The 2016 Xiaomi Mi Band 2 fitness bracelet is still popular with users for its simplicity, reliability and availability, but even such a time-tested device can start to malfunction: sudden reboots, synchronization problems, smartphone connection errors or incorrect display of data, and in most cases these problems are solved by a complete reset to factory settings β a procedure that returns the bracelet to its original state, as after purchase.
In this article, we will discuss in detail all possible ways to reset the Mi Band 2, including the software method through the Mi Fit app (or its alternatives) and hardware reset using a physical button, and learn how to prepare for the procedure so as not to lose important training data, and what to do if the bracelet does not respond to commands, and pay special attention to the typical errors that users make when reseting, and how to avoid them.
When do I need to reset Xiaomi Mi Band 2?
Factory reset is an extreme measure that should only be resorted to when other methods of solving problems have not worked, and here are the main symptoms indicating the need for resetting:
- π The bracelet is constantly reset or turned off for no reason, even when fully charged.
- π± Not synced with your smartphone via Bluetooth, despite reinstalling the Mi Fit app.
- β οΈ Errors appear on the screen (for example, an exclamation mark icon or a flashing indicator).
- π Battery discharges quickly (less than 2 days of operation), although it used to hold the charge longer.
- π Step, pulse, or sleep data are not stored or displayed incorrectly.
- π Bracelet blocked after failed change attempt PIN-code.
If you encounter one of these issues, try rebooting the bracelet first (hold the 10 seconds button) or updating the firmware through Mi Fit. If that doesn't work, start resetting.
Preparing for resetting: how to save data
Resetting to factory settings completely removes all data from the bracelet, including:
- π Statistics of steps, distances traveled and calories.
- β€οΈ Data on heart rate and training.
- π΄ Sleep information (deep/light sleep phases).
- β° Settings of alarm clocks and notifications.
To avoid losing this information, follow the following steps:
- Sync your data with the Mi Fit app: Open Mi Fit on your smartphone. Go to Profile β Mi Band 2. Click Sync and wait for the process to complete.
Save the screenshots.
Export data
Google Fit
Apple Health
Mi Fit
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If the bracelet doesnβt sync, try connecting it to another smartphone with the Mi Fit installed. Sometimes this helps wake up the Bluetooth module and save data before resetting.
If you use alternative firmware (e.g. Mi Band Master or Notify & Fitness), please note that after resetting the bracelet will return to Xiaomi stock firmware and all custom settings will be lost.
Method 1: Reset via Mi Fit (recommended method)
This is the safest and easiest way to reset, and it works 90% of the time.
- π± Smartphone with Mi Fit application installed (version not lower than 4.6.0).
- π Charged bracelet (at least 50%).
- π Stable Internet connection (for data synchronization before resetting).
Step-by-step:
- Open Mi Fit and connect to the bracelet (if it is not already connected).
- Go to the Profile section β Mi Band 2.
- Scroll down and select Disable Device (or Delete Device in newer versions of the app).
- Confirm the action by clicking Disable.
- After turning off, go back to the Mi Fit main menu and click Add Device.
- Select Mi Band 2 from the list and follow the instructions on the screen to re-bind.
βοΈ Preparation for discharge via Mi Fit
Once re-bounded, the bracelet will be reset to factory settings, but all data previously synced with the Mi Fit will remain in the app.If the bracelet doesn't turn off via the menu, try removing it from the Bluetooth device list in your smartphone settings, and then repeat the process.
What if Mi Fit canβt see the bracelet?
Method 2: Hardware reset via button (if bracelet does not respond)
If the Mi Band 2 doesnβt turn on, is stuck on the logo, or is not synced with any device, you will have to perform a hard reset using a physical button, which works even with a fully discharged battery (if the bracelet reacts to charging in any way).
Warning: The hardware reset completely erases all data from the bracelet, including firmware, and may result in the need to reflash the device manually if the stock firmware is damaged.
Instructions:
- Connect the bracelet to the charger (even if it is discharged).
