Modern Redmi and Poco smartphones have built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes that allow you to track physical activity without buying additional gadgets. Users often find that after buying a device they do not find a separate application “Stepomer” on the desktop, this is because the MIUI or HyperOS system integrates this feature deeper, linking it to system widgets and cloud services Mi Account.
The step count function does not require third-party software to be activated, since the basic algorithm is already embedded in the shell. However, in order for the data to be displayed visually and synchronized with the server, you need to make a number of adjustments in the screen personalization menu. The system counter starts working immediately after the phone is turned on, but without the correct configuration, the user may not notice this.
In this tutorial, we will discuss in detail all the ways to activate and configure the activity tracker, you will learn how to bring the number of steps taken to the desktop, how to link a smartphone with a smart watch, and what to do if the data has stopped updating.
Use of desktop widgets
The easiest and most popular way to visualize your activity is to add a special widget to the home screen. In Xiaomi shells, this is done through the desktop editing menu. You don't have to search for hidden settings in deep menus, just use the standard system toolkit.
To add a counter, follow the following steps:
- 📱 Make a pinch with two fingers in the center of the screen or pinch an empty area to go into editing mode.
- 🧩 In the bottom menu, select “Widgets” (or “Add widgets»).
- 🔍 In the list, find the Tools category or immediately look for a widget called Stepmer or Mi Band».
- ➕ Click on the plus or drag the selected widget style to the free desktop space.
Once added, the widget can show zero value or require authorization. The widget is just a display interface, so it takes data from the system storage. If you see dashboards instead of numbers, try taking a few steps or restarting the device. Some widget styles support displaying not only steps, but also calories burned or distance traveled.
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If the widget doesn’t update immediately, try changing its size (stretch) or choosing a different style from the list of available ones.
Setup of the Mi Fitness application and synchronization
For Xiaomi and Redmi device owners, the main health management center is the Mi Fitness app (formerly known as Mi Wear), which collects statistics from the phone’s built-in sensors and external gadgets, and without installing and configuring this app, a full record of activity in the Mi ecosystem is impossible.
The initial setup process is as follows:
- 📥 Download the Mi Fitness app from GetApps or Google Play.
- 🔐 Sign in to your Mi Account to keep your data in the cloud.
- ⚙️ Go to the profile and find the "Add device" section, select "Phone».
- ✅ Provide all requested permissions to access motion and geolocation sensors.
Importantly, Mi Fitness can conflict with other trackers if you don't prioritize.In the app settings, make sure the data source is set as "Phone" if you're not using the bracelet. Also check if sync is enabled with Google Fit or Apple Health if you plan to use third-party training apps.
☑️ Checking the Mi Fitness settings
⚠️ Note: If you use energy-saving mode, the system may force Mi Fitness to close and steps will stop being recorded. add the app to the exclusion list ("No restrictions") in the battery settings.
Integration with Google Fit and third-party services
Many users prefer the Google ecosystem because of its versatility. The pedometer built into Redmi is great friends with the search giant's services. This is especially true if you're changing your phone to a different brand's device but want to keep a history of activity.
To set up the synchronization, you need:
- 🌐 Open the Mi Fitness app and go to profile.
- 🔗 Find the section “Third-Party Data” or “Related Applications».
- 🟢 Select Google Fit and click the “Connect” button».
- 📂 Confirm access to data in the Google account authorization window.
Once linked, the steps taken with the phone in your pocket will be automatically transmitted to Google Fit. Back-Sync also works: workouts recorded in Google Fit can be displayed in Xiaomi statistics. This creates a single database independent of the specific smartphone manufacturer. Synchronization occurs only with an active Internet connection and an open intermediary app.
There is also the possibility of using third-party aggregator applications, such as Health Sync, which allow data to be transferred between services that do not directly support each other, but there are built-in tools for basic use of the Redmi + Google Fit bundle.
Comparison of embedded solutions and third-party applications
The choice between a standard meter and third-party programs often depends on the depth of analytics you require.The built-in tools are good for their autonomy, but specialized applications give more graphs.
| Parameter | Built-in pedometer (Mi Fitness) | Third-party applications (Pedometer, StepApp) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery consumption | Minimum (system level) | Medium or high |
| precision | High (direct access to the sensor) | Depends on the developer’s algorithms |
| Advertising | Absent. | It is often present in free versions. |
| Integration | Deep (widgets, clocks) | Limited. |
The system activity tracker is optimized by Xiaomi engineers for specific CPU models, which provides better energy efficiency. Third-party applications may require constant GPS turn on or more frequent sensor surveys, which drains the battery faster. However, they can offer social features, competitions with friends and more detailed gamification of the walking process.
If your goal is to just see the number on the screen and not think about settings, the built-in solution is perfect, but if you're a professional athlete and you need complex metrics, the combination of a system meter and a specialized training application will be optimal.
Solving the Problems of Counting Steps
Sometimes users are faced with a phone in their pocket, but the steps don't go. This is a common problem associated with aggressive battery optimization in MIUI. The system can "kill" the process of counting steps to save energy, considering it inactive.
To correct the situation, follow the following steps:
- 🔋 Go to Settings. → Battery and productivity.
- 📱 Find the Mi Fitness app or “Stepkeeper” in the list».
- 🛡️ Set the "No Limits" mode».
- 🔒 Check the autorun settings in the “Security” app».
Another reason could be a motion sensor that's disabled, so make sure that the privacy settings allow access to physical activity data, and check if the sensor is not calibrated correctly, and try resetting the sensors through the engineering menu, but that requires caution.
How do you reset the sensor calibration?
⚠️ Warning: Do not use memory accelerator or cleaner applications that force background processes to close.
Additional functions and motivation
In Xiaomi’s ecosystem, step counting is not just numbers, it’s part of a larger incentive system, like converting steps into virtual currency (Mi Credits), which can sometimes be exchanged for coupons or discounts in the Mi Store (stocks change).
And it's also worth mentioning synchronization with a Mi Band or Amazfit smartwatch. If you have one, the steps add up: the phone won't count steps when the wrist watch is active, preventing double counting. This makes the statistics more reliable. The algorithm prioritizes the data from the wearable device, as it's usually more accurate.
Use widgets of different sizes to create a personalized desktop. Large widgets with a weekly activity schedule can be a great motivation to walk more. Remember that regular walking is the key to health, and your Redmi is ready to become your personal trainer.
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The main secret of long pedometer operation is to allow the application to work in the background without energy saving restrictions.