How to turn on Xiaomi Mi Band: instructions for all models (2026)

The Xiaomi Mi Band fitness bracelets have long been one of the most popular wearables thanks to a combination of affordable price, functionality and long battery life. However, even with such a simple gadget, users sometimes have questions — especially if it is a first turn on: How to properly activate the Mi Band bracelet, what to do if it does not respond to presses, and how to avoid typical errors? In this article, you will find unique recommendations for including all modern models (from Mi Band 3 to Mi Band 8), as well as solutions to common problems.

It’s important to understand that the on-boarding process may vary slightly depending on the firmware version and device model. For example, the Mi Band 7 and Mi Band 8 have a touchscreen with gesture support, whereas older versions (such as the Mi Band 4) require a physical push of the button.

Preparation for the first inclusion: what to do in advance

Before you start activating the bracelet, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps, which will help avoid problems with the connection and operation of the device.

First, check the configuration – in the box with Xiaomi Mi Band should be:

• 📦 The fitness bracelet itself (with or without a strap).
• 🔋 Charging cable (usually with a magnetic connector or USB-Type-C in newer models).
• 📄 Brief instruction (sometimes in multiple languages but no details).
• 🔄 Some sets include spare straps or protective glass.

Make sure your smartphone meets the minimum requirements:

• 📱 Android 5.0 and higher or iOS 10.0 and higher.
• 🔄 Bluetooth 4.0 enabled (or newer)
• 📶 Stable Internet connection (for downloading applications and updates).

You also need to download the official Mi Fitness app (formerly Mi Fit) from the App Store or Google Play. In some regions, it might be called Zepp Life, which is the same app, just with a different brand. Without it, the bracelet cannot function properly.

Ways to enable Xiaomi Mi Band: step-by-step instructions

The process of inclusion depends on the model of the bracelet. Below we will consider all the current options.

Physical button models (Mi Band 3, Mi Band 4)

If you have one of these models, the algorithm is as follows:

1. Connect the bracelet to the charger for 10-15 minutes (even if it is new, sometimes the charge discharges during storage).
2. Press and hold the physical button under the screen for 5-7 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the button, the bracelet will start loading. If the screen does not respond, press again.

Touch screen models (Mi Band 5, 6, 7, 8)

There is no physical button in these versions, so the switch is enabled via the sensor:

1. Connect the bracelet to charge for 5-10 minutes (required!)
2. Touch the screen and swipe up (for Mi Band 5/6) or double-touch (for Mi Band 7/8).
3. Hold your finger on the screen for 3-5 seconds until the logo appears.

If the bracelet does not respond to touch, try:

• 🔌 Reconnect the charger (possibly poor contact).
• 🧹 Clean the screen of dust or moisture (the sensor may not work).
• 🔋 Check battery power (charging indicator should flash when connected to USB).

Features of inclusion after a long downtime

If the bracelet had been idle for months, its battery could have run out to zero.

1. Connect the device to charging and leave for 30-60 minutes.
2. Try to turn on the standard way (see above).
3. If the screen is not responsive, try resetting the settings (see section below).

Connecting to a smartphone and setting up after turning on

Once the bracelet is successfully turned on, it needs to be synchronized with the smartphone.

1. Open the Mi Fitness (or Zepp Life) app.
2. Click Profile → Add the device.
3. Choose your Mi Band model from the list.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen (you will need to confirm the pairing on the bracelet).

The verification code will appear on the bracelet screen, and you need to enter it in the app. If the code doesn't show, try:

• 🔄 Reset the bracelet (hold the button/sensor for 10 seconds).
• 📱 Re-launch the Mi Fitness app.
• 🔌 Disable and turn on Bluetooth again on your smartphone.

After synchronization, it is recommended:

• 🔄 Update the bracelet firmware (if an update is available).
• ⚙️ Set up notifications (in the Notifications section of the appendix).
• 🏃‍♂️ Activate activity tracking (steps, sleep, pulse).

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If the bracelet doesn’t find your smartphone, try turning off Bluetooth on other devices nearby – they sometimes cause interference.

Problem Solving: Bracelet not turning on or not responding

If the Xiaomi Mi Band doesn't turn on despite all the effort, the reasons may be different.

Bracelet not charging

Check it out.

• 🔌 Charging cable (try another USB- port or power supply).
• 🧲 Cleanliness of contacts on the bracelet and charger (wipe with alcohol).
• 🔋 Battery status (if the bracelet is older than 2-3 years, the battery may have failed).

The screen doesn't respond to touch.

Possible causes and solutions:

Resetting settings to factory

If the bracelet is glitching or not turning on, try to reset it:

1. For Mi Band 3/4: Press and hold the 15-second button until vibrations appear.
2. For Mi Band 5/6/7/8: Go to Settings → About Device → Reset (or hold the sensor for 10 seconds on the bracelet off).

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Resetting removes all data from the bracelet, including activity statistics. Before resetting, sync the data with the application.

Frequent User Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many of the problems with the Xiaomi Mi Band are caused by the wrong actions of users, and here are the most common mistakes:

• 🚫 Using an unoriginal charging cable – this can cause battery damage or malfunction.
• 🚫 Try to turn on the bracelet without charging — even new devices sometimes discharge during storage.
• 🚫 Ignoring firmware updates — legacy software can cause sensor or connection glitch.
• 🚫 Contact with water before leakproofing checks – not all Mi Band models are waterproof (see specifications).

Many users also forget that for the correct operation of the bracelet you need:

• 📱 Update the Mi Fitness app regularly.
• 🔄 Reload the bracelet periodically (every 1-2 weeks).
• 🔋 Avoid full battery discharge (charge at 20-30%).

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If the bracelet begins to discharge quickly, turn off unnecessary notifications and reduce the frequency of pulse measurement in the settings.

Comparison of processes of inclusion of different models of Mi Band

While the Xiaomi Mi Band is similar, each model has its own nuances. Below is a comparison table.

As you can see from the table, new models are turned on faster and have more intuitive controls, but older versions (such as the Mi Band 3) can be more reliable in low temperatures or low charge.

Additional functions after inclusion

After successful activation, the Xiaomi Mi Band provides access to a variety of useful features, including:

• 🏃‍♂️ Activity tracking: steps, distance, calories, types of exercise.
• 💤 Sleep monitoring: sleep phases, smart wake-up alarm clock.
• ❤️ Measurement of pulse: manually or automatically (at a customizable frequency).
• 📱 Notifications: SMS, calls, messages from social networks (configured in the application).
• 🔒 Smartphone unlock: The bracelet can unlock the phone without entering a password (setup required).

To activate these functions:

1. Open the Mi Fitness app.
2. Go to the Profile section → Your device.
3. Select the desired function and adjust its parameters.

For example, to set up notifications:

1. In the app, select Notifications.
2. Activate the switch Enable notifications.
3. Select the applications you want to receive notifications from.
4. Set up vibration and display on the screen.

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To save charge, disable notifications from unnecessary apps (such as games or news services).

FAQ: Frequent questions about incorporating Xiaomi Mi Band