Connect Xiaomi Mi Band 4 to the phone: full instructions with photos and tips

The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 smartwatch remains one of the most popular fitness trackers even years after its release. Its combination of compactness, functionality and affordable price appeals to both wearables and power users. However, the process of first connecting a device to a smartphone often raises questions — especially for those who have not previously used Xiaomi gadgets. In this article, we will examine not only the basic pairing steps, but also the nuances that the manufacturer does not mention in the official documentation.

It’s important to understand that the Mi Band 4 runs through Mi Fit’s proprietary app (or its updated version of Zepp Life), and that 90% of the tracker’s functionality depends on its settings. We’ll look at both app options, Android and iOS connectivity, and provide guidance on how to fix common bugs, from Bluetooth issues to synchronization failures. If you just unpack your device or have trouble after resetting, this guide will help you avoid typical pitfalls.

1.Preparation for connection: what to do before pairing

Before you start connecting Mi Band 4, make sure all the prerequisites are met.Neglecting this step often leads to errors such as the inability to detect the device or crashes when updating the firmware.

First, check the compatibility of your smartphone. Officially, the tracker supports:

• 📱 Android 5.0 and higher with Bluetooth 4.2 support)
• 🍎 iOS 10.0 and higher (iPhone) 5s newer)
• ⚠️ On devices with Android Go, there may be problems with the notifications

Second, prepare the device itself:

Download the Mi app Fit/Zepp Life from the official store|Make sure your phone is Bluetooth enabled and GPS|Charge the Mi Band. 4 minimum 20% (charger — 3 flashing-point)|Turn it off. VPN Firewalls that can block the connection|Remove old Mi Fit versions if they were installed earlier-->

Pay special attention to the permissions of the application. On Android, you must manually allow:

• 📍 Access to geodata (for accurate jogging tracking)
• 📱 Access to notifications (to see) SMS and the tracker screen calls)
• 🔋 Battery Optimization (exclude Mi Fit from Power Saving Mode)

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If you have Android 12+, Add the Mi Fit app to the Allow Background Activity list in the battery settings, which will prevent the connection to the tracker from breaking.

2. Installation and configuration of the Mi application Fit/Zepp Life

Xiaomi officially recommends Mi Fit, but since 2023 has been actively promoting its successor, Zepp Life. Both apps are compatible with Mi Band 4, but the interface and location of some features are different.

Step 1: Download and Registration

• 🔗 For Android: Mi Fit on Google Play or Zepp Life
• 🍎 For iOS: Mi Fit in the App Store or Zepp Life

After installation:

1. Start the app and select the language (Russian is supported in both).
2. Click "Register" and specify a valid email or phone number.
3. Confirm your account through SMS/email (without this, data synchronization will not be possible).

Step 2: Initial profile setting

After registration, the application will offer to fill in personal data:

• 👤 Gender, age, height and weight (affects calorie and step accuracy)
• 🏃‍♂️ Activity goals (8000 steps default, but can be changed)
• 🛌‍♂️ Sleep time (important for automatic sleep phase tracking)

3. Step-by-step instruction for pairing the Mi Band 4 with a phone

Now, to the process of connection, follow the instructions carefully, because the order of action is important.

Step 1: Activate the tracker

Take the Mi Band 4 out of the package and do the following:

1. Connect the tracker to the charging cable (magnetic connector) and wait for the charging icon (3 dots) to appear on the screen.
2. After 5-10 press and hold the touch button under the screen until the word "Pair" appears (on some firmware - "Pair").
3. Release the button - the tracker is ready to connect.

Step 2: Adding a device to the app

In the Mi Fit or Zepp Life app:

1. Press "+" or "Add device" in the upper right corner.
2. Select from the list of "Mi Smart Band 4" (in Zepp Life it can be called "Mi Band 4").
3. Press "Hide" and confirm access to Bluetooth.

Step 3: Confirmation of connection

The phone will have a 6-digit code on its screen, and at the same time:

• On the phone, click "Confirm."
• On the tracker, tap the touch button under the code.

If the codes match, the connection is set, the tracker vibrates, and a tick appears on the screen.

4.Configure the main functions after connection

Once paired successfully, you need to configure the tracker's key parameters, and without that, many functions will not work properly.

