The Xiaomi Mi Band 4 fitness bracelet remains one of the most popular wearables even years after its release, and its simplicity, reliability and rich functionality β from sleep monitoring to call notifications β appeal to both beginners and experienced smart tech users. However, many face difficulties already at the first setup stage: the bracelet does not connect to the phone, the application does not see the device, or after synchronization, some functions work incorrectly.
In this article, we will take the Mi Band 4 step-by-step installation from scratch, from unpacking to fine-tuning, and focus on common errors (such as why the bracelet is not defined in Mi Fit), compatibility with different smartphones and hidden features that are not mentioned in the official instructions, and if you just bought the bracelet or decided to reconnect it after resetting, this guide will help avoid common problems.
The installation process for Mi Band 4 and its modifications Mi Band 4 NFC The only difference is the contactless option (available only in the C version). NFC). All screenshots and instructions are up to date for the latest versions of Mi Fit and Zepp Life apps (the successor to Mi Fit) on Android 10.+ iOS 14+.
1.What is included in the kit and how to prepare the bracelet for setting
Before installing, check the contents of the box. The standard set of Xiaomi Mi Band 4 includes:
- π¦ The fitness bracelet itself (capsule with screen)
- π Charging cable (clip with USB-Type A)
- π Short instructions in several languages (Russian included)
- π Rubber strap (black, if you did not buy a color version)
Important: some batches (especially from unofficial stores) may lack a charging cable or go unoriginal accessory. The original clip has the Mi logo and magnetic contacts that securely fix the bracelet during charging.
Before first turning on, follow the following steps:
- Remove the bracelet capsule from the strap, pulling it aside (do not make excessive efforts - plastic locks!).
- Connect the charging cable to USB-The Mi Band 4 does not have a built-in battery in the cable - it only charges from an external power source.
- Place the capsule in the clip so that the contacts on the bracelet match the contacts on the cable, the magnets will help to fix the position.
- Charge the bracelet for at least 30 minutes, which is enough for the initial setup. ~2 hours.
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If the bracelet does not respond to charging, try another one. USB-port or cable. Sometimes the problem is low current (for example, when connecting to a port) USB 2.0 on an old PC).
2. Installation of the application: Mi Fit or Zepp Life?
The Mi Band 4 requires an official app to set up. Since 2022, Xiaomi has been gradually replacing Mi Fit with Zepp Life (formerly known as Amazfit).
| Criteria | Mi Fit | Zepp Life |
|---|---|---|
| Support for Mi Band 4 | Yes (full) | Yes (since 2023) |
| Interface. | Simple but outdated | Modern, with analytics |
| Synchronization of data | Slower, sometimes crashes | Faster, more stable. |
| Additional functions | Basic | Expanded statistics of sleep, training |
| Advertising | There are banners | Less advertising. |
We recommend installing Zepp Life if your smartphone supports this version.
- π€ Android 6.0+ (download on Google Play)
- π iOS 12.0+ (download)
Install Zepp Life or Mi Fit|Turn on Bluetooth|Allow access to notifications|Insert geolocation (for precise pedometer)|Disable the power saving mode for the application-->
After installation of the annex:
- Start with Zepp Life (or Mi Fit).
- Sign up or sign in via your Xiaomi, Google, Apple ID or phone number account.
- Click Add Device β Select Bracelet β Mi Smart Band 4.
What to do if the app does not see the bracelet?
3. Synchronization of the bracelet with a smartphone: step-by-step instructions
When the app and bracelet are ready, start pairing:
- In the Zepp Life app, click Add Device β Mi Smart Band 4.
- The bracelet will have a 6-digit code on its screen, and compare it to the code in the app, they should match.
- Confirm the pairing on the phone and on the bracelet (touch the touch button).
- Wait until the synchronization is complete (it can take up to 2 minutes).
Bracelet charged (minimum 20% charge).
The distance between the bracelet and the phone is not more than 1 meter.
- The phone has Bluetooth and geolocation on.
- The application has all the necessary permissions (notifications, contacts, calendar).-->
Once synchronized successfully, the app will suggest updating the bracelet firmware. Always agree to an update, which will fix bugs and add new features. It will take 5-10 minutes, do not interrupt the connection!
What happens if you interrupt the firmware update?
4.Initial setting: time, notifications, user profile
Once you synchronize, the app will suggest you adjust the basic parameters.
1. User profile
- Specify gender, age, weight and height β this is necessary for accurate calorie counting and sleep analysis.
- Choose a goal by step (standard is 10,000 steps per day, but you can change it).
2.Setting up Mi Band 4 notifications supports notifications about:
- π Incoming calls (with display of number)
- π± SMS and messages from messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, etc.)
- π Calendar events
- π Alarms and reminders
To include notifications:
- In the app, go to Profile β Mi Smart Band 4 β Notifications.
- Activate the Call Notification and Notifications from the apps switch.
- Select the apps you want to see on your bracelet.
- On Android, additionally allow Zepp Life to access notifications in the system settings: β Annexes β Zepp Life β Notifications β Permission.
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On iPhone, notifications may be delayed due to iOS restrictions. To improve stability, turn on the Zepp Life Background App Update option in your iPhone settings.
3.Setting up the screen and interface of the Mi Band 4 has AMOLED-It's a touch-button screen. You can do it:
- π Change the order of the menu in the bracelet settings (Profile) β Display. β Order of the menu).
- π Adjust the brightness of the screen (5 levels).
