Scanner in Xiaomi phone: hidden features and practical applications

Xiaomi smartphones today are equipped with many sensors and modules, among which the scanner often goes unnoticed. Meanwhile, this feature can significantly simplify everyday tasks, from quickly opening web pages to digitizing documents. In this article, we will discuss in detail what a scanner is for in Xiaomi phones, what tasks it solves and how to use it correctly.

Many users mistakenly believe that the scanner in the smartphone is limited to reading. QR-In fact, it's much more powerful than that: barcode recognition, photo translation, document scanning for archival purposes, even plant identification. We will tell you how to activate these features, which Xiaomi models support advanced scanning modes, and share life hacks for the most effective application.

We will pay special attention to security issues: how to protect personal data when scanning documents, what permissions are required for applications to work with the scanner, and how to avoid fraudulent schemes with fake documents. QR-You'll also learn about little-known chips. MIUI, Which makes the scanning process even more convenient.

What is a scanner in Xiaomi smartphones and how it works

The scanner in Xiaomi phones is a hardware and software package that uses the main or front camera to recognize visual information. Unlike specialized scanners (for example, in cash registers), the smartphone module is versatile and can work with different types of data:

• 📱 QR-codes – fast transfer of links, contacts, Wi-Fi passwords
• 📄 Barcodes – authentication of goods, search for analogues
• 📑 Documents – digitization of passports, receipts, tickets
• 🌿 Objects of the surrounding world – recognition of plants, books, works of art

Technically, the scanner works through a combination of high-resolution camera and computer vision algorithms. In Xiaomi models with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Series or MediaTek Dimensity processors, recognition occurs almost instantly thanks to hardware acceleration. It is important to note that the quality of scanning depends not only on the hardware, but also on software optimization in the firmware. MIUI.

For example, in the flagship Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12 Pro+ technology AI-It's a scan that automatically adjusts perspective when you're shooting documents, eliminates glare, and improves the readability of small text. M5 They also support basic scanning functions, but may require better lighting and clearer focus.

The main functions of the scanner: QR-code-to-document

Let’s take a closer look at what tasks can be solved with the scanner in Xiaomi, and what applications will be needed for this.

1.Reading QR-code

The most popular feature is instant access to information through QR. Scanner in MIUI recognize:

• 🌐 Links to websites (automatic opening in the browser)
• 📞 Contacts (save in the phone book)
• 🔐 Wi-Fi passwords (connection without manual input)
• 📍 Geolocation (opening maps with coordinates)
• 💳 Payment details (for transfers in banking applications)

In the latest versions MIUI 14+ Automatic Type Determination Function QR. For example, if you point your camera at a code with a Wi-Fi password, the system will suggest you connect to the network. QR — No additional action is required.

2. Barcode scanning

The function is useful for:

• 🛒 Product authentication (comparison with manufacturer's base)
• 🔍 Search for analogues of drugs or spare parts
• 📦 Tracking of parcels (track number scanning)

To work with barcodes, we recommend using the Mi Scanner application (pre-installed in the MIUI) Google Lens, which can recognize even damaged or partially erased codes, for example, if the barcode on the hardware box is dented, Xiaomi's algorithms will try to reconstruct the missing elements in context.

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To speed up barcode scanning in the store, turn on Macro mode in the camera settings – this will help you focus on small details.

Digitization of documents

Xiaomi’s scanner can replace an office MFP for:

• 📄 Archiving receipts, checks, warranty coupons
• 🆔 Creation of digital copies of passports, driver's license
• 📑 Scanning Multi-Page Contracts

To do this, use Document mode in the Mi Scanner or Notes app. Algorithms automatically:

• Cut the edges of the leaf
• Adjust perspective (eliminate the trapezoid effect)
• Increase the contrast of the text
• Keep in PDF searchable (OCR)

In Xiaomi models with stylus support (for example, Xiaomi Pad 6), you can immediately add notes or signatures to the document without printing after scanning.

How to turn on and configure the scanner on Xiaomi

In most Xiaomi smartphones, the scanner is activated automatically when the camera is opened, but advanced features require customization.

Method 1: Using a standard camera

1. Open the Camera app
2. Point the lens at QR barcode
3. Wait for a notification with an offer of action (for example, "Open link")
4. Tap on the notification to perform the action

If automatic recognition does not work:

1. Go to Camera Settings → Additionally.
2. Activate the Scan option QR-code
3. Make sure that Internet access is enabled (for online code checks)

Method 2: Appendix Mi Scanner

For extended functions:

1. Download Mi Scanner from Google Play (if not preinstalled)
2. Open the app and allow access to the camera
3. Select the type of scanning: 📷 QR-code 📄 Document 🖼️ Image with text (for OCR)

Configure the saving options (format, quality, folder)

Enable the Document Mode in Mi Scanner

Activate the option "Improving the text"

Permit at least 8 MP

Select the format of the save PDF

Check the lighting (avoid shadows)-->

Method 3: Google Lens (for object recognition)

If you want to identify a plant, book or attraction:

1. Hold your finger on the Google icon on the home screen
2. Select Lens from the context menu
3. Point the camera at the object
4. Wait for the search results with a description

V MIUI 14 there was integration with Google Lens right in the gallery: just open the photo and tap on the icon of the magnifier in the bottom menu.

