Scanning. QR-The codes on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro seem to be an easy task, but many users face unexpected difficulties: the standard camera application does not recognize the code, then third-party scanners require extra permissions. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways - from built-in functions. MIUI alternative solutions that work even on custom firmware.
The Redmi Note 8 Pro (begonia model number) features that its camera supports QR scanning without additional applications, but this feature can be disabled in settings or blocked by regional restrictions, we will show you how to turn it back on, and we will also consider backup options for cases when the standard method does not work.
Important: If you're using a device with an unlocked bootloader or an unofficial firmware, some methods may work differently. At the end of the article, there's a separate section for these cases.
1. scanning QR through a standard camera
The most obvious way is to use the built-in Camera app. On the Redmi Note 8 Pro, this feature is activated automatically, but sometimes requires manual adjustment.
Open the Camera app and point the lens at QR-A code. 1-2 A notification will appear in seconds asking you to click on the link:
- 🔍 Check that the camera settings have Scan option enabled QR-codes (path: Camera settings) → Additionally. → Scan. QR).
- 📱 Make sure the Camera app has permission to access the internet (in Settings) → Annexes → Permits).
- 🔄 Restart your phone if the function suddenly stops working.
On the Redmi Note 8 Pro with MIUI 12.5 and later, QR scanning through the camera works even in Portrait or Night mode, but with a delay of up to 3 seconds.
⚠️ Note: Some users report that after updating to MIUI 14 the function stops working, in which case the camera settings reset will help (see section 5).
2. Google Lens (if the camera does not recognize QR)
If the feature fails to work, Google Lens will be a reliable alternative, and this app is pre-installed on most Xiaomi devices with Google services, but it can be installed separately:
- Open the Google app (the icon with the letter "G").
- In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (a stylized image of the camera).
- Put the camera on QR-Lens automatically recognizes it and suggests an action (clicking on a link, saving a contact, etc.).
The advantage of this method is high recognition speed (even on corrupted codes) and additional functions, for example, translation of text from QR or search for product information.
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If Google Lens isn’t installed, download it from Google Play.The app weighs ~15MB and doesn’t require root rights.
3. Third-party QR scanners: which to choose
When neither the camera nor Google Lens can handle it, specialized apps come to the rescue. For the Redmi Note 8 Pro, we recommend:
| Annex | Features | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play) | It works without the Internet, scans corrupted codes, scans history | Advertising in the free version |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Checks security links, blocks phishing sites | Registration is required for some functions |
| NeoReader | Supports 50+ code formats, exporting data to CSV | Interface in English |
Check reviews before installing – some scanners (like ShopSavvy’s QR Code Reader) may collect data about your scans.
⚠️ Note: Avoid apps called "Super" QR Scanner or Fast QR" — They often contain hidden advertising or subscriptions.
4. scanning QR through the browser (without installing applications)
Few people know, but modern browsers (for example, Google Chrome or Mi Browser) can scan. QR-codes through built-in function. Here's how to do it:
- Open your browser and enter chrome://flags/#enable-qr-scanner in the address bar
- Activate the QR Scanner flag and restart your browser.
- Now, when you click on the search icon (magnitude) in the address bar, the Scan option will appear. QR-code.
This method is handy if you don’t want to install additional apps, but only works on the latest browser versions (Chrome 110+).
How to turn off the flag if you don’t need a scanner?
5.If the QR is not scanned: Settings check and reset
When none of these methods work, the problem can be in the system settings.
☑️ Diagnostics of scanning problems QR
If the problem occurs after the MIUI update, try resetting the camera settings:
- Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Camera.
- Press Warehouse. → Clear the data.
- Reboot the phone.
The last method is to reset all settings (without deleting data) through Settings → About Phone → Reset. This will bring back the factory settings of the camera and other system applications.
6. QR scanning on custom firmware (TWRP, LineageOS)
If your Redmi Note 8 Pro runs on unofficial firmware (like Pixel Experience or Havoc OS), standard methods may not work.
- 🛠️ Install the Magisk module QR Scanner Enabler (available on the forum) XDA Developers).
- 🔧 Use Termux with the command: pkg install zbar-tools & & termux-qrscan (you will need an internet connection to install packages).
- 📱 Check if the scanning function is disabled in custom firmware settings (usually in the Camera Settings section). → Mods).
On firmware without Google services (for example, LineageOS without GAPPS), the only reliable way is third-party applications from F-Droid (for example, Binary Eye).
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On custom firmware, standard QR scanning through the camera only works if the firmware is MIUI based or has ported Xiaomi modules.
7.Security: How to Avoid Getting Caught on a Fraudulent QR
QR-codes can contain not only harmless links, but also phishing pages or malicious commands:
- 🔒 Never scan codes from suspicious websites or public stickers (especially if they promise “free Wi-Fi” or “gifts” or “free Wi-Fi").
- 🛡️ Use link verification crawlers (e.g. Kaspersky) QR Scanner or Bitdefender Mobile Security).
- 📵 If after scanning the phone began to behave strangely (open sites independently, send them to the Internet). SMS), Turn off the internet immediately and check the device for viruses.
On the Redmi Note 8 Pro with MIUI 13+, the camera scanner automatically blocks the clicking on dangerous links, but this does not guarantee 100% protection.