Scanning. QR-Xiaomi has become so simple that many users are unaware of all the hidden features of this feature, without unnecessary applications, directly from the standard camera or through built-in services. MIUI, You can open links, connect to Wi-Fi, pay for purchases, or exchange contacts in seconds, but what if the camera persists in not recognizing the code? QR In this article, a complete guide to all scanning methods, including little-known chips like using the Mi Remote remote and solving focus problems.
We're going to take a look at not only the basic techniques through the camera or Google Lens, but also the alternatives for devices with damaged cameras or outdated firmware. QR-codes are not readable on Xiaomi (spoiler: it's not always the phone's fault) and how to get around the restrictions of banking apps that block scanning through third-party software. Ready!
1. Scanning. QR-code through a standard Xiaomi camera
The most obvious and quick way is to use an onboard camera. On most modern Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models (starting with MIUI 10), the QR recognition feature is sewn directly into the Camera app. You don't need to download or configure anything.
How it works:
- 📷 Open the Camera app on your Xiaomi.
- 🔍 Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
- 🌐 Through 1-2 A notification will appear with a request to click on a link or perform an action (for example, connect to Wi-Fi).
- 👆 Tap the notification to confirm the action.
If the function does not work automatically, check:
- ⚙️ Scanning option enabled QR-codes in camera settings (Camera settings) → Additionally. → Scanning. QR-code).
- 📱 Is the firmware updated to the latest version? MIUI (In older versions, the function may not be available).
- 💡 Is there enough lighting – in the dark, the camera may not recognize the code.
☑️ Pre-scan check
Important! On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 8 Pro or POCO X3), the scan function only works in Photo mode, not in Video or Portrait. If the camera is unresponsive, switch to the main mode.
2.Using Google Lens for Recognition QR-code
Google Lens is a powerful tool from Google that can not only scan QR-It can also recognize objects, text, and even solve mathematical examples. On Xiaomi smartphones, it can be useful if a standard camera refuses to work with code.
How to Scan Through Google Lens:
- Open the Google (search engine) or Google Photos app.
- In the search bar or on the home screen, find the Google Lens icon (an icon with a multi-colored square).
- Put the camera on QR-Lens will automatically scan it and suggest actions.
- If the code contains text (such as a Wi-Fi password), you can copy it to the clipboard.
The advantages of Google Lens:
- 🔍 It recognizes even partially damaged or blurred codes.
- 🌍 Supports translation of text from QR-language-code.
- 📱 It works on all Xiaomi models, even without updates. MIUI.
Disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Requires an Internet connection for full-time work.
- 📥 It takes up additional space (unless set by default).
Scanning through the Mi Remote application (DU remote)
Few people know, but the built-in Mi Remote app on Xiaomi can also scan. QR-This feature is originally designed to connect to smart devices (such as air conditioners or TVs), but it works with conventional codes.
Instructions:
- Open the Mi Remote app (if not, download it from Google Play).
- In the upper right corner, click on the icon + (Add device).
- Choose Another. → Scan. QR-code.
- Point the camera at the code and wait for recognition.
When this method is useful:
- 🔧 If the standard camera does not recognize the code due to damage or dirt on the lens.
- 📺 Connecting to Xiaomi smart devices (e.g. Mi) TV or Mi Air Purifier).
- 🔄 If you need to scan the code from the screen of another device (for example, a laptop).
Why is Mi Remote better than a standard camera for smart devices?
4. Third-party scanning applications QR-code
If the built-in methods don’t work (for example, on very old Xiaomi models or after resetting), you can use third-party applications.-3 tested:
| Annex | Features | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play) | Fast scanning, code history, working without the internet | Advertising in the free version |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Checks links to viruses, blocks phishing sites | Registration is required for some functions |
| Barcode Scanner (by ZXing Team) | Open source, supports all code formats | Outdated interface |
How do you choose an app?
- 🛡️ If you scan codes from unfamiliar sources (such as on the streets or in advertising), use Kaspersky. QR Scanner – It checks security links.
- 📱 It is suitable for everyday use. QR & Barcode Scanner – Lightweight and Fast.
- 🔧 For developers or those who work with non-standard codes, we recommend ZXing.
⚠️ Attention! Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank Online or Tinkoff) block scanning. QR In such cases, use only a standard camera or an official bank application.
5. Solving the Problem: Why Xiaomi Doesn't Scan QR-code
If your Xiaomi refuses to recognize QR-code, the reasons may be as follows:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Camera doesn't respond to code | Scanning is disabled in the settings | Enable Camera Settings → Scanning. QR-code |
| The code is recognized, but it won't open. | Ad Blocker or VPN | Disable VPN or add site to blocker exceptions |
| Blurred image of code | Dirt on the lens or cracked glass | Wash your camera with an alcohol wipe or use Google Lens |
| The code is read as a set of symbols. | Damaged or non-standard QR format | Try another app (like ZXing) |
There are a few other unobvious reasons:
- 🔋 Power saving mode: Some Xiaomi models turn off background scans to save charge.Switch off mode or add Camera to exceptions.
- 📶 Weak Internet: If the code leads to the site but the page doesn't open, check the connection (especially on Redmi with two). SIM-In some cases, the traffic is inactive. SIM).
- 🔒 Parental Control Limits: If Safe Mode or Mi Child Space is set up on the phone, scanning may be blocked.
💡
If QR-code printed on glossy paper (e.g. in a magazine), try tilting the phone at an angle 30-45 It's a little bit more than a few degrees to get the glare off.
Scanning QR-codes on older Xiaomi models (up to) MIUI 9)
If you have an older model like the Redmi 4X, Mi A1 or Redmi Note 3 with firmware below MIUI 10, you may not have a built-in QR scanner in your camera.
- Update your firmware to the latest available MIUI (even if it’s MIUI 11 for Redmi Note 4, the scan feature is already there).
- Use Google Lens – it works on all Android 6.0+ devices.
For Android One models (such as Mi A2 or Mi A3):
- 📱 Google’s standard camera can’t scan QR "box".
- 🔍 Install Google Lens separately or use Google Assistant (say, OK, Google, scan). QR-code").
💡
On older Xiaomi (pre-2017 release), camera scanning may not be available at all, in which case Google Lens or third-party apps are the only reliable option.
7.Security: How not to run into scammers through QR-code
QR-codes are convenient, but they can be dangerous. Fraudsters often use them to steal data or spread viruses:
- 🔗 Do not scan codes from street stands or suspicious sites – they may lead to phishing pages (for example, a fake bank website).
- 📱 Check it out. URL before you switch: if the code contains a link, look at the domain. For example, sberbank.ru is secure, but sberbank-promo.online is not.
- 🛡️ Use antivirus: apps like Kaspersky or Dr.Web scan links from the site QR malware.
- 🔒 Do not enter logins / passwords on sites opened through the QR, unless you are sure of the source.
Signs of fraudulent QR-code:
- 🚨 The code is pasted on top of another code (for example, on payment terminals).
- 💰 Offers a “win” or “free prize” (a common data theft ploy).
- 📎 The link leads to abbreviated URL (for example, bit.ly/...) non-explanatory.
⚠️ Attention! In 2023, fraud cases through the use of QR-Attackers replace the real codes for payment with their own, and the money goes to their accounts!