Xiaomi smartwatches are some of the most popular wearables on the market due to a combination of functionality, design and affordable price.However, without the right software, even the top-end model of the Mi Watch 2 Pro or Amazfit is not available. GTR 4 will not reach its potential. The main problem users have is the choice between official software from Xiaomi and third-party alternatives, which often offer advanced features, but can conflict with the firmware of the device.
In this article, we will analyze all the current programs for Xiaomi watches for 2026: from standard Mi Fitness and Zepp Life applications to specialized utilities for firmware, customization of dials and synchronization with other services. We will pay special attention to compatibility issues (not all programs work with Mi Band 8 or Watch). S3), Security (risks of using informal information) APK) And the hidden features that the manufacturer doesn't advertise, and if you want to not just connect the watch to the phone, but customize it to your needs, this guide is for you.
Xiaomi’s official apps: Mi Fitness and Zepp Life
The manufacturer offers two main watch management apps: Mi Fitness (formerly Mi Fit) and Zepp Life (for the Amazfit line), both of which are free, but have key differences in functionality and supported devices.
Mi Fitness is a universal software for most Xiaomi fitness bracelets and smartwatches, including the Mi Band 7/8, Watch 2 Pro and Watch S3. The application allows:
- 📊 Track your steps, sleep, pulse and stress levels in real time.
- 🔄 Sync data with Google Fit and Apple Health (on iOS with restrictions).
- 🎨 Install branded dials from the official catalog.
- ⚙️ Set up notifications, alarms and quick responses to messages.
Zepp Life, in turn, is focused on Amazfit devices (for example, the Internet, GTR 4 or GTS 4 Mini), but also supports some Xiaomi models. its key chips:
- 🏃♂️ Advanced training analytics (including: VO₂ max and remediation).
- 🌍 Offline map support for navigation (relevant for Amazfit T-Rex Pro).
- 🔋 Optimized energy consumption (the battery lasts longer).
Important: since 2023, Xiaomi has been gradually migrating some devices from Mi Fitness to Zepp Life. For example, the Mi Band 8 Pro is officially supported only in the second app.
⚠️ Note: When you first connect a watch to Mi Fitness or Zepp Life, you may need to update your firmware. If you interrupt the upgrade process, the device may stop turning on, in which case you will need to manually flash through MiFlash. Use a stable Wi-Fi connection and charge at least 50%.
Third-party programmes for enhanced functions
Official apps cover basic needs, but if you want advanced customization, customization, or integration with other services, you'll have to turn to third-party solutions. Below are proven utilities describing their capabilities and risks.
1. Notify & Fitness for Mi Band (Android) is the most popular alternative software for Mi Band and Xiaomi Watch.
- 🛠️ Full control over notifications (filtering by application, voice responses).
- 🎨 Download custom dials from the community (including animated ones).
- 📱 Work without binding to Mi Fitness (you can remove the official software).
- 🔋 Optimizing energy consumption (15-20% longer battery life).
2. Tools & Mi Band is a tool for fine-tuning sensors and tracking algorithms.
- 📏 Adjust the sensitivity of the pedometer and pulsemeter.
- 🛌 Set up sleep tracking settings (e.g., ignore daytime naps).
- 🔄 Export data to CSV For analysis in Excel or Google Sheets.
3. Gadgetbridge (Android, open source) is a universal wearable software that supports Xiaomi, Amazfit, Huawei and other brands.
- 🔒 Values privacy (data is not sent to the cloud).
- 🔧 Want manual tuning of vibration, screen brightness and synchronization intervals.
- 🌐 Use custom firmware (for example, LineageOS).
| Annex | Supported devices | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Notify & Fitness | Mi Band 5–8, Watch S1/S2 | Maximum customization, stable work | Paid version for some functions |
| Tools & Mi Band | Mi Band 6–8, Amazfit Bip | Fine-tuning sensors, exporting data | A complex interface for beginners |
| Gadgetbridge | Most devices Xiaomi/Amazfit | Open source, no cloud synchronization | No official support for new models |
⚠️ Note: Party programs may conflict with official ones, causing synchronization or data display failures. Before installation, disable the auto-update firmware in Mi Fitness/Zepp Life, otherwise new versions of the software can block access to third-party utilities.
Disable auto-update in official software
Make a backup copy of the clock data
Check the compatibility of the model with the application
Install APK Only from verified sources (APKMirror, GitHub)-->
Programs for firmware and clock restoration
If your Xiaomi watch is starting to glitches, doesn't turn on, or requires a rollback to an older firmware version, you'll need specialized utilities.Firmware is a risky procedure, but sometimes it's the only way to bring the device back to life.
1. MiFlash is the official utility from Xiaomi for firmware devices through Fastboot. Suitable for watches based on Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear (for example, Mi Watch or Watch). S3). It will take work:
- 🖥️ Windows computer (no version for Windows) macOS/Linux).
- 🔌 USB-TypeC Cable (Original, Undamaged).
- 📁 Firmware in.tgz format for your model (download from the official website).
2. Amazfit Firmware Tool – utility for Amazfit devices GTR 4 and GTS (4) Allows:
- 🔄 Install custom firmware (e.g. Modded Firmware with advanced features).
- 🔙 Reverse to previous versions of the software.
- 🛠️ Restore the clock after a failed update.
3. ADB & Fastboot Tools is a versatile set for working with watches on Android Wear. ADB possible:
- 📱 Install APK Directly on the watch (e.g. Google Play Services).
- 🔧 Change system settings (brightness, screen timeouts).
- 📡 Debugging the Bluetooth connection.
Fastboot firmware requires unlocking the bootloader. on some models (e.g. Mi Watch). S1 Pro) this results in the reset of all data and the cancellation of the warranty:
- Download Qualcomm drivers for your OS.
