QR-codes have become an integral part of everyday life, from paying for purchases to logging into Wi-Fi networks. Xiaomi smartphone owners (including the Redmi line and the Wi-Fi line). POCO) Often faced with the question: how to scan the code as quickly and without errors without installing unnecessary applications? In this article, we will examine all available methods - from built-in functions. MIUI Before alternative solutions, and how to avoid typical scanning problems.
The feature of Xiaomi devices is the deep integration of scanning functions into standard applications, for example, the camera of most models (starting with the use of the camera). MIUI (10) automatically recognizes QR-However, not all users are aware of the hidden features of the system, such as scanning through Google Lens or quick access from the notification panel. MIUI 14 and HyperOS) and highlighted the most reliable.
1. Scanning. QR-code through a standard Xiaomi camera
The most obvious and quick way is to use the built-in Camera app. QR-The codes are activated by default on all modern Xiaomi devices, starting with the Redmi Note 7 and later. You do not need to configure anything: just hover the lens over the code, and the system will prompt you to click on the link.
Algorithm of action:
- π± Open the Camera app (the icon on the home screen or menu).
- π― Put the camera on QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
- π Wait for a notification at the top of the screen with a brief description of the code content (for example, βOpen linkΒ»).
- π Tap notifications to perform the action (go to the site, connect to Wi-Fi, etc.).
Important nuance: if the camera does not recognize the code, check if the Scan function is enabled QR-codes in the application settings:
- Open the CameraΒ» β press on βοΈ Settings (cog in the upper right corner).
- Scroll down to the section Additional.
- Make sure the switch scans. QR-active codes (blue slider).
π‘
If QR-code damaged or poorly readable, try turning on the flashlight (swipe down from the top edge of the screen) β flashlight icon) or bring the camera 10-15 cm closer to the code.
2. Quick scan through the notification panel
V MIUI 12 And a newer, convenient tool appeared - a scanning widget QR-This saves time because it doesn't require you to open the camera. It works on all Xiaomi devices, including POCO F3, Redmi Note 11 and flagship Xiaomi 13/14.
How to use:
- Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notification bar.
- Find the badge. QR-scanner (usually located next to the flashlight and the mode of the aircraft). β― Edit and add the widget manually.
- Tap the icon, the scanner interface opens, point the camera at the code.
This method is 30% faster than standard camera scanning, as it does not require a separate application to run, but it has a limitation: the widget does not support scanning codes from the screen of another device (due to fraud protection).
3. Scanning with Google Lens
If standard methods donβt work (e.g., on older models or custom firmware), Google Lens, Googleβs image recognition service, is built into Google Photos and Google Assistant, and is also available as a separate widget.
Instructions for use:
- π Open the Google app (search bar) or Google Photos appΒ».
- π· In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (stylized camera) or select a photo from the QR-code in the gallery and press Lens.
- π― Point the camera at the code or select it in the photo. the service automatically recognizes the content.
The advantages of Google Lens:
- β It works even on devices without MIUI (for example POCO X3 Pro with custom firmware).
- β Recognises codes in photos (unlike the standard Xiaomi scanner).
- β Supports translation of text from QR-codes.
What if Google Lens doesnβt recognize the code?
4. Third-party applications for QR scanning
If the built-in tools are not suitable (for example, due to slow operation or lack of additional features), you can install specialized applications.-5 Scanners from the Play Market and highlighted the best:
| Annex | Ratings. | Features | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play) | 4.7 | Fast scanning, code history, working without the internet | Advertising in the free version |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | 4.5 | Checking links to viruses, blocking dangerous sites | Registration is required for some functions |
| NeoReader QR & Barcode | 4.6 | Support for 50+ code formats, QR generator | The interface is overloaded with functions |
How to choose the right application?
- π‘οΈ If you scan codes for payment or authorization, use Kaspersky. QR Scanner (checks phishing links).
- π± For everyday tasks (Wi-Fi, links) is suitable QR & Barcode Scanner.
- π§ If you need a code generator, install NeoReader.
Check reviews in the Play Market (rated above 4.5)
Make sure the app has been updated in the last 3 months
View permission requests (should not be superfluous, such as access to SMS)
Download only from the official store (not from the APK-file)
-->
5. Solving common scanning errors
Even on new Xiaomi devices, users are facing reading problems QR-We've got a top of the codes.-5 errors and ways of eliminating them:
β οΈ Note: If the camera is not focused on QR-If you want to use a soft cloth, try to wipe the lens, and often the problem is the lens contamination (fingerprints, dust).
Error 1: The camera does not recognize the code
- π¦ Increase the lighting (turn on the flashlight or bring the code to the light source).
- π Make sure the code fits fully within the viewfinder frame (not cropped at the edges).
- π Restart the device β sometimes the failure occurs due to system overload.
Error 2: The scanner opens the wrong link
This may be due to:
- πΈοΈ Redirects (some sites are automatically changed) URL post-transition).
- π± Browser cache (clear history in Chrome or Mi Browser).
- π Damaged code (try scanning it through another application).
Error 3: Scan widget disappears from notification panel
To get him back:
- Swipe down and press. β― Edit.
- Find it on the list. QR-Scanner and drag it to the active area.
- If the widget is missing, update MIUI via Settings β About Phone β System Update.
π‘
If none of the methods work, check if the camera is disabled in the security settings (Settings β Privacy β Application Resolutions β Camera).
Scanning QR-codes on older Xiaomi models
On devices older than 2018 (e.g. Redmi 5A, Mi A1), the built-in scanning feature may not be available or may not work smoothly.
Method 1: Update MIUI
Check the relevance of the firmware:
- Go to Settings β About the phone β System update.
- If a new version is available, install it (requires at least 50% of the battery charge).
Method 2: Use Google Lens or third-party scanners
As practice shows, Google Lens is more stable on outdated devices than the standard Xiaomi scanner. Alternatively, the application βBarcode Scannerβ from ZXing Team (lightweight, no ads).
Method 3: Scanner through browser
Some online services (e.g. ZXing Decoder) allow you to upload photos. QR-This is true if the camera of the device is damaged.
β οΈ Attention: On devices with MIUI 9 and below, a standard scanner may not support format codes QR Code Model 2 (used in payment systems) In this case, be sure to install third-party software.
7.Safety in scanning QR-code
QR-codes are convenient but can be dangerous: scammers often disguise phishing links as them:
- π Do not scan codes from suspicious sources (street stickers, messages from unknown senders).
- π Before clicking on the link, check her address (should start with the https://, not http://).
- π± Use link verification crawlers (e.g. Kaspersky) QR Scanner or Bitdefender Mobile Security).
- π If after scanning the device began to brake - immediately check it for viruses (Settings) β My machine. β Virus scanning).
Signs of danger QR-code:
- π¨ The code suggests entering personal data (passwords, card numbers).
- π The link leads to the site with errors in the address (for example, paypa1.com instead of paypal.com).
- π± After scanning, a request for installation appears APK-file.
π‘
To verify the authenticity of the code, scan it through VirusTotal (upload a photo of the code to virustotal.com).