Redmi Note smartphones are famous for their functionality, but users of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro often face incorrect approach sensor work, which is manifested in the fact that the screen goes out too early or, conversely, does not turn off during a conversation, which leads to accidental tapping of the cheek or ear. Understanding the nature of this phenomenon is the first step to comfortable use of the device for voice communication.
In the Android-based MIUI operating system, sensor management is implemented through complex software algorithms. Sometimes a software failure or physical contamination of the speaker area can disrupt the normal operation of the lock function. In this article, we will discuss in detail all possible causes and methods of eliminating them, so that your phone behaves predictably.
Importantly, ignoring this issue can lead not only to inconvenience, but also to random actions, such as completing a call or turning on the speakerphone at the wrong time.
The principle of operation of the proximity sensor in MIUI
The lock mechanism is based on an infrared sensor at the top of the display, usually next to the speaker, and when you hold the phone to your ear, the sensor detects the reflection of the IR beam from the object and signals the system to turn off the matrix. In the Redmi Note 10 Pro, this element is integrated into the front panel design, making it sensitive to any overlaps.
MIUI processes sensor data with a certain delay to filter out false positives. If the software receives conflicting signals or if the calibration is down, the screen can behave randomly. Users often confuse a software bug with a physical failure, although most cases are due to settings or contamination.
⚠️ Note: Using non-original protective glasses with a wide black frame can physically block the area of operation of the sensor, causing a permanent locking of the screen even without the phone being held to the ear.
To diagnose the sensor condition, there is a special test in the engineering menu that allows you to see the current readings in real time, which helps you to understand whether the sensor sees an obstacle or is at rest.
Basic settings through the standard menu
The first step is to check if the lock function is disabled in the settings of the Phone application itself. In some versions of the firmware, this option can be deactivated accidentally or after a system update. To check, go to the call app and open the settings menu through three points in the corner of the screen.
In the settings that open, find the section associated with incoming calls. There must be a switch that cancels the screen. If it's turned off, the screen will burn constantly, which leads to random taps.
☑️ Checking call settings
Also worth paying attention to is the design theme: Some third-party themes downloaded from MIUI Themes store may contain code errors that block system functions. If the problem occurred after a change of theme, try going back to the standard one.
Calibration of the proximity sensor
If the basic settings are fine, but the screen is still locked incorrectly, a forced calibration is required, and this procedure "trains" the system to correctly define the boundaries between "close" and "far." USSD-call-in.
Enter ##6484## or ##4636## (codes may vary depending on the version of MIUI). In the CIT menu, look for "Proximity sensor." Follow the instructions on the screen: usually you need to close the top of the phone with your hand, and then remove it, confirming the actions with buttons.
What if the code doesn't work?
Once the test is successful, the system will automatically save the new sensitivity values. Restart the device to make the changes take effect. Often, this step solves the problem on 90% of Xiaomi devices.
⚠️ Note: Do not calibrate if a thick protective film is installed on the screen, which may distort readings during settings, which will lead to incorrect operation in the future.
Use of third-party applications for management
When Android and MIUI are not working, Google Play comes to the rescue, and apps like Proximity Sensor Reset or Sensor Test allow you to reboot sensor drivers more deeply without superuser rights.
Such programs can force the system processes that control the sensor to stop and start them again from scratch, which is especially useful if the sensor is stuck software after a long conversation through messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram.
- 📱 Install a sensor testing app from a reliable source.
- 🔄 Start the reset or calibration function within the program.
- ✅ Check the screen during the test call.
However, be careful with applications that require suspicious permissions, and in most cases, standard tools that are already built into the system or available through the engineering menu are sufficient.
Influence of protective accessories and covers
Physical factors are just as important as software. Redmi Note 10 Pro owners often use side-mounted covers or black-framed safety glasses. If the accessory closes the sensor area, the screen will go out all the time.
Check if the protective glass has shifted during operation, even a microscopic shift can block the infrared port, and dust and fat in the upper speaker region can reduce the sensor's sensitivity, making it think that the phone is still in the ear.
Regularly wiping the top of the screen with a microfiber is a simple but effective preventive measure. Fat marks from the fingers create a film that scatters the IR ray and knocks down the sensor readings.
Resetting and system update
If none of the above methods worked, there may have been a build-up of errors in the system that prevented the equipment from working properly, in which case resetting to factory settings helps, and make sure to back up important data before doing so, as all information will be deleted.
Also check for system updates. Xiaomi engineers regularly release patches that fix sensor bugs. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and click the update check button.
| Method of decision | Efficiency | Difficulty | Risk of data loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Checking the call settings | Low. | Minimum | No. |
| Calibration in the CIT menu | Tall. | Medium | No. |
| Third-party annexes | Medium | Low. | No. |
| Reset to factory | Maximum | Tall. | Yes (full) |
In rare cases, the problem lies in the hardware malfunction of the sensor module itself. If the screen behaves strangely after resetting and flashing, it may be necessary to replace the plume or upper part of the body in the service center.
💡
Before going to the service center, try to gently warm up the top of the phone with a hairdryer (without overheating!) - sometimes condensation inside the case causes false alarms of the sensors.
Timely contact with specialists will help to avoid further complications, especially if the device is warranty.