Xiaomi Redmi 9T is one of the brand’s most popular budget smartphones, combining performance and functionality. Among the key features of the model, users especially note the presence of a fingerprint scanner that provides fast and safe unlocking of the device.
Unlike the flagship models, where the scanner can be embedded in the screen or placed on the side edge, the Redmi 9T manufacturer chose a classic solution, which not only simplifies production, but also makes the sensor more reliable in everyday use. In this article, we will discuss in detail the exact location of the scanner, the nuances of its settings, and give tips for eliminating typical problems faced by users.
If you have just purchased the Xiaomi Redmi 9T or are planning to do so, the information below will help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of biometric protection.
Exact location of fingerprint scanner on Redmi 9T
The fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi Redmi 9T is located on the back of the device, at the top of the body, just below the main camera. The sensor is round and slightly recessed into the body, which prevents accidental pressing.
- 🔹 Ergonomics: When holding the phone in your hand, your finger naturally falls on the sensor area, which speeds up unlocking.
- 🔹 Damage protection: Rear location reduces the risk of accidental scanner damage when the phone drops down.
- 🔹 Compatible with cases: most original and third-party cases for Redmi 9T have a cutout under the sensor, which does not interfere with its operation.
Importantly, the scanner on this model is not ultrasonic or optical, but a classic capacitive sensor that reads the topography of a finger when it comes to physical contact, which means that to unlock successfully, the finger must be clean and dry, and the sensor must be free of contamination.
If you can't find the scanner on your device, look for a small circular recess underneath the camera, which may be less visible in the dark colors of the case (Carbon Gray, Twilight Blue), but is palpable with your finger. In rare cases, the sensor can be hidden under a protective film that must be removed before first use.
How to distinguish fingerprint scanner from other elements on the back
There are a few elements on the back of the Redmi 9T that you might confuse with a fingerprint scanner, especially if you're holding this smartphone for the first time.
| Element | Location. | How to distinguish from a scanner |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerprint scanner | Under the main camera, downtown. | Round, slightly drowned, metal ring at the edge |
| Main camera. | Top left corner (when looking at the screen) | Rectangular module with 4 lenses and flash |
| Xiaomi logo | Lower part of the hull | Flat, no grooves, with the words "Redmi" |
| IR-blaster | Upper edge (not visible from behind) | It's right in front, next to the speaker. |
If you're still in doubt, try swiping your finger slightly over the back, the fingerprint scanner will protrude slightly above the surface (despite being drowned) and have a smooth metal edge, the camera, on the contrary, is completely flat and covered with glass, the brand logo is usually matte and has no tactile differences.
⚠️ Note: Do not confuse the fingerprint scanner with the proximity sensor, which is located on the front panel next to the speaker, the latter used to turn off the screen during calls and has nothing to do with biometric authorization.
Step-by-step setting up the fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi Redmi 9T
To start using the fingerprint scanner, it must be pre-configured in the system, the process takes no more than 2-3 minutes and consists of several simple steps:
- Open the Settings. → Passwords and security.
- Select the fingerprint item.
- If this is the first addition, the system will ask PIN-code or pattern lock (mandatory step for backup access).
- Follow the instructions on the screen: Place your finger on the scanner at different angles until the scale is 100% full.
- After successfully adding a fingerprint, you can set up its use to unlock the screen, log in to apps, and confirm payments.
A few important nuances:
- 🔧 Up to 5 fingerprints can be added (for example, fingers of both hands or family members’ prints).
- 🔄 If the fingerprint is not recognized, try removing and adding it again – sometimes the original record may be inaccurate.
- 🚫 The scanner does not work when the screen is turned off – press the power button first, then put your finger on it.
Make sure your finger is clean and dry.
Remove the protective film from the scanner (if any)
Set a backup. PIN-code
Keep your phone straight without tilting.-->
If the scanner refuses to save the fingerprint, check:
- 📱 System Updates: Go to Settings → The phone. → Update of the PO.
- 🧴 Sensor cleanliness: wipe the scanner with a dry wipe (do not use alcohol!).
- 🔋 Battery Charge: At a level below 15%, some safety features may be limited.
Common problems with the scanner and their solutions
Despite the reliability of the capacitive sensor, Redmi 9T users sometimes have difficulty using it, and consider the most common problems and ways to fix them:
1. The scanner doesn't recognize the fingerprint.
If the phone doesn’t respond to touching the sensor or if it gives an error, “I couldn’t recognize the fingerprint,” try:
- 🧼 Wipe your finger and scanner with a dry cloth (sweat, cream or dirt interfere with reading).
