How to reset the settings of the fitness bracelet Xiaomi Mi Band 5: all ways

The Xiaomi Mi Band 5 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular gadgets for tracking activity, despite the release of new models. Over time, users face the need to return the device to the factory settings - whether before sale, after synchronization failure or to fix software errors. However, not everyone knows that reset can be done in three different ways, each of which is suitable for specific situations.

In this article, we will not only examine the standard procedure through the Mi Fit/Zepp Life app, but also alternative methods – hardware reset button, forced reboot when getting stuck, and the nuances of recovery after a failed firmware update. Particular attention will be paid to the hidden functions of the bracelet that are activated only after a full reset (for example, the display and sensor test). If your Mi Band 5 stopped responding to touch, does not sync with your smartphone or shows incorrect data, this instruction will help bring it back to life without contacting the service.

When you need to reset the Mi Band 5 settings

Factory reset is a last resort, but sometimes it becomes the only solution, and here are typical scenarios where the procedure is justified:

• 🔄 Transfer of the bracelet to a new owner.Without reset, the previous Xiaomi account will remain tied, and the new user will not be able to sync data.
• 🐌 Slowing down or lag. If the bracelet starts to slow down, doesn't respond to swipes or a button, the reset will clear the cache and temporary files.
• 🔌 Synchronization problems: Errors like “Unconnected” or endless “Synchronization...” are often solved by a complete reset.
• 📱 Changing your smartphone or Xiaomi account: Linking to a new device may require cleaning up old data.
• 🔄 Failed firmware update: If the bracelet stops turning on or doesn't work properly after the update, the reset helps restore stability.

It’s important to understand that resetting removes all user data from the wristband: steps, sleep history, alarm clocks, screen settings and notifications. However, the information in the Mi Fit/Zepp Life app on your smartphone will remain intact — unless you manually remove the anchor.

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet is discharged below 20%, the reset may result in a breeze (completely inoperable.

Method 1: Reset via Mi Fit or Zepp Life

This is the safest and most recommended method, as it is executed under the control of official software. Instructions are suitable for both versions of the application - Mi Fit (old interface) and Zepp Life (new branding from Huami).

Steps for discharge:

1. Open the Mi Fit or Zepp Life app on your smartphone.
2. Go to your bracelet profile (shoot it on the home screen).
3. In Mi Fit: select Device Settings → Additional → Settings Reset. In Zepp Life: Bracelet Profile → Settings → Data Reset.
4. Confirm the action on the smartphone screen and wait for the process to be completed (usually takes 1-2 minutes).

After resetting, the bracelet will automatically restart and prompt you to perform the initial setup, as after purchase. If this does not happen, manually restart the device, holding the touch button for 10-15 seconds.

Bracelet charge >50%|Smartphone connected to the Internet|Bluetooth on.|Other applications using Bluetooth are closed|Data backup in the cloud-->

Method 2: Hardware reset button (if bracelet does not respond)

If the Mi Band 5 is frozen, not on or synced with your smartphone, you can make a forced reset with a physical button, which works even without a phone connection.

Instructions:

1. Remove the bracelet from your hand and place it on a flat surface.
2. Find the touch button below the screen (it also serves to return to the menu).
3. Hold the button for 15-20 seconds until the Mi logo and vibration appear on the screen.
4. Release the button and the bracelet will start the reset process (it will take about 30 seconds).

If nothing happens after holding the button:

• 🔋 Check the battery charge (plug in to charge for 10 minutes).
• 🧲 Hold the button for longer, up to 25 seconds.
• 🔌 Connect the bracelet to charging and try again (sometimes the reset is blocked when the charge level is low).

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse hardware reset with hardware test. If, after holding the button, the bracelet starts flashing and vibrating at an unusual rhythm, this is diagnostic mode. To get out of it, just plug the bracelet into charging.

Method 3: Reset via file system (for power users)

This is a method that works for those who are familiar with the Mi Band file system and are willing to connect the bracelet to a PC, and it's useful if the standard methods didn't work, but the bracelet is still defined by the computer as a removable drive.