- β± Set the time of lighting (5-30 seconds).
- π¨ Change the dial (more than 50 options available, including animated ones).
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To save charge, reduce the backlight time to 5 seconds and turn off the automatic screen when lifting your hand (the option to raise your wrist to wake up).
5 Hidden features of Mi Band 4: what does the bracelet besides pedometer
Many users use the Mi Band 4 to count steps, but it does a lot more than that. Here are 5 useful features that are often overlooked:
1. Music management
The bracelet can remotely control the player on the phone:
- π΅ Play/pause β one touch on the screen in music mode.
- π Switching tracks - swipe left/right.
- π Volume control β swipe up/down (does not work in all firmware).
To activate:
- In the app, go to Profile β Music.
- Turn on the Music Management option.
- Run the player on your phone (Spotify, YouTube Music, standard player).
2. Phone search
If you lose your smartphone, you can make it vibrate from the bracelet with a bell:
- On the bracelet, swipe down to the menu More.
- Choose an icon π± Phone search.
- The phone will start ringing at maximum volume (even if it was silent).
3.Do not disturb mode
Turns off all notifications and alarms for a given period (useful in meetings or during sleep):
- On the bracelet: More β π Don't disturb.
- Annex: Profile β Do not disturb (you can set a schedule).
4. Quick responses to messages (Android)
On Android, you can configure template responses to messages directly from the bracelet:
- In Zepp Life, go to Profile β Notifications β Quick answers.
- Add up to 10 templates (e.g., "Right now, I'll call you back," "OK," "Approved").
- When you receive a message on the bracelet, swipe up and select the answer.
5. Real-time monitoring of heart rate
The bracelet can measure the pulse every 5-30 minutes (configurable in the app).
- On the bracelet: More β β€οΈ Pulse.
- Place your finger on the sensor (bottom of the capsule) and do not move for 30 seconds.
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To measure your pulse accurately, remove the bracelet and press the sensor tightly against your wrist. Cold hands or movement can distort the results.
Typical problems and their solutions
Even after you set it up properly, users are going to crash. TOP-5 problems and ways to correct them:
1.The bracelet is not synchronized with the phone
β οΈ Note: If the Mi Band 4 connects to Bluetooth but the data is not updated, check: App version (update Zepp Life in the store); App permissions (access to contacts, calendar, notifications); Power saving mode on the phone (add Zepp Life to exceptions). If it doesnβt help, remove the bracelet from the application and connect again.
2. no notifications are coming.
- On Android: Check if notifications for Zepp Life are disabled in your system settings.
- On iPhone: Enable Notifications and Background Update for the app.
- In Zepp Life itself, make sure notifications are enabled for the right apps.
3.The bracelet discharges quickly
The standard operating time of the Mi Band 4 is 15-20 days, if the charge lasts 2-3 days:
- Turn off the Permanent monitoring of heart rate (in bracelet settings).
- Reduce the brightness of the screen and the backlight time.
- Disable notifications from unnecessary applications.
- Check if the moisture has fallen under the body (this increases battery consumption).
4. The touch button is not working.
If the bracelet does not respond to touch:
- Wipe the screen with a wet wipe (sweat or dirt can block the sensor).
- Reset the bracelet (hold the button for 10 seconds).
- Update the firmware through Zepp Life.
5. Incorrect step counting
If the bracelet overstates or understates the number of steps:
- Check if the strap is tightened correctly (should fit tightly to the wrist).
- Calibrate the pedometer: walk 20 steps, then enter the real number in the application (Profile) β Pedometer settings β Sizing).
- Eliminate random movements (for example, driving a car can knock down the meter).
What to do if the bracelet locks after the update?
7.How to reset Mi Band 4 to factory settings
If the bracelet is unstable or you're transferring it to another user, do a full reset. There are two ways:
Method 1: Through the application
- Open Zepp Life. β Profile β Mi Smart Band 4.
- Scroll down and select Remove the device.
- Confirm the removal and reset of settings.
Method 2: Using a bracelet (if you don't have access to your phone)
- On the bracelet, swipe to the menu.
- Choose. βοΈ Settings β π Reset.
- Confirm the action by touching the touch button.
β οΈ Warning: Reset removes all data from the bracelet, including sleep, exercise and dial settings. It is impossible to recover it after reset - sync the data with the application in advance!
After resetting the bracelet will return to factory settings (time reset at 00:00, the dial will become standard).
8.Useful accessories and upgrades for Mi Band 4
The standard Mi Band 4 kit covers basic needs, but there are accessories that will improve the experience:
| Accessory | Appointment | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone strap (colored) | Replacement with the standard black strap. 6 colors are available. | 300β500 β½ |
| metal strap | Premium view, suited for the office, requires an adapter. | 800β1 500 β½ |
| Protective glass | Prevents scratches on the AMOLED-screen. | 200β400 β½ |
| Charging dock. | Convenient standard clips, protects contacts from wear. | 500β700 β½ |
| Swimming case | Protects against chlorinated water in the pool (the bracelet is waterproof, but chlorine shortens the life of the pool). | 600β900 β½ |
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When buying a strap, make sure it is compatible with the Mi Band 4 (18mm wide).
If you are actively involved in sports, pay attention to the case for the gym - it protects the bracelet from blows with weights or barbells. Swimming case is useful for swimmers, since prolonged exposure to water can damage the microphone (used for voice notifications in some firmwares).