Unlocking a Xiaomi smartphone with a fingerprint is not only convenient, it's also safe. PIN-Biometric authentication allows you to access the device instantly without sacrificing personal data protection, but many users face difficulties in the first setup: the system does not recognize a finger, the scanner is unstable or there is no option in the menu.
In this article, we'll look at all the steps of finger lock activation, from preparing the device to solving common errors, which Xiaomi models support this feature, how to properly scan the fingerprint for maximum accuracy, and what to do if the sensor stops responding, and for owners of older devices, we have prepared alternative protection methods.
Which Xiaomi smartphones support fingerprint unlocking?
Not all Xiaomi devices have a fingerprint scanner, a feature that has been in the lineup since the 2015-2016 models, but it depends on the series and modifications.
- 📱 Flagship series: Mi 5/6/8/9/10/11, Mi Mix 2/3, Black Shark – the scanner is built into the power button or under the screen.
- 💰 Mid-segment: Redmi Note 5/7/8/9/10/11 Pro, POCO F1/F2/F3/X3 — usually.
- 🔍 Budget models: Redmi 9A/10A, POCO M3/M4 — The scanner may be missing or simplified.
- ⚠️ Exceptions: Devices with AMOLED-screens (e.g. Redmi) K40) Often have an optical scanner under the display.
To find out exactly if your smartphone has a fingerprint sensor, check the specifications on the official Xiaomi website or in the documentation. If the Settings → Passwords and security menu does not have a fingerprint item, then the hardware function is not supported.
⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Redmi) 9C or POCO C31) The fingerprint scanner has been replaced by facial recognition, which is a less reliable method because it can be fooled by a photograph.
| Xiaomi Series | Type of scanner | Examples of models |
|---|---|---|
| Mi | Ultrasonic/Optical | Mi 11 Ultra, Mi 10T Pro |
| Redmi Note Pro | Capacitive (on the back) | Redmi Note 10 Pro, Note 9 Pro |
| POCO F | Capacitive/Shirted | POCO F3 GT, POCO F4 |
| Redmi (budget) | Absent or simplified | Redmi 10A, Redmi 9A |
Preparing the smartphone before setting up the fingerprint
Before you add a fingerprint, you need to follow several mandatory steps, and if you skip them, you risk errors like "failed to register the fingerprint" or "Sensor is not responding."
- Update the firmware. Outdated versions of MIUI may contain bugs in the scanner. Check the updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
- Make sure the screen is clean. Fat spots or protective film can interfere with reading (especially on underscreen scanners).
- Remove the case. Some accessories overlap the sensor on the back.
- Install. PIN-This is a prerequisite for activating biometrics. Go to Settings. → Passwords and security → Screen locking.
Important: If you reset the settings to the factory, the fingerprint scanner will automatically clear. You'll have to re-register your fingers.
Update MIUI to the latest version|
Install PIN-code|
Clean the sensor of dirt and moisture |
Remove the case (if the sensor is on the back panel)|
Charge your phone at least 20 times%-->
Step-by-step: how to add a fingerprint
The process of registering a fingerprint on Xiaomi takes no more than 2-3 minutes. Follow the instructions below to avoid errors:
- Open the settings. Go to Settings → Passwords and security → Fingerprint.
- Enter. PIN-The system will require proof of your identity.
- Click "Add a fingerprint." There's a hint animation on the screen.
- Put your finger on the sensor. Follow the instructions: 👆 Raise and lower your finger several times (do not press hard!). 🔄 Turn your finger so that the scanner grabs the edges. ✅ Wait for 100% of the scale to be filled.
Keep the print.
For reliability, we recommend adding 2-3 fingerprints of one finger at different angles, which will improve the accuracy of recognition, and you can also register the fingers of both hands, just in case one hand is occupied.
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If the scanner doesn't respond, try wetting your finger slightly (not wet!) or using another finger.Dry skin can impair reading.
Configure additional lock parameters
After adding a fingerprint, you should optimize the security settings. The following options are available in the fingerprint menu:
- 🔒 Unlock the screen – turn on to use your finger instead PIN-code.
- 🛡️ Hidden folders – hide personal files in Gallery or Explorer behind biometrics.
- 💳 Pay by fingerprint – tie your finger to Mi Pay or Google Pay (requires a separate setup).
- 🔄 Alternative unlocking – choose what to do if the scanner doesn’t work (PIN graphical).
Pay special attention to the item "Delete fingerprints when reset." If it is active, all biometrics are erased after 5 failed attempts to unlock. This protects against retrieval, but can play a cruel joke if you forget the PIN.
Always, that's my main way.|
Payment only |
Nearby PIN-code|
I don’t use it, I prefer other methods.-->
Typical problems and their solutions
Even after you set it up properly, the fingerprint scanner can malfunction, and here are the most common errors and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The scanner doesn't recognize the finger. | Dirt on the sensor or damaged skin | Wipe the sensor with an alcohol napkin, try the other finger. |
| The "Sensor is not responding" error | Software failure or damage to hardware | Reboot your phone, update your MIUI, check the sensor for physical damage |
| Unlocking works in a time | Weak fingerprint signal or outdated firmware | Re-register your finger, update the software, calibrate the sensor (in the engineering menu) |
| There is no “fingerprint” item in the settings | The model does not support function or is disabled in the region | Check the characteristics of the model, try to change the region in the settings |
If none of these things work, the sensor itself may be faulty, so if you do, go to Xiaomi's service center, and don't try to disassemble the phone yourself, it'll take you out of warranty.
⚠️ Note: Some firmware (such as custom LineageOS) may not have the fingerprint scanner working. MIUI.
What if the scanner stopped working after the update?
Alternative ways to lock for older models
If your Xiaomi doesn’t support fingerprint unlock, don’t worry. There are equally reliable (and sometimes more convenient) alternatives:
- 🔐 Facial recognition works on most front-facing models. → Facial recognition.
- 📱 Smart Lock – Automatically unlock in trusted locations (home, work) or when connected to Mi Band.
- 💡 Voice unlocking – available on some firmware via Google Assistant.
- 🔢 Dynamic Password – Apps like AppLock allow you to set unique passwords PIN-codes for each application.
For maximum security, combine methods, such as using facial recognition to unlock and PIN-This will reduce the risk of unauthorized access, even if someone recognizes your pattern lock.
Security Tips: How to Protect Data on Xiaomi
Biometric authentication is convenient, but not a panacea. Follow these guidelines to minimize the risks:
- 🔄 Regularly update fingerprints. The skin on your fingers changes over time (cuts, calluses), which can impair recognition.
- 🚫 Don't register other people's fingerprints, even close relatives shouldn't have access to your phone through biometrics.
- 🔐 Use the complex PIN-You'll need it if the scanner fails. Avoid simple combinations like 1234 or your date of birth.
- 📱 Encrypt your device, protect your data even if it falls into the wrong hands, set up passwords and secure your data. → Encryption.
Important: If you sell or transfer a phone, be sure to delete all the fingerprints in the settings. PIN-Biometric data cannot be reset remotely.
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A fingerprint scanner is convenient, but does not replace a reliable one. PIN-Always keep a backup unlock method in case of failures.