Why users want to deactivate the proximity sensor and when it is justified
The proximity sensor on the Xiaomi Poco F3 is a small but important component that automatically turns off the screen during phone calls to prevent accidental tapping of the cheek or ear. However, many owners face situations when this sensor malfunctions: the screen does not go out in time, reacts to foreign objects or, conversely, is blocked for no reason.
But before you start deactivating, you need to assess the risks, because without a sensor working during calls, the screen will remain active, which will lead to accidental pressing of buttons — turning off the microphone, transferring the call to speakerphone or even resetting it — especially critical for those who often talk on the phone while on the move or in noisy places. However, if the sensor is physically damaged (for example, after a fall or moisture) or software “gluts” after the MIUI update, its shutdown can be a temporary measure before repair.
In this article, we’ll look at all the available methods – from standard settings to hidden commands through the engineering menu and ADB. Each method has its own nuances, so choose one that suits your level of technical training.
Method 1: Disconnect via standard MIUI settings (without root)
The easiest and safest method is to use built-in MIUI options. Unfortunately, in the latest firmware versions for Poco F3, there is no direct switch for the proximity sensor, but it can be deactivated indirectly through call settings.
Here's the step-by-step instruction:
- Open the phone application (pipe icon).
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Settings.
- Go to the Calls section → Additional settings.
- Find the option “Switch off screen during call” and deactivate it.
- Save the changes and restart the device.
This method does not physically disable the sensor, but only prevents the system from responding to its signals during calls. The advantage of this method is that it does not risk the system and can return everything back in one click. However, if the sensor works in other scenarios (for example, when using applications with the function "to the ear"), this method will not help.
Make a backup copy of important data
Check the MIUI version in your phone settings
The battery should be at least 30% charged.
Disable two-factor authentication in MI-Account (if you plan to use it) ADB)
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Method 2: Use the engineering menu (code ##6484##)
The Engineering Menu is a hidden section of Xiaomi Poco F3 that allows you to test and configure hardware components, including sensors. You don't need root rights to get there, but careless actions can disrupt your phone. So follow the instructions carefully.
How to open the engineering menu:
- Open the phone app.
- Enter the combination: ##6484## (some firmware may require ##4636###).
- Select the Hardware Testing section → Sensor.
- Find the Proximity Sensor string.
- Click on it and in the window that opens, select Disable or uncheck Enable.
Once the sensor is turned off through the engineering menu, it will stop working completely, including background processes, which can affect some applications using the sensor (for example, tilt control games or fitness trackers), to bring it back, repeat the steps and activate the sensor again.
What to do if the engineering menu is not opened?
⚠️ Note: In the engineering menu, do not change the parameters of other sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer, compass) if you do not understand their purpose, GPS oral.
Method 3: Disconnecting through calibration applications (without root)
If standard methods don't work, you can use third-party utilities that allow you to control the sensors without making any deep changes to the system. Poco F3 will be suitable for applications like Sensor Disabler or Proximity Sensor Reset, which are the main advantage of ease of use and no need for root rights.
How to use Sensor Disabler:
- 📥 Download the app from Google Play (make sure the version is compatible with the app). MIUI 12/13/14).
- 🔍 Launch the utility and provide all necessary permissions (access to sensors).
- 🔧 In the list of sensors, find the Proximity Sensor and move the slider to position. OFF.
- 🔄 Restart your phone to apply changes.
The downside is the temporary effect: After a device is restarted or a firmware update, the sensor can be activated again, and some applications (such as banking or instant messengers) can block the operation of utilities to control the sensors for security reasons.
An alternative is the Proximity Sensor Reset, which not only turns off the sensor, but also allows it to be recalibrated, which is useful if the sensor is unstable (for example, it works too soon or later), calibration takes no more than a minute and often solves the problem without completely shutting down.
| Annex | Root is required. | Permanent shutdown | Additional functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Disabler | ❌ No. | ❌ Before the reboot. | Managing all sensors |
| Proximity Sensor Reset | ❌ No. | ❌ Temporary | Calibration, testing |
| QuickShortcutMaker | ❌ No. | ✅ Yes. ADB) | Creating shortcuts for hidden functions |
| Tasker | ❌ No. | ⚠️ Conditional. | Automation of shutdown by triggers |
Method 4: Disconnect via ADB (for power users)
If previous methods failed, you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a debugging tool that allows you to send commands directly to the system, which requires connecting your phone to your computer and basic command line knowledge.
Step-by-step:
- Turn on Developer Mode on Poco F3: Go to Settings → About Phone. Click 7 times on the MIUI Version until the notification “You’ve become a developer” appears.
USB-debugging
- Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
- Turn on the debugging switch over USB.
- Connect the phone to the PC and confirm the debugging permission.
- Download ADB Tools and unpack the archive.
- Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with adb.exe.
- Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices should appear the name of your device.
- Disable the proximity sensor command: adb shell settings put secure proximity_sensor_disable 1
- Reboot the phone.
The proximity sensor will then be completely deactivated at the software level.To return it back, delete the added string or replace it with 1 by 0. This method is only suitable for advanced users, as errors in build.prop can lead to a download cycle or other critical failures.
Yes, through MIUI settings.
Yeah, through the engineering menu.
Yes, with ADB.
No, but I'm planning.
No, I don't see the point.
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What to do if the sensor does not turn off: diagnosis and alternatives
If neither method worked, the problem could be deeper, like hardware damage to the sensor or a conflict with the firmware.
- 🔍 Check the sensor for performance: Enter the code ##6484## in the phone application. Select the Proximity Sensor and look at the values. If the hands approach the top of the screen the numbers do not change (stay at 5.00), the sensor is defective.
- 🔄 Reset the settings to factory: Go to Settings → Additionally. → Reset. Select Reset all settings (app data will be saved).
- 📱 Update or reflash your phone: Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Update MIUI. If there are no updates, try installing the firmware manually through the Mi Flash Tool (requires an unlocked bootloader).
- 🛠️ If the sensor is physically damaged (for example, after falling or getting moisture), its replacement will cost 800-1500 rubles depending on the region.