Xiaomi’s first smartwatch launch: from unpacking to synchronization

Xiaomi smartwatches are not just accessories, but full-fledged gadgets for tracking health, managing notifications and even paying for purchases. But before they start working at full capacity, they need to be properly started and set up. Many users face difficulties already at the turn-on stage: the watch does not sync with the smartphone, does not detect the pulse or suddenly discharge. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step algorithm of the first launch, the features of different models (from Mi Band 7 to Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro), as well as typical errors that interfere with proper operation.

It is important to understand that the startup process can vary depending on the firmware version, watch model and even the region of purchase. ROM) Xiaomi accounts are often linked to the Chinese version (CN ROM) They can work without it, but with limited functionality, and we'll take all the nuances into account to make your watch work the first time.

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

Before you press the power button, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps, which will save 90% of the problems with the synchronization and operation of the sensors.

Smartphone compatibility is key: Xiaomi smartwatch officially supports Android devices 6.0+ iOS 10.0+, But for full work is recommended Android 8.0 On iPhones, some features (such as answering calls) may be restricted due to Apple policies. → The phone. → Version. Android/iOS.

Also, pay attention to the region of the purchase of the watch:

• 🌍 Global version (Global) – supports Russian language, is tied to international servers Xiaomi.
• 🇨🇳 Chinese version (CN) — You may require a Chinese Mi Account and not have a localization.
• 🛒 Region-specific version (e.g., region-specific version, IN India – may have language and payment system restrictions.

If you bought a watch in China or on AliExpress without the Global mark, you will most likely need firmware for a global version – we will talk about this in one of the following sections.

Make sure your smartphone is compatible (Android) 6.0+/iOS 10.0+)

Check the clock region (Global/CN/IN)

Charge the watch to at least 50%

Download the Mi app Fitness/Zepp Life

Prepare data for the Mi Account (if required)-->

Charging before first switching on: why it is critical

Xiaomi’s new smartwatches are often discharged to 0% from the factory – turning on without pre-charging can cause a firmware failure. The manufacturer recommends charging the device for at least 2 hours before the first run, even if the indicator shows a partial charge.

How to properly charge your watch:

1. Connect the cable to the charger (preferably the original with output) 5V/1A).
2. Attach a magnetic connector to the back of the watch, and a click should be heard.
3. Wait for the charging indicator (usually a red or green light bulb) to appear.
4. Do not turn off the power until the charge reaches at least 50%.

If the watch does not respond to charging:

• ⚡ Check the cable and adapter - try another charger.
• 🔌 Clean the contacts on the clock and connector from dust or protective film.
• 🔄 Turn the connector over – sometimes the magnets only work in one position.

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If you watch Xiaomi Watch S1 or the Watch 2 Pro doesn't charge, try resetting them to factory settings. To do this, press the physical button for 15-20 seconds until the Mi logo appears.

3. Enablement and initial setup: step-by-step instruction

When the clock is charged, you can start to turn on. The process differs depending on the model:

Once turned on, the watch will offer you to choose a language (if the model supports Russian) and connect to the phone, and here the most important step begins - synchronization with the application.

Most models will require one of two applications:

• 📱 Mi Fitness – for fitness bracelets (Mi Band, Redmi Band).
• ⌚ Zepp Life (formerly Amazfit) – for smartwatches (Xiaomi Watch, Watch) S1).

Download the app you want from Google Play or the App Store and follow the instructions on the screen. If the clock is not determined, try:

1. Reboot Bluetooth on your phone (Settings) → Bluetooth → Off./On.).
2. Make sure the watch is paired (usually an icon) 📱 screen-on).
3. Shut down. VPN Proxies – They can block Xiaomi servers.

Mi Band 7/8

Xiaomi Watch S1/S2

Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro

Redmi Watch 3/Active

Another model-->

4. Link to the Mi Account: why it can not do without it

Most Xiaomi smartwatches require a link to a Mi Account.

• 🔄 Synchronize Health Data with the Cloud.
• 🔒 Unlock additional functions (for example, NFC-payment).
• 📲 Receiving firmware updates.

If you don’t already have an account, register it through the app or at account.xiaomi.com (CN ROM) You may need a Chinese phone number or help with services like Mi Unlock.

How to link your watch to your account:

1. Open the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app.
2. Go to Profile → Devices → Add the device.
3. Scan it. QR-code from the watch screen or select the model manually.
4. Enter the username and password from Mi Account.
5. Confirm the link via SMS or email.

