How to turn on and configure the lock screen on Xiaomi: all ways

Why the lock screen on Xiaomi is important and when to set it up

The lock screen on Xiaomi smartphones is not just a barrier against random clicks, but a full-fledged personal data protection tool. Without it, anyone who picks up your phone will have access to messages, photos, banking applications and social networks.

V MIUI (The lock screen is closely integrated with the security system. It supports several authentication methods: from the classic one. PIN-While many users face problems, such as when the system is updated, the lock of the Suddenly disappears or no longer recognizes the fingerprint. In this article, we will analyze all the ways to turn on the lock screen, the nuances of settings for different models (Redmi, POCO, Xiaomi 11/12/13) and solving typical errors.

It's important to understand that without locking, you can't use certain features, like secure folders in the gallery or payments through Mi Pay, and even if you think that password is in the way, you can make it as convenient as possible, which we'll talk about.

How to turn on the lock screen on Xiaomi

There are three main ways to activate the lock in MIUI: through the standard settings, using the Quick Ball (floating button) and through the security menu. Let's take a look at each one in detail.

1. Through the main system settings

This is the most reliable and versatile method that works on all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi Note 10/11, POCO F3/F4 and the flagship Xiaomi 12T/13 series.

1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
2. Scroll down and select the Lock Screen section (on some firmware - Password and Security).
3. Slip on Add a fingerprint/password or a screen lock type.
4. Select the desired method: PIN, pattern lock, Password or No Password (to disable).
5. Follow the system's prompts to create and confirm a password.

After saving, the system will suggest adding an alternative unlocking method (such as a fingerprint), which is useful if the main method suddenly stops working.

Make sure your phone is at least 20 times charged%|Check your internet connection (required for Face Unlock)|Remember or write down your password in a safe place|Turn it off. VPN (It can block Xiaomi authentication servers)-->

2. via Quick Ball (floating button)

If you have Quick Ball enabled (floating button for quick access), you can configure the lock in two taps:

1. Touch the floating mug on the screen.
2. Select the Settings (cog) icon.
3. Tap the lock screen. → Type of lockdown.

This method is convenient if you often switch between locking methods (for example, during the day you use a fingerprint, and at night you use a PIN).

3. via the security menu (for advanced users)

In some versions of MIUI (e.g. MIUI 13 Global), the path to lock settings is hidden deeper:

Settings → Password and security → Privacy → Lock screen

Here you can configure automatic locking after a specified time of inactivity (from 5 seconds to 30 minutes).

Types of screen locking: which to choose

Xiaomi offers 5 main types of lock, each with its pros and cons.The choice depends on the balance between security and convenience.

Tip: If you choose between a PIN and a pattern lock, remember that you can peek at the tracks on the screen, especially on dirty displays. PIN is more reliable, but it is more difficult to enter with one hand.

Important: On models with AMOLED-screens (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro or Redmi) K50) The fingerprint is read directly from the display, which speeds up unlocking, but requires a clean screen.

Set up biometric authentication (fingerprint and Face Unlock)

Biometric unlocking techniques are the most convenient, but they have nuances to set up. Let's look at both.

Adding a fingerprint

To do this, your Xiaomi should have a fingerprint scanner (physical or built-in)

1. Go to Settings → Password and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Enter the current PIN/password for confirmation.
3. Follow the hints: press your finger against the scanner until the system retains the fingerprint (it will require 6-8 touches).
4. Add a spare finger (such as the thumb of the other hand) in case the main finger is occupied or damaged.

⚠️ Note: On models with scanner in the power button (Redmi 9, POCO M3) The print may not work if the button is contaminated or if the gloves are on your hands.

Face Unlock (unlocking the face)

Face Unlock works on all Xiaomi front-facing cameras, but its reliability depends on the lighting and model:

1. Open Settings → Lock screen → Face Unlock
2. Agree to a warning about less security (compared to a PIN).
3. Place your face in oval on the screen and wait for the scan to be completed.
4. Enable the option to Require eye confirmation (if any) so that the phone doesn't unlock from the photo.

Face Unlock Limitations:

• 🌙 Does not work in the dark (need an infrared scanner, like in Xiaomi 13 Ultra).
• 👓 May fail with glasses or a mask.
• 🔄 After resetting settings or updating MIUI reconfiguration will be required.

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If Face Unlock doesn't recognize you, try adding a second face profile with a different angle or light, and check if the case covers the front camera.

Solving lock screen problems

Even when set up correctly, the lock can malfunction, and here are the typical problems and solutions:

1. The lock screen does not appear

If, after pressing the power button, the phone immediately opens the main screen:

• 🔍 Check the settings in the Lock screen → Automatic lock (should be a value of 5 seconds).
• 🔄 Restart the device – sometimes the failure occurs after the update.
• 📱 Make sure that the Developer Mode is not activated → Debugging by USB (can disable).

2.The fingerprint is not working.

Frequent causes and solutions:

• 🧴 Dirty scanner or wet hands → wipe the scanner and fingers.
• 🩹 Damaged finger (cut, callus) → add another finger.
• 🔋 Low battery charge (less than 10%) → charge the phone.
• 📱 Failure of the → Remove the print and add it again.

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi with AMOLED-A scanner (e.g., Mi 11) may not be able to read the print if there's a metallized protective film on the screen.

3. Forgot the password - how to unlock

If you have forgotten your PIN or pattern lock, there are two official ways to recover:

1. Through Mi: After 5 failed attempts, the button Forgot your password will appear. Enter the data from the Mi Account associated with your phone. Follow the instructions for resetting your password.

Through Fastboot (for advanced):

fastboot erase userdata


fastboot erase locksettings

⚠️ It'll wipe all the data off the phone!

If the phone is not tied to a Mi Account, the only way out is hard reset.

Additional lock screen settings

MIUI allows you to fine-tune the look and behavior of the lock.

1. Changes in wallpaper and style

To personalize the screen:

1. Press your finger on the wallpaper of the lock → Change the wallpaper.
2. Choose from the gallery or download new ones through the themes.
3. Activate the paralax effect for 3D-animations when tilting the phone.

Settings: Settings → Lock screen → Widgets.

3. Hiding confidential information

To hide the content of the notifications:

1. Go to Settings → Notifications → On the lock screen.
2. Choose Do Not Show Notifications or Hide Content.

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The “Raise to Wake Up” setting (Settings → Display → Raise to Wake Up) allows you to turn on the screen without pressing buttons, but reduces battery life.

Security Tips: How to Protect Data on Xiaomi

The lock screen is just the first layer of protection.

• 🔐 Use a password length of 8+ numeral.
• 🔄 Update regularly MIUI — New versions are closing vulnerabilities.
• 📱 Turn on the settings. → Password and security → Deletion of data (reset after 10 failed attempts).
• 🌐 Do not connect to public Wi-Fi without VPN — Intruders can intercept passwords.
• 🔑 Activate Settings → Google → Account management → Security → Two-step authentication.

Myth: Many people think that a fingerprint can't be faked. In fact, experienced hackers can reproduce a fingerprint from a high-resolution photo. So always set up a spare PIN.

Another vulnerability is notifications on a locked screen, which can be used to see codes from SMS (e.g., from a bank), and turn off notifications for instant messengers and financial applications:

Settings → Notifications → Privacy → Hide the contents of notifications

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi's lock screen