Xiaomi smartwatches and fitness bracelets have become an integral part of the daily lives of millions of users. However, even a simple operation like changing a strap sometimes causes difficulties β especially if the mounting mechanism is not obvious or jammed the lock. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to remove the bracelet from Mi Band, Xiaomi Watch and other devices, including the rare cases when the standard method does not work.
It is important to understand that the design of the strap mount depends on the generation of the device and the type of bracelet (silicone, leather, metal). For example, the Mi Band 7 and Xiaomi Smart Band 8 have different locking mechanisms, and the Xiaomi Watch S3 mounting system generally resembles a classic watch. We will look at each case separately so you can quickly navigate.
If you've never taken off a strap before, don't worry: it takes less than a minute, if you know the nuances, the key is not to use excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic latches or connectors, and at the very least, we'll tell you how to act if the bracelet is jammed or the lock breaks.
1. Standard method: how to remove the band from the Mi Band (all generations)
Most Xiaomi fitness bracelets, from Mi Band 2 to Smart Band 8, use a universal strap attachment mechanism, which is based on plastic rails and a latch bracelet that holds the bracelet in the grooves of the body. Here's how it works:
- π Find the lock button -- there's a small protrusion or recess on the back of the case (on the display side), usually closer to the edge.
- π Press the lock with your nail or flat object (such as a SIM card.
- β‘οΈ Move the strap to the side opposite the display. It should slip out of the groove effortlessly.
- π Repeat for the second side - the locks on both ends of the strap are identical.
If the button doesn't press or the strap doesn't move, don't try to pull it by force. You're probably pressing in the wrong place or the lock is dirty. Clean the dust grooves and try again.
Nails are short-cut (to avoid damaging the display)|
A flat instrument (sim card, mediator) is prepared |
The device is placed on a soft surface (table with a napkin)|
The fixator is visually inspected for the presence of dirt
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On the Mi Band 6 and later, the lock is less visible β easy to miss. If you can't feel the button, light the flashlight at an angle: the ledge should cast a shadow. You can also try to slightly pull the strap to the side to see where it starts to resist β that's where the latch is.
2. Features of removing the strap from the Xiaomi Watch (S3, S2, Color 2, etc.)
The Xiaomi Watch uses a two-stage mounting mechanism similar to a classic watch. There are no buttons here, instead, spring pins (or ears) that hold the strap in the slots of the case. To remove the bracelet, you will need a thin tool:
- Find a pin hole β on the back of the strap, at the base of the body, there is a small indentation (usually on one or both sides).
- Insert the tool (needle, paper clip or special key from the kit) into the hole and press the arrows (in the direction of the strap).
- Holding the pin, pull the strap up - it should come out of the groove.
On the Xiaomi Watch S3 and Watch 2 Pro, the pins can be recessed deeper, so more effort will be required.If the tool slips, wrap its tip with tape for better grip.
Silicone (standard) |
Leather |
Metal (Milanian weaving) |
Tissue (nylon) |
Another option
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| Model clock | Type of attachment | Withdrawal tool | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Watch S3 | Spring pins | Needle, paperclip, key from the kit | Pins are drowned, it takes effort |
| Xiaomi Watch Color 2 | Spring pins | Thin screwdriver (1 mm) | The pin holes are visible from the side |
| Mi Band 7/8 | Plastic latch | Nail, SIM card. | The lock button is hidden under the strap |
| Xiaomi Smart Band Pro | Metal latches | Tweezers or thin pliers | The strap is removed from only one side. |
β οΈ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi Watch) S1) The pins can be asymmetrical -- one is easy to remove and the other requires more effort. Don't confuse that with a breakdown. Just repeat the procedure carefully.
3. What to do if the strap is jammed or the lock is not pressed
Sometimes the strap refuses to be removed even after repeated attempts, and the reasons may be different.
- π§΄ Slot contamination β dust, sweat or hand cream get into the mechanism.
- π₯ Deformation of plastic β if the device overheated (for example, under direct sunlight).
- π₯ Mechanical damage β a fall or impact could have displaced the lock.
Here is the algorithm for "severe" cases:
- Clean the grooves - use a toothpick or compressed air (a balloon) to remove dirt. Don't blow with your mouth - saliva can oxidize the contacts!
- Apply a silicone lubricant (such as a WD-40 Specialist) to the lock. Wait 5 minutes and try again.
- Heat the body with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than 50Β°C!) for 30 seconds - this will expand the plastic and make it easier to remove.
- Use the lever - if the lock is drowned, put it in a thin screwdriver, but do not apply force to the display!
What NOT to do if the strap is not removed
If nothing works, the lock may have broken, so you have to disassemble the case (you need skills and tools) or go to the service center. On Mi Band models, it costs 300-500 rubles to replace the lock, and on Xiaomi Watch, it costs up to 1000 rubles.
4.How to remove a metal bracelet (Milanian weaving) with Xiaomi Watch
Metal bracelets on Xiaomi Watch S3 or Watch 2 Pro are removed differently than silicone ones, using hidden latches that need to be unlocked with a special tool, complete with a watch usually comes a key to remove links (a small fork with two pins), if it is not, you can do with a thin screwdriver or paper clip.
Instructions:
- Put the clock on the table with the display down.
- Find on the back of the bracelet arrows - they indicate the direction in which you need to move the latch.
- Insert the key into the groove between the links and press the arrows side, holding the bracelet with the other hand.
- When the latch moves, pull the bracelet up - it will separate from the body.
β οΈ Warning: Don't try to remove the metal bracelet without the tool! This can bend the links or damage the locking mechanism. If the key is lost, order a duplicate (article). XMSH04ZM most models).
π‘
If the bracelet is too tight on the hand, do not remove it by force β first weaken the adjustment of the links. On metal straps Xiaomi you need to press the button-latch on the side and move the link in the desired direction.
5. Replacement of the strap on Xiaomi Smart Band Pro and other non-standard models
Xiaomi Smart Band Pro and some other models (such as the Mi Band 8 Pro) use unique mounts that are incompatible with standard straps, where the bracelet is fixed using metal guides that enter the grooves of the case and are blocked by miniature latches.
To remove the strap:
- Turn the device over and find two small holes on the sides of the strap.
- Insert a thin needle or paperclip into each hole and press gently inside.
- Holding both locks, pull the strap up and (slightly out).
On the Smart Band Pro, the strap is only removed from one side (usually the right side if you look at the display). If you try to remove it from the other side, you can break the guides. Also, note that this model is suitable only for the original straps - universal (for example, for Mi Band 7) will not work due to different connectors.
6. How to avoid problems when removing the strap: prevention
In order not to encounter a jammed bracelet in the future, follow these tips:
- π§Ό Regularly clean the grooves from dust and sweat - just wipe them with a wet wipe once a month.
- π‘οΈ Avoid extreme temperatures β do not leave your watch in the sun or near heaters.
- π Remove the strap during long-term storage (for example, if you do not use the device for more than a week).
- π οΈ Use only original straps - cheap analogues can deform the grooves.
If you change bracelets frequently, buy a smartwatch care kit (like the Xiaomi Mi Band Toolkit).
- Key to removing metal bracelets
- A groove-cleaning brush
- Silicone lubricant
- Spare latchers
π‘
Never store a Xiaomi watch with a metal bracelet in a wet room (such as a bathroom), which leads to oxidation of contacts and jamming of the mechanism.