How to completely disable the proximity sensor on Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S

Why users want to turn off the proximity sensor on the Redmi Note 10S

The proximity sensor in Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S smartphones is responsible for automatically turning off the screen during phone calls when the device is brought to the ear. In theory, it is a convenient feature that prevents accidental pressing. However, in practice, many owners face false positives: the screen goes out during normal use, does not respond to touches in your pocket or bag, and sometimes completely blocks access to the interface for no apparent reason.

The Redmi Note 10S is particularly problematic with MIUI 12.5-14 firmware, where the sensor’s algorithms have been changed. Users complain that the sensor can’t recognize distance correctly, which means you have to constantly reboot your phone or use bypass unlocking methods. In this article, we’ll look at all the working methods for disabling the proximity sensor, including hidden settings and technical bypasses that don’t require root rights.

Before making changes, consider that disabling the sensor can lead to occasional taps during calls (such as on the keyboard or in the volume menu).If you make frequent calls, weigh the pros and cons - perhaps the problem is solved by calibration rather than completely shutting down.

Method 1: Disconnect via standard MIUI settings

The easiest and safest method is to use the built-in options, and unfortunately, in the latest versions of MIUI, the direct option to disable the proximity sensor is hidden, but it can be activated through the special features menu.

Instructions:

  1. Open the Settings. β†’ Special facilities.
  2. Scroll down and select System Settings.
  3. Find the item Disable the proximity sensor (may be called Ignore the proximity sensor).
  4. Activate the switch.

If this is not the case, try an alternative route:

  • πŸ” Go to Settings. β†’ About the phone and 7 times click on the version MIUI, activate the developer mode.
  • πŸ”§ Return to the main settings menu, open additionally β†’ For developers.
  • πŸ”„ Scroll to the input block and find Disable the proximity sensor.

⚠️ Note: Some of the Redmi Note firmware 10S This parameter may not be available. If you don't find it, move on to the next way, the engineering menu.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for sensor shutdown

Done: 0 / 4

Method 2: Engineering menu (codes and hidden settings)

If the standard settings didn’t work, you can use the engineering menu, the hidden Android section where low-level sensor settings are available. Two codes are suitable for the Redmi Note 10S:

  • πŸ“± ##6484## - Sensor test (including approximations).
  • πŸ“± ##4636## - Test menu (Usage statistics may include sensor options).

After entering the code:

  1. Select Proximity Sensor (proximity sensor).
  2. Click Disable or uncheck Enable.
  3. Save the changes and restart the phone.

If the menu is in English or Chinese, focus on the names of the items:

LanguageItemAction.
EnglishProximity SensorDisable / Turn Off
Chinese(Guān bì)
Russian (MIUI)Approximation sensorShut down.

⚠️ Warning: Changes to the engineering menu may reset after updating the firmware, and it is not recommended to change other settings - this can disrupt the phone.

πŸ“Š Have you ever used the engineering menu on Xiaomi?
Yeah, to tune the sensors.
Yeah, but by accident.
No, I'm afraid to break my phone.
I don't know what it is.

Method 3: Disconnect via ADB (for power users)

If the previous methods have not worked, it remains ADB-The team is an Android debugging tool that allows you to change system settings without root, and it requires a computer and minimal technical skills.

Step-by-step:

  1. Download ADB Tools and unpack the archive.
  2. Turn on the phone Debugging over USB (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ MIUI version (7 taps) β†’ For developers β†’ Debugging over USB).
  3. Connect the Redmi Note 10S to your PC and confirm debugging permission.
  4. Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with ADB.
  5. Enter the commands in turn: adb shell settings put global proximity_sensor_disabled 1
  6. Reboot the phone.

To return the sensor back, use the command:

settings put global proximity_sensor_disabled 0

Advantages of the method:

  • πŸ”§ It works on any firmware. MIUI.
  • πŸ”„ Doesn't require root rights.
  • πŸ“± Changes are maintained after reboot.

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB Do not change other settings through settings put unless you are sure of their purpose.

What if the ADB does not recognize the device?
Make sure you have Xiaomi drivers installed (download from the official website). USB-Cable (original, better) Reboot your phone and PC, turn on Charging Only and activate debugging again.

Problems after disconnecting the sensor and their solution

Disabling the proximity sensor can cause a number of side effects, and the most common ways to eliminate them are:

Problem.Reason.Decision
The screen does not go out during the call.Sensor's completely disabled.Use the lock button or set up automatic screen shutdown after 10 seconds of inactivity
Random taps in your pocketThere is no lock when approaching.Activate Lock in your pocket in the screen settings
The β€œLift to Unlock” gesture does not workConflict with motion sensorTurn off the gesture in Settings β†’ Lock screen
Fast battery dischargeThe screen stays active longerReduce screen timeout to 15–30 seconds

If after disconnecting the sensor, the phone began to restart itself or issue errors, return the settings to the factory:

  • πŸ”„ Through ADB: settings delete global proximity_sensor_disabled.
  • πŸ“± Through the Engineering Menu: Find Restore Defaults.

πŸ’‘

Before experimenting with sensors, create a restore point in MIUI: Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup. This will help you quickly roll back changes if something goes wrong.

Alternative solutions: if you can not turn off the sensor

In some cases, turning off the proximity sensor is impossible due to firmware restrictions or manufacturer policies, and then you can try bypass methods:

  • πŸ› οΈ Sensor calibration: In the engineering menu (#6484###) select Proximity Sensor β†’ Calibrate. Follow the instructions on the screen.
  • πŸ“¦ Installation of third-party launcher: Nova Launcher allows you to ignore sensor signals.
  • πŸ”„ Reset sensor settings: In Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Application management β†’ Three points. β†’ Resetting application settings.
  • πŸ“± Using a magnet case: The magnet in the case can simulate closing the lid by blocking the screen forcibly.

If the problem is caused by a physical sensor malfunction (for example, after a fall or moisture), no software method will help. In this case, a replacement of the sensor in the service center is required. The cost of repair for the Redmi Note 10S is about 1,500-2,500 rubles (2026).

πŸ’‘

Before visiting the service, check if the warranty period has expired. On the official website of Xiaomi you can check the warranty status for the IMEI phone.

Frequent questions about the proximity sensor on Xiaomi

Can I turn off the proximity sensor without root?
Yes, all of the methods described in the article (MIUI settings, engineering menu, ADB) work without superuser rights. Root is only required for deep changes to system files, which is not recommended on the Redmi Note 10S due to the risk of losing the warranty.
Why does the sensor work on its own?
The causes can range from sensor contamination (dust, fat) to software failures. Try to wipe the sensor area (located next to the speaker) with an alcohol wipe. If the problem persists, calibrate or reset settings.
Will Face Unlock work after the proximity sensor is turned off?
Yes, facial unlocking is independent of the proximity sensor, it uses a front camera and an infrared projector (if any), but some gestures, such as "Lift to unlock," may not work properly.
How to check if the proximity sensor is working?
Type in the code ##6484##, select Proximity Sensor, and hold your hand to the top of the screen. If the sensor is working, it will change from 5 (far) to 0 (close), and if you don't react, you'll see a malfunction.
Can the sensor be turned off for specific applications only?
No, system sensors work globally, but some applications (like Tasker) allow you to emulate the sensor's deactivation for individual tasks by automatically dimming the screen or blocking gestures.