NFC on Xiaomi Redmi: how to enable, configure and use without errors

The NFC (Near Field Communication) feature in Xiaomi Redmi smartphones provides access to contactless payments, fast file transfers and smart devices. However, many users face problems when they first turn on: the module can be disabled by default, hidden in settings or not at all in budget models. This article will help you understand whether your Redmi technology supports NFC, how to activate it on different versions of MIUI, and what to do if the feature does not work at all efforts.

We analyzed Xiaomi’s official documentation, user reviews on the 4PDA and Mi Community forums, and tested instructions on Redmi Note 12 Pro+, Redmi K60 and Redmi 10 2022 devices. We focused on common errors, such as when NFC is turned on but does not recognize bank cards or tags. At the end of this article, you will find a table of model compatibility and answers to frequent questions that save you hours of search for solutions.

1. Check NFC support in your Redmi model

Before you try to turn on NFC, make sure your Xiaomi Redmi smartphone has the appropriate module.The manufacturer does not always specify this feature in the model name (for example, Redmi Note 11 NFC vs. Redmi Note 11 without NFC), so check the specifications.

How to determine the presence of NFC:

• 🔍 Xiaomi official website: find your model in the “Specifications” section (wireless networking section»).
• 📦 Device box: Look for the logo NFC or mention in the list of functions.
• 🛠️ Diagnostic menu: enter the code ##4636## in the phone application, select Phone Information and check for the option NFC.
• 🔧 Disassembly: on the motherboard module NFC It looks like a small chip with an antenna (usually next to the battery).

Note: Redmi models without NFC in their name (e.g. Redmi 9A, Redmi 10A) almost never support the technology — even if the settings have contactless payments.

2.Where is NFC in MIUI settings

Depending on the MIUI version (12, 13, 14 or 15) and regional firmware, the path to NFC settings may vary.

If you don’t find the NFC item on the menu, try:

1. Update the firmware to the latest version (see Section 5).
2. Use the search by settings (the magnifying glass icon in the upper right corner).
3. Install an alternative launcher (like Nova Launcher) that can display hidden features.

💡

On some models (e.g. Redmi K50), NFC is only enabled after adding a credit card to Google Pay or Mi Pay. Try setting up a payment app first.

3. Step-by-step instruction for NFC activation

When you find the NFC item in the settings, follow this algorithm:

Turn on the slider «NFC» top-of-screen|Select the mode of operation: "Payment terminal" or "Reading tags»|Activate the option «HCE-services for contactless payments|Reboot your smartphone to apply changes-->

Let's take each step in more detail:

1. Enable the module: Translate the slider to the "On" position. On some firmware, you will need to confirm the action with a password or fingerprint.
2. Choice of regime: 💳 Payment terminal – for payment by card via phone (for example, in stores). 📱 Reading tags - for reading NFC-tags (for example, in smart locks). 🔄 P2P — Transfer files between devices (less commonly used).

HCE-service

After activation, check the performance:

• Bring your phone to the payment terminal (an NFC icon should appear on the screen).
• Try counting. NFC-tag (for example, in a transport card or smart bracelet).

4.Configuring contactless payments

To pay for your phone, it's not enough to just turn on NFC, you need to configure a payment app. There are two main options available on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones:

Google Pay (for global firmware)

Instructions:

1. Download Google Pay from the Play Market.
2. Add a bank card (Mastercard, Visa, Mir are supported).
3. Confirm the card via SMS or bank application.
4. Set up a screen lock (PIN, pattern lock or fingerprint).

Mi Pay (for Chinese firmware)

Features:

• 🌐 It only works with Chinese banks (UnionPay).
• 🔐 Requires a link to your Mi Account.
• 📱 Supports transportation in Beijing, Shanghai and other cities of China.

Important: If you use Redmi with Chinese firmware outside of China, Mi Pay will not work, in which case install Google Pay via APK (for example, from APKMirror), as it is not available in Chinese brand stores.

5. Solving Typical NFC Problems

If NFC is not switched on or is not working properly, check these points:

⚠️ Attention: After update MIUI setting NFC Always check them after you install a new firmware, even if everything worked before.

To diagnose hardware problems:

1. Check if the phone is responding to others. NFC-devices (such as smart watches or tags).
2. Test NFC in Safe Mode (hold the power button → Safe Mode).
3. If nothing helps, contact the service center - a malfunction of the antenna or chip is possible.

6. Alternative ways to use NFC

In addition to payments, NFC on Xiaomi Redmi can be used for:

• 🔑 Smart locks: Open the doors of the office or home, bringing the phone to the reader.
• 🎵 Wireless headphones: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi AirDots Pro) support fast pairing via NFC.
• 📱 Contact Transfers: Tap two smartphones (you need to enable Android Beam in the settings) NFC).
• 🚗 Automotive systems: engine start, climate control settings NFC-marker.

Automating tasks with NFC-tagged, use applications:

• Trigger – creating scripts (for example, turning on Wi-Fi when touching a tag).
• NFC Tools – Write and read data from tags.
• Mi Home – integration with Xiaomi smart devices.

Example of configuration: you can program NFC-tag on the bedside table so that when you touch the phone automatically:

• The silent mode was on.
• The alarm clock started at 7:00.
• The meditation app was opened.

7. firmware update to support NFC

If your Redmi model supports NFC, but the feature is missing from the settings, the problem may be with outdated firmware.

Method 1: OTA-update

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click on "Check Updates."
3. If a new version is available, download and install it.

Method 2: Manual installation of firmware

For experienced users:

1. Download the latest version of MIUI for your model from en.miui.com.
2. Rename the file to update.zip and place it in the root of the phone’s memory.
3. Press Volume Up + Power to enter Recovery.
4. Select Install update.zip and confirm the installation.

⚠️ Warning: Manual updates may cause data loss.Pre-backup through Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset: Do not install firmware for other regions (e.g., China on the global model) – this will block NFC other functions.

8.Comparison of NFC in different Redmi models

Not all Redmi smartphones work equally well with NFC, and we tested several popular models and ranked them for stability and functionality.

If you plan to use NFC heavily, choose models labeled NFC in the title or flagship series (Redmi K, Redmi Note Pro). Budget devices often save on antenna quality, which leads to payment errors.

Frequent Questions (FAQ)