Where in Xiaomi hidden scanner QR-Code: All ways to activate in 2026

You're trying to scan. QR-code on Xiaomi, but can't find the built-in scanner? Don't rush to install third-party apps - in firmware MIUI This function is already there, just hidden in non-obvious places. MIUI 10 and Android 9, the manufacturer integrated the scanner directly into the system utilities, but its location changed depending on the version of the software and the model of the smartphone.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to run the QR scanner on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices – from quick calling through the notification bar to hidden options in Settings → Additional. Special attention will be paid to models with MIUI 14 and Android 13/14, where the logic of the work has changed, you will also learn why the scanner may not appear and how to return it if it disappeared after the update.

1. Quickly call the QR scanner through the notification curtain

The most versatile method, running on 90% of Xiaomi devices (including Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11 and later), is built into the Quick Settings panel, but it must first be added to the visible area:

1. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification curtain.
2. Click on the icon. ⚙️ Edit (or hold any Quick Settings icon).
3. In the list of available tiles, find the "Scanner" QR» (sometimes QR-code or scan).
4. Drag it to the active area (usually the first line for convenience).

Now the scanner will always be at hand: just pull the curtain down and tap the new icon. On some models (for example, Redmi 10C), the scanner tile may not be available - in this case, use the methods from the following sections.

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If after updating MIUI scanner tile disappeared, try resetting the notification panel settings: Settings → Notification Panel → Reset order.

2. QR scanner in the standard Camera app

Starting with MIUI 12, the QR scanning function is integrated directly into the Camera app, which works even if you haven't added a tile to the curtain:

• 📷 Open the Camera app (standard, not Google Camera).
• 🔍 Switch to Photo Mode (if another mode was used).
• 🎯 Put the camera on QR-code-through 1-2 A notification will appear with a suggestion to click on the link.
• ⚡ In some models (POCO F4, Xiaomi 13) you need to pre-enable the option: Camera settings → Additionally. → Scan. QR-code.

If the scan does not work automatically:

⚠️ Warning: Make sure that the camera settings have the Recognition option enabled QR. On older models (Redmi 8, Mi) A3) This function may not be available – use alternative methods.

3. Built-in scanner in the application "Browser" (Mi Browser)

The standard Mi Browser (pre-installed on all Xiaomi) has its own QR scanner, which is often overlooked.This is a good way to quickly open a link from the code:

1. Open the Browser (Blue Globe Icon).
2. Slap the icon. ⋮ (three points) in upper right corner.
3. Select the item "Scanning" QR-code».
4. Allow access to the camera (if the request appears) and hover the lens over the code.

The advantage of this method is that it automatically opens a scanned link in the browser without additional confirmation (POCO M4 Pro) menu item may be called QR-scanner or be hidden in the tools.

4. Hidden scanner in system settings (for MIUI 13-14)

In the latest versions of MIUI 13 and MIUI 14, the QR scanner was moved to the Special Features section, causing confusion among users.

1. Go to Settings. → Special facilities.
2. Scroll down and select “Scanner” QR-code».
3. Activate the switch and follow the instructions on the screen.

After activation, the scanner will be available:

• 🔄 Through a long press on the Camera icon on the home screen (the context menu will appear).
• 📱 In the Tools menu (swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen) → toolbox»).

⚠️ Note: Some firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.eu) may not have this section, in which case use alternative methods or upgrade to the latest stable version.

5. Alternative ways: Google Lens and third-party apps

If the built-in scanner is not working or missing, you can use alternatives:

Third-party apps are useful if you not only need to read, but also create QR-But for most tasks, Xiaomi's built-in tools are enough.

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The built-in MIUI scanner is more reliable than third-party applications – it does not require additional permissions and works without the Internet.

6.Why the QR scanner may not work and how to fix it

If none of these methods worked, check the following points:

• 🔄 Update: An outdated version MIUI It may not support scanning. Check for updates to Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 📵 Permissions: Make sure that Camera and Browser apps have access to the camera (Settings) → Annexes → Permits → Camera).
• 🧹 Cache Cleanup: Go to Settings → Annexes → Camera. → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
• 🔧 Resetting: If the scanner is missing after the update, reset the Camera app settings (Settings) → Annexes → Camera. → Reset).

On custom firmware models (like LineageOS), the built-in scanner may be missing due to remote system components, in which case only installing third-party software will help.

7. Comparison of scanners on different Xiaomi models

The logic of the QR scanner depends on the device model and the version of MIUI. Below is a comparison table for popular smartphones:

On budget models (Redmi 9A, POCO C31), the scanner may be slower due to a weak processor, in which case it is recommended to use Google Lens to speed up recognition.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the QR scanner on Xiaomi