How to install and configure Xiaomi Mi Band 4: from unpacking to synchronization

The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular activity tracking gadgets even years after its release. Its simplicity, reliability and rich functionality — from sleep monitoring to smartphone notifications — make the device relevant for beginners and experienced users. However, many face difficulties already at the stage of first setting: the bracelet does not connect to the phone, does not detect in the application or displays the wrong time. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step installation of the Mi Band 4, taking into account all the nuances relevant for 2026, including the choice between the Mi Fit and Zepp applications, solving typical Life errors and displaying the wrong functions.

It is important to understand that the installation process is different from the newer models (Mi Band). 5/6/7). For example, Mi Band. 4 Does not support automatic synchronization via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) In the background, it's as stable as the current versions. NFC For contactless payments, only available in the Chinese version of the wristband, which is worth considering when buying. If you have just unpacked the device or decided to reinstall it after resetting, the following instructions will help you avoid common problems and configure the gadget as efficiently as possible.

1.Preparation for installation: what to check before starting

Before you start setting up, make sure you have everything you need, which will save time and eliminate unnecessary actions.

• 📲 Mi Fit or Zepp Life app (download from official stores – App Store or Google Play).

Pay special attention to the bracelet firmware version. Outdated software can cause connection failures. You can check the relevance of the application settings (Device Profile section) → If the bracelet is new, it probably has already updated automatically when it first turns on. However, if you bought the device from hand, it is better to reset to factory settings (Settings). → Reset on the bracelet itself).

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If you have an iPhone, turn off the Bluetooth Connection Limit function in the settings before installing (Settings) → Bluetooth → i (information) → This will prevent the Mi Band 4 from automatically disconnecting from the phone.

It is also worth considering that the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 was released in several versions:

If you have a version of NFC, But if you're outside of China, you can't activate the payment function, because the chip is locked at the firmware level, and then you'd better just reflash the bracelet to the global version of the software. 4PDA or XDA Developers).

2.Installation of the application: Mi Fit or Zepp Life - which one to choose?

Officially, the Xiaomi Mi Band 4 supports two apps: Mi Fit (from Xiaomi) and Zepp Life (from Huami, the hardware developer for Xiaomi). Both have pros and cons, and the choice depends on your priorities. Let's break down the key differences:

• 🔹 Mi Fit: ✅ Simple interface, familiar to Xiaomi users. ✅ Support for Russian language and local servers (data stored in Russia). ❌ Less sleep and exercise analytics compared to Zepp Life. ❌ Frequent synchronization bugs on iOS.

For most users in Russia, Mi Fit is the best choice, especially if you care about localization and stability. However, if you're active in sports and want detailed analytics, you should try Zepp Life. Both apps are free, so you can install both and compare.

After selecting the annex:

1. Download it from the official store (App Store or Google Play).
2. Register an account (you can use Xiaomi, Google or Apple) ID).
3. Provide all the permissions requested (geolocation, notifications, access to contacts).

Important: If you have previously used another Xiaomi fitness bracelet (such as Mi Band 3), remove the old device from the application before connecting to Mi Band 4.

3. Connecting the bracelet to the phone: step-by-step instructions

Now, to the most important step, pairing the bracelet with your phone, follow the instructions carefully to avoid errors:

1. Open the app (Mi Fit or Zepp Life) and go to Profile → Add the device.

If you encounter a “Device Cannot Be Found” error during the connection step, try the following steps:

Once you've successfully connected, the app will prompt you to update your firmware, and don't give up the update, which will fix any bugs and add new features (e.g., support for extra dials), which will take 5-10 minutes, don't interrupt it, or turn off Bluetooth.

4. Setting the time, date and notifications

One of the most common problems after you connect is the wrong time on the bracelet, which is because you don't sync with your phone.

1. Open the app (Mi Fit or Zepp Life).
2. Go to Profile. → Mi Smart Band 4 → Settings of the device.
3. Find the time and date (or synchronization of time).
4. Activate Auto Sync or press Sync Now.

If time is still running out, check:

• ⏰ Time zone on your phone – it should match your region.
• 📶 Network settings – if the phone is not connected to the internet, automatic time synchronization may not work.
• 🔄 App permissions – make sure that Mi Fit/Zepp Life has access to the calendar and time of the device.

To set up notifications:

1. In the app, go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 4 → Notifications.
2. Turn on the option to display notifications.
3. Select the apps you want to see on your bracelet (e.g. WhatsApp, Telegram, Gmail).
4. Set up vibration and display of the notification text (you can limit yourself to the application icon only).

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If notifications don't come to the wristband, check the power saving settings on your phone. Some manufacturers (e.g. Xiaomi, Huawei) block the background of applications to save battery. Add Mi Fit or Zepp Life to the exclusion list.

