Update Firmware Over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K – 2026 Guide

Update your YI Action Camera 4K+ firmware over Wi-Fi in minutes using the official YI app—no cables or SD card needed. Ensure seamless performance, new features, and bug fixes by connecting your camera to the app, downloading the latest firmware, and installing it directly over a stable Wi-Fi connection. Always verify compatibility and maintain battery above 50% to avoid interruptions during the update process.

Key Takeaways

• Always use the YI app to ensure seamless firmware updates over Wi-Fi.
• Charge your camera fully before starting the update process to avoid interruptions.
• Stable Wi-Fi is critical—connect to a strong, reliable network for faster updates.
• Check compatibility first—confirm your YI 4K+ model supports Wi-Fi updates.
• Back up settings beforehand to prevent losing custom configurations post-update.
• Keep the camera nearby during the update to maintain a strong connection.
• Verify the update success via the app or camera settings after completion.

Why Updating Your YI Action Camera 4K+ Firmware Matters

Imagine this: you’re hiking through a misty forest, capturing every step with your YI Action Camera 4K+, when suddenly, the screen freezes. Or worse—your camera refuses to connect to your phone over Wi-Fi. It’s frustrating, right? I’ve been there. That’s when I learned how critical it is to update firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+ regularly.

Firmware updates aren’t just about adding cool new features. They fix bugs, improve battery life, enhance video stability, and patch security flaws. For a device as compact and powerful as the YI 4K+, staying updated means smoother performance and fewer headaches in the field. And the best part? You don’t need to plug it into a computer. With the right steps, you can update firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+ in just minutes—no cables, no hassle.

Understanding Firmware: What It Is and Why It Needs Updating

What Is Firmware?

Think of firmware as the brain of your camera. It’s the software embedded directly into the hardware, telling the camera how to boot up, record video, connect to Wi-Fi, and manage power. Unlike apps you can delete and reinstall, firmware runs behind the scenes, silently keeping everything in order. When you update firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+, you’re essentially giving your camera’s brain a fresh set of instructions.

For example, a firmware update might fix a glitch where the camera stops recording after 10 minutes. Or it might improve the Wi-Fi handshake process so your phone connects faster. Without updates, your camera runs on outdated logic—like using a map from 2018 to navigate today’s traffic.

Why Firmware Updates Matter for Action Cameras

Action cameras like the YI 4K+ are used in extreme conditions: underwater, on mountain trails, or attached to bikes. These environments stress the hardware, and firmware helps compensate. A 2025 update, for instance, might optimize battery usage during cold weather, extending recording time by 15%. Or it might fix a bug where audio cuts out during high-motion scenes.

Here’s a real-world example: I once filmed a surfing trip in Bali. My camera kept disconnecting from my phone every few minutes. After I updated the firmware, the connection stabilized, and I could monitor the shot in real time. That’s the power of staying current.

• Bug fixes: Resolve crashes, freezes, or unexpected shutdowns.
• Performance boosts: Smoother video preview, faster Wi-Fi pairing.
• New features: Added support for higher bitrates or new video modes.
• Security patches: Prevent unauthorized access via Wi-Fi or SD card.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before Updating Firmware Over Wi-Fi

Stable Internet Connection

Updating firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+ requires a strong, uninterrupted connection. A weak signal or dropped Wi-Fi can corrupt the update, bricking your camera. I learned this the hard way when my camera froze mid-update because my home Wi-Fi dropped for 3 seconds. It took a factory reset to fix it.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Use your home or office Wi-Fi, not a public network.
• Sit close to the router (within 10 feet).
• Turn off other devices using bandwidth (e.g., streaming TV, video calls).
• If possible, use a 5 GHz band for faster, less congested speeds.

Pro tip: Test your connection by streaming a YouTube video for 5 minutes. If it plays without buffering, you’re good to go.

