How to connect the Apple Watch to the phone Xiaomi: all the ways and limitations

The combination of the Apple Watch and Xiaomi smartphone at first glance seems impossible: two ecosystems with closed protocols, different operating systems (watchOS and Xiaomi). MIUI), But many users are faced with the need for such a linkage, whether it’s switching from iPhone to Xiaomi to save watches or wanting to test cross-platform synchronization functionality.

In this article, we’ll break down all the available connection methods, from officially supported (but limited) to workarounds using third-party apps and services. You will learn which Apple Watch features will work with Xiaomi, and which will remain unavailable, and also get step-by-step instructions taking into account the features of different versions. MIUI Importantly, some methods require unlocking the bootloader or installing unofficial software, so we'll warn you of the risks in advance.

Why Apple Watch doesn’t officially support Android (and Xiaomi)

Apple has never released a watchOS version for Android, and there are several reasons for this:

• 🔒 Closed ecosystem: Apple links the watch to the iPhone through proprietary protocols (like Apple Wireless Direct Link) that are not documented to third parties.
• 📱 Competition with Wear OS: Google and Samsung are actively promoting their smartwatches, and Apple is not interested in supporting competitive platforms.
• 🛡️ Security and privacy: Synchronizing health data (HealthKit) and payments (Apple Pay) requires a certified environment that Android does not guarantee.
• 💰 Monetization: iPhone sales are closely tied to exclusive Apple Watch features (like Family Setup or Crash Detection).

However, there are workarounds, such as the Apple Watch, which can connect to Xiaomi as a Bluetooth device with limited functionality or through intermediary services like Aerlink (formerly known as WatchDroid).

Method 1: Connecting Apple Watch to Xiaomi as Bluetooth devices (basic functionality)

This is the simplest method that does not require additional software installation. It allows you to use the Apple Watch in notification mode and fitness tracker, but deprives most of the "smart" functions. MIUI 12-14 and watchOS 8-10.

Reset the Apple Watch to factory settings (Settings) → Mainstream → Reset)

Turn off your iPhone (if it was tied)

Turn Bluetooth on Xiaomi (Settings) → Connections → Bluetooth)

Charge the Apple Watch to at least 50%-->

Connection steps:

1. On the Apple Watch, go to Settings → Bluetooth and enable visibility for other devices.
2. On Xiaomi, open Settings → Connections → Bluetooth and click Device Search.
3. In the list, find your Apple Watch (the name will be in Apple Watch format.
4. Confirm pairing on both devices. The clock may need to enter a code (usually 0000 or 1234).

After you connect, you can:

• 📳 Receive notifications of calls and messages (but not respond to them).
• ⏱️ Use timers and alarm clocks.
• 🏃 Track your steps and pulse (data is not synchronized with Mi Fitness).
• 🎵 Manage music on your phone (play/pause, next track).

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If notifications don’t come, check your Bluetooth settings on Xiaomi: open your Apple Watch profile and turn on the “Show Notifications” option.

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ No sync with Apple Health or Mi Fitness.
• ❌ Apple Pay, Siri, and most apps are not working.
• ❌ It is not possible to install new watchOS dials or updates.
• ❌ Watches will be discharged faster due to the constant search for iPhone.

⚠️ Note: If you have previously used the Apple Watch with iPhone, before connecting to Xiaomi be sure to untie the watch from Apple ID through settings → [name] → Apple Watch on iPhone.Otherwise, the watch may lock after reset.

Method 2: Use the Aerlink (WatchDroid) application for advanced functionality

Aerlink (formerly WatchDroid) is a third-party app that emulates some of the features of the Apple Watch Companion on Android.

• 📲 Install applications for the watch (limited list).
• 🔄 Sync Health Data with Google Fit.
• 🔔 Set up notifications more flexibly.
• 🔋 Track the charge level of the clock directly on the phone.

Requirements:

• Xiaomi on Android 9.0 or later (with Bluetooth 4.2 support)+).
• Apple Watch Series 3 or later (on watchOS 7)+).
• Activation Lock (if the watch was tied to Apple) ID).

Installation instructions:

1. Download Aerlink from the official website (aerlink.app) or via APKMirror (avoid pirated sources!).
2. Install the app on Xiaomi by allowing installation from unknown sources (Settings) → Annexes → Special rights → Installation of unknown applications).
3. Reset the Apple Watch to factory settings (see checklist above).
4. Run Aerlink and follow the Connection Wizard. The app will request Bluetooth, Notifications and Background — allow everything.
5. Select a model of your watch in the list and wait for the synchronization to complete.

⚠️ Aerlink is an informal solution that could violate Apple's terms of use.The app is not certified and could theoretically collect data. We recommend using it only on secondary devices or with sensitive functions disabled (for example, without bank card binding).

Method 3: Connect via iPhone intermediary (for full functionality)

If you want full functionality of the Apple Watch, but the main phone is Xiaomi, you can use an intermediate iPhone (even old or inactive).

• 🏦 Users of Apple Pay.
• 📱 Those who need watchOS updates.
• 🔄 Who is not satisfied with the limitations of Aerlink.

What will be required:

• iPhone 6s or newer (even without). SIM-map).
• Apple Watch with the latest version of watchOS
• Apple account ID (You can use one on both devices).

How to set up:

1. Connect the Apple Watch to your iPhone as usual (via the Apple Watch app).
2. Set up all the necessary features: Apple Pay, Family Setup (if necessary), notifications.
3. On Xiaomi, install Apple Music (if you use music) or Google Messages for sync. SMS.
4. Leave your iPhone at home connected to Wi-Fi. Apple Watch will sync with it over the air, and notifications can be duplicated on Xiaomi via Google Assistant or Google Assistant. IFTTT.

Pros of the method:

• ✅ Full access to all Apple Watch features.
• ✅ Updates to watchOS and applications.
• ✅ Apple Pay and Siri are working.

Cons:

• ❌ You need to carry two phones (or leave your iPhone at home).
• ❌ Notifications may be duplicated.
• ❌ Apple Watch charges faster due to constant synchronization.

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This method is the best option for those who want to keep all the functionality of the Apple Watch, but the main phone is Xiaomi. The main condition is that the iPhone must remain online (Wi-Fi or cellular) for synchronization.

Comparison of Connection Methods: What to Choose?

To make it easier, we've compiled a comparison table of all ways, focus on your priorities: whether you need notifications, fitness tracking or full Apple functionality.

The only way to get a full Apple Watch without an iPhone is to use Aerlink, but even it doesn’t support Apple Pay, Family Setup, or some system features. OS (Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, or save iPhone as a second device.

Frequent problems and their solutions

When you connect the Apple Watch to Xiaomi, users experience common mistakes, and we've collected the most common and ways to fix them.

1. Apple Watch is not on the list of Bluetooth devices

Causes and solutions:

• 🔋 Low Charge of the Watch: Charge it to a minimum of 50%.
• 🔄 Watch in iPhone search mode: Reset them to factory settings.
• 📱 An outdated version MIUI: Update your phone to the latest firmware.
• 🛠️ Bluetooth issues: Reboot both devices and turn Bluetooth on/off on Xiaomi.

2 Notifications come but are not displayed on the clock

What to do:

• ⚙️ In Bluetooth settings on Xiaomi, open the Apple Watch profile and enable the option to Show notifications.
• 🔔 Check if notifications for specific applications are blocked (Settings) → Annexes → Management of notifications).
• 🔄 Reconnect the clock: forget the device in Bluetooth and pair again.

3.Fast battery discharge on the Apple Watch

How to reduce the cost:

• ⚡ Turn off the Wrist Raising to Activate (Settings) → Display and brightness).
• 📴 Enable Power Saving Mode (Settings) → Battery).
• 🔌 Turn off background updates to apps (if you use Aerlink).

4 Aerlink doesn't see Apple Watch

Possible causes:

• 📱 Incompatible version MIUI: The app requires Android 9+.
• 🔒 Watch tied to Apple ID: First, untie them through your iPhone.
• 🛠️ Conflict with other Bluetooth devices: Disable other gadgets.

⚠️ Note: If after using Aerlink Apple Watch stopped connecting to the iPhone, perform a full reset of the clock through Settings → Mainstream → Reset → Delete content and customization, and it will delete all data, but it will bring back compatibility with the original ecosystem.

Alternatives to Apple Watch for Xiaomi owners

If the battle for Apple Watch and Xiaomi compatibility seems too difficult, consider a watch that was originally designed for Android.-3 Alternatives with similar functionality:

If you care about the ecosystem, the best choice is the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro. MIUI, Support Mi Fitness and notifications, and have their own app store.For those who appreciate premium quality, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is suitable, but be prepared for a higher price and some restrictions when working with Xiaomi (for example, Samsung Pay does not support Russian banks).

When to stay on the Apple Watch:

• You are actively using Apple Pay or other exclusive features.
• You have other Apple devices (Mac, iPad) and sync is important.
• You’re ready to carry your iPhone as a secondary device.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions