How to turn on Xiaomi smartwatch: from charging to first setup

Xiaomi smartwatches are some of the most popular wearables on the market due to their combination of functionality, design and affordable price. However, even with such gadgets, users sometimes have difficulties during the first turn on stage. The watch may not respond to pressing, do not charge or “hang” on the logo. In this article, we will analyze all possible scenarios, from the basic activation of new watches to solving problems with already used devices.

It's important to understand that the process of inclusion depends on the model. For example, the Mi Band 7 and Redmi Watch 3 Active have different startup algorithms, and older versions like the Mi Band 2 require a special approach. We covered the instructions for all current lines (2018-2026), including budget and flagship models. If your watch is dead or idle for a long time, there is a solution here too.

Before you start, check the package: the box should include the device itself, the charging cable (or docking station) and a brief instruction. If something is missing, this can be the cause of problems. Also make sure you have a smartphone with Mi Fitness or Zepp Life installed (depending on the watch model).

Preparation for the first switching on: charging and checking

Before you try to turn on the watch, you need to charge it completely, and even if the indicator shows a partial charge, a dead battery can cause a failure on the first run.

• 🔌 Connect your watch to the charger. For Mi Band models, use the original magnetic connector cable, for Redmi Watch or Xiaomi Watch, use the docking station.
• ⏳ Leave to charge for at least 1-2 hours. New watches are often discharged to 0%, and the first 10-15 minutes the indicator may not burn.
• 🔍 Check the contacts: the watch and cable must be free of dust or oxidation.
• 📱 Make sure the charger is working properly. Try another one. USB-port or power supply (it is recommended to use an adapter on the 5V/1A).

If the indicator doesn’t light up after you’re connected to charging, try to shift the clock slightly in the dock or flip the cable. Mi Band 6/7 models have contacts on the back of the case – they need to be pressed tightly to charge. For Xiaomi Watch S1 or Redmi Watch 2, it’s important to correctly orient the device at the dock (usually there are tags or magnets).

⚠️ Note: Do not use unoriginal cables or wireless charging, this can damage the battery, especially for models with pogo-pin connectors (for example, Mi Band 5), where the wrong cable does not provide stable contact.

2. Standard on: button vs sensor

The way you turn on it depends on the watch model. Most modern Xiaomi devices activate automatically when you connect to a charger, but some require manual start.

If the watch does not respond to pressing, try a forced start:

1. Connect the device to charging for 15-20 minutes.
2. For models with a button: hold it for 10-15 seconds until it vibrates twice.
3. For touch models: touch the screen and hold your finger for 8-10 seconds.
4. If you see the Mi logo, let go. If you don't, repeat it in 1 minute.

Connected to the original charging|Charging lasted at least 1 hour|Trying to hold the button/sensor|Checking the contamination contacts-->

3. Activation through the application: communication with a smartphone

Without being tied to a smartphone, Xiaomi watches work in a limited mode.

1. Download the official app: Mi Fitness (Android/iOS) for Mi Band and Redmi Watch. Xiaomi Watch S1/S2/S3 – Zepp Life.

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Bluetooth

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Add the device

Follow the instructions on the screen. The watch should vibrate when connected successfully.

If the app does not find the watch:

• 📱 Restart your smartphone and watch.
• 🔄 Turn off/turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
• 🚫 Make sure the watch is not connected to another device (reset settings if needed).
• 📲 Update the Mi app Fitness/Zepp Life to the latest version.

⚠️ Attention: On Android 12+ You may need permission to access your exact location to run Bluetooth, without which the app won't be able to find the clock.

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If the Mi Band 7 watch doesn’t connect, try turning off the energy-saving mode on your smartphone – it can block the background work of the Mi Fitness.

4. Problem Solving: The clock is not on or getting stuck

If after all the manipulations the watch does not show signs of life, check the following points:

• 🔋 Battery discharge: Leave at least 30 minutes on charge (even if the indicator is not on). In older models (Mi Band 2), the battery may degrade - you will need to replace it.
• 🔌 Charging problems: Try another cable or power supply. use to check USB-tester or connect to PC.
• 📱 Software conflict: Remove the watch from the Mi Fitness app, reset it to factory settings (see below) and re-bind.
• 🛠️ Hardware malfunction: If the watch falls or gets wet, the plume or battery could be damaged, in which case only the service center will help.

If the watch is stuck on the logo or rebooted cyclically:

1. Connect to charging and hold the button (sensor) for 20-30 seconds before turning off.
2. If it doesn’t work, reset: For Mi Band 5/6/7: Settings → System → Reset. For Redmi Watch: Settings → Device → Reset. For Xiaomi Watch S1: Settings → System → Reset and Reset.

After reset, reconnect to the application.

5. Features of inclusion for older models (Mi Band 1–3)

Devices released before 2018 have unique “chips” when turned on:

• 🕒 Mi Band 1: No screen - triple vibration confirmed on. charge up to 3 hours.
• 🔄 Mi Band 2/3: After discharge until 0% Double pressing of the button is required to start.
• 📶 These models only work with the Mi Fit app (outdated), and newer smartphones may not connect due to Bluetooth incompatibility.

If you have Mi Band 1 and it doesn’t vibrate when you connect to the charger:

1. Check if the battery has disconnected (a common problem after falls).
2. Use the charge from Mi Band 2 – it is compatible for voltage.
3. If the indicator is not on, try holding the 10 seconds button with the cable connected.

⚠️ Note: Mi Band 1 does not support modern versions of Mi Fitness. you will need to use Mi Fit 4.6.0 to set it up. APK from trusted sources).

6.After activation: initial setting

When the watch finally turned on and connected to the smartphone, perform the basic setting:

1. Update your firmware: In the Mi Fitness app, go to Device Profile → Software Update.
2. Set up notifications: Allow access to SMS, calls and apps (such as WhatsApp, Telegram).
3. Activate functions: 🏃‍♂️ Monitoring of the heart (Settings) → Monitoring of heart rate). 💤 Sleep tracking (Settings) → Son). 🚶‍♂️ Counting steps (included by default).

Personalize:

For models with NFC (e.g. Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro or Mi Band 7 NFC):

• 💳 Set up contactless payments via Mi Pay (not available in all countries).
• 🔑 Attach transport cards (if supported).

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After the first turn on, be sure to update the firmware - this will fix possible bugs and improve the stability of the work.

7. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even after successful inclusion, users face typical problems:

If Xiaomi watches are turning off on their own, check:

• 🔋 Battery status (maybe replacement is required).
• 📲 Energy saving settings in the application.
• 🌡️ Overheating (do not wear watches in the sauna or in direct sunlight).

Frequently asked questions