Xiaomi’s fingerprint scanner is not just a way to unlock, it’s a complete security system that saves time and protects data from outsiders. However, many users face problems when first set up: the sensor does not respond, the system asks to “lift your finger higher” or does not find the add menu at all. In this article, we will examine all the ways to add a fingerprint — from the standard through settings to workarounds for older models where the scanner suddenly stopped working.
Xiaomi is unique in that even within the same line (for example, Redmi Note 12 and Redmi Note 12 Pro+), the location of the sensor and the logic of its operation may differ: somewhere the scanner is built into the power button, somewhere under the screen, and in budget models it may not be at all, we took into account all the nuances and prepared a universal guide that will suit MIUI 12, 13, 14 and even for older versions based on Android 9-10.
1. Prepare the smartphone before adding a fingerprint
Before you start setting up your biometrics, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for the procedure.
- 🔋 Battery charge above 20%. At low charge, the system can block the addition of new fingerprints.
- 🔒 Installed PIN-without them, the fingerprint scanner will not activate (this is a requirement of Android security).
- 🧹 Clean sensor. Fat tracks, dust, or protective film may interfere with reading.
- 📱 Updated software. Old versions. MIUI I've had some biometric bugs. Check the firmware's relevance in Settings. → The phone. → Updating the system.
If you’ve just bought a smartphone or reset it to factory settings, set up the main unlock method (PIN/password) first. The fingerprint scanner is an additional method, not a standalone one. Also note that on some models (like the POCO X3 Pro) the sensor may temporarily stop working after resetting – it’s okay, just reboot the device.
2. Standard method: Adding a fingerprint through settings
This is the most reliable method, which works on 90% of Xiaomi devices, and the instructions are relevant for MIUI 14 and newer, but will also work for older versions with minor changes to the menu.
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Passwords and Security section (on some models – Lock and Protect).
- Select Fingerprint Addition (or Fingerprint Addition).
- Enter yours. PIN-confirmation code.
- Follow the instructions on the screen: Place your finger on the sensor until the scale is 100% full.
Important: on models with a scanner under the screen (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi K60 Pro), the sensor is activated only when the display is turned on. Don't press too hard - light enough touch. If the process is interrupted with the error "Can't add a fingerprint", try another finger or reboot the phone.
Make sure the sensor is clean and dry
Check the battery power (>20%)
Install PIN-code
Update MIUI to the latest version
Reboot your phone if the scanner doesn’t respond-->
3. Alternative ways to add a fingerprint
If the standard method didn't work, there are a few workarounds that can be useful if:
- 🔄 The fingerprint menu is not in the settings (often after resetting).
- 🚫 Sensor does not respond to touch, although physically fit.
- 🔧 You need to add a fingerprint for the second user (on some firmware).
Method 1: Through the Developer Mode
Activate Developer Settings (7 times click on the MIUI version in About Phone), then go to Settings → Additional → For Developers and find the Fingerprint Service option. Here you can reset the sensor settings or force calibration.
Method 2: With the help of ADB-team
For advanced users, connect your phone to your PC, turn on USB Debugging, and execute the command:
adb shell pm grant com.android.settings android.permission.USE_BIOMETRICThis will unlock access to the biometric settings if they are hidden. Careful: the wrong ADB commands may disrupt the system.
What if the scanner stopped working after the update?
4. Common mistakes and their solutions
Even with the right setup, users are likely to experience errors, and we've collected the most common problems and ways to fix them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "Failure to add a print" | Dirty sensor or wet hands | Rub the scanner and fingers with a dry wipe, try again |
| "No sensor detected" | Damage to hardware or software failure | Reboot your phone. If it doesn't work, call the service. |
| “The fingerprint is not recognized after adding” | Too fast or incomplete scanning | Remove the fingerprint and add again by slowly lifting your finger. |
| "No fingerprints are missing" | Outdated firmware or regional restrictions | Update MIUI or change region to India in settings |
If your Xiaomi model is equipped with an ultrasonic scanner (such as the Mi Mix 4), it may not work well in cold temperatures, in which case, warm up the phone in your hands for 5-10 minutes before adding a fingerprint.
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In the models with AMOLED-screens (e.g. Redmi) K50) The scanner under the display works better at brightness above 50.
5 How to remove or change the fingerprint
If you need to remove an old print (for example, after cutting your finger) or add a new one, follow this instruction:
- Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprints.
- Enter. PIN-proof-code.
- Click on the saved print and select Remove.
- To add a new fingerprint, click Add Fingerprint and repeat the scanning procedure.
Important: you can save up to 5 prints on a single device (some models can save up to 10), but the more fingerprints you have, the slower the recognition works, the optimal number is 2-3.
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Don't delete all fingerprints without setting a backup unlock method (PIN/password). Without them, you could lose access to your phone!
6. Secret Fingerprint Scanner Chips on Xiaomi
Few people know, but the fingerprint sensor on Xiaomi can be used for more than just unlocking.
- 📱 Quick application opening: In fingerprint settings, you can attach a specific finger to the program launch (e.g. thumb to camera, index finger to gallery).
- 🔒 Hidden folder. In the Gallery or Files, you can hide files under fingerprint protection.
- 💳 Payment via Mi Pay. Link your fingerprint to the payment service to confirm transactions.
- 🎮 In some models (e.g. Black Shark), the print can be used to activate the game macros.
To activate these features, go to Settings → Fingerprints → Additional features (the name may vary depending on the model). On the POCO F4 GT and similar gaming smartphones, the scanner gestures are configured here, for example, swipe on the sensor to return back.
7 What to do if the scanner is physically broken
If the sensor stopped working after falling, getting moisture or just worn out, there are several options:
⚠️ Warning: Don't try to disassemble the phone yourself - the fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi is often soldered to the motherboard.
- 🛠️ In authorized centers Xiaomi will replace the sensor with a guarantee (cost – from 1,500 to 4000 rubles depending on the model).
- 🔧 Alternative ways to unlock: Set up Face Recognition or Smart Lock (automatic unlocking in trusted locations).
- 📲 A workaround for older models. On some Redmis 4X/5A You can connect the external USB-scanner OTG (root).
If the phone is warranty, don’t try to repair it yourself – it voids warranty obligations. In the case of Xiaomi, even opening the case (even without damage) can cause a refusal to repair.