How to run Xiaomi smart watch: from unpacking to first synchronization

Xiaomi smart watches are not just an accessory, but a full-fledged gadget for tracking health, managing notifications and even paying for purchases. However, many users face difficulties already at the stage of the first turn on: the device does not sync with a smartphone, does not detect in the Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit), or does not respond to charging at all. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step launch algorithm for all popular models – from the budget Mi Band 7 to the flagship Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro – as well as typical errors that interfere with proper operation.

It is important to understand that the launch process can vary depending on the firmware version, the region of purchase (Chinese or global version), and even the operating system of the smartphone (Android or iOS).We will take into account all the nuances so that you can customize the watch the first time without unnecessary manipulation and contacting the service center.

1.Preparation for the first turn on: what to check before launch

Before you press the power button, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps. More than 30% of appeals in support of Xiaomi involve ignoring basic requirements: a discharged battery, an incompatible version of the application or locking Bluetooth on your smartphone.

• 🔋 Charging: Even if the watch is new, connect it to the charger for 10-15 minutes. Many models (for example, Redmi Watch 3) have protection against turning on at a critical charge level (below 5%).
• 📱 Smartphone compatibility: check if your phone supports Bluetooth 4.2 or higher. iPhone requires iOS 10.0+, Android version 6.0 and later.
• 🌍 Regional restrictions: Chinese versions of the watch (e.g. Mi Band 8) NFC) You may not work with Xiaomi servers outside of China, in which case you will need to change the region in the account profile.
• 🔄 Update: Install the latest version of Mi Fitness (or Zepp Life for some models) from the App Store/Google Play: Older versions often don't recognize new devices.

Pay special attention to the charging cable. The Xiaomi watch comes with a magnetic cable with a USB-Type C or microUSB (depending on the model). If you use a third-party cable, make sure it supports data transfer — some cheap ones only charge, but do not allow synchronization with the firmware PC.

Charger (5V/1A or higher)

Smartphone with Bluetooth and Internet

Installed application Mi Fitness/Zepp Life

Xiaomi (or Google for some regions)

Documents out of the box (serial number may be required to guarantee the)-->

2. Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on Xiaomi smart watches

The process of turning on depends on the model, but the general scheme is the same for most devices. Below is a universal algorithm that is suitable for the Mi Band 6/7/8, Redmi Watch 2/3, Xiaomi Watch S1/S2 and other gadgets on the Mi Wear platform.

1. Charging: connect the watch to the charger. Charging animation (battery icon) should appear on the screen. If the screen does not respond, check the density of the contacts - sometimes you need to press the cable harder.
2. Inclusion: For Mi Band: Press and hold the touch button (the area under the screen) for 3-5 seconds until the Xiaomi logo appears. For Xiaomi Watch or Redmi Watch: Press the physical button on the right side of the case for 5-7 seconds.

Choosing a language

Russian

English

Connecting to a smartphone

Mi Fitness

If the screen flashes and goes out after turning on, this may indicate a discharged battery or software failure. In the first case, wait 20-30 minutes for charging, in the second case, try resetting (instructions in the error section).

Mi Band 8

Redmi Watch 3

Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro

Xiaomi Watch S1

Another model-->

3.Sync with smartphone: connection via Mi Fitness

The most critical stage is the phone-to-clock setup, where users are most likely to encounter errors like "Disconnected" or "Device not detected."

1. Sign in to Mi Fitness: Open the app and log in to Xiaomi (or create a new one). Some regions are logged in via Google or Apple ID. If you have a Chinese version of the watch, change the region to China in your account profile ().
2. Adding device: Click Profile → Add a device. Select your model from the list. If it's not available, try the "Other Device" option. QR-On the clock, select Synchronize. → Scan the code (or confirm the connection manually).

Permit settings

• Allow the app to access Bluetooth, Notifications, Contacts (for calls) and Locations (for weather).
• Android may also require permission to Autorun and Run in the background.

Once synchronized successfully, the watch will automatically update the firmware (if a new version is available) and synchronize the time. If the process is stalled during the Connection stage, try:

• 🔄 Reset the clock (hold the 10 seconds button).
• 📱 Reinstall the Mi Fitness app.
• 🔌 Shut down. VPN Proxies on your smartphone (they can block Xiaomi servers).

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If the watch is not defined in Mi Fitness, try connecting via the Zepp Life app (formerly Amazfit).Some Xiaomi models (like the Watch S1 Pro) support both apps.

