How to turn on and configure Xiaomi Mi Band 4: instructions for beginners

Xiaomi Mi Band 4 is one of the most popular fitness bracelets on the market, combining affordable price, stylish design and wide functionality. However, even with such a simple device, the first launch can raise questions: how to properly turn it on, charge, connect it to a smartphone and avoid typical errors? In this article, we will analyze the activation process in steps, from unpacking to first synchronization, and give tips for eliminating possible problems.

Many users mistakenly think that the bracelet is switched on with a button β€” but the Mi Band 4 simply doesn’t have one! Instead, it uses a touch screen and gestures. If you just bought a device or pulled it out after a long idle, our guide will help avoid common mistakes, such as improper charging or problems connecting to the Mi Fit app.

Preparing for the first turn on: what to do before activation

Before you turn on the bracelet, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps, which will save time and eliminate the need to restart the process.

First, check the trim. In the box with Xiaomi Mi Band 4 should be:

  • πŸ“¦ The fitness bracelet itself (capsule with screen)
  • πŸ”Œ Charging cable (special module with contacts)
  • πŸ“„ Short instructions in several languages (including Russian)
  • πŸ”„ The band (if you bought a set)

Second, prepare your smartphone:

Make sure that the phone has one of the supported OS: Android 4.4+ or iOS 9.0+.

Download the official Mi Fit app from the App Store or Google Play (direct link: mifit.com).

Turn on Bluetooth and geolocation – they will be required for synchronization.

⚠️ Note: If you use an iPhone, allow Mi Fit to access notifications in iOS settings before you connect the bracelet. Without this, some of the features (such as call alerts) will not work.

πŸ“Š What fitness bracelet do you use?
Xiaomi Mi Band 4
Xiaomi Mi Band 5/6/7
Huawei Band
Samsung Galaxy Fit
Other

How to Charge Xiaomi Mi Band 4 Before First Enablement

The bracelet comes with a discharged battery, so it must be charged before first use.The charging process of the Mi Band 4 is different from previous models - it uses a magnetic connector, not "recessed" contacts.

Charging instructions:

  1. Remove the bracelet capsule from the strap by pulling it aside (don’t put too much effort!).
  2. Connect the capsule to the charging cable, the magnets will automatically pull it into the correct position, and make sure that the contacts on the bracelet match the contacts on the cable.
  3. Connect the cable to the power source: USB-port of the computer, charging from the phone (5V/1A) power bank.

The charge indicator will appear on the bracelet screen, a battery icon with animation. It takes about 1.5-2 hours to fully charge. When the battery is full, the indicator will disappear, and the bracelet will automatically turn on (if this is the first power connection).

Battery statusScreen indicationAction.
Discharged (0-5%)Red battery with lightningConnect to the charger.
Charged (5-99%)Animation of battery fillingLeave until full charge.
Fully charged (100%)Green battery without animationYou can turn it off and on.
Charging errorBlinking battery signCheck the contacts and cable

⚠️ Note: Do not use Mi Band 4 adapters with output current more 1A (This can cause the battery to overheat and shorten its lifespan.

πŸ’‘

If the bracelet does not respond to charging, try to clean the contacts on the capsule and cable with a dry cotton swab, often due to oxidation or dust.

Step-by-step: how to turn on Xiaomi Mi Band 4

When the bracelet is charged, it can be turned on. Unlike smartphones, there's no physical power button, everything is controlled by sensor and gestures.

Method 1: Automatic activation after charging

If you charge the bracelet for the first time, it automatically activates after the power is turned off, the Mi logo will appear on the screen, then the main menu, which takes about 10-15 seconds.

Method 2: Manually activate (if the bracelet is off)

If the screen is not responding, follow the following steps:

Connect the bracelet to charge for 5-10 seconds, then turn off |Tap the touch screen and hold your finger for 3-5 seconds |Tap the bracelet (sometimes helps activate the screen) |Present to the light source - the light sensor can wake the device-->

If the bracelet is still not turned on, check:

  • πŸ”‹ Charge level (possibly battery is completely discharged).
  • πŸ”Œ Charging cable contacts (they should fit tightly).
  • πŸ“± Smartphone compatibility (on very old models may not work).
What if the bracelet does not turn on even after charging?
If none of these methods worked, try resetting: 1. Connect the bracelet to charging. 2. Press and hold the touch screen for 20-30 seconds until the Mi.3 logo appears. ⚠️ Warning: Reset will remove all data from the bracelet (steps, alarm settings, etc.).

Connect to your smartphone via the Mi Fit app

The bracelet is on, but without synchronization with the smartphone, its capabilities are limited. To fully work, you need to connect the Mi Band 4 to the Mi Fit application.

Instructions for connection:

  1. Open the Mi Fit app on your smartphone and sign up (or sign in to your Xiaomi account).
  2. Click Profile β†’ Add the device.
  3. Choose from the list of Mi Smart Band 4.
  4. Allow the app to access Bluetooth, notifications, and geolocation.
  5. Wait until the bracelet appears in the list of available devices, and click on it.
  6. Confirm the pairing on the bracelet (the code will appear on the screen - compare it with the code in the application).