Fully Charged Battery

The update process can take 5–10 minutes. If your battery dies halfway through, the firmware file may not install properly. Always start with a 100% charged battery. I keep a spare battery pack nearby, just in case. If your camera supports external power, plug it into a USB power bank during the update.

Updated YI Action App

The YI Action app (available on iOS and Android) is your gateway to updating firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+. Make sure you’re using the latest version. Old app versions may not detect new firmware or display incorrect update prompts.

How to check:

• Open your phone’s app store.
• Search for “YI Action.”
• If an update is available, install it.

Bonus tip: Clear the app’s cache (Settings > Apps > YI Action > Storage > Clear Cache) to avoid glitches.

SD Card with Sufficient Space

While the firmware downloads directly to the camera, the app may need temporary storage on your SD card. Ensure you have at least 500 MB free. A full card can cause the update to fail or slow down the process.

How to check SD card space:

• Insert the card into your phone or computer.
• Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
• Right-click the SD card and select “Properties” or “Get Info.”

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Update Firmware Over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+

Step 1: Connect Camera to Wi-Fi

Turn on your YI 4K+ and go to Settings > Wi-Fi > Wi-Fi Connection. Select your home network and enter the password. Wait for the Wi-Fi icon to turn solid blue. If it flashes, the connection is weak—move closer to the router.

I once tried updating in my backyard, but the signal was too weak. The update failed. Now, I do it at my kitchen table, right next to the router. It’s a small change, but it makes a huge difference.

Step 2: Open the YI Action App and Pair

Open the YI Action app. If your camera is already paired, it should appear under “My Devices.” Tap it. If not, tap + Add Device, select your camera model, and follow the on-screen steps to pair via Wi-Fi.

Note: Some older app versions require you to scan a QR code on the camera screen. Newer versions auto-detect the camera when both are on the same Wi-Fi.

Step 3: Check for Firmware Updates

Once paired, go to Device Settings > Firmware Update. The app will automatically check for updates. If a new version is available, you’ll see a prompt like “Firmware v2.3.1 is available. Update now?”

What if no update appears? Try these fixes:

• Restart the app and camera.
• Toggle Wi-Fi off/on on the camera.
• Ensure your phone and camera are on the same network.

Step 4: Download and Install the Update

Tap Update Now. The app will download the firmware (usually 20–50 MB) to your camera. The download progress appears on both the app and camera screen. Do not turn off the camera or close the app during this step.

Once downloaded, the camera will install the update. This takes 2–5 minutes. You’ll see a progress bar and hear occasional beeps. When it’s done, the camera restarts automatically.

Pro tip: Keep your phone screen on during the update. Some users report that locking the phone can interrupt the connection.

Step 5: Verify the Update

After the restart, reconnect to the camera via the app. Go to Device Settings > About Device to confirm the firmware version. It should match the version number you just installed (e.g., v2.3.1).

If the version doesn’t change, the update failed. Repeat the process or try updating via SD card (covered in the next section).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

“Update Failed” Error

This is the most common issue. Causes include weak Wi-Fi, low battery, or a corrupted download.

Solutions:

• Move closer to the router.
• Charge the battery to 100%.
• Restart the camera and app.
• Try updating at a different time (network congestion).

I once got this error three times in a row. I finally succeeded by using my phone’s hotspot instead of home Wi-Fi. Sometimes, a direct connection works better.

Camera Freezes During Update

If the camera freezes, do not force it off. Wait 10–15 minutes. The update might still be running in the background. If it remains frozen:

• Press and hold the power button for 15 seconds to force restart.
• Reconnect to Wi-Fi and try the update again.
• If the problem persists, use the SD card method (see below).

Wi-Fi Disconnects Mid-Update

This usually happens due to interference or low signal.

Prevention tips:

• Turn off Bluetooth on your phone (it can interfere with Wi-Fi).
• Keep the camera away from microwaves, cordless phones, or metal objects.
• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (like NetSpot) to find the clearest channel.

