Fingerprint settings on Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite: a complete guide with photos and videos

The Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite fingerprint scanner is not just a convenient way to unlock, it’s a complete security tool that protects personal data, Mi Pay payments, even hidden folders in the gallery. But many users face problems when they first set up: the sensor does not recognize the finger, the system gives an error β€œToo fast” or the fingerprint is saved but does not work. In this article, we will examine all the steps of adding a fingerprint, from preparing the screen to solving typical errors.

Feature of the Mi 11 Lite (as) 4G, so 5G-The version is that its scanner is embedded under the display, rather than placed on the back or side button, which imposes additional requirements: clean hands, correct finger position and even humidity can affect the result. If you have previously used a smartphone with physical scanners (for example, Redmi Note) 8 Pro, the tuning process will seem unusual. But don't worry, following our instructions, you'll set up the biometrics for the next two years. 3-5 minute.

Before you start, check out two key points:

  1. The current version of the Mi 11 Lite is installed on your device. MIUI (In old firmware, the scanner may not work properly.
  2. The screen is protected by film or glass without metallized layer, and the metal blocks the sensor signal.

═══

1. Prepare the smartphone before adding a fingerprint

Before you start scanning, make sure your Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite is ready for the procedure. Failure to comply with these conditions can cause crashes or poor quality of the saved print.

Clean your screen and finger of fat, sweat, or cream. Use a lilac-free wipe and alcohol wet wipes (but not pure alcohol, it can damage the oleophobic coating). Pay special attention to the area of the scanner, which is located at the bottom of the display, about the middle. If there are scratches or chips on the screen in the sensor area, this can impair recognition.

Also check:

  • πŸ”‹ Battery charge above 20%. With low charge, the system can interrupt the setup process.
  • 🌑️ If the device is overheated (for example, after a game), the sensor may not work stable. 10-15 minute.
  • πŸ“± No covers with magnets or metal elements, they can cause interference.

Important! If you've recently updated your firmware, reboot your smartphone before setting up your scanner, which will reset the system's temporary errors.

πŸ“Š You’ve already tried adding a print to the Mi 11 Lite?
Yeah, but it didn't work.
Yeah, it's working.
No, I just bought a phone.
I don't know how to do that.

═══

2. Where is the fingerprint add-on menu?

Unlike the older Xiaomi models, where the biometrics were set up in a separate section, the Mi 11 Lite has changed the path a little. To open the fingerprint add menu, follow the following steps:

Open the Settings. β†’ Passwords and security β†’ If this item is missing, it means:

  • πŸ”’ No phone installed. PIN-Fingerprint scanner requires a backup method to unlock.
  • πŸ“± You have custom firmware installed without biometric support.
  • πŸ”„ Need to be updated MIUI last-minute.

If you see the "Add fingerprint" button but the button is inactive, check if the "Unlock fingerprint" feature is enabled in the security settings, sometimes it turns off after resetting.

Tip: If you can't find the fingerprint menu, search by settings (the magnifier icon in the upper right corner) and type "fingerprint" and the system will tell you the right way.

πŸ’‘

If the scanner does not respond to touch, try to increase the sensitivity of the screen in the settings Special features β†’ Touch and hold. This helps with the use of protective glass.

═══

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to add a fingerprint

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully, and it depends on the correctness of the actions at this stage whether the scanner will work steadily.

Step 1. In the fingerprint menu, click "Add fingerprint." The system will ask you to enter the current one. PIN-code or password to verify identity.

Step 2. Put your finger on the scanner area (bottom of the screen) and wait for the vibration. Don't push hard, just a little touch is enough.

  • πŸ‘† Raise your finger when the system asks.
  • πŸ”„ Repeat the process until the scale is 100%.
  • ⚠️ If you have a too-fast error, slow down your movements.

Step 3: After a successful scan, the system will suggest setting up the steps for the print:

  • πŸ”“ Screen unlocking
  • πŸ’³ Confirmation of payments in Mi Pay
  • πŸ“‚ Access to hidden folders

Select the options you need and click "Done".

