Technology NFC (Near Field Communication has long ceased to be exotic – today it is built into most Xiaomi smartphones, from the budget Redmi to the flagship Mi and Xiaomi. POCO. It can pay with a single touch, share files, manage smart devices, and even automate routine tasks, but many users face problems: the module does not turn on, payments do not pass, the phone simply does not see the tag.
In this article, we will discuss all the ways of activation. NFC On Xiaomi smartphones (including hidden settings for older models), we explain how to check the compatibility of your device, and give a checklist for correcting errors. We will pay special attention to the configuration of contactless payments via Google Pay and Mi Pay, taking into account the latest updates in 2026, which made changes to the service.
If you've never used it NFC Or your Xiaomi suddenly stopped recognizing tags, so you'll find a solution here. NFC, which are not written in the official instructions (for example, how to emulate access cards or use a phone instead of the intercom key).
Compatibility Check: Is there NFC in your Xiaomi?
Before trying to turn on NFC, Make sure your smartphone supports it. Even in the Xiaomi lineup, not all models are equipped with this module - especially for budget devices until 2020 release.
Here's how to check quickly:
- 🔍 By model: Go to Xiaomi's official website, find your model and check the specifications in the Wireless Networks section. NFC: Yes.
- 📱 Through Settings: Open Settings → Connections and sharing → NFC. If there is no point, there is no module.
- 🛠️ Through Diagnostics: Enter the code ##4636## in the phone application, select Phone Information and find the section NFC. If not, the module is missing.
Pay special attention to the Redmi Note models 8/8T, Redmi 9/9A/9C and POCO M2/M3 — In some regions, they were not NFC, Even if the specifications say otherwise. 8 Pro for India did not have a module, while the global version supported the technology.
| Xiaomi lineup | Support NFC (from 2020) | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 11/12/13 | Yeah (all models) | — |
| Redmi Note 10/11/12 | Yes (except for the Redmi Note) 10C) | Redmi Note 10 5G — Only in the global version |
| POCO F3/F4/F5 | Yes. | POCO M4 Pro - No in the Indian version |
| Redmi 10/10A | No (except Redmi 10 2022) | — |
⚠️ Note: If you bought a smartphone on AliExpress or in an unofficial store, check the firmware region in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI. Chinese versions (with China firmware) are often devoid of NFC, Even if the hardware supports the technology.
How to turn on NFC on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
If your smartphone supports you NFC, You can activate it in a few steps. The process is slightly different depending on the version. MIUI, But the overall pattern is the same.
Follow this instruction:
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Connections and Sharing section (in MIUI 14+) Wireless networks (in older versions).
- Slip on NFC.
- Activate the slider Use NFC.
- (Optional) Enable Android Beam (to share data with other devices).
On some models (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro or POCO F4 GT) point NFC It can be hidden in the submenu Additional. If you don't see it right away, scroll down the settings list.
Check the compatibility of the model|Update. MIUI last-minute|Make sure that SIM-The card supports contactless payments|Turn off the power saving mode (it can block) NFC)-->
After activation of the module, we recommend that you immediately test its operation.
- 💳 Bring your phone to the payment terminal (for example, in the store) – an icon should appear. NFC.
- 📱 Try to read it. NFC-tag (for example, in transport or on an advertising poster).
- 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes the module only starts working after a reboot.
⚠️ Note: On smartphones with MIUI 13 and older NFC It can automatically shut down when the battery is low (less than 5%).To avoid this, add the Google Pay or Mi Pay app to the battery optimization exception list (Settings) → Battery → Optimizing the battery).
Contactless Payments: Google Pay vs Mi Pay
Principal application NFC — Xiaomi has two major services available on its smartphones: Google Pay (formerly Google Wallet) and Mi Pay, the first operating globally, the second primarily in China and parts of Asia.
Google Pay (now Google Wallet in some regions):
- Download the Google Pay app from the Play Market.
- Open it and follow the instructions for adding the card (you will need a photo of the front side).
- Confirm the card via SMS or bank application.
- In the settings NFC (Settings → Connections → NFC) Select the default payment system → Google Pay.
Mi Pay (for users in China, Russia and some CIS countries):
- Install Mi Pay from the App Store (if it is not available by default).
- Link a bank card (Sberbank, Tinkoff, VTB, etc. are supported).
- In the settings NFC Select Mi Pay as the default payment app.
- Chinese may be required for the job SIM-card VPN (depending on the region).
| Criteria | Google Pay | Mi Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Regions | The world | China, Russia, CIS |
| Supported banks | Visa, Mastercard, Mir (limited) | Sberbank, Tinkoff, VTB, Alfa-Bank |
| Internet is required | Only to add a map | Yes (for every transaction) |
| Limit of payment | Depends on the bank (usually up to 1000-5000)₽) | Up to 1,000.₽ without PIN |
Important: since 2026, Mi Pay in Russia has been operating with restrictions due to sanctions. If you can not tie the card, try:
- 🔄 Update the application to the latest version.
- 🌐 Use it. VPN servers in Kazakhstan or China.
- 📱 Switch to Google Pay (if your bank supports it).
Google Pay|Mi Pay|Both of them.|Another (write in the comments)|I do not use contactless payments.-->
Hidden functions NFC Xiaomi: What your phone can do?
