How to assemble a Xiaomi cube: instructions with photos, schemes and life hacks

What is Xiaomi Smart Cube and Why Should You Collect It?

The Mi Cube (or Xiaomi Mi Smart Cube) is not just a toy, but a feature-rich smart home control gadget that combines the elements of a puzzle, a remote control, and a motion sensor, but before you use it properly, you need to assemble the cube โ€” which is not always obvious at first glance.

Unlike the classic Rubik's Cube, where the task is to align the colors on the faces, it requires the magnetic modules to be joined in the right sequence to activate all functions. Mistakes at this stage can lead to broken gestures, incorrect synchronization with the Mi Home app, or even physical damage to the modules, which will help avoid typical problems and assemble the cube the first time.

Important: The models of the cubes differ by generation (e.g. Mi Smart Cube 1 vs Mi Smart Cube 2). In this article, we will look at the universal algorithm, but clarify the nuances for each version.

Compilation and preparation for assembly

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. The standard Xiaomi Mi Cube includes:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ The main body (cube) with magnetic connectors
  • ๐Ÿงฒ 6 removable modules (faces) with different functionality
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Lithium-ion battery (built-in or removable, depending on the model)
  • ๐Ÿ“‘ Short instructions in Chinese/English
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Cable USB Type-C for charging (not in all versions)

If there's something missing in the box, check for a hidden compartment under the module tray. Often the battery or cable is hidden under a cardboard insert. Also note the labeling of the modules: there's a small tag on the back of each face (e.g., the battery or cable is hidden under a cardboard insert, A1, B3), which indicates its position in the collected cube.

โš ๏ธ Warning: Don't try to disassemble the modules yourself, because the gyroscope's fragile sensors are inside. If the edge doesn't fit in, don't force it, because you've probably confused its orientation.

Before assembly:

  1. Charge the cube (if the battery is discharged). The charging indicator is usually located on the bottom edge.
  2. Install the Mi Home app (available for Android and iOS).
  3. Prepare a flat surface without magnetic interference (for example, do not collect a cube on the refrigerator or near the speakers).
๐Ÿ“Š What kind of cube you have Xiaomi?
Mi Smart Cube 1
Mi Smart Cube 2
Mi Smart Cube Pro
I don't know.
Another brand

Step-by-step: how to assemble a cube Xiaomi

The cube assembly has three steps: connecting the modules, calibrating the sensors, and synchronizing with the application. Let's take each step in detail.

Step 1: Facets connection

Start with the main facet of the power button (usually marked with the Mi logo) and put it on the table with the up button.

  1. Take the tagged module. A1 (This is the top face, and you're going to attach it to the base.
  2. Turn the cube so that the tag is A1 It was on top, and you're going to put the side faces on a clockwise: B1, B2, B3.
  3. Lower edge (C1) Set the last one up - it fixes the design.

If the module is not attached:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Check if the line is inverted (the mark should be on the outside).
  • ๐Ÿงฒ Make sure there are no other magnets nearby (they may interfere with the triggering of the locks).
  • ๐Ÿ” Check the connectors for dust or factory defects (greatly wipe with an alcohol napkin).

โ˜‘๏ธ Pre-assembly check

Done: 0 / 4

Step 2: Calibration of sensors

After assembly, the cube must be calibrated, otherwise the gestures (shaking, turning) will be recognized incorrectly.

  1. Hold the switch on for 5 seconds until the indicator blinks blue.
  2. Place the cube on a flat surface and wait until the indicator turns green (it will take 10-15 seconds).
  3. Lift the cube and slowly rotate it on all axes (as if drawing a cross in the air), the indicator should change color to white.

If the indicator flashes red, the calibration failed.

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Nearby there are no sources of electromagnetic interference (microwaves, routers).
  • ๐ŸŒก๏ธ The temperature in the room is not lower +10ยฐC (sensors may fail in the cold).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Cube charged at least 30 times%.

Stage 3: Synchronization with Mi Home

Now connect the cube to the application:

  1. Open Mi Home and press. + โ†’ Smart Cube (Mi Smart Cube).
  2. Choose your model and follow the hints on the screen.
  3. When the app asks, press and hold the button on the cube until you hear the beep.
  4. Wait until the synchronization is complete (the indicator will turn blue).

If the cube is not:

  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Check if Bluetooth is on on your phone.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reset the cube (hold the button for 10 seconds).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Update the Mi Home app to the latest version.

๐Ÿ’ก

Calibration of sensors is a must, and without it, the cube won't recognize gestures properly, even if assembled correctly.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even when following the instructions, users often face problems, and here are the most common ones and how to solve them:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Cube's off.Battery discharged or cable damagedCharge the cube with the original cable for 30 to 60 minutes. If it doesn't work, check the charging contacts for contamination.
Modules are not fixed.Magnetic pole mismatch or connector defectTry to turn the line. If it doesn't work, contact the service (the warranty covers factory defects).
Gestures are misrecognizedUncalibrated sensors or interferenceRecalibrate the calibration away from the electronics. If the problem persists, reset the cube settings to Mi Home.
The cube shuts down on its own.Protection against overheating or low chargeLet the cube cool for 10-15 minutes. Charge to 100% and check the vents for clogging.

Pay special attention to the problem of sticking buttons. If after pressing the button does not return to its original position, this may be caused by:

  • ๐Ÿ’ง Infestation of moisture inside the body (even condensate from a sharp temperature drop).
  • ๐Ÿงน Accumulation of dust under the key (relevant for cubes used in dusty rooms).
  • ๐Ÿ”จ Mechanical damage (fall from a height of more than 1 meter).

