How to properly turn on Xiaomi smart watches: 5 working methods

Xiaomi smartwatches are some of the most popular wearables on the market due to their combination of functionality and affordable price. However, even with such devices, sometimes there are problems: the watch does not respond to pressing, does not turn on after discharging or updating the firmware. If your Mi Band, Xiaomi Watch or other model refuses to start, do not rush to carry it to the service center. In 90% of cases, the problem can be solved by yourself in 5-15 minutes.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to turn on Xiaomi Smart watches, from basic (connect to charging) to advanced (forced reboot via ADB). Particular attention will be paid to typical user errors that lead to “hang” of the device, and will give a checklist for fault diagnosis. Instructions are relevant for all modern models: Mi Band 7/8 Pro, Xiaomi Watch 2/3, Redmi Watch 3 Active and others.

1. Battery charge check - the first step

The most common reason Xiaomi smartwatches don't turn on is because the battery is completely drained, and even if you're sure you've recently charged it, it's worth checking this out first, because some models (such as the Mi Band 6) can fall asleep at critically low levels and not show signs of life before being connected to the network.

To rule out battery problems:

• 🔌 Connect the watch to the original charger (use the cable from the kit). for magnetic-charging models (Xiaomi Watch) S3) Make sure the contacts match the connector on the body.
• ⏳ Leave the device on charge for at least 30 minutes. Some models (e.g. Redmi Watch 2 Lite) do not show a charge indication until reaching 5%.
• 🔍 Check if the charge indicator is on. Most Xiaomi watches have it on the back of the case. If the indicator is not lighting, try another cable or power supply.

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If the watch does not respond to charging, clean the contacts on the case and charger with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.Oxidation or pollution may prevent current transmission.

If after 30 to 60 minutes of charging, the clock still doesn't turn on, move on to the following method.

• 🔌 rosette or USB-Port is good (try charging another device).
• 🔋 The battery is not swelling (as you can see from the deformation of the case.

2. Forced reset (Hard Reset)

If Xiaomi watches are stuck on the logo, do not respond to touches or buttons, forced reboot can help. This method will work even in critical firmware failures, but will not delete your data (unlike a factory reset).

Instructions for Hard Reset:

1. Connect the watch to the charger (required!).
2. Press the physical button (if any) for 15-20 seconds. For models without a button (such as the Mi Band 8), use the touch area below the screen.
3. Hold on until the screen goes out and the reboot starts (the Xiaomi logo will appear).
4. Release the button and wait for the full load (it can take up to 2-3 minutes).

Charge the watch at least 10% |

Disconnect from the phone in the Mi Fitness | app

Make sure the button is not stuck |

Use the original cable

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If the watch freezes again after the reboot, the problem may be the firmware, in which case an update via the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app (depending on the model) will help.

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse Hard Reset with factory reset! Forced reboot doesn't delete data, whereas factory reset erases all information from the clock, including workouts and settings.

3. Update the firmware through the application

Failures in the work of Xiaomi smart watches are often associated with outdated or damaged firmware. If the device turns on but is unstable (reboots independently, does not sync with the phone), the first thing to do is to update the software. The procedure takes 5-10 minutes and does not require special skills.

Step-by-step:

1. Install the official app: Mi Fitness (Google Play / App Store) for Mi Band and Redmi Watch. Xiaomi Watch S3 and new models – Zepp Life.

Connect the watch to your phone via Bluetooth.

Profile → My device → Update firmware

Update

Don't turn your watch off your phone!

Important nuances:

• 📱 Make sure there is enough free space on your phone (update weighs 10–50MB).
• 🔋 The charge of the clock should be at least 50%.
• 📶 Use a stable Wi-Fi connection (mobile internet updates may be interrupted).

Once the upgrade is successful, the watch will automatically restart. If the problem persists, check the firmware compatibility with your model. For example, the firmware for the Xiaomi Watch 2 will not work for the Redmi Watch 3, even if they look similar.