Most users use the majority of NFC But in fact, the technology is much more powerful than that. Here are 5 non-obvious applications. NFC Xiaomi, which you may not know about:
1. Emulation of access cards
With apps like this. NFC Tools or MIFARE Classic Tool can be used to record data from the intercom, office pass, or loyalty cards on your phone:
- Download one of the apps from the Play Market.
- Bring the original card to the phone and copy the data.
- Keep a copy in the memory of the device.
- If necessary, emulate the map through NFC.
Automation of tasks
With help. NFC-Automate or Tasker tags and applications can be configured to perform actions automatically:
- 🔊 Attach the phone to the tag on the bedside table - a silent mode and an alarm clock will turn on.
- 🚗 Touch the tag in the car – Google Maps will start and Bluetooth will connect.
- 💡 Bring your phone to the label on the table – the Yeelight smart lamp will turn on.
3. Fast file transfer
Android Beam (available in Settings) → NFC) It allows you to send photos, contacts or links to another smartphone with one touch:
- Activate Android Beam on both devices.
- Open the file you want to send.
- Hold the phones back to each other.
- Wait for the beep - the transmission will start automatically.
4.Managing a smart home
Many Xiaomi Smart Home devices (such as the Mi Smart Door Lock or Aqara Hub) support management through the phone. NFC. Just hold the phone to the reader and the door will open, or the script will be activated.
5. Reading hidden tags
In some shops, museums or on the streets installed NFC-For example, if you touch a sign in a museum with your phone, you can get an audio guide or photos of an exhibit.
How to write down your own NFC-marker?
Typical NFC Problems on Xiaomi and Their Solutions
Even if NFC is on, it can not work properly, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:
1. NFC does not turn on or immediately shut down
- 🔋 Check the battery power – on some models, the module turns off at a level below 5%.
- 🔄 Reboot the phone.
- 🛠️ Reset network settings: Settings → System → Reset settings → Network settings reset.
- 📱 Update. MIUI Up to the latest version - in the old firmware were bugs with NFC.
2.The phone can't see. NFC-tags or payment terminals
- 📍 Check the location of the antenna. NFC — On most Xiaomi, it's at the top of the back cover (near the camera.
- 🧲 Make sure there is no protective film on the tag or terminal.
- 🔄 Switch the mode. NFC c Only reading on On. in settings.
3. Contactless payments do not work
- 💳 Make sure the card is added to Google Pay or Mi Pay and confirmed by the bank.
- 📶 Check the Internet connection (for Mi Pay it is necessary).
- 🔒 In the settings NFC Choose the correct payment application by default.
- 📱 If payments stopped working after the update, delete the card and add it again.
4. NFC It is not stable (it is switched on, it is not)
- 🔋 Turn off power saving mode for Google Pay and Mi Pay apps.
- 🛠️ Reset the settings. NFC: Settings → Annexes → Application management → NFC → Warehouse → Clear the data.
- 📱 Check if the cover is disturbing – some metal or thick covers block the signal.
⚠️ Note: If after all the manipulations NFC It's still not working, it could be hardware, and on Xiaomi models, until 2021, the antenna often leaves contact. NFC (It's soldered to the motherboard, and in that case, only the service center will help.
Security NFC: How to protect your data?
NFC — It's a very convenient technology, but it's not without risks, and it's possible for attackers to intercept your card details or to substitute for them. NFC-Here's how to protect yourself:
1. Turn off NFC when not in use
Although the module consumes little power, its constant operation increases the risk of unauthorized access. NFC in the settings when it is not needed.
2. Use only verified applications
Do not install dubious programs to work with NFC (They may contain malicious code that will steal your payment card details.
3. Set up a payment confirmation
Google Pay and Mi Pay can be used to request PIN-Fingerprint or code for each transaction:
- In Google Pay: Settings → Security → Confirmation for payments.
- In Mi Pay: Settings → Security → Verification on payment.
4. do not store sensitive data on NFC-marker
If you use NFC-Automation tags (such as opening a door), don’t write passwords or personal information on them, but rather limit yourself to running apps or changing settings.
5. Verify the authenticity of the terminals
Before paying, make sure the terminal has no signs of interference (foreign wires, stickers, etc.) Scammers sometimes install skimmers that read card data through the NFC.
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If you use contactless payments frequently, set a limit on the amount of transaction without confirmation (usually up to 1000).₽). This will reduce the risk of loss in case of phone theft.
NFC Previous articleOn older Xiaomi models: how to turn on if there is no item in the menu?
If you have a Xiaomi smartphone of 2018-2019 release (for example, Mi 8, Redmi Note 7 or POCO F1), point NFC It can be hidden in the settings. Here's how to find it:
Method 1: Through a Hidden Menu
- Open the phone app and enter the code ##633284##.
- In the menu that appears, select the NFC Test.
- Activate the module and check its operation.
Method 2: Engineering menu (only for power users!)
- Enter the code ##4636## and select Phone Information.
- Scroll down to the section. NFC and turn it on.
- If there is no point, your model does not support NFC programmatically.
Method 3: Update the firmware
On some older smartphones NFC It only appears after updating to MIUI 12+. Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
⚠️ Warning: Using engineering codes can cause your phone to malfunction. If you're not sure what you're doing, you better contact the service center. On Xiaomi models with a blocked bootloader (bootloader), incorrect actions in the engineering menu can lead to a hard brick (complete inoperability of the device).
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NFC On older Xiaomi models, it often requires manual activation through hidden menus. If standard methods don’t help, try updating your firmware or using third-party apps like this. NFC Check for diagnostics.