When using the Yi camera (or Kami home camera) you may encounter various problems during the setup or when you try to pair the camera.
You may hear error messages such as “Pairing has timed out”, or other messages that indicate that the camera failed to pair with the phone app. Usually, the issue shows up when there’s a problem with the WiFi connection (it may be weak or unstable).
If you are having such issues, troubleshoot using the tips below (according to Yi tech support team):
- Move the camera next to your router during the pairing process. Sometimes the devices are too far away from each other and the connection may drop.
Restart your router by unplugging the power cable and plugging it back in. Wait 60 seconds between each action. - Make sure there are no obstructions that may block the signal between the router and the camera (such as thick walls, and other shieldings). Once the camera is back online check if the connection is stable. If the camera works when placed close to the router, that indicates that the WiFi signal doesn’t provide reliable coverage at the installation spot.
- Per Yi recommendations, the installation distance should not exceed 33 feet. It can be more if the WiFi signal is strong.
- Additionally, you may try a different cable, adapter, or outlet. Ensure nothing is loose and the units are getting properly powered.
How to fix Yi camera issues with pairing or setting it up?
Yi camera pairing instructions
Step 1. Delete the camera from the app (if it’s previously added). The procedure: Open the App > select the specific camera > Settings > Tap on Delete Camera.
Step 2. Reset the camera. To do so, you need a paperclip or a toothpick to press the reset button. All the Yi cameras have a reset button, all you have to do is to find it and hold it until you hear the voice message “Reset is successful”.
Step 3. To re-add your camera, select the ‘+’ icon as shown below
Step 4. Under Select Device(s), choose the camera that is going to be paired with the app. If you can’t find the camera, click on the QR code under Select Device(s).
Scan the QR code at the bottom (underneath) of the camera. Just inspect the camera until you find the QR code on it.
Step 5. Then select, [I heard “Waiting to connect”] at the bottom of the screen. If you don’t hear waiting to connect click on the link called, “if you did not hear anything, tap here”.
Step 6. Under Connect to Wi-Fi enter the password of your WiFi network. Then hit Connect to WiFi.
Step 7. Then face the QR code directly at the camera. If you hear “QR code scan is successful,” press next. If you did not hear anything, click on the link at the bottom of the screen.
Step 8. The camera will go into retrieving pairing status which can take 1-2 minutes. Here you should hear “You can start using your camera now”
Basically, these are the steps you need to follow to pair the camera. In conclusion, if you’re having problems with the pairing process, you need to delete the camera from the app, reset it (with a paperclip) and start the adding process from scratch.
Other things you need to consider: ensure the camera, the phone app, and even the phone software itself, are updated to the latest software versions. If these issues persist, you may contact Yi technical support or the seller.