Scanning. QR-Xiaomi has become an integral part of everyday tasks β from paying for purchases to connecting to Wi-Fi or logging in to services. However, not all users know that the brandβs devices offer several built-in ways to read codes that do not require additional software. In this article, we will analyze all current methods, including hidden functions. MIUI, We also look at how to solve typical problems when the camera doesnβt see code or when it makes an error.
The MIUI firmware feature is a deep integration of QR tools, from quick access through the notification curtain to the specialized Mi Scanner app, and scanning algorithms on Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 or Mi 13 Ultra models may differ β weβve taken these nuances into account. If you encounter a code that is not recognized, at the end of this article you will find a checklist to diagnose the problem.
1. Scanning through a standard camera
The most obvious and quick way is to use the built-in Camera app. QR-codes activated by default on all Xiaomi devices with MIUI 12 and newer, to take advantage of it:
- Open the Camera app.
- Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
- Wait 1-2 seconds β a notification will appear on the screen with a suggestion to click on a link or perform an action (for example, connect to Wi-Fi).
If the code is not recognized, check:
- π¦ Lighting: In low light, the camera may not focus. Turn on the flashlight or bring the phone closer to the light source.
- π± Camera resolution: in camera settings (Settings) β Permission) select 1080p or higher, it will improve the detail.
- π Updates: on older versions MIUI (Below 12) the scan function may not work smoothly. Update the firmware in Settings β The phone. β Updating the system.
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If QR-code printed on a glossy surface (for example, on a plastic card), tilt the phone at an angle of 30-45 degrees to remove glare.
On some models (e.g. Redmi 10A or POCO M4 Pro), the camera scanning function is disabled by default to activate it:
- Open the camera β Settings (cog in the upper right corner).
- Find the Scan item. QR-codes and switch on.
2. Mi Scanner app: hidden possibilities
Mi Scanner is a Xiaomi-branded app that is installed by default on most devices. It's not just scanning. QR-It recognizes the barcodes, generates its own codes, and also stores its scan history:
- Find the Mi Scanner app in the menu (or through search by system).
- Put the camera on QR-The application will automatically focus and suggest an action.
- To create your code, click on the + icon at the bottom of the screen and select Create QR.
The advantages of the Mi Scanner over the standard camera:
- πΈ Works even in low light thanks to improved focusing algorithm.
- π Supports code scanning from another deviceβs screen (e.g., a PC monitor).
- π Stores scan history (available in History section).
- π Can recognize encrypted QR-codes (for example, for authorization in banking applications).
How to get Mi Scanner back if it's been removed?
In the models with MIUI 14 and newer in Mi Scanner appeared the function βFast actionβ β just hold your finger on the finger QR-It's just a code in a gallery to click right on a link without scanning. It only works for codes stored in image format (.jpg or.png).
3.Google Lens: A universal tool
If standard methods donβt work, use Google Lens, a service from Google that is integrated into the Internet. MIUI. It's not just scanning. QR-It can recognize texts, objects, even translations:
- Open the Google app (or Google Photos).
- In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (camera icon with a dot).
- Put the camera on QR-The service will automatically determine the type of code and suggest an action.
Google Lens is useful in the following cases:
- π Scanning codes with foreign characters (for example, Chinese characters in a link).
- π Recognition of broken or partially erased QR-code.
- π Ability to translate text from code to another language.
Restriction: Google Lens requires an internet connection to handle some types of code (e.g. dynamic links).If you're offline, use Mi Scanner or a standard camera.
Annex side: when embedded tools are not enough
In some cases, standard methods are not suitable β for example, if you need to scan codes en masse (for inventory) or work with specialized formats (for example, Aztec Code or Data Matrix).
| Annex | Features | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner | Supports 20+ code formats, works offline, no advertising | Google Play |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Checks links to viruses, blocks phishing sites | Google Play |
| NeoReader | Scans codes from the PC screen, supports batch mode | Google Play |
| Barcode Scanner | Minimalist interface, low power consumption | Google Play |
Warning: Some apps from Google Play may request excessive permissions (such as contact access or SMS). Check reviews and ratings before installing. We recommend only using apps with a rating above 4.5 and downloads above 1 million.
βοΈ Safety in scanning QR-code
Scanning. QR-codes from the screen of another device
Often, you have to scan the code displayed on your computer, TV or other smartphone, in which case Xiaomi's standard camera may fail due to the flickering of the screen.
- π₯οΈ Reduce the brightness of the screen of the device you're scanning the code from to 50-70%, which will reduce flickering.
- π± Use Mi Scanner β it handles codes on screens better thanks to the noise suppression algorithm.
- π Take a photo of the code and scan it from the gallery via Google Photos β Google Lens.
- π Enable a dark theme on your device with code β contrast will improve recognition.
If the code is still not scanned, try the following:
- Take a screenshot of the code on the first device.
- Send it to Xiaomi via a messenger (such as Telegram).
- Open the image in the gallery and hold your finger on it. QR-code β MIUI will offer to scan it.
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In the models with AMOLED-screens (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or POCO F5) Scanning codes from other devices is better due to the high refresh rate of the screen (120 Hz).
6. Problem Solving: The code is not scanned
If none of these methods work, use our diagnostic instructions:
β οΈ Attention: If QR-The code contains a link to a site with a security certificate (https), but the browser gives a warning, do not ignore it.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The camera is not focusing. | Dirt on the lens or poor lighting | Wipe the camera with a napkin, turn on the flashlight |
| The code is recognized, but the link is not opened. | Browser restrictions or ad blocker | Try to open in Chrome or turn off VPN |
| Mi Scanner app is missing | Removed or disabled | Restore through Settings β Applications (see spoiler above) |
| The code is scanned, but it gives an error. | Damaged or outdated QR | Try scanning from another device. |
If the problem persists, reset the camera settings:
- Go to Settings β System and device β Resetting.
- Select Reset application settings.
- Confirm the action and restart the phone.
On devices with MIUI 13 and later, there is a hidden feature called Developer Mode to debug the scan. To activate it, go to Settings β About Phone β MIUI Version and tap 7 times on this item. Then to Settings β Additional β For developers, turn on the QR Scan Debugging option.
7.Security: How not to become a victim of fraud
QR-codes may contain malicious links, phishing pages or commands to automatically connect to dangerous networks:
- π Check it out. URL: before clicking on the link from QR-For example, vk.com can be replaced by vk-security.ru.
- π« Donβt connect to Wi-Fi automatically: If the code offers a network connection, check the name and password manually.
- π± Use antivirus: apps like Kaspersky or Dr.Web scan links from the site QR real-time.
- π³ Do not enter card details: if the code is redirecting to the payment page, make sure that it is an official service (for example, SberBank Online or Tinkoff).
Example of fraud: in public places (cafes, airports) there may be stickers with QR-They lead to phishing sites that mimic authorization pages. Always check with staff what code is valid.
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To verify authenticity QR-Scan it through VirusTotal (https://www.virustotal.com). Upload the code image to the site β the service will analyze the link to viruses.