Owners of Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness trackers often face the need to update software to access new features or fix bugs in the device.The standard procedure through the Mi Fit app (now Zepp Life) works steadily, but sometimes users want to go beyond the standard features. Which is why the question of how to reflash the gadget or install third-party dials has been relevant for several years.
The process of modifying the software of a wearable device requires carefulness and accurate follow-up. Wrong actions can cause the tracker to stop syncing with the smartphone or stop turning on altogether. In this article, we will discuss safe updating methods and nuances of working with custom dials, which are often mistakenly called “firmwareware”.
Before you start any manipulation, you need to clearly understand the difference between the official update and the installation of modified software. Official updates come "over the air" and do not require complex actions, whereas custom solutions often involve the use of third-party applications and can carry risks to the stability of the gadget.
Why you should try Mi Band 4?
The main reason users are looking for ways to flash the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 is to Russify the device or change the interface. Chinese versions of the bracelets often come with English or Chinese, which creates discomfort with daily use. Installing regional firmware allows you to translate the menu into Russian without losing warranty.
The second important aspect is functionality. Official updates from Xiaomi are often in the nature of bug fixing, but enthusiasts create modified versions of the software that add new dials, change the logic of notifications or allow you to install third-party widgets. Cast firmware can significantly expand the capabilities of the tracker, turning it into a smarter device.
But there are risks to consider: Installing untested software can lead to increased battery consumption or heart rate sensors incorrectly. Flashing is always an interference with system files, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before starting the process.
⚠️ Warning: Installing custom dials and modified versions of software may result in a loss of warranty on the device.
Preparation for the update: necessary tools
To successfully upgrade or modify, you will need not only the bracelet itself, but also a properly prepared smartphone. First of all, make sure that your Android device or iPhone has the latest version of the Zepp Life app (formerly Mi Fit), which is the software that makes the main communication with the tracker.
If you're planning to install custom dials, you'll need a dedicated bootloader app, the most popular and proven solution being Notify for Mi Band or specialized utilities like Amazfit Watchfaces, which allow you to download.bin files that aren't supported by the standard interface.
Be sure to check the battery power. Before starting any operations, the charge level of the bracelet should be at least 60%, and the smartphone should be at least 40%. Interrupting the recording process due to battery discharge is the most common reason for turning a device into a brick.
- 📱 Smartphone with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher and active internet.
- 🔋 Xiaomi Mi Band 4 bracelet (preferably more than 60%).
- 💾 Firmware file or dial in.bin format (for custom methods).
- 📲 Installed bootloader (e.g. Notify & Fitness).
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Before starting the procedure, take a screenshot of the current bracelet settings in the application, which will help you quickly restore the usual configuration if the notification settings reset after the update.
Official Update via Zepp Life app
The safest and most recommended way to upgrade is to use the standard functionality. The official firmware is tested by Xiaomi engineers and ensures that all sensors work consistently. To check for updates, open the Zepp Life app and go to the device profile.
Click on your Mi Band 4 icon in the device list. In the menu that opens, look for "Update Check" or "Update." If the new version is available, the system will prompt you to download and install it, at which point the bracelet screen will go out and the recording process will begin.
During the update, it is strongly advised not to open other apps on your smartphone or disable Bluetooth.The process can take from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the file size and connection speed.
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt to break the Bluetooth connection or close the application during the upgrade, this will damage the bootloader and inability to continue operating.
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The official update is the only way to get the safety fixes and battery consumption optimization recommended by the manufacturer.
Installation of custom dials and mods
Many users use "flashing" to mean installing third-party dials, as the standard choice is limited, using.bin files that can be found on specialized forums or dial stores.
First, you need to download the selected dial file to the memory of the smartphone. Then open the bootloader application (for example, Notify for Mi Band), select the Dials section and specify the path to the downloaded file. The application automatically determines the model of the device and prompts you to send the file to the bracelet.
Once confirmed, the tracker will display a message on its ready-to-install screen. Press the touch button for confirmation. The device will rewrite the current interface to a new one. If the dial is not suitable for resolution or firmware version, the bracelet may reject the installation.
What to do if the dial is not installed?
Comparison of firmware versions and their features
The global versions usually have English and Russian, but may lose some of the features available in Chinese builds, such as music management on iOS or specific sports.
Below is a table showing the main differences between the firmware types for Xiaomi Mi Band 4:
| Type of firmware | Languages | Stability | Functional |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese (CN) | Chinese, English | Tall. | Full access to all functions |
| Global (Global) | Multilingual (includes Russian) | Tall. | Limited set of sports |
| Castomium (Mod) | Depends on the author. | Medium | Extended, but possible bugs |
| NFC version | Depends on the region. | Tall. | Support for contactless payment |
When choosing a version, it is important to understand your priorities. If you are critically important to Russian, you will have to reflash the Chinese version to the global one. If you are an enthusiast, custom builds can offer unique personalization capabilities that are not available in the runoff.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
There may be errors in the process of modification, and one of the most common is the bracelet "hangs" on the Mi logo. In this case, you need to put the tracker on the charge, and often a connection to the power source initiates the reset and reboot of the device in normal mode.
If the bracelet is not visible in the application after flashing, try removing the device from the Bluetooth list in the phone settings, then uninstall it from the Zepp Life app and pairing again. Sometimes a full reset to factory settings through the bracelet menu (Reset or Factory Reset).
Problems with synchronizing data after installing mods are often solved by clearing the cache of the intermediary app. Go to the Android settings, find the application through which the dial was put, and select Clear cache.
- 🔄 Bracelet not turned on: put on charging on 30-60 minute.
- ❌ Installation Error: Check the compatibility of the.bin file with your revision.
- 📉 Quick discharge: remove the custom dial and return the standard dial.