How to connect Xiaomi Mi Band 4 to a smartphone: instructions with pictures and tips

The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular wearables due to its combination of functionality and affordable price. However, many users have difficulties with the first connection to the phone β€” especially if it is a question of changing a smartphone or reinstalling an application. In this article, we will analyze all the steps of bracelet binding, from installing the program to setting up notifications, and also consider typical errors and how to fix them.

It’s important to understand that the Mi Band 4 pairing process differs from newer models (like the Mi Band 6/7) due to the firmware features and supported versions of the app. If you’ve used other Xiaomi trackers before, some steps may seem familiar, but there are key nuances as well – for example, mandatory authorization in the Mi Account or manual firmware updates for connection problems.

This article is relevant for owners of bracelets based on Mi Band 4 (including NFC and Global versions), as well as for smartphones on Android 6.0+ and iOS 10.0+. If your device does not meet these requirements, check compatibility at the end of the article.

1.Preparation for connection: what to do before pairing

Before you start binding the bracelet, make sure that all the prerequisites are met, which will save time and eliminate common mistakes such as inability to find the device or synchronization failures.

First, check the bracelet's charge: the Mi Band 4 should have at least 20% battery charge. At low charge, the device may shut down during pairing or not appear in the list of available gadgets. Charge the bracelet with the original cable (magnetic docking station) for at least 30 minutes - this is enough for the first connection.

Second, prepare your smartphone:

  • πŸ“± Upgrade your operating system to the latest version (especially for iOS, where older versions may not support the latest version). BLE-linkage).
  • πŸ”„ Turn on Bluetooth and allow the Mi Fitness app to use geolocation (required to find devices).
  • 🚫 Close background apps that may block Bluetooth connection (such as other fitness trackers or device managers).
  • 🌐 Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network (required to download the bracelet firmware).

πŸ’‘

If you have previously used the Mi Band 3 or other model, remove it from the Mi Fitness app via the Profile β†’ My Devices menu. Connecting multiple trackers at the same time can cause conflicts.

Also, the Mi Band 4 only supports the official Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit), and alternative programs like Notify & Fitness or Tools & Mi Band allow you to expand the functionality, but they are not suitable for initial binding.

  • πŸ€– Google Play for Android
  • 🍎 App Store for iOS

2. Installation and configuration of the Mi Fitness application

Once you download the Mi Fitness app, you need to set it up correctly, a step that is often missed, leading to errors such as being unable to log in to your account or not having a bracelet on your device list.

When you first run the app, you will select a region, and it is important to specify Russia (or your country of residence), because the availability of sync servers and language packs depends on it. If you choose, for example, China, some functions (for example, payment via Mi Pay) can be blocked.

This is a must-have step: without an account binding, the bracelet will not save data in the cloud, and you may have trouble updating your firmware. If you don't have an account, register it directly in the app:

  1. Press Register.
  2. Please provide a valid email or phone number.
  3. Confirm registration via SMS or letter.
  4. Create a strong password (save it – it will be needed to restore access).
πŸ“Š What version of the Mi Band you are using?
Mi Band 4
Mi Band 5
Mi Band 6
Mi Band 7
Other

After logging in, the app will offer to allow access to notifications, contacts and geolocation, and we recommend that you agree to all requests, otherwise:

  • ❌ Without access to notifications, the bracelet will not vibrate when calling or texting.
  • ❌ Without geolocation, search for a device via Bluetooth may not work.
  • ❌ Without access to contacts, the names of the callers will not be displayed.
What if the app doesn’t see the Mi Account?
If after entering the username and password, an error "Incorrect account" appears, try: 1. Reset the password through the official website. 2. Delete the cache of the Mi Fitness application in the phone settings. 3. Use another login method (for example, through the official website). QR-code).

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to tie Mi Band 4 to a phone

Now, to the mating process itself, follow the instructions carefully, and skipping even one step can cause a failure.

Step 1. Activate the bracelet:

  • πŸ”‹ Connect the Mi Band 4 to charge for 5-10 seconds to turn it on (the Mi logo will appear on the screen).
  • πŸ“± Open the Mi Fitness app and go to the Profile section β†’ Add the device.
  • πŸ” Select from the Mi Smart Band 4 list (if not, update the app).

