Connecting Xiaomi Watches to iPhone: Full Instruction with Error Solutions

Is Xiaomi’s watch compatible with iPhone?

iPhone owners often doubt whether they will be able to use Xiaomi’s smartwatch — and for good reason. Unlike Android, where syncing is smooth, iOS has limitations due to Apple’s closed ecosystem. However, most Mi Band, Redmi Watch and Amazfit models (which belong to the same ecosystem) officially support iPhone connectivity — with some caveats.

The main difference from Android is that you can’t install third-party firmware on your iPhone or use full notification functionality (such as responding to messages), but the basic features — pedometer, pulsemeter, alarm clocks and even payment via Mi Pay (in some regions) — work steadily.

What Xiaomi models are compatible with the iPhone

Not all Xiaomi smartwatches work equally well with iOS, here’s a current list of supported models (as of 2026):

• 📱 Mi Band 7/8 Pro – Full compatibility, but without extended notifications
• ⌚ Redmi Watch 3/4 Active – All functions are supported except for voice assistant
• 🏃 Amazfit GTR 4/GTS 4 — Best iPhone Choice (Maximum Functionality)
• 💰 Xiaomi Watch S3 — It works, but requires manual notifications
• ❌ Mi Band 1-4 – outdated models, not officially supported after iOS 15 updates+

If your model is not on the list, check it out on Xiaomi's official support site, and note that even if the watch is connected, some features (such as Always-On Display or the other feature) are available. SpO2-monitoring) may be unstable.

Preparing iPhone before connecting

Before you start syncing, make the mandatory settings on the iPhone:

1. Update iOS to the latest version (minimum requirement is iOS 14.0). Check in Settings → Main → Software Update.
2. Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (even if the connection is over Bluetooth, some models require Wi-Fi for initial setup).
3. Allow notifications for Mi Fitness or Zepp (depending on the watch model). path: Settings → Notifications → [Application].
4. Disable VPN (if you use it). Some Xiaomi servers block connections from virtual networks.

Updated iOS to the latest version

Turned on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Allowed notifications for Mi Fitness/Zepp

Disabled VPN (if enabled)

Charged the watch to at least 50%-->

Also make sure that the watch has enough charge (at least 30%) if the battery is discharged, the synchronization process may be interrupted during the firmware update phase.

⚠️ Note: If you have previously used an Android watch, reset it to factory settings before connecting to your iPhone. Otherwise, profile conflicts may arise. Reset is done in the watch menu: Settings → System system → Reset.

Step-by-step instructions for connecting

The synchronization process depends on the watch model, and below is a general-purpose instruction that is suitable for most Xiaomi devices.

Installation of the annex

Download the official application depending on the model:

• 📲 For Mi Band and Redmi Watch: Mi Fitness (App Store)
• 📲 For Amazfit - Zepp (App Store)

Once installed, open the app and register an account (via Google, Apple ID or phone number) without an account, data synchronization will not be possible.

2. Connecting the clock

Algorithm of action:

1. Turn on the clock (press and hold the power button for 3-5 seconds).
2. In the Mi Fitness/Zepp app, click Add Device (+ icon in the upper right corner).
3. Select your model from the list. If you don't have one, select Another device and type the name manually.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen. The app will suggest scanning. QR-code from the watch screen or enter a 6-digit code that appears on the display.
5. Confirm the pairing on the clock (usually you need to press a button or tap the screen).

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If the watch does not appear in the list of devices, reboot Bluetooth on your iPhone: open Control Point, turn off/on Bluetooth, then repeat the search.

3. Notification setting and synchronization

After connection:

• 🔔 Allow the app to access Notices, Contacts and Health (if necessary).
• 📱 In the settings of the clock (Device profile) → Notifications) Select the applications you want to see on your watch.
• ⚙️ Update the firmware of the watch (the app will prompt you to do it automatically).

Important: On iPhone, you can’t respond to messages directly from the clock (unlike Android), you’ll only see the text of the notification and the sender’s name.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with the right connection, there can be problems.-5 errors and ways of correcting them:

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the clock to factory settings and reconnecting. Reset instructions are usually on the watch menu: Settings → System → Reset.

How to expand the functionality of the iPhone

By default, Xiaomi’s iPhone watches are limited, but there are ways to expand the capabilities:

• 🔄 Use third-party apps like Notify & Fitness (App Store) to customize notifications, which let you filter alerts and add quick responses.
• 🌍 Change your account region to China or India in the Mi Fitness settings.This will unlock additional features (e.g. Mi Pay).
• 📊 Export data to Apple Health. In the Mi Fitness app settings, enable HealthKit Sync.
• 🎵 Control the music. Some models (like Amazfit) GTR 4) allow you to switch tracks to the iPhone directly from the clock.

Caution: Changing your account region may result in a loss of warranty in some countries.

⚠️ Note: Do not install unofficial firmware (such as Amazfit Mod) on a watch connected to an iPhone. This can cause the Bluetooth module to break and no further synchronization is possible.

Xiaomi Comparison with Apple Watch on iPhone

Many iPhone users are hesitant to buy Xiaomi if you have an Apple Watch.

When to choose Xiaomi:

• 💰 You need a budget fitness tracker with long-term autonomy.
• 🏃 Basic functions (steps, pulse, sleep) are important, not “smart” capabilities.
• 🔋 You don’t want to charge your watch every day.

When to choose the Apple Watch:

• 📱 Full integration with iPhone (calls, messages, Apple Pay).
• 🏥 Important medical functions (ECG, detection of falls).
• 🎧 You want to use your watch as a standalone device (LTE-model).

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Xiaomi is the best choice for those who need a low-cost watch with a good health tracker. Apple Watch is suitable if you are willing to pay for the ecosystem and advanced features.

FAQ: Frequent questions