The scanner in the smartphone Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is not just a camera with recognition QR-There are features under the hood that many users don't even know about, from scanning barcodes to digitizing documents with automatic perspective correction, but how do you activate these features if they're not displayed in standard settings? Why does the scanner sometimes refuse to work when the camera is working?
In this article, we will explore all the ways to use the scanner on the Redmi Note 8 Pro, from basic to advanced. You will learn how to enable hidden scan modes through the engineering menu, which applications are best used for advanced tasks, and how to avoid common errors (for example, when the scanner “cannot see” codes in bright light), and also a unique life hack to convert scanned documents into editable text directly on the phone without third-party services.
Where is the scanner in Redmi Note 8 Pro and how to open it
Unlike many modern smartphones, where the scanner QR-The codes are put in the Quick Settings Panel, and the Redmi Note 8 Pro is hidden deeper:
- 🔍 Using the standard Camera app: open the camera, point at QR-code and wait for notification (only works when connected to the Internet).
- 📱 Through the search bar: swipe down the screen, type "scanner" in the search bar and select "Scanner" QR-code".
- 🛠️ Using the engineering menu (for advanced users): enter in the dial ##4636##, go to "Equipment Testing" → "Camera" → "Scanner".
Important: if after the MIUI update, the scanner disappeared from the search, this is not a mistake. Xiaomi periodically changes the location of functions depending on the firmware version. In this case, installing the proprietary Mi Scanner application from Google Play will help, it will restore all functions, including scanning barcodes and business cards.
Types of codes that the Redmi Note 8 Pro scanner recognizes
The scanner on the Redmi Note 8 Pro supports not only the QR-codes, but also other formats. Here's a full list of examples of use:
| Type of code | Example of use | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| QR-code | Links, Wi-Fi passwords, payments | Does not work with corrupted codes (more than 30% of losses) |
| Barcode (EAN-13, UPC) | Shops, books. | It requires good lighting. |
| Data Matrix | Marking of goods, tickets | Max. size 50×50 mm |
| PDF417 | Documents, tickets for transport | It is only read in horizontal orientation. |
A standard scanner is not suitable for scanning documents (passport, driver's license), it does not save an image, and this will help with the Document mode in the Mi Scanner application or third-party utilities like CamScanner, which automatically trim the edges, adjust the perspective and improve contrast.
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If the scanner doesn’t recognize the code the first time, try turning on the flashlight (even during the day) – this increases contrast and read speed.
Step-by-step instructions: how to scan QR-code
Let’s look at the process using the example of the standard Camera application:
- Open the Camera app on the Redmi Note 8 Pro.
- Point the lens at QR-code so that it occupies at least 30% of the screen.
- Wait for the notification to appear with a suggestion to click on the link (usually takes 1-2 seconds).
- Click on the notification to open the contents of the code in the browser.
If no notice appears:
- 🔄 Reboot your phone – sometimes helps with camera crashes.
- 📱 Check the permissions for the Camera app in Settings → Annexes → Permits.
- 🔧 Update the firmware MIUI Up to the latest version (older versions of the scanner was unstable).
Make sure the code is not crumpled or blurred |
Turn on the flashlight in low light |
Disable energy saving (can block the camera)|
Check your Internet connection (for the purpose of QR-reference)-->
Hidden features of the scanner: what can the Redmi Note 8 Pro
Few people know, but the scanner on the Redmi Note 8 Pro can:
- 💳 Read bank card data (number, expiration date) through the Mi Pay application (manual input is required) CVV).
- 📄 Recognise text from photographs (OCR) — To do this, after scanning the document, click "Extract Text" in Mi Scanner.
- 🎫 Save your tickets to Google Pay or Mi Wallet directly from the barcode scan.
- 🔗 Generate QR-codes for your contacts, Wi-Fi networks or text (Create code in Mi Scanner).
Activation of these functions may require:
- Install the latest version of Mi Scanner from Google Play (the built-in version in MIUI is often outdated).
- Enable permission to access the Warehouse and Contacts.
- For OCR-tasks to download the language package in the application settings.
How to scan codes without the Internet?
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even on a serviceable Redmi Note 8 Pro, the scanner can malfunction.
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The scanner doesn't respond to the codes | Camera's closed. | Check the permissions in Settings → Privacy |
| Codes are read but not opened | Ad Blocker or VPN | Disable VPN or add an exception for the browser |
| Blurred image during scanning | Dirty lens or tremor | Wash the camera with an alcohol napkin, use a tripod |
| Document scanning is not working. | There is no Mi Scanner app. | Install it from Google Play or App Gallery |
⚠️ Attention: If the scanner stopped focusing after the phone fell, the problem may be that the camera module is damaged, and only a replacement at the service center will help.
Best Alternative Scanning Apps
If the standard scanner on the Redmi Note 8 Pro doesn’t suit you, consider these options:
- 📱 Google Lens: Not only does it recognize codes, but it recognizes objects, texts, plants.
- 🔍 Kaspersky QR Scanner: Checks links in QR-virus codes before opening.
- 📄 CamScanner: Best for digitizing documents with cloud storage.
- 💰 Mi Pay: Specialized for scanning payment codes (including dynamic ones).
When choosing an alternative, pay attention to:
- 🔒 Security: The app should check for phishing links (e.g. Kaspersky) QR Scanner does this automatically).
- 📱 Integration with MIUI: Some apps conflict with Xiaomi’s shell (for example, Barcode Scanner may not work properly with gestures).
- 🌐 Offline modes: If you need to scan without the internet, choose apps with local processing (e.g, QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play).
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For maximum security, always check. URL, lead-on QR-Fraudsters often disguise malicious links as legitimate ones (such as fake bank pages).
How to create your own QR-code for Redmi Note 8 Pro
Generate QR-Redmi Note 8 Pro code is possible without third-party applications:
- Open the Mi Scanner (or install it if removed).
- Click on the "Create Code" icon (usually in the lower right corner).
- Select the type of content: 🔗 Link - for web pages; 📞 Contact for business cards; 📶 Wi-Fi – for data transmission of the network; 💬 Text for messages up to 500 characters.
"Create."
Save the code to the gallery or share it through messengers.
To create dynamic QR-codes (which can be edited after generation) use services such as QR Code Generator or Bitly, they allow you to use it:
- 📊 Track the number of scans;
- 🔄 Change the target link without changing the code;
- 🎨 Customize the design (colors, logo).
⚠️ Attention: Free online generators QR-For sensitive information (passwords, payments), use offline applications or Mi Scanner.