Activation of Xiaomi devices: from smartphone to smart watch

The first activation of a new Xiaomi device is a process that can raise questions even among experienced users. Proper activation depends not only on access to the functions of the gadget, but also on its security: improper binding of the Mi Account account can be blocked when resetting. In this article, we will analyze all the steps from unpacking to setting up services, and also consider typical errors and ways to fix them.

Xiaomi’s technology is closely integrated with the MIUI ecosystem and cloud services, which means that simply turning on the device is not enough: you will need to confirm ownership through an official account, set up geolocation (for some regions), and synchronize data. We have compiled current instructions for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches and fitness bracelets, given the latest updates to the brand’s security policy in 2026.

Preparation for activation: what to do before activation

Before you press the power button, make sure you have everything you need on hand, which will prevent interruptions and potential errors.

First, check the hardware. In the box with the new Xiaomi should be:

• 📱 The device itself (smartphone, watch, router, etc.)
• 🔌 Charging cable (type depends on model: USB-C, Micro-USB or wireless charging)
• 🔋 Power adapter (if provided by manufacturer)
• 📄 Warranty pass and instructions (may not be available in some regions)
• 🔑 SIM- Tray Removal Key (for smartphones)

Second, prepare a Mi Account, which can be created in advance on account.xiaomi.com or during device setup, and without linking to your account, you won’t be able to use branded services, including cloud storage, device search, and software updates. If you already have an account, make sure you remember your password and your associated phone number/email.

Regional features are also worth considering, for example, devices purchased in China may require additional bootloader unlocking or a global firmware change, and more on this in the section on activation errors.

Step-by-step activation of the Xiaomi smartphone

The process of switching on and configuring smartphones on MIUI (including the Redmi, POCO and Xiaomi 12/13/14) series models consists of several key steps.

1. Power up the device: Press and hold the power button (usually located on the right side) until the Mi logo appears. Some models (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra) may require additional fingerprint confirmation if the feature has been activated previously.

2. Language and region choice: On the first screen, select the interface language (recommended Russian or English) and country (Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, etc.) and the availability of services depends on this (for example, Google Play may be limited in China).

3. Network Connection. Select Wi-Fi or mobile network (if you have a SIM- card installed). Use a hotspot from your phone or a stable home Wi-Fi to speed up the process. Do not connect to public networks (for example, in a cafe) - this can cause synchronization errors.

4. Linking the Mi Account. There are two options:

• 🔄 Log in to an existing account (enter email/ phone and password)
• ➕ Create a new account (requires confirmation via SMS or email)

5 Security setting: The system will offer you to create a pattern lock, PIN- code or fingerprint, and we recommend that you install at least one option - this will protect data in case of theft or loss of the device.

6. Data recovery. If you had a previous Xiaomi smartphone, you can transfer data via Mi Mover or cloud storage, and Google Account is good for other brands.

7. Configure. The system will offer you to configure Google Services (if available in your area), Xiao AI voice assistant and application permissions. Most items can be skipped and configured later in the Settings → Apps menu.

Activation of smart watches and fitness bracelets Xiaomi

Devices from the Mi Band, Mi Watch and Xiaomi Smart Band lines are activated via the Mi Fitness app (formerly Zepp Life), a process different from setting up smartphones but also requires account binding.

1. Install the app. Download Mi Fitness from Google Play or the App Store. Make sure you have the latest version - old releases may not support new devices.

2. Sign in/sign in. Open the app and log in to your Mi Account. If you don't have an account, create it directly in the app.

3. Connect the device. Enable the watch or bracelet (usually by long pressing a physical button or tapping the screen). In the application, click Profile → Add the device and select the model from the list. For example, for Xiaomi Smart Band 8, select the appropriate item.

4. Synchronization. Follow the instructions on the screen: confirm pairing via Bluetooth, update the firmware (if the system suggests), and adjust the basic parameters (steps, notifications, pulse).

