Xiaomi’s modern smartphones have become universal tools that can replace many gadgets, and one of the most popular features is the ability to read visual codes and convert physical documents into digital format. Users are often looking for a way to activate them quickly. QR-code or save text from paper without installing unnecessary applications.
With MIUI and the new HyperOS, this functionality is deeply integrated into the interface. You don't have to search for third-party programs on Google Play, because the basic tools are already working out of the box. Understanding how to properly configure and use these features will save you time and improve productivity.
In this article, we will take a closer look at all aspects of scanning on Xiaomi devices, we will look at built-in methods, hidden camera settings and specialized applications for working with text, you will learn not only to read codes, but also to effectively manage scanned data.
Use of built-in scanner in the Camera application
The fastest way to access a reader is by using the standard Camera app, which Xiaomi engineers have implemented pattern recognition algorithms directly into the viewfinder, allowing you to instantly respond to the appearance of code in the frame without having to switch modes manually.
However, by default, the function may be disabled or not work properly in low light. To activate, you need to open the camera settings, finding the point responsible for recognition there. QR-Once turned on, the phone will automatically suggest clicking on a link or copying text when getting stuck the lens.
⚠️ Note: When scanning codes from unknown sources, the security system can block clicking on a link. This is phishing protection, and ignoring the warning is strongly discouraged.
If automatic recognition doesn't work, try changing the distance to the object. Macro lenses cameras require close tucking, while the main modules work better at 10-15 centimeters. Also make sure the lens is clean, as fatty footprints significantly reduce image contrast.
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If the camera focuses on the code for a long time, tap the screen in the code area to force the focus and exposure to be blocked in the desired area.
Scanning through the system application "Scanner"
There's a separate tool called Scanner in the MIUI shell, located in the Tools folder, which offers more advanced functionality than a regular camera, and it's available in modes for translating text, recognizing goods, and even checking file security.
Launching the app opens up a horizontal menu interface where you can choose the type of object you're scanning, which is especially useful when you need to scan a complex Wi-Fi password or business card, and the algorithms in this mode are sharpened to handle static images with high detail.
- 📱 Codes: the main mode for reading QR and barcodes of any format.
- 🛒 Product: search for analogues in online stores by image of packaging.
- 📄 Document: Automatic perspective alignment and improved readability.
- 🌐 Translation: instant translation of text from the camera with overlay on the original.
It is important to note that some functions, such as translation or product search, require an active Internet connection, only basic code data is processed locally, and it is better to use offline modes to work with confidential documents or pre-disconnect the network if the functionality allows.
Digitalization of documents: translation into PDF and JPEG
Turning a smartphone into a portable document scanner is one of the most useful features for students and office workers. The Document Scanner app (often built-in or available as a plug-in) allows you to create digital copies with automatic cropping, eliminating the need to look for a level background or use heavy equipment.
The process of digitizing starts with selecting the Document mode in the app, the camera automatically determines the boundaries of the paper sheet and takes a picture with improved contrast, you can choose the color mode: color, black and white or remove the spots mode, which is ideal for old books with yellow pages.
| Filter mode | Description of effect | Best application |
|---|---|---|
| Original | No color processing. | Color graphics, photo |
| Increased contrast | Black text, white background | Text documents |
| Grey | Gradient scale | Newspapers, magazines |
| Magic | Removal of glare and shadow | Bad light pictures |
After processing, the image can be saved in format JPG or export to multi-page PDF-Files are automatically sorted into a separate folder in the gallery, so you can keep all your work documents in one place, separate from your personal photos.
☑️ Checklist of quality scan
Text Recognition (OCR) and Translation
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology allows you to extract text directly from an image. On Xiaomi smartphones, this feature is implemented via Google Lens or built-in MIUI algorithms. You can point the camera at a sign, restaurant menu or book page and copy the text for editing.
Translation is a real-time translation mode, and the screen is divided into two parts: the top one is the original image, and the bottom one is the translated text overlaid on top of the original, which creates an augmented reality effect, which is very convenient when reading instructions in a foreign language.
⚠️ Attention: Handwriting recognition accuracy may be low. For best results, use print and keep your phone still while you're shooting.
The extracted text can be immediately sent to the clipboard, shared in the messenger or run voice synthesis for voice, which makes the smartphone an indispensable assistant for people with impaired vision or for quick lecture notes.
Transfer files via Mi Drop (Wi-Fi scanner)
Mi Drop (known as Xiaomi Share or simply file transfer) also uses a scanner to pair devices quickly. Instead of finding a device in the Bluetooth list, you can simply scan. QR-code on the screen of another Xiaomi phone.
This creates a direct Wi-Fi Direct hotspot between devices, which provides data transfer speeds of up to 20 MB/s. This is significantly faster than classic Bluetooth.
To start the transfer, open the gallery, select a photo, click "Send" and select "Mi Drop." On the receiving device, you open the same menu and click "Get" and then scan the code. The connection is set in seconds without the router.
Why is Mi Drop faster than Bluetooth?
Hidden features and scanner settings
Many users are unaware that additional features can be activated in the scanner settings, such as setting the action when reading the code: open the link immediately or show a preview first, and a scan history is available, where all previously read codes are stored.
Some versions of the firmware have a plant and animal recognition feature, and if you point a camera at a flower or a dog breed, it will give you a Wiki certificate, which turns the phone into a pocket encyclopedic guide for walking and traveling.
- 🔍 History: Access to the Last 50 Scanned Codes.
- ⚡ Flash: Forced flashlight in the dark.
- 🔗 Creation: Generation of your own QR-text-code.
- ⚙️ Settings: Vibration and sound control during scanning.
Regular updates to the Scanner app through the GetApps store or Google Play ensure new recognition databases are available, and developers are constantly improving algorithms by adding support for new barcode formats and improving speed.
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Don’t ignore Xiaomi system app updates, as they often include improvements to camera drivers and image processing algorithms.