- Activate Fastboot mode on the watch (usually by pressing the power button) + sensor).
- Check the integrity of the firmware through MD5-sum.
What if the watch hung on the logo after the firmware?
Programs for customization of dials
Standard dials in Mi Fitness or Zepp Life are quickly boring, and luckily there are ways to set unique themes, both through official tools and third-party solutions.
1. Amazfit Watch Faces (Android/iOS) — official app for downloading dials on Amazfit and some Xiaomi models:
- 🎨 More than 1,000 free and paid themes.
- 🔧 Ability to adjust complications (weather, pulse, steps).
- 📱 Synchronization with Zepp Life in one click.
2. Mi Band Master is a utility for creating your own dials.
- 🖌️ Editor with support for layers and animation.
- 📤 Exports to.bin and.json formats for Mi Band 6-8.
- 🌐 Import designs from the community (e.g. with AmazfitWatchFaces).
3. Facer is a platform for custom dials, compatible with the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro and other models on Wear OS. Advantages:
- 🌍 Cross-platform (works on Android and iOS).
- 🎭 Support for interactive elements (e.g. music management).
- 💰 Free and Premium Themes (Price from the Price of the $1.99).
Custom dials on the Mi Band often require you to bypass the limitations of official software, such as Notify & Fitness’ Force Install feature, which allows you to download uncertified themes, but this can lead to:
- ⚠️ Failures in time display or sensors.
- ⚠️ Increased battery consumption (due to unoptimized animations).
💡
Before you install a custom dial, check its resolution. For example, for Mi Band. 7 maximum — 194×368 Failure to meet resolution will result in trimming of elements or blurring.
Programs for synchronization with other services
By default, Xiaomi watch data is synced only to Mi Fitness or Zepp Life. But what if you want to export it to Strava, Google Fit or Apple Health?
1. SyncMiFit (Android) – automatically transfers data from Mi Fitness to:
- 🏃 Google Fit (Steps, Distance, Calories).
- 🚴 Strava (cycling and running training).
- 🍎 Apple Health (only on iOS via workarounds).
2.Health Sync is a universal sync that supports more than 50 services, including MyFitnessPal and Endomondo.
- 🔄 Bilateral synchronization (data can not only be exported, but also imported).
- 📅 Set up the frequency of updates (from 15 minutes to 24 hours).
- 🔒 Encryption of transmitted data.
3. Mi Band Tools is an extension for Tasker that allows you to automate actions based on data from the watch.
- 📱 Send a notification to the phone if the pulse exceeds 120 beats / min.
- 🔊 Turn on music when you start your workout.
- 💡 Manage a smart home (via Home Assistant) by gesture on the clock.
When setting up sync, consider the limitations of iOS: Apple blocks the background work of third-party apps, so data can be updated with a delay. On Android, for stable operation, turn off battery optimization for sync utilities.
Programs for developers and enthusiasts
If you're not afraid of experimentation and want to make the most of your time, look for developer tools that let you unlock hidden features, test betas, and even create your own apps for Wear. OS.
1. Xiaomi Wearable SDK — The official toolkit for creating applications for Mi Watch and Amazfit:
- 📚 Documentation on API sensors (pulsemeter, accelerometer, GPS).
- 🖥️ Watch emulator for testing.
- 🔧 Tools for debugging through ADB.
2. Amazfit Modder is a community of custom firmware enthusiasts, and on their GitHub you will find:
- 🔄 Ported versions of Wear OS proprietary firmware.
- 🔧 Mods with advanced screen and battery settings.
- 🛠️ Instructions for unlocking the loader.
3. Wear OS by Google – if your watch runs on this platform (e.g. Mi Watch 2 Pro), you can install apps directly from the Play Market:
- 🐞 Wear OS Debug - debugging through ADB.
- 📊 Sensor Logger – Recording data from sensors in real time.
- 🔌 Battery Stats – detailed analysis of energy consumption.
Working with custom firmware requires an understanding of the risks:
- ⚠️ Loss of warranty (manufacturer can detect hacking of bootloader).
- ⚠️ Unstable operation of sensors (e.g, GPS It may be showing incorrect coordinates).
- ⚠️ Security vulnerabilities (Castom software may contain backdoors).
💡
Before installing custom firmware, check that it is compatible with your watch model. For example, firmware for Amazfit GTR 3 is not suitable for GTR 4 – this will lead to a “brick” (inoperability) of the device.
How to choose a program: a step-by-step algorithm
With such a variety of utilities, it's easy to get confused. To make sure you don't make the wrong choice, follow this algorithm:
- Identify a watch model: For the Mi Band 6–8 Mi Fitness or Notify & Fitness is the best option for Xiaomi Watch. S3 watch 2 Pro - Zepp Life or Wear OS Tools, for Amazfit. GTR/GTS — Zepp Life + Amazfit Watch Faces.
- Setting goals: Do you need to customize dials? → Mi Band Master or Facer: Want to export your data to Strava? → Health Sync: Restore the clock after a failure? → MiFlash or Amazfit Firmware Tool.
- Check compatibility: Look at the program description on Google Play or GitHub. Read user reviews with your watch model.
Assess the risks
- The firmware side and utilities may deprive you of warranty.
- Certain functions (e.g, NFC-Payment may stop working.
If you are a beginner, start with official apps (Mi Fitness or Zepp Life), and we recommend that experienced users combine them with third-party utilities, for example:
- 📱 For training: Zepp Life + Health Sync (export to Strava).
- 🎨 For design: Mi Fitness + Amazfit Watch Faces.
- 🔧 For repairs: MiFlash + ADB Tools.