a distance.
• Group shots: Use the app to sync multiple Yi cameras (if you have more than one).
• Night photography: Set a long exposure (up to 30 seconds) for starry skies.

Backup and Security

• Auto-backup: Enable Google Photos or iCloud to auto-upload downloaded files.
• Password protect: Some versions of the app let you add a PIN. Use it if you share your phone.
• SD card care: Always eject the card properly. I once corrupted a card by pulling it out mid-transfer.

Final Thoughts: Is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera App Worth It?

After months of testing, I can confidently say the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app is one of the best free companion apps out there. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable, functional, and packed with features that rival premium apps. The live preview alone makes it worth downloading. Add in GPS, voice control, and streaming, and you’ve got a tool that enhances every adventure.

That said, it’s not perfect. Battery drain and occasional glitches are real drawbacks. But for the price (free!), the trade-offs are easy to accept. If you own a Xiaomi Yi camera—or are thinking about buying one—this app is your best friend. It turns a solid action cam into a versatile, connected powerhouse.

So, whether you’re capturing your first mountain bike ride or documenting a cross-country trip, don’t underestimate the power of the app in your pocket. With a few tips and a little patience, you’ll be shooting, sharing, and reliving your adventures like a pro. And hey, if you ever get stuck? Just restart. It works 90% of the time—every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features does the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app offer?

The Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app provides live preview, remote control, video playback, and firmware updates. It also supports photo/video downloads and customizable settings like resolution and white balance.

How do I connect my Yi Action Camera to the app?

Turn on your camera’s Wi-Fi, open the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app, and select your device from the list. Follow the on-screen prompts to pair them—usually via a QR code or password.

Can I use the app to edit videos from my Yi Action Camera?

The app doesn’t include advanced editing tools but lets you trim clips and apply basic filters before sharing. For detailed edits, transfer files to a third-party app or desktop software.

Why is the Xiaomi Yi Action Camera app not connecting to my phone?

This could be due to Wi-Fi interference, outdated app firmware, or phone compatibility. Restart both devices, ensure they’re on the same network, and update the app or camera firmware.

Does the app support live streaming from the Yi Action Camera?

Yes, the app allows live streaming to platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Go to the “Live” tab in the app, log into your streaming account, and start broadcasting in real-time.

How do I save and share media using the Xiaomi Yi app?

Tap the “Media” tab in the app to view saved photos/videos. Select files and choose “Download” to save to your phone, or use the share icon to post directly to social media.