Step 2. Start searching for the device:

  • πŸ”„ Click Connect and wait for the app to find the bracelet (can take up to 30 seconds).
  • πŸ“² On the screen of the bracelet will appear 4-digit code – confirm it in the application.
  • βœ… After successful pairing, a notification will appear "The device is connected".

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before connection

Done: 0 / 5

Step 3: Update your firmware (if necessary):

After the first connection, the application may suggest updating the firmware of the bracelet. It is not recommended to refuse the update, this can lead to unstable sensors or no notifications. The process will take 2-5 minutes, do not interrupt it or turn off Bluetooth.

If the update is hanging:

  1. Reset the bracelet (press the touch button for 10 seconds).
  2. Remove the device from the application and repeat the binding.
  3. Check the connection to Wi-Fi (firmware downloaded via the Internet).

4. Set up notifications and basic functions

Once you've successfully connected, you have to customize the bracelet to suit your needs, and by default, many of the functions are disabled, so you have to manually activate them.

How to enable notifications:

  1. In the Mi Fitness app, go to Profile β†’ Mi Smart Band 4 β†’ Notifications.
  2. Activate the Call Notification switch.
  3. Select the applications you want to see on your bracelet (for example, WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS).
  4. Set up a time of inactivity (e.g., vibration when sitting for a long time).

Additional settings:

FunctionWhere to turn it onRecommendations
Raising your hand to turn on the screenProfile β†’ Display β†’ Raising the handConveniently, but reduces battery life by 10-15%.
Weather displayProfile β†’ WeatherIt requires access to geolocation in the phone.
Sleep controlProfile β†’ Sleep β†’ Sleep monitoringFor accuracy, wear a bracelet on your non-working hand.
Alarm clockProfile β†’ AlarmsYou can adjust the vibration or the sound signal.

Pay attention to the power saving modes: if the bracelet discharges too quickly, disable unnecessary functions like constant display of time or notifications from social networks. It is also useful to configure Automatic Data Synchronization (in the Profile β†’ Synchronization section) - this will not lose statistics when connection failures.

πŸ’‘

For the correct operation of the pulsemeter, wear a bracelet 2-3 cm above the wrist and tighten the strap so that the sensor fits tightly to the skin, but does not squeeze the blood vessels.

5. Typical errors and their solutions

Even with the right instructions, users face problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Problem 1: The bracelet is not on the list of devices

  • πŸ”‹ Check the bracelet charge (at <10% it may not be displayed).
  • πŸ”„ Reboot Bluetooth on your phone (turn off/on in settings).
  • πŸ“± Remove the Mi Fitness app cache in your phone settings.
  • πŸ”„ Try connecting from another smartphone – if the bracelet is visible, the problem is in your phone.

Problem 2: The app gives an error "Unable to connect"

⚠️ Attention: This error often occurs due to conflict with other Bluetooth devices.Before you try again, disconnect all wireless headphones, smartwatches or speakers from your phone.

Also check:

  • πŸ“Ά Internet connection stability (bracelet firmware can be updated in the background).
  • πŸ”’ The latest version of the Mi Fitness app.
  • πŸ“± Application permissions (access to Bluetooth, notifications, geolocation).

Problem 3: The bracelet is connected but does not show notifications

  • πŸ”” Check if the notifications for Mi Fitness are disabled.
  • πŸ”„ In the app, go to Profile β†’ Mi Smart Band 4 β†’ Notifications and enable the necessary options.
  • πŸ“± For Android: In the app settings, turn off Battery Optimization for Mi Fitness.
  • πŸ“± For iOS: in Settings β†’ Bluetooth find the bracelet and press Forget this device, then repeat pairing.

πŸ’‘

If the bracelet stopped vibrating when alerts were made, check the Do Not Disturb settings on the phone – they can block alerts for all devices.

6 How to untie Mi Band 4 from your phone

If you plan to sell the bracelet, transfer it to another person, or simply reset your settings, you need to properly untie it from your account, and failing to comply with this rule may result in the new owner being unable to connect the device.