4. Compatibility table: what hours work with which phones

Not all Xiaomi smartwatches interact equally well with different smartphones. Below is a compatibility table for popular models. Note the limitations for iPhone: some features (such as answering calls) may not be available.

If your model is not in the table, check the official Xiaomi website or documentation in the box. For example, the Xiaomi Watch Color 2 requires Android 6.0+, but on iOS it works with restrictions: you can not install third-party dials.

5.Typical launch errors and their solutions

Even with the correct follow-up, there can be failures, and we've compiled the TOP-5 bugs that users turn to in support and how to fix them.

⚠️ Note: If the Xiaomi watch shows an "Error 1" or "Error 2" after it's turned on, this indicates a hardware malfunction.Do not try to reflash the device - contact the service center, as this may be a battery or power controller defect.

• 🔴 Error: "Unable to connect to the device" Reason: Bluetooth connection conflict or outdated watch firmware Solution: Disable all other Bluetooth devices (earbuds, speakers) and restart the clock. If it doesn't help, update the firmware through Settings → About the device → Update of the PO.
• 🔴 Error: Watch doesn't charge Reason: contact oxidation or faulty cable Solution: Wipe the contacts on the watch and cable with an alcohol wipe. Try another power supply (charging current should be at least less than that). 0.5A).
• 🔴 Error: Mi Fitness app doesn't see the watch Reason: account region incompatibility or Bluetooth lock at OS level. Solution: Check that Bluetooth and Location are enabled in the phone settings (mandatory for Android 10)+). If you use an iPhone, allow Mi Fitness to access Local Network in your privacy settings.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the clock to the factory settings.

1. On the clock go to Settings → About the device → Reset.
2. Confirm the action (it may be necessary to enter) PIN-code, if it has been installed).
3. After restarting, repeat the synchronization process again.

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Most of the connection errors are related to Bluetooth settings and smartphone permissions. Always check them first!

6.Setting up after the first run: what to do first

Once synchronized successfully, the clock is ready to use, but it will require a basic setup to work properly.

• ⏰ Notifications: in the Mi Fitness app, go to Device Profile → Notifications and select the apps you want to see on your watch (e.g. WhatsApp, Telegram, Gmail).
• 🏃 Activity Tracking: Set your goals for steps, calories, and sleep in the Health section → Targets: For accurate monitoring, indicate your height, weight and age.
• 🔒 Security: Install PIN-code to unlock the clock (Settings) → Lock screen. Set up the “Search for Phone” feature, which will help you find your smartphone if it gets lost.
• 🎨 Dials: download additional dials via Mi Fitness → Dials. Animated options available for Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro.

If you use NFC-The version of the watch (for example, Mi Band 8) NFC), Don't forget to link your bank card for contactless payments:

1. Open Mi Fitness and go to Profile → Xiaomi Pay.
2. Add a supported bank card (the list is available on the Xiaomi Pay website).
3. Confirm the binding via SMS or push notification from the bank.

Set up automatic sleep tracking and sedentary reminders is also available under Health.These features help maintain an active lifestyle, but can drain the battery faster - keep this in mind when setting up.

7. Firmware Update: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Xiaomi’s smartwatch firmware is responsible for stability, adding new features and fixing bugs. For example, the latest updates for the Mi Band 8 include support for Always-On Display and new training modes. However, an incorrect update can lead to a “brick” (complete inoperability) of the device.

Here’s how to update your firmware safely:

1. Automatic Update: Connect the watch to charging and make sure the charge level is at least 50%. Open Mi Fitness, go to Device Profile → Software Update. If a new version is available, click Update and wait until you complete (don’t turn off Bluetooth!).

Manual update via file

• Download the firmware for your model from the official Xiaomi forum (for example, c.mi.com).
• Place the.fw or.bin file in the root folder of the smartphone.
• In Mi Fitness, select Local Update and specify the path to the file.

⚠️ Warning: Do not interrupt the upgrade process and do not remove the watch from the charger! If the firmware flies, you can only restore the functionality through the Fastboot (this will require a PC and a special cable).

After the update, the clock will restart and all settings will remain. If you have problems (for example, lost Russian language or stopped working sensors), reset to factory settings.

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Before updating the firmware, back up the data in Mi Fitness (Profile) → Backup. This will keep your activity statistics and settings.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

After reset, the watch will return to factory settings, and they will have to be re-synchronized with the smartphone.