Why you need biometrics on a smartphone and how it works in Xiaomi
The fingerprint scanner in Xiaomi smartphones has long ceased to be a luxury — today it is a standard security element that speeds up unlocking, confirms payments and protects sensitive data. PIN-In the case of code, biometric authentication doesn't require memorizing combinations, and the fingerprint itself can't be forged or forgotten, but many users have problems with the first setup: the sensor doesn't recognize the finger, the system gives an error, or the scanner works repeatedly.
In this article, we will discuss not only the basic procedure for adding a fingerprint, but also the nuances that the manufacturer does not say. For example, why on some Xiaomi models (for example, the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ or POCO F5) the scanner works faster than on others, how to hold your finger correctly to avoid failures, and what to do if the system refuses to store biometric data, and you will learn what alternative methods of unlocking can be configured in parallel in case the sensor fails.
Important: the procedure may vary slightly depending on the firmware version (MIUI 12/13/14 or HyperOS) and the smartphone model. However, the general principles remain the same. If your Xiaomi Released is up to 2019, check if it supports a fingerprint scanner - some budget models (such as the Redmi 7A) do not have this feature.
Preparing your smartphone before adding a fingerprint
Before you start scanning, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for the procedure.Here are the key points that are often overlooked:
- 🔋 The battery must be at least 20% charged. If the battery is discharged, the system may interrupt the adjustment process.
- 🧼 Sensor and finger cleanliness. Fat marks, sweat or dirt on the sensor or skin lead to scan errors. Wipe the sensor with a microfiber dry wipe, and wash your hands with soap and dry.
- 🔒 Whether identified PIN-It's a code or a pattern lock, and without it, you can't add a fingerprint, which is a security requirement for Android, and if you don't set it up, you'll be asked to create it before you scan it.
- 📱 Update to firmware. Old versions. MIUI (Below 12.5), there may be bugs with the scanner. → The phone. → Updating the system.
Pay special attention to the type of sensor in your model:
| Type of scanner | Xiaomi models | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Capacitive (under screen) | Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi K60, POCO F5 Pro | Requires more pressing, may not work with protective glass |
| Optical (under the screen) | Xiaomi 12T, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Works faster, but is worse at recognizing wet or dirty fingers |
| Ultrasonic (rarely) | Xiaomi Mix 4 | Most accurate, but sensitive to screen damage |
| Mechanical (button) | Redmi Note 10, POCO X3 | Most reliable, but takes up space on the body |
⚠️ Warning: If you have recently glued a protective glass or film, remove it before setting up the scanner. Even a thin coating can block the sensor signal, especially on models with a subscreen scanner.
Step-by-step: how to add a fingerprint
Now, let's get to the process. Follow the instructions carefully, because errors at this point will cause the sensor to not recognize your finger well.
- Open Settings and go to Passwords and Security (in HyperOS, the path may be called Security).
- Select Fingerprint. If you don't have an option, your model doesn't support this feature.
- Enter the current one. PIN-code or pattern lock to verify identity.
- Press Add Fingerprint and follow the prompts on the screen. The system will ask you to touch the sensor with your finger several times, changing the angle of pressing.
- After a successful scan, assign a name (e.g., "Indicative Right") to the fingerprint and save it.
Key points:
- 👆 Don’t press the sensor too hard – it can distort the scan.
- 🔄 Raise and lower your finger smoothly, without moving it to the sides.
- 🎯 On models with a subscreen scanner (Xiaomi 13, Redmi) K50) Wait for the scanning area to be illuminated.
Battery charge >20%|Clean sensor and finger|You're set. PIN-code|Updated firmware-->
On HyperOS models (such as Xiaomi 14), after adding a fingerprint, the system will suggest setting up gestures for quick actions - for example, swipe down to open the notification bar.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with the right setup, users face problems, and here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor doesn't recognize finger. | Dirt, sensor damage, or touching too quickly | Wipe the sensor, repeat the scan more slowly. |
| Error "Can't add a fingerprint" | Too many saved prints (limit - 5 pieces) | Remove unnecessary prints in the settings |
| The scanner works once. | Conflict with protective glass or film | Remove protection or use special glass with a cutout |
| No prints are saved. | Insufficient memory or system failure | Restart your phone and try again. |
⚠️ Warning: If you can't add a print after a few attempts, check if the power saving mode is on. MIUI Disable the scanner when activated.
On models with a subscreen scanner (Xiaomi 12S Ultra, Redmi K40 Pro) sometimes helps to increase the brightness of the screen to the maximum - the sensor reads the finger better with good lighting.
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If the scanner stopped working after the phone fell, check the integrity of the screen at the service center.
Additional biometrics settings on Xiaomi
Adding a fingerprint is only half the battle, and MIUI and HyperOS have hidden features that make using biometrics easier:
- 🔐 Application unlocking: In the security settings, you can attach the fingerprint to individual programs (e.g. Gallery or Banking applications).
- 💳 Payment Confirmation: In Google Pay or Mi Pay, set up biometrics as a way to authenticate.
- 📱 Quick gestures: In some models, swipe scanners open the notification panel or trigger the camera.
- 🔄 Backup: Fingerprints can be exported to Xiaomi account (only on HyperOS devices).
To enable unlocking applications:
- Go to Settings → Applications → Blocking applications.
- Choose the programs you want to protect.
- Activate the fingerprint option as a way to unlock.
On HyperOS models, the Smart Lock feature is available, which automatically unlocks your phone if you are on a trusted network (such as your home) to configure it:
Settings → Passwords and security → Smart lock → Trusted devicesHow to remove all the prints if you forget the PIN?
Security: Can I cheat the fingerprint scanner?
Many users worry about how secure their biometric data is, and Xiaomi has fingerprints stored in a Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) chip, and even root access does not allow direct access to them.
- 🔓 Physical access: If an attacker gets your phone and finger (e.g. while sleeping), they can unlock the device.
- 📱 Cloning fingerprints. It's theoretically possible to create a high-resolution cast of a finger, but it requires specialized equipment.
- 🔄 In 2022, a bug was discovered in some Xiaomi models that allows you to extract fingerprints through the Internet. ADB. Manufacturer closes vulnerability in updates.
To improve safety:
- Set up two-factor authentication for critical applications (banks, instant messengers).
- Use the print together with PIN-code - even with the cloning of the finger, the attacker will not get full access.
- Regularly update the firmware – new versions of MIUI/HyperOS fix the scanner vulnerabilities.
⚠️ Warning: Never set other people's fingerprints on your phone, and if your device is stolen, it will give them full access to your data.
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Your fingerprint is convenient, but it's not 100% secure. Always pair it with your fingerprint. PIN-code-key.
Alternative Unlocking Methods on Xiaomi
If the fingerprint scanner is out of order or you are in an environment where it is inconvenient to use (such as gloves), set up backup unlocking methods:
- 🔢 PIN-Minimum length is 4 characters, but we recommend using 6 characters.+ safe.
- 🎨 It's a pattern lock, convenient, but less reliable, and you can see it from the footprints on the screen.
- 👤 Facial recognition works on most Xiaomi models (except budget ones), less secure than a print, but convenient.
- 📍 Trusted devices: The phone remains unlocked while connected to a trusted device (e.g., a Mi Band smartwatch).
To add facial recognition:
- Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Face Recognition.
- Follow the instructions on the screen – the system will ask you to turn your head in different directions for the purpose of the test. 3D-scan.
- Set up when this method will be used (unblocking only or also for payments).
On HyperOS models, Auto Unlock over a Bluetooth device is available, for example, the phone will unlock when connected to your Xiaomi Buds wireless headphones.