Modern smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO They have become universal tools, where one of the most popular functions is reading. QR-It's a quick way to click on a link, add a contact, connect to Wi-Fi or pay for a purchase in a store, but users often find themselves in a situation where the standard camera does not respond to the code, or the menu is hidden in the depth of the settings, which is puzzling.
In this article, we will take a look at all the available MIUI and HyperOS shell scanning methods, learn how to activate the built-in scanner, use third-party apps from Google, and set up quick access to this feature, and also touch on security issues so you can distinguish secure codes from potential scammer threats.
Built-in scanner in the Camera app
The most obvious and quick way to scan on Xiaomi QR-The code is to use the native Camera app, and the company's engineers have built the pattern recognition module directly into the viewfinder, eliminating the need to run additional programs. For this function to work successfully, it is necessary that the appropriate switch is activated in the settings, since on some global versions of firmware it can be turned off by default.
To check and enable this option, open the Camera app and tap the three bars in the top right corner of the screen. In the menu that opens, select Settings. Here, in the list of general options, find the line "Scan" QR-codes, and make sure that the slider is blue, and then when you hover the lens over the code, the system automatically recognizes it and suggests an action.
⚠️ Warning: If the camera is focused but doesn’t suggest clicking, it’s possible the code is corrupted or has a custom format that requires manual processing.
It's important to understand that the built-in algorithm works best in good lighting and clear images. If you're trying to read code from another device's screen, turn down the brightness of the light source to avoid glare that interferes with the matrix's recognition.
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Keep your phone 15-20 cm away from the code for optimal focus, and don’t bring the camera close to the subject.
Mi Scanner app: Hidden tool
In the system set of Xiaomi utilities, there is a separate application called “Scanner” (or Mi Scanner), which differs from the camera with more advanced functionality and the ability to work with various types of data, including documents and goods, and you can find it in the Tools folder on your desktop or search the app menu.
The main advantage of this tool is that while the camera is just reading a link, Mi Scanner can translate text from an image, scan documents in PDF or search for products in online stores using barcode, which makes it an indispensable assistant not only for household tasks, but also for working with office documentation.
☑️ Checking the scanner
The application interface is divided into tabs, allowing you to switch between QR scanning modes, text translation and product search. When using translation mode, text is superimposed over the real image in augmented reality, which is extremely convenient for tourists.
Using Google Lens (Lens)
Google-certified smartphones (global versions) pre-installed Google Lens, which often works more accurately and faster than standard solutions from the manufacturer. This tool is integrated into Google's desktop search bar or accessed through a search widget. It uses the company's powerful server algorithms to analyze images.
To take advantage of this method, click on the square camera icon in Google's search box, and you'll see a viewfinder that instantly responds to codes. Google Lens is unique in that it can recognize handwritten text, solve math problems from photos, and even identify dog breeds or plant models.
Another way to start scanning is through the Google Photos app. Open any photo that shows you. QR-And you click the Lens button at the bottom of the screen, and the system analyzes the static image, and it gives you a link or information encoded in the graphic.
Why Google Lens may not work?
Scanning from Gallery and Browser
Often there is a situation where QR-The code was sent as a picture in the messenger or it was stored in the memory of the phone, in which case you don't have to look for another smartphone to point the camera. MIUI Allows you to analyze images directly from the Gallery.
Open the image you want in the Gallery app. Press the "More" button (three dots) or hold your finger on the image itself. QR-code, it will suggest a pop-up menu with an action like "Open Link." This works thanks to the background artificial intelligence processes built into the shell.
A similar feature is available in Mi Browser and Google Chrome.The address bar often has a camera icon or a Google Chrome browser. QR-By clicking on it, you can select an image from the device's memory, and the browser will automatically go to the encrypted address.
Comparison of scanning methods
To make it easier for you to choose the right method, we have compiled a comparative table of basic methods, each with its own advantages depending on the specific situation and type of code.
| Method | Speed of operation | We need the Internet. | Additional functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera. | Tall. | No (for transition) | Basic |
| Mi Scanner | Medium | No. | Translation, Search |
| Google Lens | Tall. | Yes. | Text, Objects |
| gallery | Instant. | No. | Photoworking |
As you can see from the table, for a quick click on the link in the store, the camera is ideal, and for working with text or complex images, Google Lens or Mi Scanner is better suited.
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For everyday use, it is enough to configure the scan through the Camera, the rest of the methods serve as an excellent backup option.
Configure quick access and widgets
For those who use QR-With codes that are constantly used (for example, for payment or skips), it is important to have access to the scanner in one click. On the Xiaomi desktop, you can add a scanner widget. To do this, pinch two fingers on the desktop, select "Widgets" and find the desired item in the list.
You can also set up the scanner to run through the sidebar, swipe from the edge of the screen to call up the menu, and add an app shortcut, which allows you to run the scan on top of any other open application without interrupting the current task.
- 🔍 Add the scanner widget to the home screen for instant access.
- ⚡ Use a sidebar to run over other windows.
- 📱 Set up double-pressing on the back (if supported by the model) to start the camera.
Keep in mind that widgets can consume extra battery power, albeit in minimal amounts. If you rarely use a scanner, it's best to keep the shortcut just in the tool folder.
Security and confidentiality concerns
QR-The codes are not only convenient, but also potentially risky, and the attackers can create code that will redirect you to a phishing site masquerading as a bank, or initiate a paid payment. SMS. Never follow links from unknown sources without first checking.
⚠️ Note: If after scanning the code offers to download APK-If you file or install an unknown application, you can immediately stop doing this.
Modern versions of Android and MIUI shells have Google Play Protect built-in, which checks links before you click. However, the human factor remains a weak link. Always pay attention to the site address that appears in the pop-up window before you click.
Use antivirus solutions and do not ignore browser warnings about an insecure connection. If the code is pasted over another code in a public place (in a parking lot, in an ad), it is better to use the official application of the organization, rather than scan the sticker.