Xiaomi's new $80 solar camera ditches Wi-Fi for 4G — and works anywhere
Xiaomi has launched a solar-powered outdoor security camera that uses 4G instead of Wi-Fi, targeting locations where a broadband connection simply isn't available. The Xiaomi Smart Solar Camera 4 Pro 4G Dual-Camera Edition went on sale via Xiaomi's Youpin platform on 6 July 2026 at 579 yuan — around $80 — per IXBT. For anyone monitoring a remote property, building site, or off-grid outbuilding, that price undercuts most Western alternatives by a wide margin.
No router, no problem
The camera supports dual 4G SIM cards, so it streams video entirely over mobile networks. There's no Wi-Fi setup at all. Power comes from a 9,900 mAh built-in battery topped up by a 7.6W solar panel — Xiaomi says normal weather conditions are enough to keep it running indefinitely in a "set and forget" mode. The UK has 96% 4G coverage according to eufy UK citing Ofcom data, so cellular-only operation is realistically viable for most of the country, even in winter.
The picture
Two 5MP lenses combine for a 3K (2880×1620) image, with f/1.6 apertures that let in more light for better low-light performance. Night vision uses both infrared and white LEDs — the white LEDs kick in automatically when the camera's person-detection spots movement.
A feature called AOV (Always-On Video) addresses the storage problem that plagues continuous-recording cameras. When nothing is happening, the camera captures a single frame every two seconds instead of full video. Xiaomi claims this cuts storage use by over 90%, while still keeping a complete visual timeline. Full recording resumes the moment motion is detected.
The catch for UK and US buyers
The camera integrates with Xiaomi's HyperConnect ecosystem and requires the Mi Home app for live view, alerts, and two-way audio. There's no native support for HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home — a bigger ecosystem lock-in than Ring or Arlo Pro 4 demand. The body is rated IP66, so rain and dust aren't a concern.
On price, the $80 figure is the China launch price. Historical Xiaomi patterns suggest EU and UK pricing runs 20–30% higher once import costs are factored in — and the 4G SIM roaming charges for UK networks are unconfirmed. A global launch date hasn't been announced; availability on Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com is expected sometime in Q3–Q4 2026 at the earliest. Competitors like the Reolink Argus 3 Pro and eufy SoloCam S340 are available now at £130–£180, but neither matches this camera's dual-SIM cellular independence at this price point.