- Find the touch button on the case (it is located below the screen).
- Press the button for 15-20 seconds until the Mi logo or vibration appears on the screen.
- Release the button and wait for the reboot (it can take up to 1 minute).
- Once you reboot, the bracelet will be reset, and you can now re-tire it with Mi Fit.
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If the bracelet does not turn on or flashes a red indicator after a hardware reset, this may indicate firmware damage, in which case you will need to flash through the Mi Band Tool or service center.
If the bracelet does not respond to the button holding, try the following:
- π Connect it to charging for 30 minutes, then try again.
- π Hold the button for up to 30 seconds (sometimes it takes longer).
- π± Bring the bracelet to NFC-Smartphone tag (if supported) β sometimes it helps to wake up the device.
Method 3: Reset via third-party applications (for power users)
If standard methods do not work, you can try to reset the bracelet with the help of specialized utilities, such as:
- π οΈ Mi Band Tool (for firmware and resetting).
- π§ Notify & Fitness for Mi Band (alternative to Mi Fit).
- π₯οΈ Gadgetbridge (for users who prefer open source software).
These applications allow you not only to reset your settings, but also to install custom firmware if the stock is unstable, but they require caution:
β οΈ Warning: Incorrect firmware through third-party utilities can permanently disable the bracelet.If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to contact the Xiaomi service center.
Example of reset via Mi Band Tool:
- Download and install the Mi Band Tool from the official website.
- Connect the bracelet to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
- In the app, select Device β Factory Reset.
- Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.
After resetting through third-party utilities, you may need to re-bind to Mi Fit or adjust the bracelet from scratch.
Table: Comparison of reset methods Xiaomi Mi Band 2
| Method | Difficulty | Conditions required | Data retention | Risks. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Through Mi Fit. | β (simple) | Working bracelet, smartphone with Mi Fit | Data in the annex are retained | Minimum |
| Hardware discharge | ββ (middle-of-the-road) | Charged bracelet, access to the button | All data is deleted | Possible firmware errors |
| Third-party utilities | βββ (difficult) | Installed software, experience with firmware | Depends on the utility. | High risk of "bricking" |
Frequent Resetting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many users make common mistakes that can lead to even more problems with the wristband, and here are the most common ones:
- π Reset with low battery charge (less than 30%) This can interrupt the process and damage the firmware.Always charge the bracelet before resetting!
- π± Use an outdated version of Mi Fit. Older versions may not support Mi Band 2 or have sync bugs. Update the app via Google Play or App Store.
Another common problem is that the bracelet is not detected after the reset.
- Make sure that the Bluetooth on your smartphone is turned on.
- Reboot the phone.
- Remove the bracelet from the list of conjugate devices in Bluetooth settings.
- Try connecting from another phone.
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If the bracelet does not vibrate or turn on after reset, connect it to charging for 1-2 hours. Sometimes the deep discharge of the battery blocks the start.
What if the reset didn't help?
If you've had problems with the Mi Band 2 after you've reset, it could be a hardware malfunction or a broken firmware.
- π§ Fly the bracelet through Mi Band Tool or Gadgetbridge. download the official firmware from Xiaomi website or trusted forums (for example, download official firmware from Xiaomi website or trusted forums, 4PDA).
- π If the bracelet discharges quickly even after being discharged, it is possible that the battery is worn out (lifespan). ~You can replace her at the service center.
- π‘ Check the Bluetooth module on your smartphone. Sometimes the sync problems are not with the bracelet, but with the phone.
- π If the bracelet does not turn on or respond to the reset, the board or display may be damaged.
If you decide to sew the bracelet yourself, follow these rules:
β οΈ Note: Use only firmware designed for Mi Band 2 (model) XMSH05HM). Firmware from Mi Band 1S Mi Band 3 can also bring down the device!
Forums often advise βswifting the bracelet through Mi Fit,β but the app doesnβt actually support manual firmware, requiring specialized tools like the Mi Band Tool or nRF Connect (for advanced users).