Also, pay attention to the alarm clock settings:

• 🕒 In the application you can create up to 10 alarm clocks with a repetition by day of the week.
• 🔔 On the bracelet, the alarm is triggered by vibration (no sound).
• ⏰ To turn off the alarm clock, scroll the bracelet screen to the right and tap the alarm icon.

5. Installation of dials and additional functions

One of the advantages of the Mi Band 4 is the ability to change watch faces, which are few standard options, but you can download additional ones through an app or third-party services (such as Amazfit Watch Faces).

1. Open Mi Fit or Zepp Life.
2. Go to Profile. → Mi Smart Band 4 → Dials.
3. Choose your favorite option from the offered or click More to download new ones.
4. After selecting the dial automatically synchronizes with the bracelet (can take up to 1 minute).

For the installation of custom dials (for example, with 4PDA):

1. Download the dial file in.bin format.
2. Put it in a folder. MiFit/bin on your phone (create it manually if it doesn't exist).
3. In the Mi Fit app, update the dial list - your custom option should appear.

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If the dial is not installed, check the firmware version of the bracelet. Some custom themes require firmware at least 1.0.9.54. Update the software through the app!

In addition, Mi Band 4 has hidden features that many don’t use:

• 🔍 Phone search: in the menu bracelet select More → Find the phone – the phone will emit an audible signal (even if it is in silent mode).
• 🚶 Menstrual cycle tracking: available in Mi Fit in Health → Women's health.
• 🎵 Music control: you can switch tracks from the bracelet and adjust the volume (works with most players).
• 🔋 Power Saving Mode: Turns off screen and notifications, but leaves pedometer and alarm (included in Settings) → Battery).

If you are exercising, remember to set up training trackers:

• In the app, select Trainings → Types of activity.
• Activate the right sports (running, cycling, swimming, etc.).
• On the bracelet, you can start the workout through the Training menu (swipe down on the home screen).

Typical errors and their solution

Even after a successful installation, users face problems, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

If the bracelet is not charged, check:

• 🔌 Cable and charger - try another USB-port.
• 🧹 Contacts on the bracelet - they should be clean (wipe with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol).
• 🔋 Charging indicator – when connected to power, a battery icon should appear on the screen.

If you encounter a connection error "Device not supported", this may mean:

• You try to connect the bracelet to an incompatible application (for example, Mi Wear instead of Mi Fit).
• You have an outdated version of the app (update it).
• The bracelet was previously linked to another account (reset).

7. Reset the bracelet to factory settings

If the Mi Band 4 is unstable or you want to sell it, do a reset, which will delete all data from the device and return the settings to the original state.

1. On the bracelet, swipe the menu up to the Settings item (cog icon).
2. Select Reset (the last item on the list).
3. Confirm the action by pressing the touch button.
4. Wait for the bracelet to reboot (it can take up to 1 minute).

Once reset, the bracelet will be like a new one, and you'll have to reconnect it to your phone, and if you're planning to sell it or transfer it to another person, you'll also have to:

• 📱 Remove the bracelet from the application (Profile) → Mi Smart Band 4 → Remove the device).
• 🔄 Unplug your Xiaomi account if it was tied.

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Reset does not remove the bracelet firmware, only user data (dials, notification settings, statistics) If the bracelet does not work correctly after reset, update its software through the application.

If the reset does not solve the problem (for example, the bracelet does not turn on or not connect), a flashing may be required. This is a complex procedure that can lead to loss of warranty, 4PDA), We recommend you to contact the service center if you are not sure about your skills.

8. Operational tips: how to extend the life of the bracelet

To make Xiaomi Mi Band 4 last longer, follow these guidelines:

• 💧 Avoid prolonged contact with water despite claimed water resistance 5 ATM. After bathing or showering, wipe the bracelet with a dry cloth.
• 🔋 Charge the bracelet correctly: Use only the original cable. Don't leave charging for more than 2 hours. Avoid overheating (do not charge in direct sunlight).
• 🛡️ Protect the screen from scratches – use a protective film or cover (sold separately).
• 📵 Regularly sync data with the application so as not to lose statistics when crashing.
• 🔄 Update the firmware when new versions appear – this fixes bugs and adds features.

You should also know about the hidden capabilities of the bracelet:

• 📊 Data export: statistics can be uploaded to Google Fit or Apple Health for analysis.

If you notice that the bracelet began to discharge quickly, check:

• 🔍 Active features: Turn off unnecessary notifications, constant synchronization, or heart rate tracking.
• 📱 Background processes: in the phone settings, limit background activity Mi Fit/Zepp Life.
• 🔋 Battery status: If the bracelet holds charge for less than a day, it may be necessary to replace the battery (average service life is 2-3 years).

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To extend the life of the battery, turn off automatic pulse measurement in the background. It is enough to turn it on only during training.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi Band 4