Update to firmware

Once connected, the app will prompt you to update the firmware. It is not recommended to refuse the update, since older versions may not have critical fixes for working with modern smartphones. 3-5 - Minutes:

• 🔋 Make sure the tracker charge is >50%.
• 📶 Connect your phone to stable Wi-Fi (air-to-air update weighs) ~10-15 MB).
• ⚠️ Do not interrupt the process – this can lead to the “bricking” of the device.

Configuring notifications

To see alerts about calls and messages:

1. In the app, go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 4 → Notifications.
2. Turn on the "Call Notifications" switch.
3. Click “Manage Notifications” and select apps (such as WhatsApp, Telegram).
4. On Android, allow Mi Fit to access notifications in your system settings.

Personalization of the dial

Mi Band 4 supports interchangeable dials to set a new one:

1. In the app, go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 4 → Display.
2. Select "Dials" and scroll through the list of available options.
3. Click on your favorite dial and confirm the installation.

Please note: some dials require additional permissions (e.g. weather access).

5. Solving common connection problems

Even with the correct following of the instructions, users often encounter errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

5.1.The tracker is not detected in the annex

If the Mi Band 4 is not listed in the list of available devices:

• 🔄 Reboot Bluetooth on your phone (turn off/on in settings).
• 📱 Remove the tracker from the list of conjugated devices in Bluetooth settings.
• 🔋 Check the tracker charge (at level) <10% he may not be signaling).
• 🛠️ Reinstall the Mi app Fit/Zepp Life.

5.2. "Unable to connect" error (code 10001, 10002)

These errors are usually associated with:

• 🌐 Unstable Internet connection (check it out) Wi-Fi/mobile).
• 🔒 Blocking the connection with an antivirus or VPN (Turn them off temporarily).
• ⏳ Older version of the app (update Mi Fit in the store).

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If the error occurs on iOS, try to turn on Flight mode for 10 seconds, then turn off and reconnect.

5.3.The tracker is connected, but does not sync the data

If steps, pulse or sleep are not displayed in the app:

• 🔄 Manually update the data (pull the screen down in the Mi Fit main menu).
• 📱 Check the app's permissions (access to physical activity and storage).
• 🔋 Reboot the tracker (hold the button for 10 seconds).

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If the problem persists after all the manipulations, try resetting the tracker to factory settings: → About the device → Reset (in annex).

Optimization of Mi Band 4: tips of experienced users

To ensure that your tracker works stably and as long as possible, follow these recommendations:

Extension of autonomous operation time

• 🔋 Turn off the "Raising your hand for lighting" (saves up to 20% charge).
• 📴 Reduce the frequency of data synchronization to 1 time in 6 hours.
• 🌙 Use dark dials (AMOLED-screen uses less energy).
• ⚡ Disable notifications from unnecessary applications.

Improved accuracy of measurements

• 🏃‍♂️ For accurate footstep count, wear a tracker on a non-dominant hand (for right-handers, the left one).
• 💓 To measure your pulse, sit down and don't move. 1-2 minute.
• 🛌‍♂️ To track sleep, wear a tracker 30 minutes before going to bed.

Protection against moisture and mechanical damage

Despite the stated level of protection 5 ATM, remember:

• 🚿 You can swim in the pool, but it is not recommended to dive deeper than 1 meter.
• 🧼 After contact with water, wash the tracker with fresh water and dry.
• 🔥 Avoid saunas and baths (temperatures above 40)°C damages sealing).

7. Alternative ways of connection (without an official annex)

If for some reason you can't use Mi Fit or Zepp Life, there are alternative pairing methods. But they have limitations.

Connection via Notify & Fitness (Android)

Notify & Fitness app allows you to:

• 📊 Synchronize footsteps, sleep, and pulse.
• 🔔 Configure notifications more flexible than in Mi Fit.
• 🎨 Set up informal dials.

To connect:

1. Install the application and provide all the permissions requested.
2. In the menu, select "Connect the device" → "Mi Band 4".
3. Follow the instructions on the screen (similar to Mi Fit).

7.2. Connection via Gadgetbridge (open source)

Gadgetbridge is an open source app that supports Mi Band 4.

• 🔓 No link to Xiaomi account.
• 🛠️ More settings for experienced users.
• 🌐 Support for the Russian language.

Cons:

• ⚠️ No official support (possible bugs).
• 📵 Not all features work (e.g. Mi Pay payments).

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Alternative applications are suitable for power users, but may not be guaranteed. For stable operation, we recommend using official software.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting Mi Band 4