Smart gadget owners often face a situation where it is necessary to accurately identify the device, but there are no explicit inscriptions on the case. Model definition is required for matching accessories, finding firmware or when there are problems with app compatibility. Devices of the Xiaomi brand and its sub-brands, such as Redmi and Amazfit, often have similar designs, which complicates visual identification.
There are several reliable ways to get technical information directly from the screen of a gadget or through a paired smartphone. We will look at software methods, work with factory labeling and the use of specialized software. Understanding these nuances will help you avoid mistakes when buying straps or trying to update software.
In some cases, the user may need to know not just the brand, but the specific article of the device to contact the service center. The exact model number is a critical parameter, since even visually identical versions of the watch can have different hardware stuffing. Ignoring these differences can lead to the installation of incompatible software.
Identification through the system menu of the device
The easiest and fastest way to know which model you have on your hand is to look at the settings of the gadget itself. Most MIUI for Watch or Wear OS devices have a technical information section on their interface. The path usually goes like this: Settings → About System → Version or Settings → System information.
The window that opens displays the model name, operating system version and build number. Please note that the name can be written in English, such as Global Version or China Version. This is important, as Chinese versions may have restrictions on working with certain services outside of China.
- 📱 Go to the main menu and find the gear icon.
- 🔍 Select the "About" or "About" option».
- ℹ️ Find the line “Model” or “Model».
⚠️ Note: Some budget models with a simplified interface (RTOS) The full path to information may be hidden, in which case the system can only show the name of the Bluetooth device, which does not always match the commercial name.
If the menu only shows the version number, try to find the line “Model number” — often a combination of letters and numbers, such as M2101W1 or similar — and this is the code to use when searching for drivers or instructions on official support resources.
Use of Mi Fitness and Zepp Life
The main tool for managing the Xiaomi ecosystem is the mobile app. Depending on the year of release of your gadget, it can be Mi Fitness (formerly Xiaomi Wear) or Zepp Life (formerly Mi Fit). After pairing the watch with the smartphone, full technical information becomes available in the profile of the device.
Open the app and go to the Profile or Devices tab. Click on your watch image. In the device settings menu that opens, scroll down to Device Information. Here you will find the exact (model) list), MAC-address and serial number.
☑️ Checking the data in the annex
The app will also show the firmware version and the date of the last update, which is useful for understanding whether your device is up to date. If the app defines the watch as "Unknown Device" or the model doesn't display correctly, you may be using an unofficial version of the app or a clone of the device.
In the Zepp Life app, information is often hidden deeper, clicking on the watch name, then selecting “Device Settings” and searching for “Information.” In newer versions of Mi Fitness, data is immediately available on the home screen of the device card after scrolling down.
Analysis of factory markings and packaging
Physical marking remains the most reliable source of information, especially if the device is not switched on or mated. The back cover of the watch, at the bottom, is often laser-engraved, and it lists basic characteristics, including the model, charging inputs and the conformity mark.
If the labels are worn off, go to the original packaging, there's always a white barcode sticker on the end of the box, look for a Model or Mdl line, and there's an EAN code that can identify the product in retailer databases.
| Location. | What to look for | Example of designation |
|---|---|---|
| Back cover. | Small print at the bottom. | Model: M2101W1 |
| Box (sticker) | Line Model/Mdl | XMSB01HM |
| Instructions | Front page or cover | Redmi Watch 2 Lite |
In some cases, especially in the early Mi Band models, the markings can be applied to the inner surface of the strap or on the charging contact. Carefully inspect all surfaces in good lighting, you may need a magnifier or macro shot on the phone.
What to do if the marking is erased?
Model definition via IMEI and eSIM
For advanced models with support SIM-eSIM cards or eSIMs such as Xiaomi Watch Color 2 or Watch S1 Pro, a unique identifier is IMEI. This number is assigned to the communication module and allows you to accurately identify the device in the databases of operators and manufacturers.
You can find out the IMEI by typing *#06# in the phone menu (if you have a digital keyboard) or by finding the appropriate item in the About menu. With this code, you can contact support or use the online IMEI verification services to get the exact model name.
Presence of a slot under SIM-A map or eSIM support is a clear sign that you are looking at the flagship or mid-budget model of the Xiaomi Watch line, rather than the simplified Mi Band. Budget activity trackers are rarely equipped with cellular modules due to high power consumption.
- 📶 Check for the “Network” item or «SIM» menu.
- 🔢 Use the *#06# code to output IMEI.
- 🌐 Enter the code on the verification site to obtain a model.
⚠️ Warning: Never report your own IMEI This number can be used to clone a device in the networks of some operators or to block your gadget.
Visual differences and comparison of characteristics
If software methods are not available, you can rely on visual analysis. Mi Band, Redmi Watch and Xiaomi Watch lines have distinctive features. For example, the Mi Band is usually a narrow tracker with a removable module, while the Redmi Watch is a full-fledged square or round watch with a large screen.
Notice the location of the charging contacts. Different models have different locations, from the bottom, the back, or the end, and the number of contacts varies, and it can be two, three, or four, which is an important marker for finding a compatible charger.
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Take a photo of a watch and search Google or Yandex for a picture, which is often faster than a menu search, and will immediately show the model name and similar devices.
The resolution and screen type also give clues. AMOLED-Allways On Display is more expensive, and if the screen fades from the side and has a low brightness, it's likely that it's a very low color. TFT-A matrix that is typical for the budget versions of Redmi or old Mi Band.
The shape of the case is another key factor: Round watches are more likely to be from the Xiaomi Watch S or Color series, while square watches are from the Redmi Watch or Mi Watch Lite. Look at the location of the buttons: having two physical buttons usually indicates a more advanced model compared to devices with a single button or only touch control.
How to distinguish the original from the fake
The wearables market is full of copies. Counterfeiting often copies the look of popular models, but gives themselves away software. When you connect to the official Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app, a fake device may simply not be determined or require a third-party, suspicious app to be downloaded.
Note the quality of the translation interface. In the original firmware Xiaomi translation is usually competent, although it may contain specific terms. in counterfeits often found "broken" Russian, no translation in the system menus or incorrect display of fonts.
- ❌ Application requires download APK source.
- ❌ There is no Mi logo when downloading.
- ❌ Sensor reacts with delay or inaccurately.
Also, the sign of a fake can be the inability to update the firmware, the original devices always have access to the update servers, if the system says in the Software Update menu that you are using the latest version, although it has been a long time since the device was released, this is a reason to be wary.
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The main feature of the original is stable work with official Mi applications. Fitness/Zepp Life and the ability to get firmware updates through them.