Search for missing Xiaomi device: from smartphone to smartwatch

Lost the Xiaomi gadget? Move fast!

Statistically, one in five users has lost a smartphone at least once, and Xiaomi devices are no exception. Fortunately, the brand’s ecosystem offers several tools to find missing gadgets, from standard Mi Account features to integration with Google Find My Device. But the effectiveness depends on the speed of reaction: the sooner you start searching, the better the chances of returning the device.

In this article, we will discuss all the available methods - from basic (calls to the number, checking the last location) to advanced (tracking through IMEI, interaction with the police). Separately, we will focus on the nuances for different types of devices: smartphones (Redmi Note 12, POCO F5), headphones (Xiaomi Buds 4), fitness bracelets (Mi Band 8) and even smart watches (Xiaomi Watch S3). If your gadget is stolen, you will also find useful steps here.

⚠️ Critical warning: if the device is turned off or discharged, most tracking methods will stop working. 2-3 hours after the disappearance are the most important: during this period, it is likely that the gadget is still on and connected to the network.

Step 1: Check the obvious – call and SMS

Before you rush into the technical wilds, do simple things:

• 📞 Call your number from another phone, and it may be that the device is lying next to you (in your bag, jacket pocket, under your pillow), and you just can't hear the vibration.
• 💬 Send. SMS textual WHERE ARE YOU? or GPS — Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi with the MIUI 14+) can automatically respond with coordinates if the function is activated in the settings.
• 🔋 Check if the gadget is on charge in an unexpected place (for example, at work or at friends). Xiaomi smartphones often emit an audible signal when connected to the outlet.

If the call passes but no one answers, try using the voice assistant:

1. Call the device.
2. When you call, say, OK Google, find my phone (if Google Assistant is enabled).
3. On some models (POCO X5 Pro, Redmi K60) this will cause the smartphone to emit a loud signal, even if it is in silent mode.

Step 2: Tracking through Mi Account (official method)

Mi Account is Xiaomi's main device search tool, and it works even if you don't have Google services on your smartphone. Here's how to use it:

1. Go to account.xiaomi.com and log in.
2. In the menu, select Device Management.
3. Find the missing gadget in the list and click on it.
4. The system will show the last known location (if the device was turned on and connected to the Internet).

⚠️ Note: if the missing Xiaomi smartphone was reset to factory settings, it will automatically unplug your Mi Account.

Linking the device to the Mi Account|Permission to determine location|Access to mobile data or Wi-Fi|The "Find the Device" function in the security settings-->

For owners of Mi Band and Xiaomi Watch algorithm is similar, but with nuances:

• 🕒 The wristbands and watches only display location if they are connected to a smartphone via Mi Fitness or Zepp Life.
• 📍 The accuracy of coordinates is lower than that of smartphones (the error to the 50-100 meters).
• 🔋 If the bracelet is below 10%, it may not transmit location data.

Step 3: Google Find My Device is an Android Alternative

If your Xiaomi has Google services installed (and they are on all official firmware), use Find My Device, which often works more accurately than Mi Account, especially outside of China.

Instructions:

1. Open the service page and log in to the same Google account as on the lost device.
2. The system will show the map with the last location, if the smartphone is online, the coordinates are updated in real time.
3. Additional options: 🔔 Play the sound – make the device beep at full volume for 5 minutes (works even in silent mode). 🔒 Lock the device – set the password on the lock screen (if it was not). 🧹 Erase data – a complete reset to factory settings (use as a last resort!).

💡 Useful Lifehack: If you have Google Timeline enabled, check it out at the address google.com/maps/timeline. There can be stored coordinates even if the smartphone is now turned off.

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If you lose your device in a public place (cafe, transportation), check your payment history through Google Pay or Mi Pay. Sometimes the last transaction helps narrow down your search.

Step 4: Searching for IMEI – Does it work in practice?

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique identifier for your device, which, in theory, can be used to track your smartphone even after you reset your settings, but in practice, it's more complicated than that.

🔍 How do you know? IMEI lost-stuff?

• 📄 Look at the warranty card or box (IMEI usually indicated on the sticker).
• 📱 If you have previously accessed the device, type *#06# on another phone — IMEI It will be automatically displayed (if it is SIM-same card).
• 🖥️ Check backups in Google Drive or Mi Cloud – device data may be stored there.

⚠️ Note: in Russia and most CIS countries, tracking by IMEI It's almost impossible for private individuals to do without police, so don't waste your time on questionable services, you better focus on other methods.

Step 5: Search for Xiaomi headphones (Buds, AirDots) and fitness bracelets

Xiaomi smart headphones and bracelets are searched differently than smartphones. Here's what you can do:

For headphones (Xiaomi Buds 4, AirDots 3 Pro, etc.):

• 🎧 Use the Mi Earphones app (for Android) or Xiaomi Wear app (for iOS) and displays the last place you connect to your phone.
• 📶 If the headphones are in the case, they won’t show up in the search – they need to be removed first.
• 🔔 Turn on the function Find headphones in the application settings – they will start emitting an audio signal.

For fitness bracelets (Mi Band 7/8, Xiaomi Smart Band Pro):

• 🕒 Check out Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app – it can store your sync history with time and approximate location.
• 🔋 If the bracelet is discharged, it's impossible to track.Mi Band average operating time 8 — 14-16 Days, so you have a chance.
• 🚨 Turn on Loss of Communication Notification – the bracelet vibrates if it moves away from the phone more than 10 meters (configured in the app).

Step 6: If the device is stolen – hot pursuit

If you suspect a theft, follow this algorithm:

1. 📱 Block it. SIM-Card: Call the operator (the number is usually listed on the site) and ask to block the card. SMS from fraudsters, as well as access to banking applications.
2. 🔒 Remove data remotely: Find My Device or Mi Account reset. This will not return the device, but will protect your data.
3. 📝 Write a report to the police: Indicate IMEI, Serial number and distinguishing features (color, cover, stickers) In some regions, police may request data from telecom operators.
4. 🛡️ Check activity in accounts: Change passwords from Mi Account, Google, social media and banking apps. Check login history in Google security settings.

⚠️ Attention: If they come to you SMS With a confirmation code from unknown services, don't call back the numbers from these messages - this is a popular type of fraud. SIM-map.

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When stealing, time works against you.Crooks usually reset the device in the first 1-2 hours, so act as quickly as possible.

Step 7: Preventing the future – how to protect your device in advance

To avoid this situation, set up your Xiaomi in advance.

• 🔐 Enable Mi Account Lock: Go to Settings → Xiaomi account → Device security. Activate Find the device and Lock when reset.
• 📍 Google Find My Device: In Settings → Google → Security → Find my device, turn on all options.
• 📱 Install third-party anti-thieves: Apps like Cerberus or Prey let you track your device even after you reset your settings.
• 🔄 Make regular backups: In Settings → The phone. → Backup: Configure automatic data storage in Mi Cloud or Google Drive.

💡 Advice for owners POCO: These devices have the default feature of Find the device in Mi Account disabled. Activate it manually in the security settings!

Frequent questions about finding Xiaomi devices