After a successful connection, the application will offer to update the firmware (if a new version is available), we recommend installing the update immediately - this will fix possible bugs and add new features.

Problem with connectionPossible causeDecision
The bracelet is not on the list of devicesBluetooth is off or the bracelet is dischargedTurn on Bluetooth, charge the bracelet
The pairing code doesn't match.Interference or communication errorRestart Bluetooth and reconnect
The application freezes at the synchronization stageAn outdated version of the Mi FitUpdate the app in the store

πŸ’‘

If the bracelet is connected but the data is not synchronized (steps, pulse), try restarting the Mi Fit app and logging in again, often solving the problem.

Configure the main functions after inclusion

Now that the bracelet is plugged in, you can customize it to your needs, and let's look at the key parameters that you need to set up right away.

1. Language and region

The default bracelet can be in Chinese or English, so you can change the language.

  • Open Mi Fit β†’ Select a bracelet β†’ Device settings β†’ Language.
  • Select Russian (if it is not in the list, update the firmware).

Notifications

To have the bracelet show incoming calls and messages:

  • In Mi Fit, go to Notifications β†’ Notification Management.
  • Turn on the switch for Calls and Messages.
  • Select the apps you want to see notifications from (such as WhatsApp, Telegram).

3. Monitoring sleep and activity

By default, the bracelet tracks sleep automatically, but you can adjust the sensitivity:

  • πŸŒ™ Settings β†’ Sleep monitoring β†’ Autodetermination (include).
  • πŸƒ Activity targets β†’ Steps (set daily normal, such as 8000 steps).

⚠️ Note: If you wear a bracelet on a non-dominant hand (e.g., left hand, if you are right-handed), the accuracy of your pulse measurement may decrease. In this case, in the Mi Fit settings, select the option to wear on your right hand, even if you do not, this will improve the data quality.

Typical errors and their solutions

Even after successful inclusion, users face problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

1.The bracelet does not respond to touch

Possible causes:

  • πŸ”‹ Battery discharged (charge to 20%+).
  • 🧴 Dirt or sweat on the screen (wipe with a soft cloth).
  • πŸ”„ System freeze (reset the bracelet while holding the screen for 10 seconds).

2. data are not synchronized

What to do:

  • πŸ“± Reset Mi Fit and Bluetooth on your phone.
  • πŸ”„ Disable and reconnect the bracelet in the application settings.
  • πŸ“‹ Check if geolocation is enabled (some features need it).

3.The bracelet discharges quickly

How to extend the working time:

  • ⏰ Reduce the brightness of the screen in the settings.
  • 🚫 Turn off constant pulse monitoring (if not necessary).
  • πŸ”” Reduce the number of notifications.

πŸ’‘

If the bracelet started to glittle after updating the firmware, try rolling it back. To do this, go to Mi Fit Device Settings β†’ Firmware Update β†’ Return to the factory version (if the option is available).

How to turn off Xiaomi Mi Band 4 (and should I do it)

Unlike smartphones, fitness bracelets do not require regular shutdowns, but in some cases, they may need to be:

  • πŸ”„ For rebooting when getting stuck.
  • ✈️ Before flying (some airlines require you to turn off electronic devices).
  • πŸ”‹ To save charge during long-term storage.

To turn off the bracelet:

  1. Put him on charge.
  2. Hold the screen for 10-15 seconds until the menu appears.
  3. Select Power off (in English firmware) or the off icon.

To turn on after turning off, simply plug the bracelet into charging or hold the screen for 5 seconds.

⚠️ Note: If you turn off the bracelet to save charge, remember: with full battery discharge (0%), the internal settings may reset, and you will have to adjust it again.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi Band 4

Can I use Mi Band 4 without a smartphone?
Yes, but with limitations. The bracelet will show time, steps and pulse, but it won't: Sync with Mi Fit. Get notifications. Update the firmware. The smartphone is mandatory to work properly.
How to reset the bracelet to factory settings?
There are two ways: through settings: Mi Fit β†’ Device settings β†’ Reset. Hardware reset: Connect to charging, hold the screen for 20 seconds until the Mi logo appears. After the reset, all data will be deleted.
Why does the bracelet vibrate for no reason?
Possible causes: πŸ”” Notification received (check the phone). ⏰ An alarm clock or reminder of inactivity. πŸ’“ The bracelet detected a high pulse (if heart monitoring is enabled). β†’ Settings of the device β†’ Notifications.
How long does the Mi Band 4 charge last?
The working time depends on the use: πŸ”‹ Basic Mode (Time and Steps Only): Up to 20 days. πŸ“Š Full monitoring (pulse, notifications, sleep): 7-10 days. to extend autonomy, turn off unnecessary functions (for example, constant monitoring of the pulse).
Can I swim with the Mi Band 4?
Yeah, the bracelet has 5 protection. ATM, signifies: πŸŠβ€β™‚οΈ You can swim in the pool or the sea (up to 50 meters deep). 🚿 You can wash your hands and take a shower, but it's not recommended: ❌ Use in hot water (sauna, bathhouse). ❌ Press the buttons under water (risk of moisture getting into the water).