The NFC module in Xiaomi Redmi 9 smartphones provides access to contactless payments, fast file transfer and work with smart devices. However, many owners face a problem: the function is either absent from the menu or does not work after activation. In this article, we will discuss all ways to enable NFC on Redmi 9 (including Redmi versions 9A/9C/9T), explain why the module can be disabled by default, and give practical tips for eliminating typical errors.
It is important to understand that not all Redmi 9 modifications are equipped with NFC hardware. For example, the base model of Redmi 9A (codename dandelion) does not have it, while Redmi 9 (lancelot) and Redmi 9T (lime) support the technology. Before you try to activate the function, make sure that your device is physically capable of working with NFC.
If you already know that your Redmi 9 is equipped with NFC, but can not find the option in the settings, the problem may lie in:
- 📱 Regional Firmware (on some versions) MIUI The function is hidden for certain countries)
- 🔄 Outdated version of the software (requires an update to the MIUI 12.5+)
- 🛠️ Hardware restrictions (damage to antenna or controller)
- 🔒 Operator policy (on firmware of some mobile providers) NFC switched off)
1.How to check if there is NFC in your Redmi 9
Before you try to turn on NFC, you need to confirm that it's in your model. There are three reliable ways to verify that:
Method 1: View the technical specifications
- 📄 Go to the official Xiaomi website or a proven resource like GSMArena.
- 🔍 Enter the full model name (e.g. Xiaomi Redmi 9 (lancelot)).
- 🔎 In the "Communication" or "Wireless Networks" section, look for a mention NFC.
Method 2: Use the USSD code
Type ##4636## in the phone keyboard, then go to Phone Information. If there is an NFC option on the list (even if it is inactive), the module is present.
Method 3: Disassemble the phone or look under the back cover
The Redmi 9 motherboard with NFC will be labeled with an NXP PN54T chip or similar. This method is only suitable for power users!
⚠️ Note: If your model is Redmi 9A or Redmi 9C, probability 99% NFC It's not there. Don't waste time looking for the function in the settings.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on NFC on Redmi 9
If you have confirmed a module, follow this instruction, and the process may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI (12, 13, or 14), but the overall layout remains the same.
Step 1. Update the firmware
NFC can be blocked in older versions of MIUI. Check for updates:
- Open Settings → About the phone → System update.
- Click "Check Updates" and install the latest version.
- After the update, restart the device.
Step 2: Activate NFC in the settings
In most cases, the option is hidden in the wireless network menu:
- Go to Settings → Connection and Sharing.
- Tap on the NFC item (may be called "Contactless Payments" or "NFC and Payments").
- Activate the NFC slider.
- Optionally, enable Android Beam to transfer files.
Step 3: Set up contactless payments
To work with Google Pay, Mi Pay or bank cards:
- In the same NFC menu, select Contactless Payments.
- Follow the instructions for adding a credit card.
- Install Google Pay from the Play Market if you plan to use it.
☑️ Preparation for use NFC
⚠️ Note: Some of the firmware for Redmi 9T (lime model) option NFC It only appears after you have linked the card to Google Pay. Try adding the card before activating the module.
3. Why NFC is not turned on: common problems and solutions
If you followed the instructions but the NFC still doesn’t work, the reasons may be:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| No NFC item in settings | Regional firmware without NFC support | Install a global or EEA version of MIUI via Fastboot |
| NFC is activated but not working | Antenna or controller damaged | Check in the service center or replace the back cover (the antenna is built into it) |
| The feature is available, but payments do not pass | Incompatibility with a bank or region | Try another bank or app (Mi Pay instead of Google Pay) |
| NFC is automatically shut down | Battery Optimization Disables the Module | Add NFC to exceptions: Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization |
Case in point: Redmi 9T users were only faced with NFC turning on after rebooting and shutting down after 5 minutes, and the reason was the MIUI energy-saving mode, so they could turn off Ultra-Economies and add NFC to the list of permitted background processes.
Critical information: On Redmi 9 models with a Helio G80 processor (like the Indian version), NFC can be locked at the kernel level, in which case only flashing to custom software like LineageOS will help.
4. Alternative ways to activate NFC (for power users)
If standard methods don't work, you can try hidden settings or firmware modifications, which require caution.
Method 1: Including through the Engineering Menu
Some versions of MIUI allow you to activate NFC via hidden settings:
- Enter the phone keyboard ##3646633##.
- Go to Hardware Testing → NFC.
- Select Enable NFC and save your settings.
Method 2: Editing the build.prop file
This will require root rights:
- Install Root Explorer or a similar file manager.
- Open the file /system/build.prop.
- Add the line: ro.nfc.port=I2C.
- Save the changes and restart the phone.
What happens if you misrepresent build.prop?
Method 3: Installation of a custom core
XDA Developers forums have modified cores for Redmi 9 that unlock NFC. For example, the Perseus kernel for lancelot.
- 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (bootloader)
- 📱 Established custom recaveri (TWRP)
- 🛠️ Experience with ADB and Fastboot
⚠️ Warning: Incorrect core firmware can turn your phone into a brick. If you're unsure of your skills, consult a specialist.
5 How to check the performance of NFC after switching on
Activating the module is only half the battle, and you have to make sure it's functioning properly. Here are some ways to test it.
Test 1: Reading NFC-marker
Download the NFC Tools app from Play Market:
- Open the app and select Read.
- Bring the phone to anyone. NFC-tag (e.g. transport card or sticker).
- If the data is read, the module works.
Test 2: Contactless payment
The most reliable way is to pay for the purchase:
- Add the card to Google Pay or Mi Pay.
- Bring the phone to the payment terminal (distance not more than 5 cm).
- Wait for the sound signal or vibration – the payment has passed.
Test 3: Transfer files via Android Beam
If you have a second phone with NFC:
- Activate Android Beam on both devices.
- Open the file (photo, contact) and bring the phones back to each other.
- Wait for the beep, the transmission has begun.
💡
If NFC doesn’t work the first time, try removing the case – some materials (metal, thick plastic) block the signal.
6. Frequent questions and myths about NFC on Redmi 9
There's a lot of rumors going around NFC, and we're going to look at the most popular ones.
Myth 1: “NFC drains the battery quickly”
In fact, the module consumes a minimal amount of power (about 5-10 mA in active mode), for comparison: mobile Internet in the background consumes 10 times more.
Myth 2: “NFC can be enabled on any model through firmware”
It's not. If the phone doesn't have an NFC chip physically (like the Redmi 9A), no amount of software manipulation will help. The best you can do is soft-brick.
Myth 3: “NFC only works for payments”
In fact, the technology is used to:
- 🔑 Contactless door opening (smart locks)
- 🎟️ Reading of electronic tickets (transport, events)
- 📱 Quick transfer of contacts, links, photos
- 🎮 Accessories connections (gaming controllers, headphones)
💡
NFC on Redmi 9 is not just about payments, but it makes it easier to interact with smart devices, transport and even medical bracelets (such as pressure gauges).