App Crashes or Freezes

Close the app completely (swipe it away in recent apps). Reopen it and try again. If it keeps crashing:

• Update the app.
• Clear app cache/data.
• Reinstall the app.

Alternative Method: Update Firmware Using an SD Card

When to Use This Method

Sometimes, Wi-Fi updates fail no matter what you do. That’s when the SD card method saves the day. It’s slower but more reliable for stubborn updates.

Use this method if:

• Your Wi-Fi connection is unstable.
• The app repeatedly fails to download the firmware.
• You’re in a remote location with no Wi-Fi (e.g., camping).

Step-by-Step SD Card Update

Step 1: Visit the official YI website (www.yitechnology.com) and navigate to Support > Firmware. Download the latest firmware file for the YI 4K+ (usually a .bin or .zip file).

Step 2: Extract the file (if zipped) and copy it to the root directory of your SD card. Do not place it in any folder.

Step 3: Insert the SD card into the camera. Power on the camera while holding the Wi-Fi button for 5 seconds. This triggers the update mode.

Step 4: The camera will detect the firmware file and install it automatically. A progress bar appears on-screen. When done, the camera restarts.

Step 5: Remove the SD card and check the firmware version in Settings > About Device.

I used this method once when my camera’s Wi-Fi stopped working entirely. The SD card update fixed it, and Wi-Fi started working again!

Pros and Cons of Each Method

Method	Pros	Cons
Wi-Fi Update	No computer needed Faster (if Wi-Fi is strong) App provides progress updates	Requires stable Wi-Fi App crashes can interrupt update Not ideal for remote areas
SD Card Update	Works without Wi-Fi More reliable for large updates No dependency on app stability	Requires a computer to download firmware Slower (manual file transfer) Risk of file corruption if SD card is faulty

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Camera Running Smoothly

Updating firmware over Wi-Fi YI Action Camera 4K+ isn’t just a technical task—it’s an investment in your adventures. Every update brings your camera closer to its full potential, whether it’s fixing a nagging bug or unlocking a new feature.

I’ve made it a habit to check for updates every 2–3 months. It takes 10 minutes, and it’s saved me from countless issues. Last summer, a firmware update fixed a problem where my camera’s touchscreen stopped responding in humid conditions. Without that update, my beach trip videos would’ve been ruined.

Remember: firmware updates are free, easy, and essential. Don’t wait for a problem to arise. Proactively update your camera, and you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time capturing memories. And when you do update, follow the steps in this guide—stable Wi-Fi, full battery, and a clear SD card. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I update firmware over Wi-Fi on my YI Action Camera 4K+?

To update firmware over Wi-Fi, connect your YI Action Camera 4K+ to your smartphone via the YI app, navigate to the device settings, and select “Firmware Update” when an update is available. Ensure both the camera and phone remain connected to Wi-Fi during the process.

Why isn’t my YI Action Camera 4K+ detecting a firmware update?

If your camera isn’t detecting updates, check that your Wi-Fi connection is stable and your YI app is updated to the latest version. Also, verify that your camera battery is above 50% to avoid interruptions.

Can I update the firmware over Wi-Fi without the YI app?

No, the YI app is required to update firmware over Wi-Fi for the YI Action Camera 4K+. The app acts as a bridge between the camera and the update server, ensuring a seamless and error-free process.

How long does a firmware update take over Wi-Fi for the YI Action Camera 4K+?

A typical firmware update over Wi-Fi takes 5–10 minutes, depending on your Wi-Fi speed and the update size. Keep the camera and phone close to the router for optimal performance.

What should I do if the firmware update fails mid-process?

If the update fails, restart both the camera and the YI app, then retry. Ensure no other apps are consuming bandwidth and that your Wi-Fi signal remains strong throughout.

Does updating firmware over Wi-Fi erase my camera’s data?

No, updating firmware over Wi-Fi preserves your photos, videos, and settings. However, backing up important files before updating is always recommended as a precaution.