Scanning. QR-Xiaomi Redmi has become so simple that many users are unaware of all available methods. In 2026, the manufacturer integrated the recognition function directly into the standard camera, but this is far from the only option. From quick scanning through Google Lens to specialized applications like Mi Scanner, the choice depends on your tasks and version. MIUI.
In this article, we will analyze all the current methods, including hidden firmware chips that work even on budget models Redmi Note 12 or Redmi 10C. Particular attention will be paid to the typical errors that make the smartphone “cannot see” the code, and give recommendations for security – why not scan QR from street banners without checking. If you are looking for the fastest method or, conversely, need advanced features (for example, code generation), here you will find answers.
1.Scanning through a standard Xiaomi camera
The most obvious and quickest way is to use the built-in camera. QR-The codes are activated by default on all Xiaomi Redmi smartphones with MIUI 12 and newer (including) MIUI 14/15). You don’t need to install additional apps or adjust settings.
To scan the code:
- 📷 Open the Camera app (the icon on the home screen or menu).
- 🔍 Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
- 🔗 Wait for a notification with a link or text (usually 1-2 seconds).
- 👆 Tap the pop-up banner to click on the link or copy the data.
If the function is not working, check:
- 🔧 Whether recognition is enabled QR In camera settings: go to camera settings → Additionally. → Scanning. QR-code.
- 📱 Is the firmware updated: on older versions MIUI (below 12) manual activation may be required.
- 💡 Is there enough lighting: in the dark, the camera is worse at detecting small codes.
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If QR-If you don't scan the code, try zooming in on the camera (plucking) and it helps with small or damaged codes.
2.Using Google Lens to Recognize QR
Google Lens is a powerful tool from Google that can not only scan QR-It can also recognize objects, texts, and even solve math problems. On Xiaomi Redmi smartphones, it's pre-installed in the Google Photos app or available through Google Assistant.
Scanning instructions:
- Open the Google Photos app (if not installed, download from the Play Market).
- Click on the Google Lens icon (the stylized “eye” in the search bar).
- Put the camera on QR-Lens will automatically identify it and show you the content.
- Tap the pop-up notification to interact with the data (click on the link, keep in touch, etc.).
Advantages of the method:
- 🔍 It works with damaged or partially erased codes.
- 🌐 Supports translation of text from QR language.
- 📱 No additional applications (if Google Photos).
3. Mi Scanner app: official solution from Xiaomi
For users who need more features than just scanning, Xiaomi has developed the official Mi Scanner app, which is pre-installed on most Redmi models (starting with the Redmi 9), but can be downloaded from the Play Market or App Gallery if needed.
Mi Scanner's capabilities:
- 📸 Scanning. QR and barcodes (including barcodes) EAN, UPC, PDF417).
- 🔦 Flash for scanning in the dark.
- 📋 Scan history (saves the last 100 codes).
- 🔄 Generation of own QR-codes (links, Wi-Fi, contacts).
How to use:
- Open Mi Scanner (a magnifier icon on a blue background).
- Allow access to the camera at the first start.
- Point the camera at the code – the application will automatically recognize it.
- To generate your QR, go to the Create tab.
☑️ Preparation for scanning through Mi Scanner
Mi Scanner supports scanning codes from the screen of another device – this is convenient for transferring files or Wi-Fi settings between Xiaomi smartphones.
Third-party applications: when standard methods are insufficient
If the built-in tools fail (for example, you need to scan the codes in the PDF-There are hundreds of options in the Play Market, but we recommend proven applications:
| Annex | Features | Ratings. | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner | Fast scanning, history, data export | 4.7 | Play Market |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Checking links to viruses, blocking phishing | 4.5 | Play Market |
| Barcode Scanner | Support for 20+ formats, work offline | 4.6 | Play Market |
Warning: Some applications request excessive permissions (such as contact access or SMS) Do not install scanners from unknown developers - this can lead to data leakage.
⚠️ Attention: Apps like QR Code Reader from Scan, Inc. often contains ads that masquerade as system notifications. Read reviews and check permissions before installing.
Scanning. QR-codes from the screen of another device
Sometimes you need to scan the code that is displayed on the screen of another smartphone, tablet or computer. The standard Xiaomi Redmi camera does not always cope with this task due to glare or low contrast.
Method 1: Using Mi Scanner
- 📱 Open Mi Scanner.
- 🔍 Point the camera to the screen QR-code.
- 📱 Reduce the brightness of the source screen (this will reduce glare).
Method 2: Google Lens in Document Mode
- 📄 Open Google Photos → Google Lens.
- 📱 Select the text mode (document icon).
- 🔍 Point the camera at the code – Lens recognizes it as a text block.
Method 3: Screenshot + Processing
- 📸 Take a screenshot. QR-code-in-the-source.
- 🖼️ Send it to Xiaomi Redmi (for example, via Telegram or Xiaomi Cloud).
- 🔍 Open the image in Google Photos and use Google Lens.
Why can’t a standard camera see QR from the screen?
6.The solution to the problems: why Xiaomi Redmi does not scan QR-code
If your smartphone stubbornly refuses to recognize the code, check the following points:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Camera not responding to QR | Disabled recognition in the settings | Include in Camera Settings → Additional → QR Scanning |
| The code is recognized, but the link is not opened. | Browser or OS restrictions | Try copying the link manually or using Google Chrome |
| The scanning only works from close range. | Low resolution camera or dirty lens | Wipe the camera, zoom in, or use Mi Scanner. |
| The app gives an error "Incorrect format" | QR-code corrupted or non-standard | Try Google Lens or third-party scanners |
Another common problem is glare on glossy surfaces (for example, if the code is printed on a plastic card).
- 💡 Tilt the light source or the smartphone itself at an angle.
- 📱 Use Mi Scanner with flash on (even during the day).
- 🖼️ Take a photo of the code and process the image in Google Lens.
⚠️ Attention: If QR-code from a website or banner redirects to a suspicious page (for example, asking you to enter a username / password), do not enter data. This can be a phishing attack. URL manually or use Kaspersky QR Scanner for Security Analysis.
7.Safety in scanning QR-code
QR-codes are convenient but can be dangerous. Fraudsters often use them to spread malicious links or steal data:
- 🛡️ Do not scan codes from street banners, public transport stickers or unknown sources. Attackers can replace the original code with a fake one.
- 🔗 Before clicking on a link, check her address. For example, instead of vk.com, it can be vk-security.ru.
- 📱 Use security scanners (e.g. Kaspersky) QR Scanner or Bitdefender Mobile Security).
- 💳 Never enter bank card details on websites opened through the QR, unless you are sure of their authenticity.
Signs of danger QR-code:
- 🚨 The link leads to the site with errors in the domain (for example, paypa1.com instead of paypal.com).
- 📱 After scanning, permission to access the SMS, geolocation.
- 💣 Download a file with the.apk extension (especially if you didn’t expect to download).
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The safest way is to scan. QR-codes only from verified sources (official websites, bank applications, movie tickets).