What Xiaomi Smart Watches Can Do: 20+ functions you did not know about

Xiaomi smart watches have long ceased to be just an accessory for displaying time. Today they are full-fledged gadgets that can replace a fitness bracelet, a smart home remote control and even a partially smartphone. 20-30% their capabilities, unaware of hidden functions and advanced application scenarios.

In this article, we will analyze in detail all the features of Xiaomi smart watches - from basic (stepmer, notifications) to exclusive (phase analysis of sleep, gesture control of the smartphone camera). S1/S2 watch 2 Pros that support maximum functionality, you'll learn how to set up a watch for specific tasks, from sports to business, what apps to install, and how to get around the limitations. MIUI.

Important: functionality depends on the model and version of the firmware (2022-2026 For older models (Amazfit or Mi Band), some features may not be available.

1. Health monitoring: from pulse to stress

The main advantage of Xiaomi smart watches is medical sensors that work at the level of professional fitness trackers. PPG The third generation with 12 LEDs that measures the pulse with accuracy ยฑ2 beats/min (according to test data) DC Rainmaker).

The watch automatically tracks:

  • ๐Ÿฉบ Heart rate (24/7, phlegmic)
  • ๐Ÿฉธ Blood oxygen levels (SpOโ‚‚, sleep-critical)
  • ๐Ÿ˜ด Sleep phases (deep, light, REM, Recommended) with recommendations for improvement
  • ๐Ÿง˜ Stress level (by heart rate variability, HRV)
  • ๐Ÿƒ Energy consumption (calories, active/passive minutes)

Unique feature for the Watch S2: Sleep Breathing Analysis with Snoring Detection and Breathing Delays (Update to Requirement) MIUI Watch 3.1+). The data is synchronized with the Mi Fitness app, where you can get advanced analytics and compare the dynamics for the month / year.

โš ๏ธ Attention: Measurements SpOโ‚‚ and HRV They don't replace medical diagnosis. SpOโ‚‚ < 90% HRV < 20ms See Your Doctor โ€“ This May Indicate Problems With Your Cardiovascular System.

ParameterMi Watch LiteWatch S1Watch 2 Pro
Continuous pulseโœ… (every 5 minutes)โœ… (minutely)โœ… (second-tracking)
SpOโ‚‚ (oxygen)โœ… (manual)โœ… (dream-car)โœ… (24/7 + warning)
Phased sleep analysisโŒโœ… (basic)โœ… (apnea-detected)
Stress level (HRV)โŒโœ…โœ… + recommendations
๐Ÿ“Š What health function do you use more often?
Pulse monitoring
Sleep analysis
Measurement SpOโ‚‚
Tracking stress
Not using.

Sporting functions: 100+ Regimes and Professional Analytics

Xiaomiโ€™s smartwatches support up to 150 sports modes, from running and swimming to yoga and climbing. The new Watch 2 Pro features professional metrics:

  • ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ VOโ‚‚ max (maximum oxygen consumption) - endurance indicator
  • ๐Ÿ’ฆ Recovery level (recommendations for next day loading)
  • ๐Ÿ“Š Step asymmetry (for runners โ€“ helps avoid injuries)
  • ๐ŸŠ SWOLF (swimming-efficiency)

For running and cycling, the clock is used GPS + GLONASS + Galileo, which ensures track accuracy to ยฑ1 meter (in open area) In the Watch S2 dualized GPS โ€” Two chips are used simultaneously to increase signal stability.

Hidden function: In the workout menu (Settings) โ†’ Sport โ†’ Additionally, you can enable automatic exercise recognition, the watch will tell you when you started running, cycling or swimming, and you will start tracking.

How to export training data to Strava?
1. Open the Mi Fitness app on your smartphone. 2. Go to the Training section โ†’ Story 3. Choose the right workout and click Export โ†’ Strava. 4. Sign in to Strava (first export) and confirm synchronization.Important: Export to Strava requires a premium subscription to Mi Fitness (from 99)โ‚ฝ/month).

3. Smart Notifications and Smartphone Management

Xiaomi smartwatches can not only show notifications, but also control the smartphone without removing it from your pocket.

  • ๐Ÿ“ž Reject calls (by gesture or button)
  • ๐ŸŽต Managing music (play/pause, track)
  • ๐Ÿ“ท Take a photo (remote shutter shutter shutter of the smartphone camera)
  • ๐Ÿ” Search for the phone (watches make sound, even if the smartphone is silent mode)
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Check the battery charge of connected devices (earphones, fitness bracelet)

Pro: Watch 2 Pro features Quick Replies, which is a template for responses to messages (e.g., "I'm on the way," "I'll be back later"). Configured in the Mi Fitness app under Notifications. โ†’ Quick answers.

โš ๏ธ Note: For full-fledged notifications on the iPhone, you need to install the Mi Fitness application and enable permission for Notifications in iOS settings. On Android, synchronization works automatically via MIUI+.

Open Mi Fitness on your smartphone|Go to Profile. โ†’ My devices. โ†’ [clock]|Select Notifications for Calls and Messages|Enable the switch for the desired applications (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.)|Check the permissions in the settings Android/iOS-->

4.Smart home and voice assistant

Xiaomi smart watches are integrated into the Mi Home ecosystem, allowing you to control a smart home right from the wrist.

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Smart Lighting (Yeelight, Philips Hue)
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Sockets and switches (Aqara, Xiaomi Smart Plug)
  • ๐ŸŒก๏ธ Climate control (air conditioners, heaters, humidifiers)
  • ๐Ÿšช Security sensors (doors, windows, gas leakage)
  • ๐Ÿ“บ Smart TVs (Mi) TV, volume control)

It is sufficient to manage:

  1. Open the Mi Home app on the watch.
  2. Select the right device from the list.
  3. Use gestures or voice commands (if XiaoAI is connected).

XiaoAI (available on Chinese firmware) can:

  • ๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Run smart home scenarios (e.g., Goodnight โ€“ turns off lights, closes curtains, turns on humidifier).
  • ๐Ÿ“… Create reminders and events on the calendar.
  • ๐ŸŒ Answer simple questions (weather, exchange rate).

๐Ÿ’ก

To add a smart home device to quick access on a watch, open Mi Home on a smartphone, find the device in the list, click on the โ‹ฎ โ†’ Add it to the watch. Now it's going to be displayed in the first widget screen.

5. Autonomy and battery: how to extend the work

Xiaomi smartwatches run from 5 days (Watch) S1 Active mode) up to 14 days (Mi Watch Lite in energy saving) Autonomousity is affected by the:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ pulse rate (second monitoring eats up to 30% charge)
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Continuous connection to GPS (for example, in a marathon)
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Synchronization of notifications (each alert drains the battery on the 0.5-1%)
  • ๐ŸŒก๏ธ Ambient temperature (in the cold, the battery capacity falls)

How to extend work:

  1. Turn off the automatic pulse during the day (Settings) โ†’ Heart monitoring โ†’ Measurement schedule).
  2. Use the "Time Only" mode (disables all sensors, leaving only the dial).
  3. Reduce the brightness of the screen to 30-40% (Settings โ†’ Display. โ†’ Brightness).
  4. Turn off vibrations when notified (saves up to 15% charge).
ModelBasic regime (days)Active mode (c) GPS)Energy saving regime
Mi Watch Lite10-125-720+
Watch S17-93-415
Watch 2 Pro5-62-310

๐Ÿ’ก

The most voracious sensor โ€” GPS. One hour of continuous recording of the track drains the battery on the 25-30%. If you do not need a precise route, use the energy saving mode. GPS training-set.

6. Hidden functions and life hacks

Even experienced users are unaware of some of the capabilities of Xiaomi smartwatches.-5 chip-trick:

  1. Control gestures: ๐Ÿ‘‹ Shake your wrist to turn on the screen. ๐Ÿคณ Twice tap the screen to take a photo on your smartphone. ๐Ÿ”„ Turn your wrist to rewind the music.

Configured in Settings โ†’ Gestures.

Do not disturb the schedule:

Settings โ†’ Don't disturb. โ†’ Schedule

The screen is always on (AOD):

Settings โ†’ Display โ†’ Always On

Minus:

The secret mode of the developer:

Settings โ†’ About the clock โ†’ POS version

Presentation management:

PowerPoint

Google Slides

Mi Remote

Lifehack for travelers: There are offline maps in the watch (Watch 2 Pro). Download the city map in advance (Settings) โ†’ Maps. โ†’ Download, and the watch will show your location without internet (accuracy) ~50 meters).

How to reset the clock to factory settings?
1. Open Settings. โ†’ System system โ†’ Reset. 2. Select Reset all settings. 3. Confirm action (required) PIN-Warning: Once reset, the watch will be removed from the Mi Account and all data will be deleted.

7. Compatible with iPhone and other brands

While Xiaomiโ€™s smartwatches are optimized for Android, they work in part with the iPhone.

  • โœ… Display of notifications (calls, SMS, messengers)
  • โœ… Monitoring of pulse and steps
  • โœ… Basic training (running, walking, cycling)
  • โŒ No: Message Answers, Music Management, XiaoAI
  • โŒ No: sync with Apple Health

To connect to the iPhone:

  1. Download Mi Fitness from the App Store.
  2. Register a Xiaomi account (required!).
  3. Enable Bluetooth and Notifications for the app in iOS settings.
  4. Follow the pairing instructions in the app.

Important for owners of other brands: Xiaomi Watches can be connected to smartphones Samsung, Huawei or Google Pixel, but some of the features will be limited:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Huawei does not sync with Huawei Health (only with Mi Fitness).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Samsung may not work smoothly notifications due to conflict with Samsung Wearable.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Google Pixel battery drains faster due to background activity MIUI+.