The critical point is that if you add a fingerprint for payments, the system will require you to link your bank card to Mi Pay ARRIED. Without this, the option will be inactive.

Check the cleanliness of your finger and screen|

Make sure that the phone is installed PIN-code|

Close all background applications |

Turn off the power saving mode |

Connect your phone to charge (optional)-->

═══

4.Typical errors and how to fix them

Even with the right setup, Mi 11 Lite users sometimes face problems, and let’s look at some of the most common bugs and how to fix them.

Mistake: "Can't add a print. Try again."

⚠️ Warning: This error is often caused by damaged oleophobic screen coverings. If you have recently glued a defective protective glass, remove it and try again.

Decisions:

  • 🧼 Wipe your screen and finger with an alcohol napkin.
  • πŸ”„ Restart your phone and try again.
  • πŸ“± Update the firmware through Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ Updating the system.

Error: "The fingerprint scanner is not responding."

Reasons:

  • πŸ”‹ Low battery charge (less than 15%).
  • 🧊 The phone is overheated or, conversely, too cold (below). +5Β°C).
  • πŸ› οΈ The flexible plume of the sensor is damaged (requires repair).

If the problem persists, try resetting the scanner settings:

  1. Remove all saved fingerprints from the fingerprint menu.
  2. Reboot the phone.
  3. Add the print again.

Mistake: "The fingerprint is recognized once."

This is a typical problem for underscreen scanners.

  • πŸ–οΈ Add the same finger. 2-3 cross-angled.
  • πŸ”„ Disable the Face Unlock feature – it may conflict with the scanner.
  • πŸ“± Enable High Sensitivity in the fingerprint settings (if available).
What if the scanner stopped working after the update?
If the fingerprint is no longer recognized after the update MIUI, Try the following steps: 1. Delete all saved prints. 2. Clear the system cache through Settings β†’ Memory. β†’ Clean. 3. Perform a reset of security settings: Settings β†’ Passwords and security β†’ Reset security settings. 4. If nothing helps, roll back to the previous firmware version via Fastboot (skills required).

═══

5. Optimization of the scanner: tips and tricks

To make the fingerprint recognized with the first touch, follow these recommendations:

1. Add one finger several times.

The system allows you to maintain up to 5 Fingerprints. Add the same finger. 2-3 It's a little bit different, and it'll increase the chances of recognition when you're not in the perfect position of your hand.

2.Configure alternative unlocking methods.

Even if the scanner works perfectly, add backup methods:

  • πŸ”’ PIN-code (required!
  • πŸ–ΌοΈ pattern lock (convenient for quick unlocking)
  • πŸ‘€ Facial recognition (works even with gloves)

3. Use the fingerprint for hidden functions.

In the Mi 11 Lite, the scanner can be linked to:

  • πŸ“‚ Hidden folders in the gallery (Gallery) β†’ Albums. β†’ Hidden folders)
  • πŸ”’ Private mode in the Mi Browser browser
  • πŸ’³ Quick Payments in Mi Pay and Google Pay

4. Improve the recognition in the gloves.

If you use your phone often outside in the winter, add a fingerprint in a thin glove.

  1. Put the glove on your finger.
  2. Add the print as usual.
  3. Repeat the procedure for 2-3 glove.

⚠️ Warning: This method reduces security, as the glove can be removed and used to unlock without your knowledge.

═══

6.Scanner comparison: Mi 11 Lite vs other Xiaomi models

The underscreen scanner in the Mi 11 Lite is optical, unlike the ultrasonic sensors in flagships (such as the Xiaomi 13 Ultra), which imposes limits on speed and accuracy, but makes the solution more budget-friendly.

ModelType of scannerRecognition speedWorking with wet fingersGloves support
Xiaomi Mi 11 LiteOptical subscreen~0.8 sec.❌ No.⚠️ Partially (thin gloves)
Redmi Note 10 ProSide-capacitive~0.3 sec.βœ… Yes.❌ No.
Xiaomi 12 ProUltrasonic subscreen~0.2 sec.βœ… Yes.βœ… Yes (special gloves)
POCO X3 ProCapacitive (back panel)~0.5 sec.❌ No.❌ No.

