First inclusion of Xiaomi Mi Band 5: detailed instructions with photos and tips

You just bought the Xiaomi Mi Band 5, one of the most popular fitness bracelets on the market, but you don’t know how to turn it on and configure it correctly?This article will help you understand the process of activating the device from unpacking to first synchronization with your smartphone. We will take a detailed look at all the steps from charging the bracelet to setting up notifications and basic functions.

It is important to understand that the first inclusion of the Mi Band 5 differs from working with newer models (for example, Mi Band 6 or 7) due to the features of the firmware and compatibility with the Mi Fit application. If you bought a used bracelet or stored it without using it for more than a month, nuances may arise with the software update - we will warn you about them in advance.

In this tutorial, you will find not only basic steps, but also unique tips for eliminating typical errors when you turn on first, which are not described in the official documentation of Xiaomi, for example, what to do if the bracelet does not respond to charging or is not determined in the application.

1. Unpacking and external inspection of the bracelet

Before the first switch on, carefully inspect the Mi Band 5 trim. The standard box should include:

• 📦 Fitness bracelet itself (capsule with display)
• 🔋 Charging cable with magnetic connector (type pogo-pin)
• 📄 Short instructions in several languages (including Russian)
• 🔄 A sleeve (if you bought a set)

Pay attention to the condition of the bracelet:

• 🔍 There should be no scratches or chips on the display (if you bought a new device).
• 🔋 The charging contacts (on the back of the capsule) must be clean, without oxidation.
• 🔄 The strap should be tightly fixed in the grooves of the capsule - check if it dangles.

⚠️ Note: If you bought a used bracelet, check the firmware version in the settings (Device Profile) → Older versions (below 1.0.3.14) may not support modern Android 12 smartphones+.

Also worth noting is the serial number, which is usually listed on the box and on the back of the capsule, which will come in handy if warranty service is required. MIL or MDZ.

Charging the bracelet before first switching on

Mi Band 5 It comes with a minimum battery charge (about) 10-20%), So you have to charge it before you turn it on:

1. Connect the charging cable to USB-port of the computer, charger (5V/1A) or power bank. do not use fast charges with higher voltage 5V — This could damage the battery.
2. Attach the bracelet to the magnetic connector, and the contacts must match the metal plates on the back of the capsule, and you'll hear a slight click.
3. Wait for the charging indicator to appear - the battery icon with an animation of filling will be displayed on the bracelet screen.

The full charging time of the Mi Band 5 is about 1.5-2 hours, however, for the first turn on it is enough 30-40 minutes (charge). ~It is not recommended to completely discharge the bracelet - this reduces the life of the lithium polymer battery.

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet does not respond to charging for more than 10 minutes, try to clean the contacts with an alcohol napkin or a soft brush.

3. First Including and Choosing Language

After charging, you can start turning on the bracelet. Here is a step-by-step instruction:

1. Press and hold the touch button (the area under the screen) for 3-5 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
2. Wait for the download – on the screen in turn will appear animations and a welcome message.
3. Select a language. Swipe the list up/down and tap the right item (Russian or Russian for Russian).
4. Confirm the choice by clicking the tick or swiping to the right (depending on the firmware version).

If the bracelet does not respond to touch, try:

• 🔄 Reboot it by holding the button for 10-15 seconds.
• 🔋 Check the level of charge (possibly the battery was discharged during storage).
• 📱 Make sure your fingers are dry – moisture can interfere with the sensor.

Charge the bracelet to at least 50% |

Press and hold the touch button for 3-5 seconds|

Select the language in the settings menu|

Confirm the choice by clicking the tick-->

At this point, the bracelet is ready to sync with your smartphone, but before connecting, make sure that your phone:

• 📱 Installed application Mi Fit (version not lower than 4.6.0).
• 🔄 Bluetooth enabled (Device Search Mode).
• 📶 Internet access (to download the bracelet firmware).

4.Sync with the Mi Fit app

For full operation of Mi Band 5, you need to connect it to the official Mi Fit application.

1. Download and install Mi Fit from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Sign up or sign in to your Xiaomi account (you can use a Google/Facebook account).
3. Click "Add device" (Profile) → Add the device → Bracelet → Mi Smart Band 5).
4. Allow access to notifications, contacts and location (necessary for function to function properly).
5. Put the bracelet to your phone, and you'll automatically search, and when the Mi Band 5 appears on the list, tap the name.
6. Confirm the pairing on the bracelet (the code will appear on the screen, which should match the code in the application).

If the bracelet is not in the annex:

• 🔄 Reboot Bluetooth on your smartphone (turn off and turn on again).
• 📱 Make sure there are no active phones on the phone. VPN or firewalls blocking the connection.
• 🔋 Check the bracelet charge – at a level below 20%, synchronization may be interrupted.