The discharge will require:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 🔌 Original charging cable for Mi Band 5 (C) USB-A adapter).
• 📁 Any file manager (e.g., Total Commander or standard Explorer).

Step-by-step:

1. Connect the bracelet to your computer via a charging cable, wait until it is identified as a removable disk (usually a MIBAND5 disc appears).
2. Open the disk in the file manager and find the config.ini file (or settings.dat in some firmware).
3. Delete this file or rename it config.ini.bak.
4. Safely remove the bracelet and reboot it with the button holding.

Once rebooted, the bracelet will create a new configuration file with factory settings, a method that doesn't remove the firmware, but resets all user data.

What to do after resetting: initial setup

After a successful reset, the Mi Band 5 will return to the boxy state.

1. Link the bracelet to your account: Open the Mi Fit/Zepp Click on Add Device and select Mi Smart Band 5. - Follow the instructions on the screen (scanning) QR-bracelet).
2. Update firmware (if available): - Go to Bracelet Profile → Firmware Update. - Make sure charge >50% before upgrading.
3. Set up notifications and tracking options: - Enable alerts for calls, SMS Activate sleep, heart rate and monitoring SpO₂ (oxygenation).

If, after resetting, the bracelet is not determined by the annex:

• 📱 Reboot your smartphone and bracelet.
• 🔄 Remove the bracelet from the device list in your phone’s Bluetooth settings and re-assign.
• 📋 Check that the right region is selected in Mi Fit (some features are not available in some countries).

💡

After reset, the bracelet may suggest activating hidden functions, such as a display test (colored stripes) or checking sensors. To start them, quickly tap the screen 5 times in a row in the main menu.

Solving problems after discharge

Sometimes, when you go back to the factory settings, you have a problem.

1.The bracelet is not synchronized with the phone

Causes and means of elimination:

• 📵 Bluetooth disabled: Turn it on your smartphone and allow Mi Fit to use geolocation (required for Android 10)+).
• 🔄 Conflict with other devices: Remove all previously connected bracelets in Bluetooth settings.
• 📱 Older version of the app: Update Mi Fit/Zepp Life on Google Play/App Store.

2.The bracelet does not vibrate or respond to touch.

Possible solutions:

• 🔋 Check the charge (plug in to charge for 30 minutes).
• 🔄 Perform a hard reboot: Hold the button for 20 seconds, then release and immediately press again.
• 🛠️ If the screen flickers or shows artifacts, it may be a plume detachment (repair required).

3. data is not stored (steps, sleep)

What to check:

• ☁️ Sync with the cloud: In Mi Fit go to Profile → Settings → Synchronize data and enable automatic download.
• 📱 App permissions: On Android, check that Mi Fit has access to physical activity (Settings) → Annexes → Mi Fit → Permits).
• 🔄 Reset counters: In the bracelet menu, find Settings → Data reset (separate from total reset).

⚠️ Note: If the bracelet shows an Error 16 or Error 32 after reset, it means that the firmware is damaged. You can only restore the functionality through forced firmware using MiBandTools or Notify & Fitness software (you need a root on your phone or a special adapter for your PC).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many users make the same mistakes when resetting the Mi Band 5, which leads to additional problems.

• ❌ Reset settings when charging <10%: - The risk of a breeze (firmware breakage) increases in 3 Always charge the bracelet to a minimum. 30%.
• ❌ Interrupt the reset process: If the progress bar is on the bracelet screen, do not disconnect it from the phone and do not press the button.
• ❌ Use non-original chargers: - Cheap cables can damage the power controller, which will lead to the inability to turn on.
• ❌ Reset the bracelet during firmware update: - This is guaranteed to lead to a soft breech. If the update is suspended, wait for the battery to discharge (the bracelet will restart automatically).

If you doubt the success of the reset, check the following signs:

• ✅ The bracelet vibrates and shows a welcome message.
• ✅ In the Mi Fit app, the bracelet appears as new (tied).
• ✅ All user settings (dials, alarm clocks) are reset.

💡

If the bracelet is not turned on after reset, but is defined by the computer as a Unknown Device device, this is a sign of damaged firmware, and it can only be restored through specialized software (for example, MiBand5Tools) or by contacting a service center.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions