Xiaomi has introduced a major update for its widely-used Smart Band 8, upgrading the firmware to HyperOS version 1.6.222 in China. This update brings numerous new features and enhancements, primarily aimed at boosting user productivity and personalization.
Key Additions in the Update
The standout feature in this update is the inclusion of focus notifications. Previously available on the Smart Band 8 Pro, this feature allows users to prioritize notifications from specific apps, ensuring only the most crucial information is displayed on their wrist. This is particularly useful for those who receive a high volume of notifications, as it helps reduce distractions and improve task focus.
Moreover, the update introduces support for paid watch faces, further expanding personalization options. Users can now select from a broader range of designs and styles to suit their tastes. While this may be seen as a step towards monetization, it also provides a revenue stream for developers and designers, potentially leading to a more diverse and creative selection of watch faces in the future.
Additional Improvements
Besides these significant features, the update also addresses several known issues, enhancing the device's overall stability and performance. The rollout of this update is gradual, so users who haven't received it yet should expect it in the coming days.
This isn't the first substantial update for the Smart Band 8. In August of last year, a firmware update (version 1.3.176) introduced several key features, such as Smart Do Not Disturb mode, new watch faces, and support for bus cards in specific regions. It also improved the device's fitness tracking with a new Frisbee motion algorithm and somatosensory game vibration feedback.
Launched in April of last year, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 has already earned acclaim for its impressive features, including a vibrant 1.62-inch AMOLED display, sleek racetrack design, and extensive health and fitness tracking capabilities.