5. Personalization. Once activated, you can set dials, activity goals, and alerts. For example, Mi Band 8 has over 200 dials, some of which are paid.

⚠️ Warning: If a watch or bracelet was purchased in China, the Mi Fitness app may not have Russian, so you can change your account region to Russia or Global in your profile settings.

Common activation errors and their solutions

Even when following the instructions, users encounter problems, and we've collected the most common errors and ways to fix them.

The “This device is locked” error is particularly noteworthy, which occurs if the previous owner did not untie the Mi Account before selling it, in which case the device can only be officially unlocked through Xiaomi support, by providing a check or warranty card. Unofficial methods (for example, through EDL- mode) are risky and can lead to a “brick”.

Activation of routers and devices for smart home

Xiaomi routers (Mi Router series, Redmi Router) and smart home devices (Mi Home) are activated via the Mi Home app.The process is similar to setting up a watch but has nuances.

1. Install the application. Download Mi Home from the official store. Importantly, routers may require a separate Mi Wi-Fi application.

2. Create/sign in. Use the same Mi Account as other Xiaomi devices, which will allow you to sync data between gadgets.

3 Add a device. Click + → Add a device and select a category (such as a router or a smart lamp). Follow the instructions on the screen. The router may need to connect to it via cable during the setup phase.

4. Network setup. For routers, specify network name (SSID), password and mode of operation (2.4 GHz/5 GHz). Smart home devices (e.g., Xiaomi Smart Socket) will require a connection to the same Wi-Fi network as a smartphone.

5. Firmware update. Once activated, check for updates in the device menu. For example, for Mi Router 4A, this is critical - new firmware versions fix security vulnerabilities.

⚠️ Warning: When setting up a Xiaomi router in some regions, PPPoE (a popular protocol among Russian providers) may not be supported.

How to check the success of activation

Once you have completed the setup, it is important to make sure that the device is fully ready to use.

1. Account Status. Go to Settings → Mi Account (for smartphones) or open a profile in the Mi Home/Mi Fitness app. Make sure the device is linked to your account and appears in the list.

2. Software Updates. For smartphones, check for updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update. For watches and routers, in the appropriate apps. Failure to updates may indicate regional restrictions or unofficial firmware.

3. Functionality of services. Make sure that:

• 📱 Google Play Services (for smartphones)
• 🔒 Find Device (Device Search)
• ☁️ Mi Cloud (Cloud Storage)
• 📶 Mobile network and Wi-Fi (for smartphones/routers)

4. Basic feature test. Smartphones: make a test call, connect to the mobile Internet, check the camera. Smartwatches: sync step data, set up notifications.

💡

If after activation, Xiaomi smartphone discharges quickly, check the sync settings. Turn off automatic download of media files in Settings → Mi Account → Synchronization and limit the background activity of applications in Settings → Battery.

Additional settings after activation

Basic activation is only the first step. For comfortable use of the device, we recommend the following steps:

1. Performance optimization. For smartphones:

• 🚀 Enable Performance Mode in Settings → Special Features (for gaming)
• 🗑️ Clear the cache in Settings → Storage → Cleanup
• 🔄 Turn off animation in Settings → About Phone → Version MIUI (click 5 times on the version to turn on Developer Mode)

2. Security settings. Activate:

• 🔐 Application Blocking (in Settings → Privacy)
• 🛡️ Malware Protection (in Security → Scanning)
• 📍 Find Device (Settings → Mi → Find Device)

3. Personalization. Set up:

• 🎨 Topics and wallpapers in Topics
• 🔔 Notification sounds in Settings → Sound
• ⚙️ Control gestures in Settings → More

4. Sync with other devices. If you have multiple Xiaomi gadgets, set up:

• 📲 Mi Share for fast file transfer
• 🎧 Mi Earphones for Automatic Headphone Connection
• 🖥️ Mi PC Suite for computer control

💡

Once activated, be sure to back up your data to Settings → Additional → Backup. This will allow you to quickly restore settings when you reset or replace your device.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi activation