How to install apps on Xiaomi Mi Watch: 5 proven ways

The Xiaomi Mi Watch is not just an accessory for tracking activity, but a full-fledged gadget with the ability to install third-party applications. However, many users face difficulties when trying to expand the functionality of their watches: the official Mi App Store is limited, and alternative methods require technical knowledge. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to install applications on the Mi Watch, Mi Watch Lite, Mi Watch Revolve and other models – from simple to advanced, taking into account the latest firmware updates of 2026.

It is important to understand that the installation options depend on the firmware version and the watch model. For example, the Mi Watch (1st generation) runs on Wear OS, while the Mi Watch Lite uses Xiaomi’s proprietary shell. We will dwell on each case in detail so that you can choose the best method without risking bricking the device. If you are a beginner, start with the official methods (sections 1–2), experienced users will be interested in alternative solutions (sections 3–5).

1. Installation via the official Mi Fitness app (the safest way)

The official method is suitable for most Xiaomi Mi Watch models and does not require root rights or technical skills. All applications are tested by Xiaomi, which minimizes the risk of failure. However, the choice of programs is limited - mainly fitness trackers, weather widgets and utilities for music management.

To install the application:

• 📱 Open the Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit) on your smartphone and connect the watch via Bluetooth.
• 🛒 Go to the Profile section → My devices. → [The name of your watch] → App store.
• 🔍 Find the app you want (like Spotify Controller or Weather Pro) and click “Install».
• ⏳ Wait for synchronization (may take up to 5 minutes) and a successful installation notification will appear on the clock.

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ No popular messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) – only notifications.
• ❌ Applications are often optimized for the Chinese market (may lack localization).
• ❌ Not all models support the store (for example, the Mi Watch Lite has a stripped down functionality).

⚠️ Note: If the application does not appear on the clock after installation, check the firmware version in Settings → The store requires firmware at least 1.40.0 (for the Mi Watch) or 2.10.0 (for the Mi Watch) to operate. S1).

Installation APK-file ADB (for advanced users)

If the official application is not in the store, you can install it. APK-hand-file ADB (Android Debug Bridge. This method works on a Wear-powered watch. OS (Mi Watch 1, for example, but requires a developer mode and PC connection.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn on Developer Mode: On the watch, go to Settings → About Phone and tap 7 times on the build number. Return to Settings, a new Developer section will appear.
2. Activate ADB debugging: In Settings → For developers, enable ADB debugging and ADB Installation.
3. Connect the watch to the PC: Use USB-cable (for Mi Watch you need a USB-Type-C adapter) or connect via Wi-Fi (adb connect command) [IP-clock]).
4. Install APK: Download a compatible APK (for example, with APKMirror) and execute the command: adb install name file.apk

Where to look for compatible APKs? Not all Android apps run on Wear OS.

• 🌐 Wear OS APKMirror - specialized builds for smart watches.
• 📦 Telegram channels with ported applications (for example, Wear Telegram).
• 🛠️ XDA Developers – mods and patches for Xiaomi Mi Watch.

⚠️ Attention: Installation APK from unknown sources may result in the blocking of Mi Account or loss of warranty.

3. Use of third-party launchers (alternative interface)

If you lack the standard Mi Watch interface, you can install a third-party launcher that will expand the installation of applications.

• 🏠 Wear OS Launcher is a classic interface from Google (requires Wear) OS).
• 🎨 Pujie Black – Customized Launcher with Widget Support.
• ⚡ Bubble Cloud – Launches applications through cloud commands.

For launcher installation:

1. Download the launcher's APK (for example, from APKMirror).
2. Install it through ADB (see section 2).
3. Launch the launcher on the clock and select it as the main one in Settings → Applications → By default.

Advantages:

• ✅ The ability to install apps that are not available in the Mi App Store.
• ✅ Flexible interface setting (themes, icons, gestures).

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Battery life may be reduced (launchers consume additional resources).
• ❌ Not all launchers are compatible with Mi Watch Lite (Wear only) OS).

💡

Before installing the launcher, back up the watch through Mi Fitness → Settings → Backup. This will help restore the system if you crash.

4. Installation through third-party stores (APKPure, Aptoide)

If the official Xiaomi store doesn’t suit you, you can use alternative platforms like APKPure or Aptoide, which offer a wider range of applications, including modified versions for Wear OS.

Instructions for APKPure:

1. Download APKPure to your smartphone.
2. Find an app for Wear OS (like Wear OS Tools or Nav Music).
3. Download the APK and transfer it to the watch via ADB or Bluetooth (if supported).
4. Install the file on the watch through any file manager (e.g. File Manager for Wear OS).

Risks of using third-party stores:

5. Manual file copying via Bluetooth (for Mi Watch Lite)

The Xiaomi Mi Watch Lite does not support Wear OS and has a closed system, but some users are finding workarounds, one of which is transferring files over Bluetooth using special utilities such as Mi Band Tools or Notify & Fitness.

Algorithm of action:

1. Install on the smartphone Mi Band Tools.
2. Enable File Transfer mode in the application (in connection settings).
3. Select an APK file (no larger than 10MB) and send it to the watch.
4. On the clock, confirm the receipt of the file (if a request appears).

Important: This method does not work on all Mi Watch Lite firmware. After upgrading to 1.3.6.8 (2023), Xiaomi blocked the transfer of executable files via Bluetooth. If your firmware is newer, try rolling back to the previous version (see section 6).

💡

For the Mi Watch Lite, only minimalist applications without a complex interface are suitable. The best option is custom dials (.watchface) or simple utilities like pedometers.

6. rollback of firmware to enhance capabilities (risky method)

If your Xiaomi Mi Watch model gets an update that blocks app installation (such as the Mi Watch Lite after version 1.3.6.8), you can try to roll back on the old firmware, which is only suitable for power users and can risk data loss.

What you need:

• 🖥️ PC Windows/Linux and installed Mi Flash Tool drivers.
• 📁 You can download the required version on Xiaomi Firmware Updater).
• 🔌 USB-Type-C Cable (to connect the clock to a PC).

Step-by-step:

1. Download the archive with the firmware and unpack it.
2. Connect the watch to your PC in Fastboot mode (hold the power button + top button when you connect USB).
3. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware folder and press Flash.
4. Wait until the process is complete (the clock will reset automatically).

⚠️ Attention: Firmware rollback resets all data on the clock (including steps, training, and settings). Before the procedure, sync the data with Mi Fitness. Also note that after the rollback, the automatic update may block the installation of applications again - disable it in Settings. → Updating the system.

FAQ: Frequent questions about installing apps on Xiaomi Mi Watch