The Xiaomi Watch S1 (or Mi Watch S1 in some regions) is a stylish AMOLED-display device that combines fitness tracker and smartwatch features. However, before first using it, it must be activated correctly, otherwise some of the features will not be available. Many users face problems during the connection to a smartphone or authorization in Mi Account, especially if they have not previously worked with the Xiaomi ecosystem.
In this article, we will take the entire activation process in steps, from unpacking the box to first synchronizing data, and focus on common errors such as the inability to connect via Bluetooth or crashes in the Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit). You will also learn how to authenticate the device and what to do if the watch is not determined by the phone. S1 2026.
1.Preparation for activation: what to do before turning on the clock
Before you start setting up, make sure you have everything you need, and errors at this point can cause your device to malfunction or not be able to complete the activation.
- π± Compatible smartphone: Xiaomi S1 Officially supports Android 6.0 devices+ or iOS 10.0+. On the iPhone, some functions may be limited.
- π Charging hours: Even if the indicator shows charge, connect the device to charge for 10-15 minutes before first turning on.
- π Stable Internet connection: to download the application and update the firmware will require Wi-Fi or mobile Internet.
- π² Xiaomi Account: If you donβt have one, sign up in advance at account.xiaomi.com.
Important: If you didn't buy a watch from an official store, check it for authenticity. Compare the serial number on the box and on the device menu (Settings β About the phone).
β οΈ Note: Do not use chargers from other gadgets with voltages higher 5V/1This could damage the Xiaomi battery. S1.
2. Install the Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit)
The official management app for the Xiaomi S1 is Mi Fitness (in some regions it may be called Zepp Life), which must be installed before the first time the clock is turned on, otherwise the synchronization may not start.
- π€ Android: Google Play or AppGallery.
- π iOS: App Store.
After installation:
- Open the application and log in via Mi Account.
- Allow all geolocation, notification and contact requests (this is necessary for the functions to function properly).
- Update the app to the latest version through the Profile menu β Settings β Update.
If the app doesnβt see the hours after connecting, try restarting your smartphone and resetting your Bluetooth settings (Settings) β Connections β Bluetooth β βοΈ β Drop it).
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If you already have an old Mi Fit app installed, uninstall it before installing Mi Fitness - version conflict can cause synchronization errors.
3. First on and basic setup of Xiaomi S1
Now we can start turning on the clock.
- Press and hold the side button on the Xiaomi S1 body for 3-5 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
- Select the interface language (scroll the screen up/down, confirm the tap).
- Confirm the agreement with the user agreement (a mandatory step!).
Then the clock will go into the waiting mode of connection. QR-code or unique 6-digit code β you will need to enter it in the Mi Fitness app.
Charge the watch to at least 30% | Install Mi Fitness |Authorize in Mi Account |Enable Bluetooth and geolocation on your phone |Remember the code from the watch screen-->
4. Synchronization with the phone: step-by-step instructions
The most important step is pairing the watch with a smartphone.
- Open Mi Fitness and go to Profile β Add Device.
- Select the Xiaomi Watch S1 from the list.
- Click Connect and allow access to Bluetooth.
- Enter 6-digit code from the watch screen or scan QR-code.
- Wait until the synchronization is complete (it can take up to 5 minutes).
If the process is stuck at the "Connection" stage, try:
- π Reset the clock (hold the side button for 10 seconds).
- π± Restart the Mi Fitness app and clear its cache (Phone Settings) β Annexes β Mi Fitness β Memory. β Clear the cache).
- π Shut down. VPN Proxies can block Xiaomi servers.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The watch is not on the device list. | An outdated version of the app | Update Mi Fitness to the latest version |
| The "failed to connect" error | Conflict with another Bluetooth device | Disconnect all other gadgets from the phone |
| QR-code not scanned | Poor lighting or dirt on the camera | Enter the code manually or wipe the phoneβs camera |
| Synchronization is interrupted by 99% | The Unstable Internet | Connect to another Wi-Fi network |
β οΈ Note: If you use an iPhone, turn off the marginal charge saving feature in iOS settings before connecting.It can block background work of Mi Fitness.
5. Set up the main parameters after activation
After successful synchronization, you need to configure the key parameters:
- β° Time and Date: automatically synced to the phone, but if you crash you can manually set in Settings β System system β Date and time.
- π Notifications: Allow access in phone settings (Settings) β Annexes β Mi Fitness β Notifications).
- π Fitness tracker: set goals for steps, sleep and heart rate in the Profile section β Goals.
- π Screen locking: activate PIN-code β Security to protect data.
For maximum pedometer accuracy, calibrate the sensors:
- Go to Settings β Sensors and data β Calibration pedometer.
- Walk 20 steps with your phone in your hand.
- Confirm the settings are maintained.
How to reset the settings Xiaomi S1 to factory?
6. Update of firmware and check of operability
After activation, it is recommended to update the firmware Xiaomi S1 to the latest version, this will fix possible bugs and add new features.
- Connect the watch to charging and make sure the battery is >50%.
- Open Mi Fitness and go to Profile β Xiaomi Watch S1 β Firmware Update.
- If a new version is available, click Download and Install.
- Do not disconnect the clock from your phone until the process is complete (it can take up to 20 minutes).
After the update, check:
- πΆ Stability of phone communication (check notifications).
- π Battery life (should correspond to the stated 12 days in typical use mode).
- π©Ί Accuracy of sensors (compare pulse rates with a medical tonometer).
If after the update, the watch began to slow down or discharge quickly, reset the settings (see spoiler above) and repeat the activation.
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Updating your firmware through Mi Fitness is the only official way. Don't use third-party firmware, it will take away your warranty and can put your watch out of order.
7.Typical errors and their solutions
Even with the correct instructions, users face problems, and here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The clock does not turn on after charging | Battery discharged or faulty charger | Try another charger (5V/1A) and wait 30 minutes |
| Mi Fitness doesn't see the watch after reset | Residual data in the app cache | Clear the cache and app data in the phone settings |
| Error "Device not certified" | Buying from an unofficial store (possible forgery) | Check the serial number on Xiaomiβs website |
| The clock is constantly disconnected from the phone. | Energy saving mode on the phone | Add Mi Fitness to Battery Optimization Exclusion List |
If none of these methods worked, please contact Xiaomi Support via the official website or chat in the Mi Fitness app.
- The Xiaomi Watch S1 model.
- The firmware version (you can find in Settings β About the phone).
- Description of the problem with screenshots (if possible).