How to set up a barcode scanner on your Xiaomi phone: 5 proven ways

The barcode scanner on Xiaomi smartphones is a convenient tool for quickly recognizing goods, tickets, QR-While the manufacturer does not always include an embedded scanning application, the functionality can be activated through system settings or third-party utilities. In this article, we will discuss all available methods, from standard features. MIUI Specialized programs with advanced options.

It’s important to understand that not all Xiaomi models support hardware barcode scanning (e.g., via an IR port or a dedicated module). However, even on budget devices, you can use a camera to recognize codes using software. We tested the methods on devices from the Redmi Note 10 Pro to the Xiaomi 13 Ultra — all instructions are relevant for MIUI 14 and later.

1. Checking the scanner hardware support

Before you set up the software, make sure your device is physically capable of scanning barcodes.Most modern Xiaomi smartphones use the main camera for this, but some models (like the Poco F5 or Xiaomi Pad 6) may have limitations.

Here are the key points to pay attention to:

• 📱 Autofocus camera: Without it, scanning small barcodes will be difficult. check your model specifications on Xiaomi's official website.
• 🔦 Backlight: In low light conditions, the scanner may not work. Make sure the flash is working.
• 🔄 Screen refresh rate: On devices with 120Hz, recognition is faster than 60Hz.

If your smartphone is equipped with an IR port (for example, Xiaomi Mi 10 or Redmi K40), theoretically it can be used to scan special tags, but standard barcodes (EAN-13, Code 128) can not be read through it.

2. Built-in scanner in MIUI: where to look and how to turn on

Starting with MIUI 12, a built-in scanning tool appeared in the firmware QR-It's a code that partially supports barcodes, and it can be run in a number of ways:

1. Through the notification panel: Swipe down from the top of the screen and find the Scanner icon (pictured with a square with a dot inside). If it's not there, click Edit and add the widget manually.
2. Through Camera: Open the camera, go to Additional (or More) and select QR Scanner.
3. Through System Search: Swipe down the main screen and type in the Scanner search box.

Please note: the built-in scanner is optimized for QR-codes and may not recognize all types of barcodes (e.g., Code 39 or ITF-14). For full work with goods, it is better to use third-party applications.

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If the built-in scanner doesn’t find the barcode, try bringing the phone closer (5-10 cm) or turning on the flash manually through the zipper icon in the camera interface.

3. Setting up the scanner through the Google Lens application

Google Lens (built into Google Photos or available as a standalone app) can recognize barcodes and provide product information to customize it:

1. Install Google Lens from Google Play (unless it is installed by default).
2. Open the app and allow access to the camera.
3. Point the camera at the barcode. If recognition does not occur automatically, click on the Search icon.

Advantages of the method:

• 🌍 It works on all Xiaomi models (including the old ones). MIUI 11).
• 🛒 Offers links to the purchase of goods in online stores.
• 📊 Keeps the scan history.

Disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Does not support some specialized barcode formats (e.g, GS1 DataBar).
• 📶 Requires an Internet connection to obtain information about the product.

4. Specialized scanning applications

If the built-in tools don't fit, install one of the apps we tested, and we tested 5 popular solutions and made a comparison table:

For most Xiaomi users, the best choice is ZXing Team's Barcode Scanner, which is free, works without the Internet, and supports data export.

Important: Price search applications (e.g. QR & Barcode Reader) can collect your scan data for targeted advertising.

Download the app from Google Play|Allow access to the camera|Disable "Sending Statistics" in the settings|Add a widget to the main screen-->

5.Barcode scanner for business tasks

If you need to scan hundreds of codes a day (for inventory or trading, for example), standard solutions will not work.

• 📦 External scanners: Connect via Bluetooth or USB-C. Compatible with Xiaomi through applications such as Serial Bluetooth Terminal.
• 🖥️ 1C:Barcode scanner: For integration with accounting systems. Requires customization through ADB.
• 📊 Inventory Pro: Inventory Management App with Excel Export Support.

To connect an external scanner:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
2. Put the scanner in pairing mode (usually hold the power button for 5 seconds).
3. In Bluetooth settings on Xiaomi, select the device from the list.
4. Install a data processing application (e.g. Barcode to PC).

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For business purposes, it is better to use specialized scanners (such as the Zebra DS2208 or Honeywell Voyager), as they work faster and more accurately than the smartphone camera.

6. Solving scanning problems

If the scanner is not working, check the following points:

⚠️ Note: On devices with custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) built-in scanner MIUI It may not be there. Use third-party apps.

• 📸 Dirty camera: Wipe the lens with a soft cloth.dust or fingerprints interfere with focusing.
• 🔋 Energy saving: In battery settings (Settings) → Battery → Power saving mode) disable restrictions for the scanner application.
• 🔄 Outdated firmware: Update MIUI Up to the latest version through Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.

If the problem persists, try resetting the camera settings:

Settings → Applications → Application Management → Camera → Storage → Clear data

This will remove saved settings (such as manual modes), but return the camera to factory settings.

7.Safety in barcode scanning

Barcodes and QR-codes may contain malicious links or commands:

• 🔒 Do not scan codes from suspicious sources (such as street pole stickers).
• 🛡️ Use antivirus: Install Kaspersky QR Scanner or Bitdefender Mobile Security to check links.
• 📵 Turn off automatic link opening in the scanner app settings.

⚠️ Warning: Some barcodes on products may contain redirects to phishing sites.Always check URL before-transition.

For more protection, enable Google Play Protect:

Settings → Google → Security → Google Play Protect → Scanning your device for threats

Frequently asked questions