Where in the smartphone Xiaomi hidden scanner QR-Code: 5 ways to activate

You're trying to scan. QR-Don’t rush to install third-party apps – in 90% of models (from the budget Redmi to the flagship Xiaomi 13), the scanner is already integrated into the system. The problem is that the manufacturer has hidden it in non-obvious places, and in some firmware (for example, in global versions). MIUI 13 for Europe) the function is disabled by default.

In this article, we will explore all possible ways to access the scanner, from standard calling through the notification panel to hidden commands for models without a visual button, and focus on common errors: why the scanner may not work even after activation, how to turn it on POCO with custom firmware, and what to do if the camera does not “see” codes in dark rooms.

Important: instructions are relevant for devices on MIUI 12-14 and Android 10-14. If your smartphone is older than 2018 (for example, Redmi Note 5), some methods may not work – check the firmware version in Settings → About phone.

1. Quick access via notification panel

The most obvious way is to use the Quick Settings Panel, which works on most current models (Xiaomi 12/13, Redmi Note 11/12, POCO F4/F5), but may not be available on older devices or in regional firmware (e.g. India).

How to check:

• 📱 Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification bar.
• 🔍 Pull the panel down again to reveal all the icons.
• 🔎 Find the scanner icon QR» (It is usually a square with three corners or a magnifying glass with QR-code).
• ⚡ If there is no icon, tap on a pencil (Edit) and add it manually from the list of hidden features.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi) 10A, POCO M4 Pro) the scanner icon appears only after the first run through Settings → Special facilities → Quick setup. If you can't see it even there, move on to the next one.

Scanner in the Camera app: hidden function

Many users do not know that the standard camera app in the MIUI scanner QR-codes without additional plugins. The function works even on budget models (Redmi) 9A, POCO C31), But it needs to be activated properly.

Instructions:

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Switch to Photo Mode (not Video or Portrait).
3. Point the lens at QR-In 1-2 seconds, a notification will appear at the bottom of the screen with a suggestion to click on the link.
4. 🔗 Tap on the notification to open the contents of the code.

💡 Useful tip: If the scan doesn't work, check the camera settings:

1. Launch the camera → Settings (cogs) → Additional.
2. Activate the Scan option QR-Code Recognition (or Code Recognition in Older Versions).

💡

On some models (Xiaomi 11T, Redmi Note 10 Pro) the camera scanner only works in good light, and if the code is not recognized, turn on the flashlight or use an alternative method.

3. Built-in scanner in Google Lens (for MIUI without native function)

If your Xiaomi model doesn’t support a built-in scanner (like Redmi 8A on older firmware), use Google Lens – the app is pre-installed on all devices with Google services.

How it works:

• 🔍 Open Google Lens (an icon with a multicolored letter “G” on a white background).
• 📸 Put the camera on QR-The app automatically recognizes it and shows the contents.
• 🔗 Tap on a link or text that appears to interact with the code.

⚠️ Note: On the Chinese versions MIUI (If you don't have Google services, you don't have this app, then you can manually install it from APKMirror or use the notification panel method (Section 1).

4.Hidden command for models without visual scanner

If none of the above methods worked, try activating the scanner through the engineering menu, which is suitable for devices on MIUI 12-14, where the function is disabled by default (often found on European and Indian firmware).

Instructions:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Enter the combination: ##6484###
3. Select Manual Test → Camera → Barcode.
4. Press Start and point the camera at QR-code.

⚠️ Note: This method may not work for:

• Android One (Mi A1/A2/A3)
• Devices with root rights or custom firmware.
• Models under 2019 (Redmi 7, Mi 8 Lite)

5.Scanner problems: why QR-codes are unrecognizable

Even if you find a scanner, it may not work properly.-5 causes and solutions:

• 🔦 Weak lighting: QR-codes require good light. Turn on the flashlight or use an external source.
• 📱 Dirty camera: Wipe the lens with a soft cloth - dust and fingerprints interfere with focusing.
• 🔄 Outdated firmware: Update MIUI through settings → System Update: In versions older than 2021, the scanner often bugs.
• 🚫 Disabled permissions: Check that the Camera or Google Lens app has access to the camera (Settings) → Annexes → Permits).
• 🛠️ Hardware restrictions: On cheap models (Redmi) 9C, POCO C30) The camera may not focus on small codes. Try to move away or zoom in on the screen.

🔧 Diagnostics: If the scanner doesn't work in any application, check the camera for damage:

1. Enter the phone app: ##0*###.
2. Check if the image is correctly displayed from the front and main camera.

Camera clean and undamaged

Updated firmware to the latest version

App permissions verified

QR-code clear and well-lit

All scanning methods have been tried (panel, camera, Google Lens)-->

6.Alternative applications: when the built-in scanner is not suitable

If none of the system methods worked, install a third-party app, and we recommend only proven options without advertising and unnecessary permissions:

• 📌 QR & Barcode Scanner (from Gamma Play) – lightweight, without registration, supports scan history.
• 🔍 Kaspersky QR Scanner – Checks security links before opening.
• 💡 Barcode Scanner (from ZXing Team) – open source, no tracking.

⚠️ Warning: Avoid applications with suspicious permissions (e.g. access to the app) SMS Check reviews and ratings on Google Play before installing. Download Chinese firmware without Google services APK Official sources only (APKMirror, Xiaomi Community).

🔹 How to remove unnecessary scanner after use:

1. Go to Settings → Applications.
2. Find the scanner installed and tap Delete.
3. Clear the cache in Settings → Storage → Clear the cache.

💡

Xiaomi’s built-in scanner is more reliable than third-party apps: it doesn’t require updates, it doesn’t collect data, and it works without the Internet. Use alternatives only if system methods are not available.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the QR scanner on Xiaomi