The Xiaomi Mi 6, despite its age, remains a popular device due to its performance and compactness. However, owners of this model often face difficulties when trying to make friends with modern wearable devices, such as the fitness bracelets Mi Band. The problem lies not only in the hardware, but also in the features of the software shell MIUI, which aggressively controls the background processes.
To successfully sync, you will need to not just turn on Bluetooth, but to properly configure permissions and background applications. In this article, we will discuss the entire process in detail, from choosing the right software to deep customizing the system, so that your tracker works stably and does not lose touch with your phone at the most inopportune moment.
It’s worth noting that the Xiaomi Mi 6 supports Bluetooth 5.0, which provides good compatibility with most accessories. However, older versions of the Android operating system may require additional manipulations to work steadily. Let’s start by preparing your smartphone for the installation of a new gadget.
Preparation of Xiaomi Mi 6 to pair with a tracker
The first step before trying to connect any wearable device is to carefully prepare the operating system. On Xiaomi Mi 6 running MIUI, you often find a situation where the Bluetooth module “hangs” or does not see new devices due to the accumulated cache of old connections.
Next, make sure that geolocation is enabled. This is a critical requirement for Android versions 6.0 and higher, since peripheral device scanning (BLE) is tied to location services. Without GPS enabled, the companion app simply won't be able to detect your bracelet in the list of available ones.
It’s also important to check for updates for the Bluetooth module itself, although on the Mi 6 this is done exclusively through MIUI system updates. Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update and make sure you have the latest available firmware installed.
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Before you start setting up, restart your smartphone – this will clear the temporary Bluetooth stack buffers and increase the chances of a device being successfully detected the first time.
Selecting and installing the right companion application
The main mistake of Xiaomi Mi 6 users is to try to use the outdated Mi Fit app, which no longer receives the latest updates. For modern bracelets such as the Mi Band 4, 5, 6 and 7, as well as new watch models, you need to use the Zepp Life app (formerly known as Mi Fit) or the new Mi Fitness app.
If you own a relatively new tracker, download Mi Fitness from the Google Play Store. For older models that are no longer supported in the new app, the only option is Zepp Life. It is important not to mix these apps: one bracelet should be tied to only one app.
- 📱 Zepp Life is perfect for the Mi Band 1-6 Older Amazfit watches and watches.
- ⌚ Mi Fitness – required for Mi Band 7, 8, Watch S1 newer.
- 🏃 Amazfit – used for the Amazfit brand watch (GTR, GTS series).
After installing the app, take your time to open it. First go to your phone's settings and find the Apps → All Apps section. Find the fitness tracker installed on the list and make sure it's given all the necessary rights, especially access to Bluetooth and Geolocation.
Why can't the app see the bracelet?
The process of pairing: step-by-step instructions
Now, let's get straight to the connection procedure. Make sure the bracelet is charged and is next to the Xiaomi Mi 6. Open the Zepp Life or Mi Fitness app and log in to your Mi Account. This is a prerequisite for syncing data to the cloud.
On the main screen of the app, click the plus or Add Device button. The app will start scanning the space. At which point a pairing request may appear on the bracelet screen — confirm it with a touch of the sensor. If the request does not appear, try to bring the bracelet closer to the top of the smartphone, where the antenna is located.