How to add a fingerprint to Xiaomi: instructions for all models

The fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi smartphones is not just a convenient way to unlock, but also an additional layer of personal data protection. However, many users face difficulties in the first setup: the system does not recognize a finger, the sensor does not respond, or the process is interrupted in the middle. In this article, we will discuss all the steps of adding a fingerprint, from preparing the device to solving typical errors, including nuances for new models on HyperOS.

It is important to understand that the scanner algorithm depends on the type of sensor: optical (under the screen), ultrasonic (in flagships) or capacitive (in the power button). For example, the Xiaomi 13 Pro uses an ultrasonic scanner that requires a tighter finger press than the optical one in the Redmi Note 12.

If you've tried to add a fingerprint before, but you've failed, don't be quick to blame the hardware. 80 percent of the time, the problem is with the wrong finger preparation or the wrong system settings, and then you'll learn how to avoid these errors and adjust the biometrics the first time.

Preparing your smartphone before adding a fingerprint

Before you start scanning, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for the procedure. Skipping these steps often leads to crashes - for example, the system may give an error "Fingerprint sensor is not responding" or "Failure to save a fingerprint."

First, check the version of MIUI or HyperOS. Old firmware (below MIUI 12) may not have drivers for new types of scanners. Update the system through Settings → About Phone → Update MIUI. If there are no updates, but the sensor does not work, you may need manual firmware (we will talk about this in the section on errors).

Second, clear the sensor cache.

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Find “Biometry and Passwords” (or “Security” in older versions).
3. Press "Storage" → "Clear the cache".

Also make sure that the finger is free of moisture, dirt or damage (cuts, calluses). Optical scanners do not read prints from wet or sweaty fingers, and ultrasound can give false positives if there are microcracks on the skin.

Update the firmware to the latest version|Clear the cache of the application "Biometry and passwords"|Remove the protective film from the sensor (if any)|Wipe your finger and sensor with a dry wipe|Make sure there is no damage to your finger.-->

Step-by-step: how to add a fingerprint

The process of adding a fingerprint on all Xiaomi smartphones is similar, but there are nuances depending on the version of the shell. Below is a universal instruction, relevant for MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS.

Open the Settings. → Passwords and security → Fingerprint. If this path does not work (for example, on the POCO F5), Try an alternative route: Settings → Lock screen → The system will request a fingerprint. PIN-A code, pattern lock or password is a mandatory security step.

Follow the algorithm further:

1. Select a finger. The system will suggest that you name a fingerprint (e.g., "Indicator right"), which will help the user identify it if you add a few fingers.
2. Place your finger on the sensor. For optical scanners (under the screen), you need to press your finger tightly, but without pressing, the system will illuminate the scan area itself. For ultrasonic scanners (for example, in Xiaomi 13 Ultra), you need a light press.
3. Raise and lower your finger several times until the scale is 100% full, and the system asks you to change the angle of your finger, which is necessary for accurate recognition.
4. You can confirm the fingerprint. After the scan, you'll be asked to check the sensor's performance, and if the unlock is successful, the fingerprint is saved.

Note that on some models (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro+), the "Unlock Apps" option appears after adding the first fingerprint, which can be enabled to use biometrics to access banking programs or instant messengers.

Optical (under screen) |Ultrasonic | Capacitive (in the power button) |I don't know-->

Configure additional parameters of the fingerprint

Adding a fingerprint is only half the battle, and to make biometrics work as efficiently as possible, you can set up additional settings in the Fingerprint menu:

• 🔒 Unlock the screen – turn on this option if you want to use a print instead of a print PIN-On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) You can set up a quick unlock - just one touch of the sensor is enough.
• 📱 Unlocking applications – allows you to protect individual programs (for example, SberBank Online or Telegram) with a fingerprint.
• 🛡️ Safe folder – if you use the “Private folder” function in MIUI, You can set up access to it by fingerprint.
• 🔄 Alternative unlocking in case the sensor doesn't work (for example, with wet hands: PIN, graphical key.