8. Which model to choose in 2026?

The choice of Xiaomi smart watches depends on your tasks. Here is a brief comparison of current models:

ModelPrice (2026)For whom?Key chipsCons
Mi Watch Lite 2~5 000โ‚ฝBeginners, budget100+ sporting regimes, SpOโ‚‚, 10 days of autonomyNo. NFC, screen 1.55"
Watch S1 Active~9 000โ‚ฝAthletes5ATM, dual GPS, VOโ‚‚ max, 15 days batteryDesign is "sportsmanlike," no microphone.
Watch 2 Pro~15 000โ‚ฝPro, business.eSIM, XiaoAI, offline maps, premium designAutonomy 3-5 days, expensive repairs
Watch S2~12 000โ‚ฝUniversalityAMOLED 1.43", 100+ dials, analysis of sleep with apneaNo eSIM, plastic case

Elective council:

  • ๐Ÿƒ If you need a sports tracker, take the Watch. S1 Active (best) GPS sensors).
  • ๐Ÿ’ผ For business and calls, only Watch 2 Pro (eSIM and microphone).
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Mi Watch Lite 2 (90% features for half the price).
  • ๐ŸŽจ If design is important, watch S2 (thin body, many dials).

Where to buy: Official watches are sold in Mi Store, Svyaznoy, M.Video. Avoid shopping on AliExpress without checking the firmware region - Chinese versions may not support Russian and Google Play.

๐Ÿ’ก

Before buying, check compatibility with your smartphone. For example, the Watch 2 Pro with eSIM only works with MegaFon, Beeline and Tele2 operators (MTS is not supported).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi smart watches

Can I swim in a Xiaomi smartwatch?
Yes, but with reservations: Mi Watch Lite and Watch S1 protect 5ATM โ€” They can withstand up to 50 meters of immersion (suitable for swimming pools, but not for diving). Watch 2 Pro โ€” 3ATM (After swimming, wash the watch with fresh water and dry the speaker (if any). Important: Hot water (bath, sauna) can damage the leakiness - avoid temperatures above 40ยฐC.
How to install third-party applications (Spotify, Yandex Music)?
Officially, there is no app store on Xiaomi watches, but there are workarounds: For Watch 2 Pro: Install Wear OS-applications ADB (Requires unlocking of the bootloader. For other models: Use Mi Fitness to control music from your smartphone (Spotify playlists or Yandex Music will be broadcast on the clock over Bluetooth). Alternative: Download music to memory of the clock (Settings Spotify or Yandex Music will be broadcast on the clock over Bluetooth). โ†’ Music. โ†’ Local tracks) and listen through Bluetooth headphones. โš ๏ธ Attention: Installation of third-party APK This may result in the blocking of Mi Account for breach of the license agreement.
Why is the clock not synchronized with the smartphone?
Problems with synchronization arise because of: ๐Ÿ“ฑ An outdated version of Mi Fitness. Update the app on Google Play/App Store. ๐Ÿ”„ Conflict with other fitness apps (Google Fit, Samsung Health. ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Background locks (on Xiaomi/Redmi Add Mi Fitness to exceptions: Settings โ†’ Battery โ†’ Optimizing the battery โ†’ All applications โ†’ Mi Fitness โ†’ No restrictions. ๐Ÿ“ถ Poor Bluetooth connection. Reconnect the clock: Bluetooth settings โ†’ Forget the device โ†’ Re-pairing. If nothing works, reset the settings on the watch and reinstall Mi Fitness.
Can I change the band on the Xiaomi watch?
Yes, all models support 20mm or 22mm removable straps (depending on model: ๐Ÿงค Silicone (included, suitable for sports). ๐Ÿ‘” Leather (for office, but not for sweating). ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Metallic (premium appearance, but heavier). ๐Ÿงต Tissue (comfortable in summer but stained) How to remove a strap: There's a lock button on the back of the watch. Press it with a screwdriver or a nail and pull the strap aside. โš ๏ธ Warning: Use only fast-removal straps. Normal spring fasteners (like a classic watch) won't work!
How to update the firmware on the clock?
Update firmware occurs automatically, but you can start it manually: Connect the clock to charging (charge should be) >50%). Open on the clock Settings โ†’ About the clock โ†’ Update. If a new version is available, click Download and install. Don't interrupt the process! The clock will restart. 1-2 If the update doesn't come: Check your internet connection (watches must be connected to your smartphone). Update the Mi Fitness app to the latest version. Reset the app cache: Settings of your smartphone โ†’ Annexes โ†’ Mi Fitness โ†’ Memory. โ†’ Clear cache.Important: After updating, reset the clock to factory settings if there are glitches (see spoiler above).