The Xiaomi Redmi 6 Pro fingerprint scanner is not just a convenient way to unlock, but also an additional layer of personal data protection. The model features a rear sensor that recognizes a fingerprint in a fraction of a second, but many users face difficulties when first set up. Unlike flagship devices, where the process is automated, there are nuances here, from checking firmware compatibility to the correct position of the finger.
In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions illustrating key points, parsing common errors (such as the message “Not Added a Fingerprint”) and tips for optimizing the scanner. We also tested methods on different versions of MIUI, from 9 to 12.5, to ensure that it is relevant to your device. If you just purchased Redmi 6 Pro or decided to finally activate this feature, read on — there are no unnecessary steps, only proven solutions.
1. Prepare the smartphone before adding a fingerprint
Before you start scanning, make sure your Redmi 6 Pro is ready for the procedure. PIN-Without them, the system simply won't offer the option of adding a fingerprint, because biometrics are tied to the main method of protection.
Also check:
- 🔋 Battery charge is at least 20 percent. At low levels, the system can interrupt the process.
- 📱 Sensor cleanliness – wipe the scanner with a dry wipe (fat or dirt distorts the scanning).
- 🔄 Version. MIUI — on old firmware (below) MIUI 9) function may not be available. Update via Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
If you recently reset your phone to factory settings, wait until the initial setup (including signing in to your Mi Account) is complete, otherwise the biometrics option will not be available.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to add a fingerprint
Go to the scanner settings menu:
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Select the Lock and Protection section (or the Lock Screen depending on the MIUI version).
- Put it on the fingerprint.
- Enter the current one. PIN-code or pattern lock for confirmation.
Then the scanning process begins.
- 👆 Finger position -- put your finger on the sensor flat, not at an angle. Press with light pressure, but don't press too hard.
- 🔄 Sensor coverage -- raise and lower your finger until the system fills the circular indicator by 100%. Don't tear your finger off completely -- just move it.
- ⚠️ Warning: If your finger is wet or damaged (cuts, calluses), the scan may end in error.
Once added successfully, the system will suggest naming the fingerprint (e.g., "Right-hand pointer"), which will help manage multiple fingerprints later.
Installed PIN-code|
Sensor clean and dry |
Fingers are not wet and undamaged |
Battery charge above 20%-->
3. Typical errors and how to fix them
Even with the right actions, Redmi 6 Pro users sometimes see error messages.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "Failure to add a print" | Too quick finger removal or weak contact with the sensor | Repeat the scan by holding your finger longer and pressing evenly |
| "Sensor contaminated." | Dust, fat or moisture on the scanner | Wipe the sensor with an alcohol napkin and dry for 2-3 minutes |
| "The print already exists." | The system recognized the new print as a duplicate | Remove the old print and add it again. |
| "Function unavailable" | Outdated firmware or disabled permissions | Update MIUI or reset security settings |
A critical feature of the Redmi 6 Pro: the sensor does not work at temperatures below +5 ° C or above +40 ° C. If you are in an unheated room in the winter, transfer the procedure to a warm place.
⚠️ Warning: If after a few attempts, the scanner stopped responding at all, restart the phone. In 10% of cases, resetting the sensor settings through Settings helps. → Annexes → Application management → Three points. → Resetting settings (select "Fingerprint Sensor").
4. Optimizing the scanner: tips for quick unlocking
Even after the successful setup, some users complain about the slow operation of the sensor.
- 🔄 Add the same finger 2 times at different angles, like the tip of your finger, then the whole pad, and that increases the accuracy of the recognition.
- ⚡ Turn off animations in the developer settings (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Tap 7 times, then return to the additional → For developers and reduce the scale of animation to 0.5x).
- 📱 Use original film – thick or poor quality protective glass may interfere with scanning.
💡
If the scanner is not working well on a bright sunny day, cover the sensor with your hand for 1-2 seconds before unlocking.
For maximum safety, add prints of both hands (such as thumbs) to help if one hand is occupied or injured.
5. How to delete or rename a fingerprint
You can manage your saved prints in the same menu you added them to, to delete:
- Go to Settings → Lock and Protection → Fingerprint.
- Enter. PIN-code.
- Slip the correct print and select Delete.
To rename:
- Select a print in the list.
- Click on the pencil icon (or Rename item).
- Enter a new title (for example, "Left index - work").
⚠️ Warning: When you reset your phone to factory settings, all prints are automatically deleted. If you plan to sell the Redmi 6 Pro, reset before handing over the device to a new owner.
6.Fingerprint scanner vs Face Unlock: Which is better on Redmi 6 Pro
The model supports both biometric authentication methods, but each has pros and cons:
| Criteria | Fingerprint. | Face Unlock |
|---|---|---|
| Unlock speed | 0.3-0.5 sec. | 0.2–0.4 seconds (but depends on lighting) |
| Level of security | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (requires physical contact) | ⭐⭐⭐ (You can fool a photograph) |
| Working in the dark | Yes. | No (needs IR lighting, which is not in the model) |
| Compatibility with gloves | No. | Yes. |
💡
For maximum security, use a fingerprint combination. + PIN-Face Unlock is convenient but vulnerable to deception with photos or videos.
If you're outdoors in the winter, add Face Unlock as a backup method, and for Mi Pay payments or banking apps, the fingerprint is more reliable.