Xiaomi Mi SmartGlasses 3 Eye Tracking Error Fix

The Xiaomi Mi SmartGlasses 3 has gained popularity for its lightweight design and the promise of seamless eye‑tracking integration. When that feature stops working, it can feel like a key part of the experience has disappeared. This guide walks you through every step you can take to identify the cause of the error, clear it, and restore the eye‑tracking function without having to send the glasses back for repair.

Understanding the Eye‑Tracking Feature

Eye tracking on the Mi SmartGlasses 3 relies on a pair of infrared sensors that detect the direction and movement of your pupils. The data are sent to the glasses’ microcontroller, which interprets them to adjust focus, trigger gestures, or provide real‑time information overlays. Because the system depends on both hardware and software working in harmony, a single misalignment can prevent the entire feature from functioning.

Why the Eye Tracking Might Fail

Sensor‑Level Issues

The infrared sensors can become obscured by dust, smudges, or minor scratches. Even a light film of sweat can interfere with the infrared signal.

Calibration Problems

After cleaning or wearing the glasses for a long period, the internal calibration may drift. Calibration is a critical step that aligns the sensor data with the actual position of your eyes; detailed guides such as the Google Vision Glasses 6 Calibration Guide or the Microsoft HoloLens 3 Sensor Calibration Guide illustrate the process for other devices.

Firmware or Software Glitches

Sometimes a recent firmware update can unintentionally disable or alter eye‑tracking algorithms, as described in the Sony SmartEyewear 1 Firmware Update Troubleshoot post. Similarly, updates to companion apps may remove or change the settings that enable eye tracking.

Physical Damage

A dropped device or impact can misalign internal components. Even a seemingly minor crack can shift the sensor’s relative position to the lenses.

Preparing to Diagnose

1. Gather the Essentials
   Have a clean microfiber cloth, a soft‑bristled brush, a stable power source, and the Mi SmartGlasses 3 and its charging dock ready.

2. Check the Power State
   Make sure the glasses are fully charged. Low battery can cause performance hiccups in sensor‑heavy features.

3. Inspect the Lens
   Look for scratches, cracks, or any debris. If you see a problem, see the next section for cleaning or replacement.

4. Confirm Software Version
   Open the Mi SmartGlasses 3 app on your phone, navigate to the device details page, and note the firmware and app versions.

5. Ensure Proper Fit
   A loose or improperly adjusted frame can shift the sensor’s alignment relative to your face.

Cleaning the Lens and Sensors

The most common fix is simple cleaning, similar to the lens cleaning steps recommended for Meta Quest 3 in the Meta Quest 3 Lens Fog Prevention and Cleaning Steps guide. A dusty sensor or a smudged lens can throw off the entire system.

• Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the lens.
• For stubborn grime, lightly dampen a corner of the cloth with water or a lens‑cleaning solution and wipe in a circular motion.
• Use a soft‑bristled brush to sweep away dust from the sensor area, taking care not to apply too much pressure.

After cleaning, wait a few minutes before attempting to recalibrate. If the sensors were dirty, the eye‑tracking should now detect a clearer signal.

Resetting Firmware and Software

A reset can clear minor bugs that interfere with eye tracking.

Factory Reset

• From the Glasses: Hold the power button for ten seconds until you hear the reset sound.
• From the App: Go to Settings → Device Management → Factory Reset. Follow the on‑screen prompts.

Note: A factory reset deletes all stored data, so you’ll need to reconnect the glasses and re‑install the app.

After resetting, reinstall the latest firmware:

• Open the Mi SmartGlasses 3 app.
• If a firmware update is available, download and install it immediately.
• Do not ignore any prompts; some updates contain critical eye‑tracking improvements.

Recalibrating the Eye‑Tracking System

Once the firmware is up to date, a fresh calibration is often required. The process is straightforward but needs a quiet environment.

1. Open the App
   Launch the Mi SmartGlasses 3 app on your phone and tap the “Calibration” icon.

2. Position Your Head
   Sit upright, keep your head still, and look straight ahead. The app will guide you through a series of positions.

3. Follow On‑Screen Cues
   The app will show a small dot that you should align with your gaze. Move your head slowly to match the dot.

4. Repeat for Multiple Angles
   The calibration routine usually asks you to look at points above, below, left, and right of the screen.

5. Confirm Accuracy
   After calibration, the app will ask you to test the eye‑tracking by performing a simple gesture. If the gesture registers correctly, the calibration is successful.

Checking the Lens Replacement

If cleaning and recalibration do not resolve the issue, the lenses may be compromised.

• Assess Damage: Look for micro‑scratches that affect the infrared reflection.
• Replace if Needed: Xiaomi offers official lens replacement kits. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to swap out the lenses.

Replacing the lenses can restore optical clarity and the sensor’s ability to detect pupil movement accurately.

Inspecting the Sensor Array

For those comfortable with opening a small device, the sensor array can be inspected. If drift is suspected, see the Huawei Vision 4 Sensor Drift Correction steps for a detailed approach to diagnosing and fixing drift issues.

• Locate the Sensor: It is typically behind a thin panel near the base of the glasses.
• Use a Flashlight: Shine a light on the sensor area to see if the sensor grid is visible.
• Check for Obstructions: Dust or debris can accumulate on the sensor. Use a can of compressed air or a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to remove it.

If the sensor appears damaged or misaligned, it is advisable to contact Xiaomi support, or consult the Apple Vision Pro X Eye Tracking Glitch Fix for similar troubleshooting steps.

Reinstalling the Companion App

Sometimes the app itself can be corrupted.

• Delete the App: Remove the Mi SmartGlasses 3 app from your phone.
• Clear Cache: On Android, go to Settings → Apps → Mi SmartGlasses 3 → Storage → Clear Cache.
• Reinstall: Download the latest version from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Reconnect: Pair the glasses again and follow the initial setup.

A fresh app installation can eliminate hidden bugs that affect eye‑tracking.

Using the “Eye‑Tracking Diagnostics” Feature

The Mi SmartGlasses 3 app includes a diagnostics tool that can help pinpoint problems.

1. Open Diagnostics
   Within the app, find “Device Diagnostics” and tap on “Eye‑Tracking Test.”

2. Run the Test
   The tool will present a series of patterns. Move your head as directed.

3. Review Results
   The diagnostic will indicate whether the sensor readings are within acceptable ranges. If it reports an error code, refer to the app’s help section for that specific code.

Contacting Xiaomi Support

If all else fails, professional help is the next step.

• Prepare Your Details: Have your device serial number, firmware version, and a description of the steps you’ve taken.
• Use the Support Portal: Log in to Xiaomi’s official support website and submit a ticket.
• Ask for Repair or Replacement: Depending on the warranty status, you may be offered a repair or a replacement unit.

Preventing Future Eye‑Tracking Errors

Once the issue is resolved, keeping the glasses in good condition will reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

• Store in a Case: Use the original protective case when not in use.
• Avoid Dusty Environments: Keep the glasses out of dusty or sandy conditions.
• Clean Regularly: Schedule a cleaning every month.
• Check Calibration: If you notice a drift in gesture sensitivity, run the calibration again.
• Keep Firmware Updated: Enable automatic updates so you receive the latest fixes.

Final Thoughts

Eye tracking is a sophisticated blend of hardware precision and software intelligence. By systematically cleaning, resetting, recalibrating, and checking for physical damage, most users can restore the feature without professional help. Should a hardware fault be the root cause, the Mi SmartGlasses 3’s warranty and support network are ready to step in.

With these steps, you’ll quickly get your glasses back to their full potential, allowing you to enjoy an intuitive and immersive experience once again.