Security when using a scanner: what to fear

Despite the convenience, scanning can be risky. QR-codes for phishing or spreading malware. Here's what to look for:

• 🚨 Suspicious references: QR-The code can lead to a bank or social networking site. URL pre-entry.
• 📱 Unauthorized payments: Some codes automatically initiate transfers (e.g., through a payment system). SBP). Before confirming, check the amount and recipient.
• 📎 Malware attachments: Codes may contain links to download viruses. Do not open files from unknown sources.

To minimize the risks:

• Use the official apps (Mi Scanner, Google Lens)
• Turn off automatic actions after scanning in camera settings
• Install antivirus (e.g. Mi Security)

⚠️ Attention: B MIUI 13 and older, you have Safe Scanning, which blocks you from clicking on potentially dangerous links. → Annexes → Special permits → Scanning. QR-Enable the option of Security Check.

Hidden chips of the scanner in Xiaomi: what you did not know

In addition to the basic functions, Xiaomi smartphones have little-known scanner features that can be useful in non-standard situations.

1. Real-time translation of text

Google Lens or Mi Scanner can:

• 📖 Take a photo of the text in a foreign language and receive a translation
• 🗺️ Recognize signs, menus or signage abroad
• 📄 Translate entire documents with formatting

For this:

1. Open Google Lens or Mi Scanner
2. Select Mode Text
3. Point the camera to text
4. Slip on the translation icon (usually marked with flags)

2. Plant and animal recognition

The function is useful for:

• 🌺 Definitions of flower and houseplants
• 🐝 Identification of insects or fungi (important for safety)
• 🌳 Recognition of tree species in parks

Example: point your camera at a plant in Google Lens, and it will show you the name, description and tips for care, and the accuracy of the recognition depends on the quality of the photo, so it's better to take pictures in daylight.

3. Search for goods in photos

The scanner can:

• 🛍️ Find analogues of things from her photo
• 💰 Compare prices in different stores
• 📦 Verify the authenticity of branded products

To do this, take a photo of an item in Google Lens or Mi Scanner and select the option Search the Internet. The system will show similar products on AliExpress, Wildberries and other sites.

4.Scanning in the dark

In infrared-lighted models (such as the Xiaomi 13 Ultra), the scanner works even in low light.

1. Activate Night Shooting in the Camera
2. Turn on the flashlight (if required)
3. Bring the phone closer to the object (10-15 cm)

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Night Scanning is especially useful for reading QR-codes in clubs, restaurants or concerts where lighting is usually dim.

Comparison of scanners in different Xiaomi models

Not all Xiaomi smartphones are equally good at scanning, and we tested several models and compiled a comparison table:

As you can see from the table, flagship models offer advanced features, while budget devices are limited to basic functionality. If you care about the quality of scanning documents, look for smartphones with support AI-cameras and processors not lower than the Snapdragon 7-series.

Problems with the scanner and their solutions

Sometimes the scanner in Xiaomi doesn't work properly, so let's look at the typical problems and how to fix them.

1. The scanner doesn't recognize. QR-code

Possible causes and solutions:

• 🔦 Low lighting: turn on the flashlight or move to a lighter place
• 📱 Dirty lens: wipe the camera with a soft cloth
• 🔄 Outdated software: update MIUI through settings → The phone. → Updating the system
• 🚫 Camera Access Disabled: Check the permissions for the Mi Scanner app in Settings → Annexes

2. Distortion in scanning documents

If the edges of the document are curved:

• 📏 Use Document Mode in Mi Scanner – it automatically aligns perspective
• 📐 Keep your phone parallel to a piece of paper
• 🖼️ Manually trim unnecessary fields in the editor after scanning

Errors in text recognition (OCR)

If the text is recognized with errors:

• 📖 Make sure the text language is added in the settings OCR
• 🔍 Check the clarity of the image (without blurring)
• 🖋️ For handwriting, use specialized applications like CamScanner.

⚠️ Note: If after the update MIUI The scanner stopped working, try resetting the camera settings. → Annexes → Camera. → Warehouse → Clear the data. It will delete the user settings, but it will return the scanner's factory settings.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the scanner in Xiaomi