Method 1: Through the Mi Fitness app

  1. Open Mi Fitness and go to Profile β†’ Mi Smart Band 4.
  2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Remove the device.
  3. Confirm the action – the bracelet will be disconnected from the account.

Method 2: Reset the bracelet to factory settings

If your phone is lost or the app is not working:

  1. On the bracelet, go to Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Reset (flick the menu with swipes).
  2. Confirm the reset by clicking the tick.
  3. The bracelet will reset and be ready for a new tie.

⚠️ Warning: After resetting all data from the bracelet (steps, sleep, exercise) will be deleted. If it is not synchronized with the application, it will be impossible to restore it.

7. compatibility of Mi Band 4 with different smartphones

Xiaomi Mi Band 4 officially supports most modern smartphones, but there are nuances that you should know about in advance.

For Android:

  • βœ… Supported Android 6.0 and higher.
  • βœ… On Xiaomi phones, Redmi, POCO Advanced integration is possible (e.g., screen unlocking).
  • ❌ Some custom firmware (such as LineageOS) may have problems with Bluetooth. LE.

For iOS:

  • βœ… Supported iOS versions 10.0 and higher.
  • ❌ Features like Mi Pay or unlocking your iPhone are not available.
  • ❌ Notifications only work for standard applications (Calls, SMS, Calendar).

If your phone is not on the supported list, try:

  • πŸ”„ Update the firmware of the bracelet through another smartphone.
  • πŸ“± Use alternative applications (e.g. Notify & Fitness for Mi Band).
  • πŸ”§ Manually enable compatibility mode in Bluetooth settings.

8. Alternative ways of connecting (without an official annex)

In some cases, users choose not to use Mi Fitness, for example, because of restrictions on iOS or a desire to get more functionality.

Notify & Fitness for Mi Band

This third-party software allows:

  • πŸ”” Set up notifications for any application (including VK, Instagram).
  • πŸ“Š Get Extended Training Statistics.
  • 🎨 Change the dials without restrictions (in Mi Fitness many themes paid).

There are, however, downsides:

  • ❌ No official support for Xiaomi (bugs are possible).
  • ❌ Manual access rights settings are required.

Tools & Mi Band app

It is suitable for advanced users because it allows:

  • πŸ”§ Set up vibrations for different types of notifications.
  • πŸ”‹ Optimize battery consumption.
  • πŸ“± Use a bracelet to control your phone’s music or camera.

⚠️ Warning: When using third-party apps, first untie the bracelet from Mi Fitness, otherwise connection conflicts may occur.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting Mi Band 4

Can I connect Mi Band 4 to two phones at the same time?
No, the bracelet only supports binding to one device. To connect it to another phone, first remove it from the Mi Fitness app on the first smartphone.
Why is the bracelet constantly disconnected from the phone?
The reasons may be different: πŸ”‹ Low battery charge bracelet or phone. πŸ“Ά Poor Bluetooth connection (for example, if the phone is in another room). πŸ”„ Conflict with other Bluetooth devices (headphones, speakers). πŸ“± Power-saving mode on the phone that limits background work of Mi Fitness. Try restarting both devices and repeat pairing.
How to update the firmware Mi Band 4 manually?
If automatic updates don’t work: Download the latest firmware from the official website (Support β†’ Mi Band 4 section). Place the.fw file in the MiFit folder on your phone. In the Mi Fitness app, go to Profile β†’ Mi Smart Band 4 β†’ Firmware update. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Can I use Mi Band 4 without a smartphone?
Yes, but with limitations: βœ… Will work pedometer, pulsemeter and alarm clock. ❌ No notifications, data synchronization or weather updates will be received. ❌ You can't change the dial or settings without your phone. You need to sync it periodically to your smartphone to make a full use of the bracelet.
How to reset your Mi Account password if you forget?
Access can be restored through: πŸ“§ Email: Click Forgot Password? on the Mi Fitness Login Screen and Follow the Instructions. πŸ“ž Phone number: request SMS confirmation-coded. 🌐 Official website: account.xiaomi.com β†’ Restore your account: If you have social networks (like Google or Facebook) linked, you can log in through them.