QR-Codes have long been an integral part of everyday life, from paying for purchases to logging in to Wi-Fi networks. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco smartphones often face the question: how to quickly and error-free scan the code without installing unnecessary programs? MIUI There are a few built-in tools for this task โ you just need to know where to look for them.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods of reading. QR-codes on Xiaomi devices, including little-known features and solutions to typical problems.You will learn how to use a standard camera, hidden scanner in the computer. MIUI, Google Lens and even voice assistant, and why code sometimes doesn't get recognized, and how to fix it in 30 seconds.
Spoiler: Newer models (such as the Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro+) are as easy to process as possible, but older devices (such as the Redmi 5A or Mi A2) will have to use workarounds.
1. QR-codes in the standard camera Xiaomi
The most obvious and quickest way is to use the built-in camera. QR-The codes are activated by default on all devices with MIUI 10 and newer. Here's how it works:
Open the Camera app, switch to the main module (if you have multiple cameras) and hover the lens over the camera. QR-The system automatically detects the code and will show a notification asking you to click on the link or copy the data. AMOLED-screens (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Ultra) recognize almost instantly due to high scanning frequency.
If the function does not work, check the settings:
- Open the camera โ Settings (cogs) โ Additional.
- Make sure the switch scans. QR-coded.
- Older versions of MIUI may require an update to the camera app via Google Play.
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On some devices (like the Poco X3 Pro), scanning only works in good light. If the code is not recognized, try flashlighting it or turning on Night Shooting (but don't pull the trigger!).
โ ๏ธ Note: On custom firmware devices (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience), the built-in scanner may not be available.
2.Mi Scanner app: Hidden MIUI tool
Few people know, but Xiaomi has a separate scanning app, Mi Scanner (formerly called Scanner), which is pre-installed on most devices, but hidden in the Tools or Others folder.
To find him:
- Scroll the main screen to the right to a list of all apps.
- Enter Scanner or Scanner (on Russian firmware) in search.
- If the app is not available, download it from Google Play (it is free and weighs less than 10 MB).
The advantages of Mi Scanner in front of the camera:
- ๐ฆ It works even in low light due to the built-in lighting.
- ๐ Stores scan history (up to the last 50 codes).
- ๐ Supports generation QR-code.
- ๐ก๏ธ Checks security links through Xiaomi Cloud.
How to enable link security check?
โ ๏ธ Attention: On devices with MIUI For the global market (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Global), the app may be called Xiaomi Scanner, the functionality is identical, but the interface is adapted to European security standards.
3.Google Lens: Universal Scanner for All Android
If Xiaomi's built-in tools don't work for some reason, Google Lens, a service from Google that is integrated into most Android devices, will come to the rescue. QR-It also translates text, identifies objects, and even solves mathematical examples.
How to use:
- Open the Google (search engine) or Google Photos app.
- Click on the Google Lens icon (a stylized letter "G" with a dot).
- Put the camera on QR-The service will automatically identify it and suggest actions.
The advantages of Google Lens:
- ๐ It works on any device, even with older versions. MIUI.
- ๐ It recognizes corrupted or blurred codes better than a standard scanner.
- ๐ Can scan codes directly from photos in the gallery.
โ Disadvantage: The job requires an internet connection (unlike Mi Scanner, which works offline).
Annex side: when embedded tools are not enough
If you need an advanced scan (for example, reading dynamic scans) QR-For codes with variable content or batch processing, you should pay attention to third-party programs.-3 Proven applications for Xiaomi:
| Annex | Features | Cons | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play) | Quick scan, code history, QR generator, barcode work. | The commercial is free. | Google Play |
| NeoReader | It supports more than 50 code formats, including DataMatrix and PDF417. | The interface is in English. | Google Play |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Built-in verification of links to viruses and phishing, offline mode. | Additional permissions are required for security analysis. | Google Play |
โ ๏ธ Note: When installing third-party scanners, opt out of unnecessary permissions (such as accessing contacts or accessing a computer). SMS). For scanning. QR-The codes are sufficient to allow the use of the camera.
If you often work with codes for professional purposes (for example, scanning labels in stock), look for applications that support batch scanning, such as QR Code Reader Pro.
Check Rankings and Reviews on Google Play|Read the Privacy Policy|Refuse unnecessary permits|Test offline mode-->
5. Voice assistant XiaoAI: scanning without hands
On devices with MIUI For the Chinese market (or global firmware with XiaoAI installed) you can scan QR-This feature is useful if you have busy hands or need to quickly scan the code from a long distance.
How it works:
- Activate the voice assistant by saying "Hey XiaoAI" or holding the home button.
- Tell the command, "Scan it." QR-code" (in English firmware: "Scan QR code").
- Point the camera to the code - the assistant will voice the result or open the link.
Limitations of the method:
- ๐ฃ๏ธ It only works on Chinese firmware or with XiaoAI installed (on global versions). MIUI may be absent).
- ๐ค Requires a good microphone (on noisy streets may not work).
- ๐ Commands must be pronounced clearly, otherwise the assistant will offer a search on the Internet.
โ Plus: You can scan codes without unlocking the screen (if you have enabled the option of Voice Assistant on the locked screen in the security settings).
6. Solving typical scanning problems
Sometimes. QR-codes are not recognized even on new devices. Here are the most common reasons and ways to fix them:
Problem 1: The camera is not responding to QR-code.
- ๐ฆ Check the lighting โ the code should be clearly visible (no glare or shadows).
- ๐ฑ Make sure that the lens is not hit by dirt or protective film.
- ๐ Restart the device โ sometimes helps with camera failures.
Problem 2: The code is recognized, but the link is not opened.
- ๐ Check your internet connection (especially if you use Google Lens).
- ๐ Try copying the link manually and pasting it into the browser.
- ๐ก๏ธ If a link is blocked, it could be phishing (use Kaspersky). QR Scanner to test for).
Problem 3: The error "Impermissible Code Format" appears on the screen.
- ๐ฑ Update the camera app or Mi Scanner through Google Play.
- ๐ง Try another scanner (e.g. NeoReader for non-standard formats).
- ๐ผ๏ธ If the code is printed on paper, it's probably corrupted. Try scanning it from another angle.
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If QR-The code contains Cyrillic characters (for example, a link to a Russian site), use Mi Scanner or Google Lens โ they handle encoding better. UTF-8, more than a standard camera.
โ ๏ธ Note: On rooted firmware devices, embedded scanners may not work properly due to altered system libraries, in which case only third-party software will help.
7. QR-codes on smart watches and bracelets Xiaomi
Few people know, but some smart watches and fitness bracelets Xiaomi also know how to scan. QR-The function is available on the following devices:
- โ Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro (with Wear-based firmware) OS).
- โ Xiaomi Mi Band 8 Pro (Smart Watches only").
- โ Amazfit GTR 4 and GTS 4 (brand owned by Xiaomi).
How to scan from the clock:
- Open the app menu on the clock.
- Find the scanner icon or QR icon.
- Point the clock camera to the code (keep at a distance of 10-15 cm).
- The result will be displayed on the screen of the clock or will be transmitted to the smartphone.
โ Limitations:
- The camera on the watch is less powerful, so the code must be large and clear.
- The function works only when connected to a smartphone (for data transfer).
- There is no scanner on the Mi Band 7 or older models.
โ Plus: Convenient for quick payment in stores (e.g. scanning) QR-terminal code through the clock).