As you can see from the table, the Mi 11 Lite is less powerful than the flagships in speed and functionality, but it is better than the budget models due to its subscreen location. The optical scanner is less reliable in high humidity conditions (for example, after showers or in the rain), but does not require strong pressing, like capacitive sensors.

Advice for Mi 11 Lite owners 5G: If you notice that the scanner has become worse after the upgrade to MIUI 14, try to roll back on MIUI 13.0.4 – This version optimizes sensor drivers better.

═══

7.Security: How to protect data if the fingerprint is compromised

A fingerprint is a biometric data that, unlike a password, cannot be changed. If you suspect that your fingerprint may have been copied (for example, a phone has been in the hands of an attacker), follow the following steps:

1. Delete all prints.

Go to Settings. β†’ Passwords and security β†’ Fingerprint and delete all the data you saved. Use backup. PIN-unlocker.

2. Reset the security settings.

In the same security menu, find "Reset security settings" that will delete all biometrics, including facial recognition.

3. Enable two-factor authentication.

For critical applications (banks, instant messengers) set up 2FA through:

  • πŸ“± SMS-code
  • πŸ”‘ Authenticator (Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator)
  • πŸ” Hardware keys (YubiKey)

4. Check the permissions for applications.

Some applications (e.g. banking) may request access to biometric data to verify and revoke permissions:

    ⚠️ Note: If you are selling or transferring the Mi 11 Lite to another person, make sure to complete a full settings reset (Settings) β†’ The phone. β†’ Resetting settings. Simply removing fingerprints is not enough – data can remain in the device’s memory.

    ═══

    FAQ: Frequent questions about the fingerprint scanner on Mi 11 Lite

    Can I add a child or an elderly person's fingerprint?
    Technically yes, but there are nuances: πŸ‘Ά Children under 12 years old may have their fingerprints changed as they grow, so the scanner will have to be reconfigured. πŸ‘΅ In older people, skin is less elastic, which can impair recognition. Try adding a fingerprint several times from different angles. Important: Storing biometric data from minors may violate personal data protection laws in some countries (e.g., the use of biometrics in the body of a minor, GDPR EU).
    Why does the scanner not work after the screen is replaced?
    The reasons may be different: πŸ› οΈ The flexible plume of the sensor is damaged (a frequent problem in unqualified repairs). πŸ”Œ Unconnected scanner connector to motherboard. πŸ“± Reference screen installed without subscreen sensor support Solution: Contact the service center to check the integrity of the plume and the sensor calibration. Self-repair may exacerbate the problem.
    Can I transfer my fingerprints to another Xiaomi phone?
    No, it's impossible. Fingerprints are stored in a trusted execution environment, TEE) And they're all connected to a particular device, and when you reset or flash back, all the biometrics are deleted without any recovery, and if you buy a new Xiaomi smartphone, you'll have to add the prints again.
    How to speed up fingerprint recognition?
    Try these methods: πŸ”‹ Keep battery power above 30% – when low, the system reduces sensor performance. 🧹 Clean the system cache once a month through Settings β†’ Memory. β†’ Cleanup. πŸ“± Turn off animations in Settings β†’ Special facilities β†’ Remove animations. If the scanner is still slow, check if the processor is overheating. Use the app. CPU Monitor for diagnostics.
    What if the phone doesn’t respond to the fingerprint after a fall?
    After physical injury, two scenarios are possible: πŸ“± Software failure: Reboot your phone and check the scanner. If it doesn't work, reset your security settings. πŸ› οΈ Hardware failure: If the sensor doesn't work after the reboot, it's likely that the plume or the scanner module itself is damaged. It requires a diagnostic at a service center. Don't try to disassemble the phone yourself! The underscreen scanner in the Mi 11 Lite is integrated into the display module, and careless repairs can knock out the entire screen.