HyperOS models (e.g. Xiaomi 14) have a new feature called Smart Unlock, which analyzes your habits and automatically selects the best unlock method (fingerprint, face or PIN) depending on the situation. To activate it, go to Settings → Lock screen → Smart unlock.

If you add multiple fingerprints (like your index and thumb), the system will prioritize them, meaning that if you unlock your phone more often with your thumb, MIUI will offer it first.

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If the print is not readable in winter, try adding it back in a warm room, and the cold narrows the blood vessels, and the pattern on the finger may change slightly.

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with the right setup, users face problems, and let's look at the common mistakes and how to fix them.

If none of these methods worked, check the integrity of the sensor plume. On models with a remote power button (for example, Redmi 9A), the plume is often rubbed when falling. In this case, you will need to replace the sensor in the service center. The cost of repair varies from 1,500 to 4000 rubles depending on the model.

⚠️ Warning: If after updating the firmware sensor stopped working, do not try to roll back to the old version via Fastboot. this may block the bootloader. → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge.

Features of setting up on different Xiaomi models

While the general algorithm for adding a fingerprint is the same, some models have unique nuances. Let's take a closer look at them.

Smartphones with an optical scanner under the screen (Redmi Note 12 Pro+, Xiaomi 12T, POCO F4 GT):

• 📱 The sensor only activates when the screen is on. If the display is off, press the power button first.
• 🔦 The screen lighting is used to scan, so in bright sunlight the sensor may work worse.
• 🖐️ The finger should cover the entire scan area (usually indicated by a circle on the lock screen).

Models with ultrasonic scanner (Xiaomi 13/13 Pro, Xiaomi 14):

• 🌊 It works even with wet or dirty fingers, but can give false positives.
• 🔋 Consumes more energy than optical, so when you actively use unlocking, the autonomy time is reduced by 5-10%.
• 🛠️ Sensitive to microcracks on the protective glass – even a small scratch can impair recognition.

Devices with a capacitive sensor in the power button (Redmi 10A, POCO M4 Pro):

• ⚡ It recognizes fingerprint in 0.2–0.3 seconds, faster than optical scanners.
• 🔄 It can wear out over time (resource – about 50,000 taps).
• 🔧 When replacing the power button, it is often necessary to reconfigure the sensor in the service center.

How to remove or change a saved print

If you want to remove an old print (for example, after cutting your finger) or add a new one, do the following:

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Enter. PIN-proof-code.
3. Click on the print you want to remove and select "Delete".
4. To add a new fingerprint, click "Add fingerprint" and follow the instructions in the section above.

On some firmware (e.g. MIUI Global), after the last print is deleted, the system automatically disables the unlocking biometrics, so to return the function, you need to add at least one fingerprint again.

If you want to rename a fingerprint (for example, from Finger 1 to Pointing Left), click on it in the control menu and select Rename. This is convenient if you have added several fingerprints and get confused.

⚠️ Note: When you reset your phone to factory settings, all saved prints are automatically deleted. If you sell or transfer a device, be sure to reset via Settings. → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge → Resetting settings.

Tips for improving fingerprint recognition

If the sensor is unstable, try these recommendations:

• 🧴 Dry fingers are less recognizable by optical scanners. Use cream before scanning.
• 🔄 Add one finger several times, for example, save your index finger at different angles (e.g., "Indicative right side" and "Indicative right center").
• 📱 Turn off the energy saving. Ultra-economic mode can limit the sensor's performance.
• 🔧 Recalibrate the sensor. On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 11T) There's a hidden calibration option. To activate it, type in the Phone app code ##6484##.

If you use a protective glass, make sure it does not close the sensor. On models with an optical scanner (for example, the POCO X5 Pro), only ultra-thin glass up to 0.15 mm thick is allowed.

For ultrasonic scanners (for example, in Xiaomi 13 Ultra), any glass will do, but it is important that it is properly glued - without bubbles in the sensor area. If installed improperly, false recognition or complete failure of the sensor can occur.

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If the fingerprint is not recognized after the firmware update, try clearing the biometric cache first, rather than resetting the phone completely.

FAQ: Frequent questions about prints on Xiaomi