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

Adding a fingerprint to Xiaomi smartphones is not just a convenient way to unlock, but also an additional layer of personal data protection. Modern models of Redmi, POCO and flagship Xiaomi 13/14 series are equipped with ultra-modern optical and ultrasonic scanners that work even with wet or dirty fingers. However, many users face problems when first set up: the sensor does not recognize the finger, the system gives an error “Fingerprint scanner does not respond”, or the added fingerprint works every time.

In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step instructions for all current Xiaomi models (including devices on the device). MIUI 14/15 We will also discuss how to calibrate the sensor for maximum recognition accuracy, and give recommendations for eliminating typical errors. 12), where the scanner is often placed on the side power button.

1. Prepare the smartphone before adding a fingerprint

Before you start scanning your finger, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for the procedure. Failure to comply with basic requirements is the main reason for failures when adding a fingerprint.

• 🔋 The battery must be at least 20% charged, and at low charge, the system can interrupt the adjustment process.
• 📱 Update the software. Outdated version. MIUI or HyperOS may have bugs in the scanner. → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🧼 Clean the sensor. Use dry soft tissue (like microfiber). For side scanners on the Redmi Note. 11/12 A cotton swab moistened with alcohol will do.
• 👆 Remove old prints (if any) Excessive number of saved fingers (more than 5) can slow recognition.

If you recently reset your phone to factory settings or upgraded your firmware, the fingerprint scanner may require recalibration, in which case the system will prompt you to go through the procedure the first time you start the setup.

⚠️ Attention: On models POCO F5 Xiaomi 13T with an ultrasound scanner (Qualcomm) 3D Sonic) do not use gel or silicone cases - they can block the sensor signal.

2. Step-by-step instructions: 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 for MIUI 14, HyperOS and earlier versions.

1. Open Settings and go to Passwords and Security (on some models – Lock and Protect).
2. Select Fingerprint Addition. The system will request input. PIN-code, pattern lock or password.
3. Place your finger on the sensor and wait for the vibrations. Don't press too hard, the scanner needs to feel the skin's relief.
4. Raise your finger and repeat the action from different angles (the system will tell you how). For optimal recognition, you need to fix 6-8 touches.
5. Name the print (for example, "Indicative right") and save.

On side-scanner models (Redmi Note 10/11/12, POCO M4/M5), the sensor is activated only when you press the power button. Hold your finger on the button until vibration occurs.

Fingers dry and clean

The sensor is not closed with a film or a cover.

The "Unlocking fingerprint" mode is enabled in the settings

The smartphone does not overheat (temperature below 40).°C)-->

If the process is interrupted with the error "Can't add a fingerprint", try:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone.
• 🧴 Wipe your finger and sensor with an alcohol wipe.
• 📵 Shut down. VPN Power saving mode (they can block the sensor operation).

3. Optimization of the scanner: the secrets of accuracy

Even after a successful fingerprint addition, many users find that the smartphone does not recognize the finger the first time, due to improper calibration or external factors.

For models with an optical scanner under the screen (Xiaomi 13/14, POCO F4/F5), it is important to:

• 🌡️ Avoid direct sunlight on the screen during scanning.
• 🖥️ Do not use too thick protective glasses (optimal thickness - up to 0.3 mm).
• 🔋 Disable the "Dark Theme" mode when adding a fingerprint (it can interfere with the operation of the sensor backlight).

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi smartphones with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra), the scanner can temporarily shut down under intense loads (games, benchmark tests) due to overheating.

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If you wear gloves often or have wet hands, add the same finger twice at different angles, which will increase the chances of successful recognition.

4. Features of settings on popular models

Despite the general logic of the work, fingerprint scanners on different Xiaomi smartphones have unique features.

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and other models with side scanner

And on these devices, the sensor is built into the power button, so you can add a fingerprint.

1. Make sure the power button doesn’t flush and doesn’t backfire (this is a common problem after falls).
2. When scanning, press the button with moderate effort - too weak or strong pressing will lead to an error.
3. If the scanner stopped working after the upgrade, try to roll back to the previous version of MIUI via Fastboot.

