Update firmware Xiaomi Mi Band 3: official and alternative ways

Xiaomi Mi Band 3 remains one of the most popular fitness bracelets even years after its release. However, it is critical to keep the device running properly. Updates fix synchronization errors, add new features (such as support for the latest versions of Android and iOS), and optimize battery consumption. In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to update the firmware from the standard method through Mi Fit to manual installation through third-party utilities.

It is important to understand that the upgrade procedure for Mi Band 3 has nuances related to the region of purchase of the bracelet (China, global version, Russia) and the version of the current software. For example, some firmware for the Chinese market can block functions when installed on global devices. We will take a detailed look at how to avoid typical errors and what to do if the bracelet “hangs” during the update.

Why do I need to update the Mi Band 3 firmware?

Regular firmware updates solve several key tasks:

• 🔄 Bug fix: Mi Fit sync errors, notification display problems, or pulse measurement failures are fixed.
• 🔋 Battery Optimization: Newer versions of software often reduce power consumption, increasing the life of the bracelet to 20-25 days.
• 📱 Compatible with new OS: Without updates, the bracelet may stop working correctly with the latest versions of Android 13/14 iOS 16/17.
• 🔒 Security: Data transmission vulnerabilities are closed (e.g. when connecting to Bluetooth).

But not all updates are equally useful. For example, some users note that after the update to firmware 1.7.0.54, the pedometer accuracy deteriorated, and in such cases, you can roll back to the previous version - how to do this, we will talk about manual firmware.

⚠️ Note: If your Mi Band 3 is purchased in China (suffix version) CN in the serial number), installation of global firmware can block functions such as NFC Or Cyrillic fonts. Check the region of the device in Settings → The bracelet.

Preparing for the update: what to do in advance

Before starting the procedure, follow several mandatory steps to avoid failures:

1. Check battery power: Level should be at least 50%. When discharged during the upgrade, the bracelet can turn into a "brick".
2. Update the Mi Fit app: The older version of the program won't see new firmware. Download the latest version from Google Play or the App Store.
3. Connect the bracelet to your phone: Make sure Bluetooth is on and the devices are paired. The distance between them should not exceed 10 meters.
4. Back up your data: The update will reset your bracelet settings. To avoid losing your statistics, sync your data with Mi Fit in advance.

If you plan to upgrade through third-party utilities (such as Mi Bandage or Notify & Fitness), additionally:

• 📱 Install one of the alternative applications (links below in the manual firmware section).
• 🔌 Connect the bracelet to the PC via Bluetooth adapter (if you need firmware through the ADB).

Bracelet charge >50%|Mi Fit Updated to the latest version|Bluetooth is on and devices are paired|Data synchronized with Mi Fit|Backup copy of settings saved-->

Method 1: Update via the official Mi Fit app

This is the easiest and most recommended method, and the instructions are relevant for Android and iOS:

1. Open the Mi Fit app and go to Profile → Mi Smart Band 3.
2. Scroll down and select the firmware update (on some versions – bracelet settings) → Update of the PO).
3. If a new firmware is available, click Update. Confirm action.
4. Wait until the process is complete (usually takes 5-10 minutes) and the bracelet will reset automatically.

If the Update button is inactive or absent, the reasons may be as follows:

• 🌍 The bracelet is on the latest firmware version for your region.
• 📵 Connection problems with Xiaomi servers (try switching to mobile internet or other Wi-Fi network).
• 🔄 Mi Fit includes beta version of the firmware (disable it in bracelet settings).

Through Mi Fit.|Manually through third-party utilities|Never updated.|I don't know how to do that.-->

What to do if the update is suspended? If the process stops at the Preparation or Download stage, try:

1. Reset the bracelet (press the touch button for 10 seconds until vibration appears).
2. Remove the bracelet from the Mi Fit and add it again.
3. Reinstall the Mi Fit app.

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet fails to turn on or vibrates constantly after a failed update, it is a sign of “bricking” and can only be restored through manual firmware (see next section).

Method 2: Manual firmware update (through third-party utilities)

If the official update is not available or you want to install a specific firmware version (for example, roll back to the previous one), use alternative methods.

• 📱 Android smartphone (for iOS, manual firmware is impossible due to system limitations).
• 🔗 Notify & Fitness or Mi Bandage (you can download it) 4PDA).
• 📁 Firmware file (.fw) for your model. Download it from trusted sources, such as AmigoFit) XDA Developers (Forum for Advanced Users)

The following is a guide for Notify & Fitness:

1. Install and open the app. Connect the bracelet through Settings. → Devices → Add the device.
2. Go to the Tools. → Select the downloaded file.fw.
3. Press Set and wait until it is completed (the bracelet will reboot several times).
4. After the update, reset the bracelet settings to factory (Settings) → Reset).

Critical: Firmware for the Chinese version (Mi Band 3) CN) Installing an inappropriate version will result in loss of functionality or device failure.

Solving errors when updating Mi Band 3

Even when following the instructions, users face problems.

1. "Failure to connect to the bracelet" error

Reasons:

• 📱 Bluetooth is disabled or the bracelet is not paired with the phone.
• 🔄 Conflict with other applications (e.g. Zepp or Google Fit).
• 📵 Bracelet discharged below 20%.

Decision:

1. Reset the bracelet and phone.
2. Remove all fitness tracker apps except Mi Fit.
3. Enable the Developer Mode in Mi Fit (Settings) → About the programme → Click 5 times on version and turn off Bluetooth Optimization.

2 The bracelet does not respond after the update

If the screen is not turned on or the bracelet is constantly vibrating:

• 🔋 Connect it to charging for 30 minutes - sometimes a failure is caused by a discharge.
• 🔄 Reset the settings: Press the button for 20 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
• 📱 Reinstall Mi Fit and add the bracelet again.

💡

If the bracelet after the update shows an error E1 or E2, This means that you have damaged your firmware files. Repair it through Notify & Fitness by selecting Factory Firmware Restore.

3.The update broke in the middle

If the process stops at 50% download or similar:

1. Do not disconnect the bracelet from your phone or close the Mi Fit.
2. Wait 15 minutes – sometimes the process resumes on its own.
3. If nothing happens, restart both devices and try again.

⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet after interrupted update does not turn on and does not respond to charging, this is a sign of hardware failure. USB-Debugging fee (soldling skills required) Contact Xiaomi Service Center.

Removing the firmware to the previous version

If you have bugs after the update (for example, a pedometer does not work or the battery goes down quickly), you can go back to the old version of the firmware.

1. Download the desired firmware version (.fw) from AmigoFit.
2. Install Notify & Fitness and plug in the bracelet.
3. In the Tools section → Select the downloaded file and press Downgrade.
4. After completion, reset the bracelet settings.

Important: You can only roll back within one firmware branch, for example, 1.7.0.54, you can go back to 1.6.0.48, but not 1.5.1.0, which will lead to errors.

💡

The firmware rollback resets all bracelet settings, including sleep and exercise statistics. Pre-export the data to Google Fit or Apple Health.

Alternative firmware for Mi Band 3: pros and risks

In addition to official firmware, there are custom (modified) versions, for example, Amazfit Bip ports or firmware from the community. XDA. They promise:

• ✅ Extended features (such as Spotify support or additional dials).
• ✅ Improved autonomy through code optimization.
• ✅ Correction of official firmware bugs.

Risks of using custom firmware:

• ❌ Loss of warranty (if the bracelet is still guaranteed).
• ❌ Unstable work (possible occasional reboots).
• ❌ Lack of security updates.

If you decide to experiment, follow the instructions on XDA Developers and backup before installation.Popular custom firmware for Mi Band 3:

• Mi Band 3 Mod – adds new faces and gestures.
• Amazfit Bip Port – portable with Amazfit Bip, but can conflict with sensors.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Mi Band updates 3