How to turn on Xiaomi smart bracelet: from charging to first synchronization

Xiaomi smart bracelets are among the most popular fitness trackers due to their combination of functionality and affordable price. However, even such simple devices sometimes have problems with first turn on. Users often face a situation where the bracelet does not respond to charging, does not turn on after purchase or does not sync with a smartphone. The reasons can be different from the banal discharge of the battery to software failures.

In this article, we will look at all the steps of activating the bracelet, from the correct charging to setting up through the official Mi Fitness and Zepp Life apps (formerly Mi Fit), focusing on typical novice errors, such as trying to turn on the device without charging or using unoriginal cables, and you will find instructions for specific models: Mi Band 7/8 Pro, Smart Band 7 Pro and older versions.

1.Preparation for the first inclusion: what to check before the start

Before you try to turn on the bracelet, make sure all the preconditions are met. Often users skip this stage and spend time looking for non-existent problems.

First, check the completeness: the box should have the bracelet itself, the charging cable (or the docking station for Pro models) and a brief instruction. The lack of cable is an excuse to go to the store, because without it you can not charge the device. Secondly, pay attention to the state of the contacts: they must be clean, without oxidation or damage. If the bracelet has been stored for a long time, wipe the contacts with an alcohol napkin.

• 🔋 Charger: original magnetic connector cable (for Mi Band) 7/8) or docking station (for Pro versions).
• 📱 Smartphone: Android 6.0+ or iOS 12.0+ free-spaced.
• 🌐 Internet: stable network connection for downloading applications and synchronizing data.
• ⏳ Time: The first 10-15 minutes after charging the bracelet may not show signs of life – this is normal.

⚠️ Note: Do not use chargers from other gadgets, even if the connector fits externally. The voltage and current strength may differ, which will lead to battery damage. For example, the cable from Mi Band 6 will not be suitable for the Mi Band 8 Pro.

2.How to properly charge the bracelet before the first switching on

The most common mistake is to try to turn on the bracelet without first charging, even new devices discharge during storage in stock.

1. Connect the cable: connect the magnetic connector to the contacts on the back of the bracelet. For Pro models, place the device in the docking station.
2. Connect to the power source: use USB-port or power adapter with output 5V/1A.
3. Wait for the reaction: in 5-10 minutes, the charging indicator (red or green LED) should appear. If there is no indicator, check the density of the cable.

The full charge time depends on the model:

If the bracelet does not respond to charging for more than 30 minutes:

• 🔌 Check the cable and port USB (Try another adapter).
• 🧹 Clean the bracelet contacts from dust or oxidation.
• 🔄 Reset the bracelet (if it has ever been turned on): press the touch button for 10-15 seconds.

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To speed up the first charge, use a Xiaomi smartphone adapter (such as the Redmi Note) that provides optimal current for the Mi Band bracelets.

3. Enable the bracelet: buttons, gestures and voice commands

Once charged, the bracelet can be activated in several ways depending on the model. Most Xiaomi devices do not have a physical power button, instead using a touchpad or gestures.

Methods of inclusion:

• 🖐️ Touch screen: briefly tap the touch button below the screen (for Mi Band) 6/7/8).
• 🤳 Hand-raising gesture: Raise your hand with the bracelet to your face – the screen must be activated (the function works after the first setup).
• 🔊 Voice Assistant: For the Mi Band 7 Pro/8 You can use the command "Hey, Xiao" AI» (requires settings in the application).
• 🔄 Forced reboot: Press the touch button for 10-20 seconds before the Mi logo appears.

If the bracelet does not respond to touch:

1. Make sure it is at least 20% charged (check through the app).
2. Remove the strap and check if moisture has fallen under the body.
3. Update the firmware through Mi Fitness (instructions in the next section).

4.Sync with a smartphone: turn-based settings via Mi Fitness or Zepp Life

Without a smartphone, Xiaomi’s bracelet only works as a pedometer and an alarm clock. To be fully used, you need to install an official app. Since 2023, Xiaomi has switched from Mi Fit to two apps:

• Mi Fitness – for basic models (Mi Band 6/7).

Instructions for connection:

1. Download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
2. Sign up or sign in through your Xiaomi/Zepp account.
3. Click on “Add device” and select your bracelet model.
4. Allow access to notifications, geolocation, and contacts (necessary for function).
5. Bring the bracelet to the phone and wait for automatic synchronization (it may be necessary to enter the code from the screen of the bracelet).

If the bracelet doesn't find the phone:

• 📶 Enable Bluetooth and geolocation on your smartphone.
• 🔄 Reboot both devices.
• 📱 In the phone settings, forget the device MI Band X (where X is the model number) and reconnect.

5. Solving typical problems when incorporation

Even after charging and synchronizing correctly, the bracelet may not work properly, and let's look at the most common errors and their solutions.

If the bracelet is not turned on at all:

1. Try another charging cable and power source.
2. Leave the bracelet on charging for 3-4 hours (sometimes it takes up to 12 hours to get out of deep discharge).
3. If the charging indicator does not burn, contact the service center - a malfunction of the battery or board is possible.

⚠️ Warning: Do not disassemble the bracelet yourself - this will void the warranty.The case of the Xiaomi Mi Band is sealed, and when opened, there is a high risk of damage to the plumes or sensors.

Features of inclusion for specific models

The activation process may vary depending on the generation of the bracelet, and below are the key nuances for popular models.

Mi Band 8 / Mi Band 8 Pro (2023–2026):

• 🆕 Supports voice assistant Xiao AI (Chinese-only firmware).
• 📱 Requires Zepp Life (not working with Mi Fitness).

Mi Band 7 / Mi Band 7 Pro (2022):

• 🎯 The screen is 20% larger than the Mi Band 6, but the switching algorithm is the same.
• 🔄 To reset settings, press the touch button for 20 seconds.
• 🌍 Supports automatic language definition (including Russian).

Mi Band 6 and older:

• ⚠️ There is no function of always on screen (AOD).
• 📶 Mi Fit (not Zepp Life) is required for synchronization).
• 🔋 Charging time longer - up to 2.5 hours.

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For Pro models (such as the Mi Band 7 Pro), be sure to use the original docking station. Charging through third-party cables can cause battery damage due to a voltage mismatch.

7. Update firmware and reset settings

If the bracelet is turned on but is unstable (for example, does not show notifications or quickly discharges), it will help to update the firmware. This process is different from updating a smartphone and has its own nuances.

How to update firmware:

1. Open the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app.
2. Go to the “Device Profile” section → “Firmware Update”.
3. Connect the bracelet to charging and wait until the process is complete (don’t turn off the cable!).
4. After the update, reboot the bracelet.

How to reset the settings to factory:

1. In the appendix: “Device profile” → “Untie the device”.
2. On the bracelet: Press the touch button for 15-20 seconds before the Mi logo appears.

⚠️ Warning: Resetting will remove all data from the bracelet (steps, sleep history, alarm settings) and synchronize the data with the app before you lose statistics.

Frequently asked questions