Alarm clock on Xiaomi Mi4: how to configure, disable and fix crashes

Introduction: Why you need the right alarm clock settings on Mi4

Despite its age (released in 2014), the Xiaomi Mi4 remains a popular device thanks to its stable operation on current versions of MIUI 14/15 firmware. One of the key features that users use daily is the alarm clock. However, many people face problems: the alarm clock does not work, the sound is too quiet or, conversely, the sound is heard at the wrong time. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances of the settings, from basic parameters to hidden functions that will help avoid typical errors.

The Mi4’s alarm clock works even when the screen is off or in power saving mode – but only if the permissions for the Watch app are configured correctly. We’ll look at not only standard ways to set time, but also alternative methods (for example, through Google Assistant or third-party apps), and explain why the alarm clock may not work on devices with an unlocked bootloader and custom firmware.

Basic alarm settings through the standard β€œClock” app

The easiest way is to use the built-in Watch (an icon with a dial) app, which is pre-installed on all Xiaomi smartphones and does not require additional installation.

  1. Open the Watch app and go to the Alarm tab (bell icon in the bottom menu).
  2. Press the + button in the lower right corner or select Add an alarm clock.
  3. Set the trigger time by dragging the arrows on the dial or entering the numbers manually.
  4. Set up a repetition (once, daily, weekday, etc.) and save the changes.

Important: If you don't see the Alarm tab, update the Watch app via Google Play or MIUI App Store. On some firmware versions, the section may be called the Timer/Alarm clock.

Make sure your phone time is synchronized with the network|Check the volume level (not in silent mode)|Turn off the "Do Not Disturb" mode"|Close the background applications that consume resources-->

Additional parameters: melody, vibration and delayed signal

The standard alarm on the Mi4 allows you to flexibly adjust the sound and behavior when triggered.

  1. Open the alarm list and tap it.
  2. Select the item Melody β†’ Local melodies or MIUI-tunes.
  3. To use your music, click Add and select a file in.mp3 or.m4a format.

Pay attention to the vibration settings and the delayed signal function:

  • πŸ”” Vibration: You can turn on extra vibration when you call (useful if the phone is in your bag).
  • ⏰ Delay: Set up the re-off interval (5, 10, 15 minutes).
  • πŸ“› Tag: Add the name of the alarm clock (e.g., β€œWorkout”, β€œWorkout”) to avoid confusing several signals.

πŸ’‘

If the alarm is working but the sound is intermittent, check the Battery β†’ Power Saving Mode. When Super Power Saving mode is activated, the Watch application may not work correctly.

Problems and solutions: why the alarm clock does not work on the Xiaomi Mi4

Typical reasons why the alarm doesn’t work on the Mi4 are due to system settings or application conflicts.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
The alarm clock doesn't ring.App Watch blocked in backgroundGo to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Application Management β†’ Watch β†’ Battery and select Without Limits
The sound is too quiet.Do Not Disturb mode activatedTurn it off in the notification curtain or in Settings β†’
The alarm clock is triggered with a delayTime synchronization over the network is disabledInclude in Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Date and time β†’ Autodetermination
App Clock flies outAn outdated version of MIUIUpdate the firmware through Settings β†’ About the phone β†’ System update

A critical feature for the Mi4: if you use custom firmware (like LineageOS), the standard Watch app may not support all alarm functions, in which case it is recommended to install an alternative app, such as Clock Plus or Timely.

What if the alarm goes off but the screen doesn’t turn on?
This problem is typical for devices with a damaged proximity sensor or a faulty display. Try: 1. Connect the phone to charge - sometimes the screen is activated when the power is applied. 2. Press the power or volume button when the alarm rings. 3. If the problem recurs, check the display at the service center (possible plume break).

Alternative ways to set an alarm clock: Google Assistant and third-party apps

If the standard Watch application is unstable, alternative methods can be used:

  • 🎀 Voice assistant: say OK Google, set the alarm for 7:00. The assistant will confirm the time and add a signal to Google Clock.
  • ⏱️ Samsung Clock: Despite the name, the app is compatible with Xiaomi and offers advanced features (weather notifications, tasks).
  • πŸ› οΈ Automate: for advanced users – allows you to create automatic scripts (for example, an alarm clock) + Turning on the lights through Mi Home).

