Resolving Xiaomi Camera Cloud Storage Issues
One of the most valuable features of a Xiaomi security camera is the ability to store recordings in the cloud. This ensures your footage is safe, even if the camera is stolen or the local SD card fails. However, when you find that recordings aren't being saved or you can't access them, it can be a major concern.
This professional and empathetic guide, written in British English, will help you diagnose and solve common Xiaomi cloud storage problems, ensuring your security footage is always there when you need it.
Symptoms of Cloud Storage Problems
First, let's identify the signs that point to an issue with your cloud storage service.
- No New Recordings: Your camera sends motion alerts, but when you check the cloud library, there are no new video clips.
- Subscription Errors: You see a message like "Cloud service has expired" or "Subscription inactive," even though you believe you have an active plan.
- Playback Buffering: When you try to watch a cloud recording, it buffers endlessly or fails to load.
- Inability to Purchase: The app gives you an error when you try to buy or extend a cloud storage subscription.
- Missing Footage: You notice gaps in your recording history that don't correspond to a loss of power or internet.
- "Recording to SD Card Only": The camera settings indicate that footage is only being saved locally, despite your cloud plan.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Cloud Storage
Follow these organised steps to get your cloud recording feature working correctly.
1. Verify Your Cloud Subscription Status
The first and most crucial step is to confirm that you have an active and valid cloud storage plan linked to your account.
- Navigate to Storage Settings: Open the Mi Home app, select the camera you are having issues with, and tap the three dots in the top-right corner to open the settings menu.
- Find Cloud Storage: Look for an option labelled "Cloud storage" or "Storage settings."
- Check Plan Details: This screen will show you if a plan is active, how much storage you have, and the renewal date. If it shows as expired or inactive, this is your primary problem. You may need to renew your subscription.
2. Check Camera-Specific Settings
Even with an active subscription, cloud recording must be enabled for each individual camera.
- Home Monitoring Settings: Within the camera's settings, find the "Home monitoring" or "Detection settings" menu.
- Enable Cloud Uploads: Ensure that the option to "Record and upload to the cloud" is toggled on. You can often choose to record only motion-triggered events or continuous video, depending on your plan.
- Motion Detection: Cloud recording is typically tied to motion detection. Make sure that motion detection is enabled and the sensitivity is set appropriately. If the camera doesn't detect motion, it won't trigger a recording to be saved.
3. Assess Your Internet Connection
A poor internet connection is a common culprit for failed cloud uploads. The camera needs a stable and reasonably fast upload speed to send video files to the cloud.
- Run a Speed Test: Use a service like Speedtest.net to check your home internet's upload speed. A minimum of 1-2 Mbps upload speed per camera is recommended for reliable performance.
- Check Wi-Fi Signal: In the Mi Home app, go to the camera's settings and find the network information. It should show the Wi-Fi signal strength. If it's "Weak," the camera may be struggling to send data. Consider moving your router closer to the camera or using a Wi-Fi extender.
- Reboot Your Network: Sometimes a simple reboot of your router and the camera can re-establish a stable connection and resolve upload issues.
4. Update Firmware and App
Bugs in the camera's firmware or the Mi Home app can sometimes interfere with cloud services.
- Update Camera Firmware: In the camera's settings, check for a "Firmware update" option. Install any available updates.
- Update Mi Home App: Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and ensure you have the latest version of the Mi Home app installed on your phone.
By carefully checking your subscription, camera settings, and network stability, you can solve the vast majority of Xiaomi cloud storage problems.