Xiaomi’s wearables division head, Zhang Lei, has launched an official Weibo account to directly engage with users, marking another executive embracing “social media office work” after CEO Lei Jun and president Lu Weibing. The move has ignited enthusiasm among fans, with many hoping it signals a turnaround for Xiaomi’s wearables lineup.
Within 24 hours of Zhang’s first post, comments surged past 1,000, dominated by long-time Mi fans voicing both complaints about persistent issues and relief at finally having a direct feedback channel.
Why Xiaomi’s Wearables Lag Behind
Despite offering one of the broadest wearable portfolios (including Mi Band, Redmi Buds, and smartwatches), Xiaomi’s devices have struggled with inconsistent quality. While budget-friendly products like the Mi Band and Redmi Buds 3 Pro earn praise for their value, premium models face harsh criticism for underwhelming performance.
User forums like Xiaomi Community and CoolApk reveal recurring complaints about software bugs, particularly in high-end offerings. As one fan bluntly put it: “The premium models are ruining the product line’s reputation.”
Polarized Reviews: Entry-level devices enjoy high satisfaction rates, but premium models like the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro suffer from poor initial firmware and unmet expectations.
Lack of Feedback Channels: Unlike smartphones and TVs, Xiaomi’s wearables lack dedicated bug-reporting systems, leaving many complaints unresolved.
The Path to Redemption: Leveraging Ecosystem Strength
Analysts suggest Xiaomi’s wearables revival hinges on deeper integration with its Mi Home ecosystem, already one of China’s top smart home platforms. Competitors like Huawei (with HarmonyOS) and OPPO (Enco series) have gained ground by refining niche features, while Xiaomi’s ecosystem could offer unique advantages:
Smart Home Synergy: Future wearables could automatically adjust thermostats, curtains, and lighting based on sleep data.
Course Correction Precedent: As OPPO proved with its ColorOS overhaul, even troubled product lines can rebound with focused iteration.