- 🔄 Rebooting your phone – sometimes helps with temporary crashes.
- 📲 Remove and add the fingerprint again, holding the finger at different angles.
2.The scanner is slow.
The slowed response of the sensor may be related to:
- 🛠️ System Boot: Close background applications through Settings → Annexes → Launched.
- 🔋 Energy savings: Turn off battery mode in Settings → Battery.
- 📱 Sensor damage: If the problem persists, check your phone for physical defects.
3. the scanner does not turn on after the update
After major MIUI updates (e.g., 12 to 13), the fingerprint scanner may stop working due to a security reset.
- Remove all saved fingerprints in Settings → Passwords and security.
- Reboot the phone.
- Add the print again.
⚠️ Note: If the scanner stopped working after a phone drop or moisture hit, do not try to disassemble the device yourself.
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If the scanner does not work well in winter, warm your hands before unlocking – the cold reduces the sensitivity of the skin and worsens the reading of the fingerprint.
Redmi 9T scanner compared to other Xiaomi models
Xiaomi uses different types of fingerprint scanners depending on the segment of the device. For clarity, compare the Redmi 9T with other popular models of the brand:
| Model | Type of scanner | Location. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 9T | Capacitive | Back panel. | Reliable but requires physical contact |
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | Optical (in screen) | Under the display | Faster but less accurate in bright light |
| Poco X3 Pro | Capacitive | Side face (in the power button) | Convenient to unlock with one hand |
| Mi 11 | Ultrasonic. | On screen. | The fastest and most accurate, works with wet fingers |
As you can see from the table, the Redmi 9T features a classic capacitive sensor that is inferior in speed and functionality to flagship solutions, but gains in reliability and maintainability. The optical and ultrasonic scanners built into the screen are more vulnerable to fall damage and require expensive repairs.
If you choose between Redmi 9T and side-scanner models (like Poco X3 Pro), consider that the rear-mounted sensor is less convenient to unlock with one hand, but less likely to break when used heavily.
How to Protect Your Fingerprint Scanner from Damage
The capacitive sensor on the Redmi 9T is strong enough, but still requires careful handling. Here are some tips to help extend its life:
- 🛡️ Use a case with a neckline: it will protect the sensor from scratches when in contact with hard surfaces.
- 🧴 Avoid creams and oils before using the scanner – they clog up the sensor’s microcracks.
- 🚿 Don’t wash your phone with soap: Getting into aggressive detergents can damage the scanner’s protective coating.
- 🔧 Regularly update the software: in new versions MIUI Often improve recognition algorithms.
Pay special attention to cleaning the sensor.
- Turn off the phone.
- Gently wipe the scanner with a soft microfiber cloth (for example, for glasses).
- For severe contamination, use a dry cotton swab dipped in distilled water.
⚠️ Warning: Never use abrasive materials ( sandpaper, hard sponges), alcohol or acetone to clean the scanner, which can damage the protective coating of the sensor and make it inoperable.
What if the scanner stopped working after a fall?
Alternative ways to unlock the Redmi 9T
If the fingerprint scanner is not available for some reason (for example, if the sensor is damaged or in cold weather), you can use alternative unlock methods:
- 🔢 PIN-code: the most reliable backup option, always works.
- 🎨 pattern lock: Convenient, but less secure than PIN.
- 👤 Facial Recognition: Available in Settings → Passwords and security → Facial recognition works even in the dark, but less accurate than a fingerprint scanner.
- 📍 Smart Lock: Automatically unlock in trusted places (such as at home or work). → Passwords and security → Smart Lock.
For maximum security, it is recommended to use a combination of fingerprint scanners and PIN-For example, you can set the fingerprint unlock under normal conditions. PIN-code – to confirm payments or access to critical applications (banking, mail).
If you decide to completely abandon the fingerprint scanner, you can turn it off in the security settings, but remember that biometric authorization is more reliable than passwords, since the fingerprint can not be forged or forgotten.
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The fingerprint scanner on Redmi 9T — It's not just convenience, it's also an extra layer of protection, even if someone recognizes yours. PIN-code, without fingerprint, it will be impossible to unlock the phone (if you set up correctly).