⚠️ Warning: If you bought a watch with your hands, make sure the previous owner unties it from your account, otherwise the device may be locked (Mi Cloud Lock), and it will be difficult to unlock it.

5. Set up the main functions: what to include first

After successful synchronization, adjust the key parameters to make the clock work as efficiently as possible:

1. Notifications and calls

• 📳 Allow notifications to be accessed in phone settings: Settings → Annexes → Mi Fitness/Zepp Life → Notifications → Permission.
• 🔔 In the app itself, select which apps to show alerts from (e.g. WhatsApp, Telegram).
• 📞 For models with a microphone (for example, Xiaomi Watch) S2) Enable the call response function.

2. Health monitoring

• ❤️ Enable continuous pulse monitoring: Device profile → Settings → Heart rate → Continuously.
• 😴 Activate sleep tracking (some models require manual start before bedtime).
• 🏃 Set up automatic activity recognition (walking, running, cycling).

3. Screen and interface

• 🌓 Select the dial: in the application open the dials → Market (free and paid options available).
• ⏱️ Set the screen lighting time: Settings → Display. → Lighting time.
• 🔒 Turn on the screen lock when removed from the hand (protection against accidental pressing).

For models with NFC (For example, Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro, set up additionally:

• 💳 Bank card binding via Mi Pay (not available in all countries).
• 🚇 Transport cards (for example, Troika for Moscow).

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Not all functions. NFC For example, Mi Pay officially supports only Chinese bank cards. For other countries, use Google Pay on your phone.

6. Firmware Update: Why It’s Important to Do It Immediately

The manufacturer regularly releases updates for smartwatches that fix bugs, add new features and improve autonomy. The first update is recommended to install immediately after setting up, as factory firmware may contain vulnerabilities or bugs.

How to update firmware:

1. Open the Mi Fitness or Zepp Life app.
2. Go to the section of your device.
3. Find the Firmware Update (usually in the Settings menu) → About the device).
4. If a new version is available, click Download and Install.
5. Wait until the process is complete (the clock will reset automatically).

If the update is not available:

• 🌐 Check your internet connection (the clock should be near your phone).
• 🔄 Reset the clock: Press the power button for 10 seconds.
• 📵 Make sure there is enough charge on the watch (minimum 30%).

⚠️ Warning: Do not interrupt the upgrade process or turn off the clock, which can cause the device to “brick” (completely inoperable). If the update has been stuck during the installation phase for more than 30 minutes, try resetting the clock to factory settings.

For advanced users: if your model is not getting updates due to regional restrictions, you can manually install firmware via Mi Fit Mod APK Or the Amazfit Toolbox. However, this requires unlocking the bootloader and may take away the warranty.

7.Typical errors and their solutions

Even when you set it up properly, users are facing problems.

If none of these methods helped, try resetting the clock to factory settings:

1. Open the Settings on the clock → System → Reset.
2. Confirm the action (a password may be required).
3. After resetting, repeat the setup procedure from scratch.

For models without a touch screen (e.g. Mi Band 3), the reset is done via the app: Device Profile → Settings → Reset.

8 Additional Features: How to Unlock the Potential of the Watch

When the basic setup is complete, you can activate hidden or little-known functions:

1.Voice assistant

• 🎤 On models with a microphone (Xiaomi Watch) S2, Watch 2 Pro available on Xiao AI (chinese).
• 🌍 For Russian, you can connect Google Assistant via your phone (requires Android 8.0)+).

2. Music management

• 🎵 The watch can control playback on the phone (pause, next track).
• 🎧 Some models (Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro) support autonomous music playback from internal memory.

3. Autonomous training

• 🏋️‍♂️ Download your training plan through the Zepp Life app.
• 📊 The watch will track progress and give voice prompts.

4. Contactless payments

• 💳 For NFC-Link the card via Mi Pay or Google Pay (depending on the region).
• 🚇 In Moscow and St. Petersburg can be tied Troika to pay for travel.

5.Tune gestures

• 👋 Turn on gesture control: for example, shake your hand to turn on the backlight.
• 🙌 Set up automatic screen shutdown when lowering your hand.

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If you have a Xiaomi Watch S1, Try activating Always On Display. To do this, go to Settings. → Display. → Always On. Keep in mind that this reduces battery life by 20-30%.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions