The Redmi Watch 5 Active does require an internet connection to control smart home devices using voice commands, specifically through Alexa integration. This is because the watch itself does not have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, so it relies on a paired smartphone with an active internet connection to facilitate such controls. When you use voice commands to control smart home devices, the watch communicates with the paired smartphone, which then connects to the internet to execute the commands. This means that without a paired smartphone and an active internet connection, you cannot control smart home devices directly from the watch[1][5].
In terms of smart home control, the Redmi Watch 5 Active allows you to use voice commands to manage devices like smart bulbs, but it does not support more complex tasks such as starting workouts or controlling playback playback directly on the watch[5]. The watch's Alexa integration is primarily useful for basic smart home management and general information queries, but it lacks the full functionality of a dedicated smart speaker or more advanced smartwatches[1][5].
Overall, while the Redmi Watch 5 Active offers a range of convenient features, its smart home control capabilities are limited by the need for a connected smartphone with internet access.
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz1m92XWZtA
[2] https://gadgetsandwearables.com/2025/01/26/redmi-watch-5-review/
[3] https://www.mi.com/global/product/redmi-watch-5/
[4] https://www.mi.com/pk/support/faq/details/KA-38278/
[5] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/reviews/redmi-watch-5-active-review-a-budget-smartwatch-that-doesnt-cut-corners/articleshow/113738161.cms
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/Tech_Philippines/comments/1g5lx2k/any_insight_about_redmi_watch_5_active/
[7] https://www.mi.com/global/product/redmi-watch-5-active/
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/smartwatch/comments/1fhjftt/redmi_watch_5_lite_first_impressions/