4. Reset to factory settings

If previous methods didn't work, the last option before you go to the service is to reset to factory settings, which will delete all data from the clock, including:

• 📊 History of training and activity.
• ⚙️ Individual settings (dials, notifications).
• 🔑 Passwords and authorization data (if accounts are linked).

The reset can be done in two ways:

Method 1: Through the settings menu (if the clock is turned on)

1. Go to Settings → System → Resetting settings.
2. Confirm the action (it may be necessary to enter) PIN-code).
3. Wait until the process is completed (the clock will reset).

Method 2: Physical button (if the clock does not respond)

For models with a button:

1. Press the button for 10 seconds until you feel the vibration.
2. Release and immediately hold it again for 5 seconds.
3. The clock vibrates three times - the reset is done.

For models without a button (e.g. Mi Band 8):

1. Connect the watch to charge.
2. Touch the touch area under the screen and hold for 15 seconds.
3. After vibration, release and wait for the reset.

⚠️ Note: After resetting, Xiaomi watches may require re-association with your Mi Account. Make sure to remember your username and password, otherwise the device will become a brick".

5. Advanced methods: firmware through PC

If the clock is still off and the official methods haven't worked, you can still use manual firmware through your computer, which requires a little bit of technical knowledge, but it saves you when you:

• 🔄 Watch hangs on the Xiaomi logo.
• 🚫 Not defined by the Mi Fitness app.
• 🔧 Previous updates to the firmware ended with an error.

You'll need firmware.

• 💻 Windows computer 10/11 macOS.
• 🔌 Original. USB-clock-cloth.
• 📥 Mi Fit Tool or Amazfit Tool (depending on the model).
• 📁 Firmware file (download only from official sources, for example, the Xiaomi website).

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install a firmware utility (e.g., Mi Fit Tool).
2. Connect the watch to your PC via a charger (use a USB-OTG adapter if needed).
3. Start the utility and select the model of your watch.
4. Click Select Firmware and specify the path to the downloaded firmware file (.fw or.bin format).
5. Press Flash and wait until the process is complete (don’t turn off the clock!).

Warnings:

• ⚠️ Firmware with unofficial files can permanently put the clock out of order.
• ⚠️ Do not interrupt the process – this will damage the loader.

Yeah, it went well.|

Yeah, but there's a problem.|

No, but I want to try |

No, I'm afraid to break the device.

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6. Diagnostics of hardware malfunctions

If none of the software methods worked, the problem could be in the hardware, and here are the signs that indicate a breakdown:

Self-repair of hardware malfunctions is possible only if you have experience with electronics. For most users, the best option is to contact an authorized Xiaomi service center. The cost of diagnosis is usually 500-1000 rubles, and repair (for example, replacing the battery) from 1500 rubles.

Before the service visit:

• 📋 Write down the serial number of the watch (located on the case or in the documents).
• 🔄 Try backing up your data through the app (if the watch is at least responsive).
• 📄 Prepare a check or warranty card (if the device is guaranteed).

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If Xiaomi watches are warranty, do not try to disassemble them yourself - this will void warranty obligations.

Prevention of inclusion problems

To avoid problems with including Xiaomi smartwatches in the future, follow these guidelines:

• 🔋 Keep the battery from running out completely. Charge the watch at 10-15%.
• 📱 Regularly update the firmware through the official application.
• 🚫 Avoid overheating or hypothermia (working temperature range: from -10°C +45°C).
• 💦 Do not wear a watch in the pool or shower if it is not protected 5 ATM (Mi Band 7 can survive swimming, Redmi Watch 2 Lite can’t).
• 🔄 Once a month, perform a soft reboot (via the settings menu).

You should also pay attention to the accessories:

• Use only original or certified straps – cheap ones can damage your contacts.
• Keep your watch in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• To clean the case, use a soft fabric soaked in alcohol (do not use abrasives!).

If you’re actively using GPS or constant heart rate monitoring, remember that this reduces battery life, in which case, charge your watch more often or turn off the energy-intensive functions in your settings.

Frequently asked questions