Xiaomi Camera Microphone Not Working? Here's How to Fix It
Being able to hear what's happening is a critical feature of any security camera. Whether you're checking in on a pet, listening for unusual noises, or using the two-way talk feature to speak with a visitor, a non-working microphone can be a major problem. If your Xiaomi camera is recording silent videos or the two-way audio is failing, there are several common causes that can be easily fixed.
This guide will help you diagnose and resolve microphone and audio issues with your Xiaomi security camera, covering everything from app settings to potential hardware problems.
Step 1: Check In-App Audio Settings
The most frequent reason for no audio is that a setting has been accidentally disabled within the Mi Home app.
- Open the Mi Home app and select the camera you are having issues with.
- On the live view screen, look for icons that control the audio. There is often a speaker icon that controls whether you can hear audio from the camera's microphone. Make sure this is not muted or crossed out.
- Next, go into the camera's main Settings menu (usually by tapping the three dots in the corner).
- Look for options like 'Camera settings' or 'Audio settings'.
- Ensure that any toggle for 'Record Audio' or 'Microphone' is switched to the 'On' position.
Step 2: Verify Phone App Permissions
For the two-way talk feature to work, the Mi Home app needs permission to access your smartphone's microphone.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Mi Home > Permissions. Make sure that 'Microphone' is listed as an allowed permission.
- On iOS: Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Find Mi Home in the list and ensure the toggle next to it is green (enabled).
If the permission is denied, the app can't capture your voice to send it through the camera's speaker.
Step 3: Test the Two-Way Talk Feature Correctly
Using the two-way talk feature can sometimes be confusing. It is not always a full-duplex (simultaneous) conversation like a phone call.
- In the Mi Home app, you will typically see a microphone icon to activate two-way talk. You usually need to press and hold this button while you are speaking, and then release it to listen.
- When you are speaking, check for any visual indicator on the screen that shows your voice is being transmitted.
Step 4: Address Audio Quality Problems (Static, Muffled Sound)
If you can hear audio, but it's very quiet, distorted, or full of static, try the following:
- Clean the Microphone Port: The microphone is a tiny hole on the camera's casing. It can easily get clogged with dust or debris. Power down the camera and use a soft, dry brush or a can of compressed air to gently clean the opening.
- Check Wi-Fi Connection: Poor audio quality, just like poor video quality, can be a symptom of a weak Wi-Fi signal. A weak connection can cause the audio stream to break up or become distorted. Check the camera's signal strength in the app.
- Reduce Echo: If you hear a loud screeching or echo when using two-way talk, it's likely because your phone is too close to the camera. Your phone's microphone is picking up the sound from the camera's speaker and creating a feedback loop. Move further away from the camera or turn down your phone's volume.
Step 5: Restart and Update
If settings and permissions are correct, a classic restart is the next step.
- Reboot the Camera: Unplug the camera from its power source for 30-60 seconds, then plug it back in. This will force it to restart its software.
- Check for Firmware Updates: In the camera's settings within the Mi Home app, find the 'Firmware Update' option. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs, including those affecting audio performance.
If after all these steps the microphone still doesn't record any sound, it may unfortunately be a hardware failure. In this case, you will need to contact Xiaomi support or your retailer to inquire about a warranty claim or repair.