โš ๏ธ Warning: If the cube falls into water or is subjected to a strong vibration (for example, in a car), do not turn it on immediately.

What to do if the cube does not respond to gestures?
If the cube is assembled correctly but does not respond to shaking or turning, the problem may be the firmware. Try updating it via Mi Home: go to Device Settings โ†’ Update firmware. If no updates, reset to factory settings (hold the 15-second button).

The secret functions of the Xiaomi cube

Few people know, but the Mi Smart Cube has more than just a smart home. Here are some hidden features:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Game mode: if you quickly spin the cube on the axis, it goes into Rubik's cube mode with the facelights on it. To exit, shake it three times.
  • ๐Ÿ”Š Volume control: turn the cube clockwise - the volume will increase, against - will decrease (works with Bluetooth-connected speakers Xiaomi).
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ Camera Control: Double-pressing the button activates shooting on the connected camera Mi Home Security Camera.
  • ๐ŸŒ™ Night mode: if you put the cube down for 5 seconds, it will go into energy-saving mode (the indicator will blink once every 10 seconds).

To activate these features, you may need to update your firmware to the latest version. Check this in Mi Home in the Settings section. โ†’ About the device.

Another life hack: if you simultaneously press two opposite faces and hold 3 seconds, the cube will emit an audio signal and show the battery level with the color of the indicator:

  • Green: 70-100%
  • Blue - 30-70%
  • Red is less than 30%

๐Ÿ’ก

If you use a cube to control a smart home, make the most common gestures, like shaking to turn on the lights, turning left to start a robot vacuum cleaner, which will save time and make the use more intuitive.

How to Disassemble a Xiaomi Cube (If Something Goes Wrong)

If you're wrong or you need to clean the contacts, you can take the cube out carefully, but remember, a wrong disassembly can lead to a loss of warranty!

Tools you will need:

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Plastic blade (or mediator)
  • ๐Ÿงฒ Magnet (to extract small parts)
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ Loop or phone with macro shooting (so as not to lose springs)

Step-by-step:

  1. Turn off the cube and remove the battery (if it is removable).
  2. Put the shoulder blade in the gap between the faces and gently dent the module. Start with the top edge (A1).
  3. After removing the first facet, the rest can be removed manually by pulling up.
  4. Use alcohol wipes or compressed air to clean your contacts. Don't use water!

When assembled back:

  • Make sure all springs and silicone pads are in place (they are responsible for cushioning when falling).
  • Do not tighten the screws too much - this can deform the body.
  • After assembly, be sure to repeat the calibration of the sensors.

โš ๏ธ Warning: If youโ€™ve disassembled the Mi Smart Cube Pro, be careful with the infrared sensor on the top edge โ€“ itโ€™s fragile and can fall off when handled carelessly.

Model comparison: which Xiaomi cube to choose?

There are several versions of Xiaomi smart cubes on the market, and here are the main differences:

ModelFeaturesPrice (exemplary)Who's good for?
Mi Smart Cube 1Basic model, 6 gestures, no lighting1 500โ€“2 000 โ‚ฝFor beginners or control simple devices (lamps, sockets)
Mi Smart Cube 2RGB-Lighting, 12 gestures, support for HomeKit2 500โ€“3 000 โ‚ฝFor advanced users of a smart home with devices of different brands
Mi Smart Cube ProIR port, voice control, touch buttons3 500โ€“4 500 โ‚ฝFor full control over multimedia (TV, air conditioning) and complex scenarios

If youโ€™re choosing a TV cube, look for the Mi Smart Cube Pro โ€“ it supports IR commands for most brands (Samsung, LG, For simple tasks (turn on the light, start the vacuum cleaner) will suffice and the first model.

Also consider compatibility with the ecosystem:

  • All the cubes work with Mi Home and Google Assistant.
  • Only the Mi Smart Cube 2 and Pro support Apple HomeKit.
  • A separate application may be required to manage Yeelight or Aqara devices.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Cube

Can I use a cube without the Mi Home app?
Technically, yes, but the functionality will be severely limited. Without the app, the cube can work as: Simple backlight (if the model supports the RGB). Mechanical puzzle (faces rotate, but gestures are not recognized); Remote control for IR devices (only in the Mi Smart Cube Pro). To fully manage a smart home, synchronization with Mi Home is mandatory.
How long does the charge last?
The operating time depends on the model and intensity of use: Mi Smart Cube 1: before 3 months-long, 1โ€“2 Weeks with active use. Mi Smart Cube 2/Pro: before 6 months-long, 3โ€“4 Weeks with frequent use. Charging takes 1โ€“2 It is recommended to use the original cable. USB Type-C with adapter 5V/1A.
Can I change the sides after assembly?
Yes, but with caution. If you just rearrange the modules without recalibrating, the sensors will not work properly. To change the edges: Remove the desired modules (as in disassembly). Set them in new positions. Complete calibration (hold the button 5 seconds until blue blink). After repositioning, check the gesture response in the Mi Home app.
The cube is not synchronized with the Mi Home.
Try the following steps: Reboot the cube (hold the 10 seconds button). Remove the device from the app and add again. Check that your phone is connected to a 2.4 GHz network (the cube does not work with 5 GHz); upgrade the Mi Home to the latest version. If nothing helps, reset the cube to factory settings (hold the 15-second button to the beep).
Where to buy spare modules for the cube?
Official spare parts are sold: in Xiaomi service centers (guarantee or fee); on AliExpress (search for "Mi Smart Cube replacement module"); in smart home parts stores (eg Gearbest); the cost of one module is from 300 to 800 โ‚ฝ. When buying, check compatibility with your cube model!