Xiaomi 13/14 series with ultrasonic scanner

Qualcomm 3D Sonics are more reliable, but they're more sensitive to moisture.

• 💧 After washing your hands, wait 2-3 minutes before unlocking.
• 🧴 Avoid high-fat creams – they create a film on your skin.
• 🔧 If the scanner stopped working after a fall, check the integrity of the screen: cracks can block ultrasonic waves.

POCO F3/F4/F5 and firmware problems

On POCO devices, a bug is common when the scanner forgets all fingerprints after the update.

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management


2.Look for "Biometrics" and clear the cache




3.Reboot the phone




4. Add the prints again.

5. Common errors and their elimination

Even when you set it up properly, users are faced with errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Error: "Fineprint scanner fails to respond"

Causes and solutions:

• 🔌 Hardware failure: check if the sensor is damaged (for example, after a fall.
• 🤖 Software conflict: disable Lean mode and Battery optimization for security.
• 🔄 Resetting settings: go to Settings → All parameters. → Reset → Resetting fingerprint settings.

Mistake: "Print is not recognized"

If the previously added print has stopped working:

1. Remove and add it again, paying attention to the edges of the finger.
2. Check if the texture of the skin has changed (for example, after cuts or calluses).
3. On models with an optical scanner (Xiaomi 12T), try to turn off Adaptive Brightness – it can interfere with the operation of backlighting.

Error: "You can't add more than 5 prints"

The 5-print limit is the standard for Xiaomi.

• 🔧 With help. ADB-commands (unlocked loader required).
• 📱 Installing custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience) where the limit is higher.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi smartphones with HyperOS (2026) when resetting fingerprints through ADB may be out of work NFC. Before experimenting, make a backup copy.

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If the scanner stopped working after the update, try to clear the cache of the Biometrics app first, which solves the problem 80% of the time without resetting the settings.

6 Additional Features of the Fingerprint Scanner

Xiaomi's fingerprint isn't just unlockable, but it's hidden features that many people don't know about:

• 🔒 Application Blocking: C Settings → Passwords and security → Blocking applications can be assigned a fingerprint to access the gallery, banking applications or instant messengers.
• 💳 Payment via Mi Pay: link your fingerprint to Mi Pay to confirm payments (works in China, Russia and some EU countries).
• 📁 Hidden folder: in the standard file manager Xiaomi can create a folder that is accessible only by fingerprint.
• 🎮 Game mode: on some models (Black Shark, POCO F5) The fingerprint can be used to quickly run gaming macros.

On smartphones with HyperOS, the function "Dynamic Lock" appeared - you can assign different fingerprints for different user profiles (for example, work and personal).

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To speed up unlocking, add the same finger twice under different names (e.g., "Indicator Top" and "Indicator Bottom").

7 Security: How to Protect Your Fingerprints

Fingerprints are biometric data that cannot be changed in the event of a leak, so it is important to protect them:

• 🔐 Xiaomi does not sync biometric data by default, but some third-party apps (like LastPass) may request access.
• 📱 Turn off the fingerprint for third-party apps if you don't trust the developer. → Annexes → Permits → Biometry.
• 🔄 Update the software regularly. In new versions MIUI/HyperOS Vulnerabilities related to biometric protection bypassing are closed.
• 🚨 Use the backup. PIN-If the scanner fails, you can unlock the phone.

On models with a Titan M security chip (Xiaomi 13 Ultra, POCO F5 Pro), fingerprints are stored in an isolated module, making them almost impossible to steal. However, on budget devices (Redmi 10A, POCO M4), biometric data is less protected - it can be extracted by physical access to the phone.

⚠️ Note: If you sell or transfer your Xiaomi, be sure to remove all fingerprints through Settings → Passwords and security → Fingerprint removal. Even after resetting to factory settings, some models retain biometric data.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi