Xiaomi teases Redmi Watch 6 ahead of October 23 launch

The Redmi Watch 6 drops in China on October 23 alongside the Redmi K90 series. It keeps the same 2.07-inch AMOLED screen as the Watch 5 but adds a tougher unibody aluminium frame, a second button under the crown, and better integration with Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3.

A familiar display with design upgrades

At first glance, the Redmi Watch 6 doesn’t stray too far from what made the Watch 5 popular. The 2.07-inch AMOLED display carries over, complete with a 60Hz refresh rate and narrow 2 mm bezels.

As noted in my review from about a year ago, that screen is one of the highlights of the previous model. It is bright, vibrant, and large enough to comfortably display notifications and fitness stats. But it is not for everyone. The bold size can feel oversized on smaller wrists.

This time, Xiaomi keeps the dimensions but tweaks the look. The Watch 6 uses a high-strength aluminium alloy frame with a unibody design that trims the profile. Xiaomi describes it as slim and exquisite, and it does look cleaner around the edges than the previous version.

This version has nearly an edge-to-edge viewing experience. Ultra-narrow 2mm symmetrical bezels are on-board.

One change that stands out is the addition of a new secondary button below the rotating crown. And while Xiaomi hasn’t said what this extra button will do, it should bring more flexibility for navigation or shortcuts.

Three colour options, same sturdy frame

Redmi Watch 6 will come in Misty Blue, Classic Black, and Moonlight Silver. Each variant keeps the aluminium chassis, but the strap and accent colours help create a different vibe. Misty Blue pairs a silver frame with a light blue band. Classic Black keeps things formal and understated. Moonlight Silver combines white and silver in a look Xiaomi says may appeal more to female users.

Compared to the Watch 5, which also came with quick-release straps and a lightweight feel, the Watch 6 looks to build on that versatility. I found the braided strap option to be a better fit during workouts, especially for heart rate accuracy. Hopefully, Xiaomi keeps that accessory around for the new model too.

The same OS, and maybe more

HyperOS is back powering the Redmi Watch 6. On the Watch 5, it runs smoothly and covers the basics. The Mi Fitness app ties everything together in a straightforward way. You don’’t get advanced metrics like HRV or readiness scores on Watch 5, but for daily tracking, it got the job done. We’ll see if Watch 6 builds on these.

Xiaomi hasn’t detailed all the new software features yet, but they’ve hinted at tighter integration with smart home devices and potential third-party app support. If that plays out, it would push the Watch 6 slightly beyond the more locked-in experience of the Watch 5.

The Watch 5 also included Bluetooth calling, built-in music storage, and even wind-resistant dual microphones. We don’t yet know whether the Watch 6 keeps all of those features, but it would be surprising if Xiaomi took any of them away.

Battery remains a strong point

The Watch 6 promises up to 24 days of battery life. That’s the same figure Xiaomi gave for the Watch 5, which lived up to expectations in real-world testing. I wore it for two full weeks without charging, and it still had plenty of juice left. Even with occasional GPS use and regular notifications, it was one of the more efficient smartwatches I’d tested in that price range.

The Watch 5 had a 550mAh battery, and unless something changes dramatically, the Watch 6 is likely to carry over a similar capacity. As before, charging will likely rely on a magnetic dock. No mention yet of wireless charging or eSIM availability, though the Watch 5 did offer a cellular version in select markets.

Source: Redmi

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