The advantage of third-party applications is additional features such as:

  • πŸŒ… Smooth volume increase (to wake up without stress).
  • 🧠 Puzzles to turn off the alarm clock (for example, solve an example).
  • πŸ“Š Sleep statistics (integration with Google Fit or Mi Band).

Standard annex "Clock"|Google Clock|Samsung Clock|Other annex|I don't use an alarm clock on my phone.-->

Energy Saving and Alarm: How to Avoid Conflict

On the Xiaomi Mi4 (especially with a battery that has lost capacity), the alarm clock may fail due to aggressive energy saving settings.

  1. Open the settings β†’ Battery β†’ Power saving mode.
  2. Choose Performance (maximum power) or Balanced.
  3. Add the Watch app to the list of Protected Apps.

Also check the auto-start settings:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Application Management β†’ Watches β†’ Autostart.
  2. Make sure all switches are active (including AutoRun, Second Running, and Show Notifications).

πŸ’‘

On Xiaomi Mi4 with MIUI 14+ firmware, the alarm will work even when the phone is turned off if the β€œSwitch off alarm” option is activated in the settings of the Watch application.

⚠️ Note: If you use a double alarm clock (e.g. 7:00 and 7:05), make sure there is enough time between the signals to fully activate the first one. Mi4) Simultaneous treatment of several alarm clocks can lead to failures.

Alarm clock for specific scenarios: travel, shift schedule, meditation

The standard alarm clock on the Mi4 is suitable for everyday use, but for non-standard situations, additional settings will be required:

1. Travel and change of time zones

If you travel to other countries frequently, set up:

  • 🌍 Automatic time zone determination in Settings β†’ Additionally. β†’ Date and time.
  • ⏰ Second alarm clock with local time (use labels such as "Moscow" and "Bangkok").

Shifting schedules of work

For those who work in shifts (for example, day/night), it is convenient to use:

  • πŸ“… Google Clock alarm clocks (you can save schedules for a week ahead).
  • πŸ”„ Automatic switching over Tasker (e.g. alarm clock at 8:00 on weekdays and 12:00 on weekends).

3. Alarm for meditation or power-nap

For short sleep (20-30 minutes), it is better to use a timer, not an alarm clock:

  • ⏳ In the Watch app, go to the Timer tab.
  • 🎢 Choose a calm melody (such as the sounds of nature).
  • πŸ”• Activate the mode Do not disturb during sleep, so as not to be distracted by notifications.

FAQ: answers to frequent questions about the alarm clock on Xiaomi Mi4

Can I set an alarm on the Xiaomi Mi4?
Yes, but only if: The alarm settings activate the option Works when the phone is turned off (not available on all firmware); the device is connected to charging (otherwise the alarm will only work when the power is turned on); on custom firmware, this feature may not work.
Why does the alarm go off, but the sound goes through the speaker, not through the headphones?
This is standard MIUI behavior: the alarm always plays through the main speaker, even if the headphones are connected. To change this: Install a third-party app (for example, Sleep as Android). In the application settings, select Play through Bluetooth/earphones.
How to turn off the alarm on Xiaomi Mi4 if the screen is not responsive?
If the screen doesn't work, but the alarm goes off: Press Power 3 times in a row, this can unlock the device. Connect the phone to charge, sometimes the screen activates. If nothing helps, wait until the alarm goes off automatically (after 1-2 minutes).
Can you synchronize the Xiaomi Mi4 alarm clock with the Mi Band?
Yes, but for that: Install the Mi Fit app and pair it with the bracelet. In the alarm settings in Mi Fit, add time and select Vibration on the bracelet. Make sure the phone has Bluetooth enabled and Mi Fit permissions on. Note: the alarm on the bracelet will only work if it is within Bluetooth range (up to 10 meters from the phone).
How to Reset All Alarms on Xiaomi Mi4?
To remove all stored alarms: Open the Clock app β†’ Alarm clock. Press and hold any alarm clock, then select Delete all (or delete one at a time). To reset the app completely, go to Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ The clock β†’ Warehouse β†’ Clear the data. ⚠️ Warning: Cleaning the Watch app data will also delete all timers and dream data if they are synced with this app.