How to turn on and use the scanner QR-Xiaomi code: 5 proven methods

Scanner. QR-Xiaomi’s smartphone codes are built-in features that allow you to quickly read code information without installing additional apps, but many users face the problem of either being hidden in the settings or disabled by default. In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to activate the scanner on Xiaomi, Redmi and other devices. POCO, including models 2023-2026.

It's important to understand that the way you turn on depends on the MIUI firmware version and the phone model. For example, on the Xiaomi 13 Pro with MIUI 15, the way to set up the scanner is different from the Redmi Note 11 with MIUI 14. We took these nuances into account and prepared universal instructions that will work for most devices. If your smartphone runs on Android 12+, most likely, the scanner is already integrated into the system camera - all that remains is left to find.

Also in the article you will find a solution to common problems: why the scanner does not recognize the codes, how to fix the error "Function is not available in your region" and what to do if after the update MIUI The scanner disappeared from the quick settings. FAQ-block with answers to frequent questions.

1. Enable the QR scanner through the notification panel (fastest way)

On most smartphones Xiaomi scanner QR-The code is available directly from the notification bar. MIUI 12 and newer, including Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and POCO F5. To activate it:

1. Swipe your finger down from the top of the screen to open the notification bar.
2. Find the "Scanner" badge. QR" (It's usually an icon with a square and a dot inside. If it's not there, click on the ⚙️ "Edit".
3. In the quick settings list, find the QR Scanner and drag it to the active area.
4. Now, when you click on the icon, a camera with a built-in scanner will open.

If the icon isn't even on the edit list, your firmware doesn't support this method, so move on to the next one.

⚠️ Note: On some models (e.g, POCO X5 Pro) the scanner in the notification panel may not be available due to regional restrictions, in which case use the system camera or third-party applications.

2. scanning QR through a standard Xiaomi camera

Xiaomi’s Smartphones Support Recognition QR-It's right in the Camera app, and it works on all devices with the camera. MIUI 11 and above, including Redmi 10C, Xiaomi 12T and POCO M5. Here's how to use it:

Open the Camera app and point the lens at QR-If the function is active, a notification will appear on the screen asking you to click on the link or save the data. If recognition does not occur, follow the following steps:

• 📱 Open the Settings. → Annexes → Camera. → Recognition QR-codes and switch on the switch.
• 🔍 Make sure that the camera settings are on mode "AI-recognition" (in some models it is responsible for scanning).
• 📶 Check your internet connection – without it, the scanner won’t be able to process some types of internet connection. QR (for example, with references).

If the camera settings do not include "Recognition" QR-“codes” update the app via Google Play or install the latest version MIUI. On some firmware, this feature is called a "real-time scanner".

3. Using Google Lens to scan for QR

If the built-in Xiaomi scanner does not work or is missing, you can use Google Lens – a service from Google that can recognize the user. QR-This method is suitable for all Android 8.0 devices.+, including older models like the Redmi 5 Plus or Mi A2.

To scan QR through Google Lens:

1. Open the Google (search engine) or Google Photos app.
2. In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (a stylized letter "G" with a dot).
3. Put the camera on QR-The service automatically recognizes it and offers actions (open a link, save a contact, etc.).

The advantage of this method is that Google Lens recognizes not only standard QR-But it's also barcodes, and it's also text information from images, but it requires an Internet connection to work.

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi firmware (especially Chinese) may have Google Lens blocked, in which case install it via APKMirror or use it. VPN.

4. QR scanner in the Security app (for older versions of MIUI)

On devices with MIUI 10 and below (e.g. Xiaomi Mi 8 or Redmi 6) scanner QR-The code can be hidden in the Security app, and this method is relevant for users who haven't updated the firmware or use custom builds.

To find the scanner:

1. Open the Security app (the shield icon).
2. Go to the Tools section → Scanner. QR.
3. Allow access to the camera if you receive a request.

If you don’t have a partition, try updating the Security app via Google Play or install it manually from Xiaomi’s official website. Newer versions of MIUI may not have this scanner, so use other methods.

Side of the scanning annex QR-code

If the built-in methods don’t work or you need additional features (e.g. QR generation, scan history), you can install third-party applications.

Before installing third-party crawlers, check reviews and rankings on Google Play. Some apps may contain ads or request unnecessary permissions (such as accessing contacts).

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Before the scan. QR-If you have code from an unknown source (such as on the street or in a transport), check the link through a service like VirusTotal.

6. Solving problems with the QR scanner on Xiaomi

If the scanner QR-The reasons for this are different, from permissions that are disabled to software failures. We've collected the most common problems and ways to fix them.

Problem 1: The scanner doesn't recognize QR-code

• 🔦 Check the lighting – in low light, the camera may not read the code.
• 📏 Make sure that QR-The code is not damaged and is placed in the scanner frame.
• 🔄 Reboot your phone – sometimes helps with temporary camera crashes.

Problem 2: Error "Function is not available in your area"

This error occurs on the firmware for the Chinese market (MIUI China).

• 🌍 Install global firmware (MIUI Global via Fastboot.
• 🛡️ Use it. VPN India or Europe.
• 📱 Install a third-party scanner from Google Play.

Problem 3: Scanner Disappears After MIUI Update

After major upgrades (e.g., from MIUI 13 to MIUI 14), system functions may be reset to return the scanner:

1. Reset the settings of the Camera app in Settings → Apps → Camera → Storage → Reset.
2. Update all system applications through Google Play.
3. Reset your phone settings (pre-return your phone).

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If the QR scanner is missing after the upgrade, try resetting the camera first.In 80% of cases, this solves the problem without completely resetting the phone.

7.Safety in scanning QR-code

QR-codes are convenient but can be dangerous, and scammers often use them to spread phishing links or malware:

• 🚫 Don't scan. QR-codes from suspicious sources (e.g. stickers on street poles or in transport).
• 🔗 Before you click on the link, check her address if instead of the normal one. URL You see a set of symbols (for example, bit.ly/xxxx), better not open.
• 🛡️ Use antivirus scanners (e.g. Kaspersky) QR Scanner for checking links.
• 📱 Regularly update firmware and applications – this closes vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers.

In 2023, Kaspersky Lab researchers recorded an increase in attacks through the use of the QR-More often than not, scammers disguise phishing pages as legitimate services (banks, social networks, payment systems:

• Entering personal data (logins, passwords, card numbers).
• Download files (.apk,.exe).
• Connecting to unknown Wi-Fi networks.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the QR scanner on Xiaomi