After successful synchronization, the application will offer:

• 👤 Set up a user profile (gender, age, weight) to accurately count calories).
• 🏃‍♂️ Select activity goals (steps, sleep, exercise).
• 🔔 Set up notifications (calls, SMS, messengers).

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet starts to discharge rapidly after synchronization (more than 20% per night), turn off the constant pulse in the settings (Device Profile) → Heart monitoring → Off. This function has a big impact on autonomy.

5. Configure the main functions

Now that the bracelet is plugged in, you can customize it to your needs.

Notifications and calls

To receive alerts about calls and messages:

1. Open Mi Fit and go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 5 → Notifications.
2. Turn on the Notification switch.
3. Select the apps you want to see on your bracelet (for example, WhatsApp, Telegram, Gmail).
4. Set up a vibration style (short/long) and repeat alerts.

For incoming calls:

• 📞 The bracelet will display the contact number or name.
• 🔇 To defuse the challenge, swipe left.
• 🔈 To turn off the sound, press the bracelet button.

Health monitoring

The Mi Band 5 supports the following health functions:

• 🩺 Measurement of pulse (manual or automatic every 30 minutes).
• 😴 Sleep analysis (deep, light, REM-phase).
• 🤒 Stress level (based on heart rate variability).
• 🩺 Blood oxygen levels (SpO₂) — available after firmware update.

To enable automatic monitoring:

1. Go to Profile. → Mi Smart Band 5 → Heart monitoring.
2. Select Auto mode and set the interval (e.g. every 30 minutes).
3. Enable High Pulse Notifications (threshold is manually adjusted).

💡

To measure your heart rate more accurately before bed, remove the bracelet for 10-15 minutes to cool the sensor, which will reduce the error of readings.

Training and activity

The bracelet supports 11 exercise regimens, including running, cycling, swimming and yoga, to start the workout:

1. On the bracelet, swipe up to the Training menu.
2. Choose the type of activity (such as running or walking).
3. Press the button to start recording.
4. Once completed, press the button again to save the results.

The training data is automatically synchronized with Mi Fit, where you can view:

• 📊 Pulse and velocity charts.
• 🏆 Achieved goals (calories, distance).
• 📈 Progress in the week/month.

6. Update firmware and problem solving

After the first turn on, it is recommended to update the firmware Mi Band 5 to the latest version, this will fix possible bugs and add new features (for example, support for the new version). SpO₂). Here's how to do it:

1. Open Mi Fit and go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 5 → Update of the PO.
2. If an update is available, click Update.
3. Wait for the file to download (internet required).
4. Confirm the installation on the bracelet (the progress bar will appear on the screen).
5. Do not disable Bluetooth or remove the bracelet from your hand until the process is completed (5-10 minutes).

If the update is hanging:

• 🔄 Reset the bracelet (hold the button for 10 seconds).
• 📱 Reinstall Mi Fit and try again.
• 🔋 Make sure the bracelet charge is above 50%.

💡

Updating your firmware through Mi Fit is the only official way. Do not use third-party firmware (such as from sites like amazfitwatchfaces.com), as this can lead to a lock on the bracelet.

Typical issues after updating and their solution:

7. Operational and life extension tips

To make the Mi Band 5 last longer, follow these guidelines:

• 🚿 Waterproof: The bracelet has 5 protections ATM, It is not recommended to swim in chlorinated or salt water for more than 30 minutes.
• 🔋 Charging: Use only the original cable. Do not leave the bracelet on charging for more than 4 hours.
• 🧼 Cleaning: Wash the body and strap with a wet wipe without alcohol (1-2 times a week).
• 🌡️ Temperature: Avoid overheating (for example, do not leave the bracelet in direct sunlight in the car).
• 🔄 Updates: Check for new firmware versions regularly (every 1-2 months).

To increase autonomy:

• 🔕 Turn off the screen’s constant lighting (Settings) → Display. → Illumination → Off.).
• 📵 Reduce the frequency of automatic pulse measurement (e.g., once an hour instead of 30 minutes).
• 🔔 Disable notifications from unnecessary applications.

💡

If the bracelet has begun to fix the pulse poorly, try wearing it 2-3 cm above the wrist. The sensor should fit tightly to the skin, but not to suppress blood vessels.

The average lifespan of the Mi Band 5, when properly operated, is 2-3 years, but the battery begins to deteriorate markedly after 300-400 charging cycles (after about 1.5-2 years). If the bracelet starts to run out in 1-2 days instead of a week, it is time to think about replacing the battery.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)