How to set up NFC on Xiaomi Redmi 9: from activation to payment by phone

Xiaomi Redmi 9 is one of the most popular budget smartphones with support for technology NFC, But many owners are unaware of its capabilities, and it allows you not only to pay with your phone instead of your credit card, but also to exchange contacts, connect to smart devices, or even unlock doors with your phone. NFC-But by default, the module is off, you have to activate it and set it up correctly.

In this article you will find a step-by-step instruction for setting up NFC Redmi 9 (including firmware versions) MIUI 12, 13 and 14), figure out how to add contactless bank cards, learn how to avoid common mistakes (such as when your phone doesn't see a tag), and get tips on how to optimize the module. NFC — We will explain why it is necessary and how safe it is.

What is NFC in Xiaomi Redmi 9 and why you need it?

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless protocol (up to 10 cm) that allows devices to communicate without an internet connection. In Redmi 9, the NFC module is built into the top of the case (near the main camera) and supports three main modes of operation:

• 💳 Card emulation – the phone replaces the bank card for contactless payments (Google Pay, SberPay, Mir Pay).
• 📱 Peer-to-Peer (P2P) — Data exchange between two smartphones (for example, transfer of contacts or photos).
• 🔍 Reading/Writing Labels – Interaction with NFC-chips in smart devices, business cards or transport cards.

This means that with Redmi 9 you can:

• 🛒 Pay for purchases in stores by putting the phone to the terminal (as a card).
• 🚇 Use public transport (if your city is supported) NFC-ticket).
• 🔑 Open doors with electronic locks (for example, in the office or entrance).
• 📲 Quickly connect to Bluetooth speakers or headphones with NFC (Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds).

Important: NFC in Redmi 9 only works when the screen is on (unlike some flagships, where the module is active even in sleep mode), this is done to save battery power, but can be inconvenienced if you are used to paying without unlocking the phone.

How to check if there is NFC in your Redmi 9

Not all Xiaomi Redmi 9 models are equipped with NFC-For example, in the basic version of Redmi. 9A redmi 9C This feature is not available in Redmi 9 (model). M2004J19C) redmi 9T (M2010J19SG) It's there, to make sure your phone supports you. NFC, perform one of the actions:

1. Look at the box or documentation – look for an “NFC” label or contactless icon.
2. Check in settings: Open Settings → Connections and Sharing → NFC. If there is no NFC, there is no module in the phone.

Use the app.

• Install the NFC Tools utility from Google Play.
• Run it – if there is a module, the application will show its status.

You can also check the processor model:

⚠️ If you bought the Redmi 9 on the secondary market, make sure that you are not in the market. NFC-module is not disabled programmatically (for example, after firmware customization) ROM). In this case, the settings will be visible, but the function will not work.

Step-by-step NFC setup on Xiaomi Redmi 9

To activate NFC, you do not need to install additional applications - everything is configured through the standard MIUI menu.

1. Turn on NFC: Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing. Tap on NFC. Turn the slider to On.
2. Set up mode: In the same menu, select NFC Mode. For payments, select Card Emulation. For data exchange, P2P (Android Beam).

Add a bank card.

• Open the Google Pay app (or SberPay/Mir Pay).
• Click on “Add Card” and follow the instructions.
• Once the card is attached, it can be used to pay without unlocking the phone (if the amount is up to 1000). ₽).

Important nuances:

• 💡 If the terminal is not responding, try turning the phone — NFC-The antenna in Redmi 9 is horizontally located.
• 🔋 For payments in excess of 1000 ₽ need to be PIN-card.
• 📵 If payment fails, check if the case is blocking the signal (especially metal or thick cases).