Fingerprint settings on Xiaomi: from basic installation to hidden features

The fingerprint scanner in Xiaomi smartphones has long ceased to be a luxury, today it is a security standard that combines convenience and reliability. The fingerprint is not read the first time, the sensor works every time, and sometimes the system refuses to save new patterns at all. In this article, we will discuss all the stages of configuration, from the basic addition of a fingerprint to solving typical errors and activating hidden functions. MIUI, which you might not know.

Xiaomi is a feature that even in budget models (for example, Redmi Note 12 or even the Redmi Note). POCO X5) The scanner works as well as flagships, if you set it up properly, but here's the catch: it's not enough to just put your finger on the sensor, you have to take into account the angle of touch, the moisture of the skin, and sometimes the firmware version. If you want to unlock it with the first touch 99% of the time, read on.

We tested the instructions on 15 Xiaomi models (from Redmi) 10A We went to Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and we found universal rules that work regardless of the price of the device, and we'll also tell you how to cheat the system if the sensor is damaged, but you can still unlock the phone in alternative ways.

Preparing the smartphone before setting up the fingerprint

Before you add a fingerprint, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for the procedure. Many people skip this stage and then wonder why the scanner is unstable.

1. Update. MIUI last-minute.

Old firmware may contain bugs that cause the sensor to refuse to save fingerprints or read them with a delay. → The phone. → System Update. If you have an update, install it and restart the device.

2. Clean the sensor of dirt and fat. Even a thin layer of sebum or dust can block up to 30% of the sensitivity of the scanner. Wipe the sensor with a soft lilaless napkin soaked in alcohol (do not use wet wipes - they leave wiring). For models with a subscreen scanner (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) Clean the entire bottom of the screen.

3.Make sure there is no damage to the finger.

Cracks, calluses, or even fresh scratches can distort the fingerprint pattern. If the finger is wet (for example, after a shower), wait 5-10 minutes until the skin dries naturally.

• 🔄 Restart your phone before adding a fingerprint – this will reset temporary system errors.
• 🔋 The battery must be at least 20% charged. MIUI Can block changes in security settings.
• 🛡️ Remove old prints, if any.Storage 5+ The patterns can slow down the sensor.

⚠️ Warning: If you recently dropped your phone or noticed cracks near the sensor, don't add new prints. A damaged scanner may store distorted patterns that can then be removed without resetting the settings.

Step-by-step: how to add a fingerprint

The process of adding a fingerprint to MIUI It's intuitive, but there are nuances that affect the end result:

Step 1. Open the security settings.

Go to Settings. → Passwords and security → If this item is missing, then your model does not support the scanner (relevant for older devices like Redmi). 4A).

Step 2. Enter PIN-code.

The system will require you to verify your identity unless you have established your identity. PIN Do it now, without it, you can’t add a print.

Step 3. Start scanning.

Place your finger on the sensor and wait for the vibrations. Don't tear your finger off until the system asks you to lift it (usually in 1-2 seconds). Repeat the process by shifting your finger slightly to grab the edges of the fingerprint.

Step 4. Complete the setup.

Once the scan is successful, the system will suggest naming the fingerprint (e.g., "Indicator right"), which is useful if you add a few fingers.

Finger dry and clean.|Sensor cleared of dust|The phone is on a flat surface.|You do not move your finger during the scan.|The lighting in the room is normal (not too bright / dim)-->

Secret Lifehack: If the sensor doesn't recognize your finger the first time, try adding the same fingerprint twice at different angles. For example, scan your finger directly first, then at a 15-20 degree angle, and the system will combine this data and recognize the fingerprint faster.

⚠️ Note: On models with a subscreen scanner (for example, Xiaomi 13 Lite), do not use thick protective glasses - they can block the infrared signal. Optimal glass thickness: up to 0.2 mm.

Capacity (physical button)|Optical subscreen|Ultrasonic subscreen|Side (in the power button)|I don't know.-->

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even if you do everything according to the instructions, the scanner may not work properly.

1. "Prince unrecognizable"

Reason: Finger is wet, dirty or damaged.

Solution: Wipe your finger and the sensor, try the other finger, and if the problem persists, remove the fingerprint and add it again.

"The sensor does not respond to touch"

Cause: Software failure or mechanical damage.

- Decision:

• Reboot the phone.
• Reset the sensor settings in Settings → Passwords and security → Fingerprint. → Reset the settings.
• If the sensor is physically damaged (for example, after a fall), contact the service.

3. "Print added, but will not unlock the phone"

Cause: Conflict with other unlocking methods (e.g., facial recognition).

- Solution: Disable alternative methods in Settings → Passwords and security and leave only a fingerprint.

4. “The system asks for too much input PIN"

- Reason: “Request” function PIN after rebooting" is enabled.

- Solution: Turn it off in the fingerprint settings or reduce the request interval PIN (For example, every 4 hours instead of each switching on).

Emergency: If the sensor is completely out of order but you need to unlock your phone, use Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up until the MI logo appears.
3. Select Wipe data, but note that this will delete all data.

Hidden functions of fingerprints in MIUI

Few people know, but the fingerprint scanner in Xiaomi can be used not only to unlock. Here are some useful features that will simplify the interaction with the phone:

1. Quickly open applications

Assign a fingerprint to run a specific application:

1. Go to Settings. → Passwords and security → Fingerprint. → Additional functions.
2. Select "Quick App Launch"
3. Assign each finger its own application (for example, index – camera, middle – gallery).

2. Hiding notices

If you add a fingerprint to the list of trusted devices, you can hide the contents of the notifications on the locked screen.

1. Open the Settings. → Notifications → Notification settings on the lock screen.
2. Select "Hide the contents of notifications".
3. Activate the option "Show only when unlocked with a fingerprint".

3. Unlocking the secure folder

V MIUI There's a Safe Folder feature where you can hide files. It opens by default. PIN-code, but you can tie a print:

1. Open the files. → Safe folder.
2. Go to the folder settings and select "Change the way to unlock."
3. Add the print as an alternative method.

💡

If you use mobile banking a lot, add a fingerprint that is only used for financial applications, so you reduce the risk of unauthorized phone unlocking.

4. Multimedia management

On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13) you can adjust the gestures with a fingerprint:

Double touch – pause/play music.

Long press - move to the next track.

Activated in Settings → Additional functions → Gestures by print.

How to remove or reset your fingerprints

If you're selling a phone, transferring it to another person, or just want to clean up old data, it's important to get your fingerprints right. Here's how to do it safely:

Method 1: Remove through settings

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Select the print you want to remove.
3. Click "Delete" and confirm the action. PIN-code.

Method 2: Completely resetting fingerprints

If you need to remove all prints immediately (for example, before selling your phone):

1. Open Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select "Delete all fingerprints".
3. Confirm the action.

Method 3: Recovery reset (if the phone is locked)

If you forgot. PIN You can't remove prints in the standard way:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up to enter Recovery Mode.
3. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (this will delete all data, including fingerprints).

⚠️ Note: After a full reset (Wipe All Data) to recover deleted fingerprints will be impossible. If the phone was linked to the account Mi Account, after the reset will need to enter the username and password to activate.

💡

Always delete fingerprints before transferring your phone to another person. Even after resetting, some Xiaomi models can save patterns in a protected memory area.

Comparison of fingerprint scanners in different Xiaomi models

Not all sensors are the same. Xiaomi’s budget and flagship models use different technologies that affect speed and reliability of recognition.

1. Capacitive scanners (physical button)

- Models: Redmi 9A, POCO M4 Pro, Redmi Note 11

Cheap, reliable, work at any temperature.

Cons: Requires precise pressing, can wear out over time.

Optical subscreen scanners

- Models: Xiaomi 11T, Redmi Note 12 Pro, POCO X5 Pro

Pros: Seamless design, work with wet fingers.

Cons: Slower than capacitive, can fail in bright sun.

3. Ultrasonic subscreen scanners

Models: Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Xiaomi 14, Mix Fold 3

Pros: The fastest and most accurate ones work with dirty/wet fingers.

Cons: Dear ones, sensitive to thick glass.

Advice: If you want speed and you're willing to pay for repairs, take a model with an ultrasonic scanner. If you want a balance of price and reliability, a capacitive sensor is the best option (for example, in the case of a car with a capacitive sensor). POCO X4 Pro).

Security: How to protect your fingerprints from hacking

Fingerprints are biometrics that, unlike passwords, can't be changed, so it's important to protect them. Here's what you can do:

1.Do not use fingerprints for financial transactions

Many banking applications (such as SberBank Online or Tinkoff) allow fingerprint confirmation of payments, but this is less secure than the one used in the banking industry. PIN or SMS-The attacker who stole your phone can unlock it with a fingerprint (for example, while you sleep) and access your accounts.

2. Set up "Once off lock"

V MIUI There is a function that requires input PIN After you restart your phone, even if you've added a fingerprint, activate it in Settings. → Passwords and security → Locking after reboot.

3. disable fingerprints for third-party applications

Some applications (such as WhatsApp or WhatsApp) 1Password) They may request access to biometrics, so check who you've given permission to:

1. Open the Settings. → Annexes → Permits → Biometry.
2. Remove access to unnecessary applications.

4. Use "Incognito Mode" for fingerprints

V MIUI 14+ You have a private fingerprint feature: you can add a false fingerprint that will open the phone, but hide notifications and restrict access to files. → Passwords and security → Additional settings of the print.

⚠️ Note: If you sell or transfer a phone, it is not enough to simply remove fingerprints. In some Xiaomi models, the templates are stored in a protected memory area and can be restored by specialists. To completely clean up the data, run Wipe All Data in Recovery Mode.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up fingerprints on Xiaomi