Xiaomi Redmi 9 Scanner: How to Enable, Configure and Use

Xiaomi Redmi 9 scanner is an indispensable tool for quick reading QR-Many users are unaware that their smartphone can replace a separate scanning device, saving time and space in their bag. In this article, we will analyze all the ways to activate the built-in scanner, its hidden functions and typical errors that interfere with the correct operation.

The Redmi 9 features features the scanner integrated into both standard applications (Camera and Google Lens) and Xiaomi branded services such as Mi Scanner, which may vary depending on the MIUI firmware version and regional settings, and we tested all available methods on current versions of the software and collected the most complete instructions.

Where is the scanner on Xiaomi Redmi 9: all ways to launch

Unlike the flagship models, where the scanner is placed on a quick menu, on the Redmi 9, its location depends on the firmware.

  • πŸ“± Through the Camera app: point the lens at QR-code - a notification will appear with a suggestion to click on the link.
  • πŸ” Google Lens: A built-in app from Google that automatically recognizes codes (requires installation from Play Market).
  • πŸ“Œ Widget on the desktop: in some versions MIUI You can add a scanner widget through a long press on the screen β†’ Widgets.
  • πŸ”§ Mi Scanner: a proprietary application from Xiaomi, which you need to download separately (available not in all regions).

The most reliable way is to use Google Lens, as it works even when Xiaomi services are disabled. However, if you need to scan documents or save history, you should install Mi Scanner (download link: https://app.mi.com/details?id=com.xiaomi.scanner).

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI In China, the default scanner is disabled due to local regulatory requirements, and if you do, you can change the region to India or Global in your phone settings.

πŸ“Š Which scanner do you use more often?
Built into the Chamber
Google lens
Mi Scanner
Other appendix

Step-by-step instructions: how to scan QR-code

Let’s look at the most common method through the standard camera:

  1. Open the camera app on your Redmi 9.
  2. Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
  3. Wait for the yellow bezel around the code and notification to appear at the top of the screen.
  4. Tap the notification to click on the link or copy the data.

If the scan is not automatically started:

  • πŸ”„ Reboot your phone – sometimes helps with recognition failures.
  • πŸ“± Check the permissions for the Camera app in Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Permits.
  • πŸ”§ Update the firmware: in older versions MIUI (Below 12.5), the scanner may be unstable.

Enable the Internet (for clicking on links)

Clean the camera lens of contamination

Make sure the code is not damaged

Check the lighting (avoid glare)-->

Redmi 9 scanner does not recognize QR-code-format SVG or with transparent background – only standard black and white images.

Scanning barcodes: features and limitations

Unlike in the past. QR-The codes, the barcodes (like the products in the store) require special applications. The built-in camera on Redmi 9 doesn't recognize them:

AnnexBarcode supportAdditional functions
Google lensβœ… Yes (EAN-13, UPC, Code 128)Search for goods online, price comparison
Mi Scannerβœ… Yes (all major formats)Preserving History, Exporting to PDF
Barcode Scannerβœ… Yes (extended formats)Manual code entry, QR generator

To scan barcodes from products, we recommend Barcode Scanner (available on the Play Market), which not only reads codes, but also shows product information from open databases, for example, you can quickly verify the authenticity of drugs or electronics.

⚠️ Note: Some stores use internal barcodes (for example, for inventory) that are not recognized by public scanners, in which case only specialized software from the retailer will help.

Preservation and export of scanned data

If you need to save scan results (for example, for inventory or documents), use Mi Scanner:

  1. Open the app and scan the code.
  2. Click on the Save button (floppy disk icon in the upper right corner).
  3. Select the export format: Text, PDF or Image.
  4. Specify the folder to save (by default – Downloads/Scanner).

For mass scanning (for example, labels in stock), it is more convenient to use third-party applications like QR & Barcode Scanner Pro.

  • πŸ“‹ Export data to Excel or Google Sheets.
  • πŸ”„ Automatically scan the codes in the series (without pressing buttons).
  • πŸ”’ Encrypt the saved data with a password.

πŸ’‘

If you need to scan a document (passport, receipt), use the Document mode in Google Lens - it automatically straightens the perspective and improves clarity.

Common problems and their solution

Redmi 9 users often encounter the following scanning errors:

Problem.Reason.Decision
The scanner is not responding to QR-codePoor lighting or a polluted cameraWipe the lens, turn on the flashlight.
No links open after scanningThere is no internet or ad blockerCheck the connection, disable the VPN
Scanner app flies outConflict with other servicesClear the cache in Settings β†’ Apps
I don't recognize color. QR-codeLimitation of the standard scannerUse QR Code Reader from Play Market

If none of these methods worked, try resetting the camera settings:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ System β†’ Resetting settings.
  2. Select Reset application settings.
  3. Confirm the action and restart the phone.
What if the scanner is not working after the MIUI update?
After major updates (e.g., from MIUI 12 to MIUI 13), system permissions may be reset. In this case: 1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Application Management β†’ Camera. 2. Press Permissions and enable all items related to the camera and storage. 3. Restart the phone. If the problem persists, roll back to the previous firmware version via Fastboot.

Security: How to Avoid Fraud QR-code

QR-codes can contain malicious links or commands to steal data:

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Check it out. URL before switching: if the address looks suspicious (for example, paypal-security.ru), do not open it.
  • πŸ” Don’t scan codes from street posters – scammers often stick their own QR top-of-the-line.
  • πŸ“± Use antivirus: apps like Malwarebytes block phishing sites.
  • πŸ”„ Update: In new versions MIUI There is built-in protection against malicious codes.

Be especially careful about QR-codes that ask for:

  • Enter a login and password from social networks or banks.
  • Connect to an unknown Wi-Fi network.
  • Download the file (.apk,.exe).

πŸ’‘

No legitimate service (banks, public services, shops) will request your data through the Internet. QR-All official codes lead to secure protocol sites. https://.

Alternative ways to scan without apps

If your Redmi 9 is not running a scanner, you can use:

  • 🌐 Online Services: Upload photos QR-site-code https://zxing.org/w/decode.jspx.
  • πŸ’¬ Telegram-bots: in search of the search @QRReaderBot and send him an image.
  • πŸ–₯️ Computer: Connect your phone as a webcam and use desktop programs (e.g, QR Code Desktop Reader).

For online services, it is important:

  • Do not download codes with confidential information (passwords, card numbers).
  • Check that the site uses HTTPS (lock icon in the address bar).
  • After use, clear the browser history.

If you need to scan the code from another screen (like a monitor), reduce the brightness of the Redmi 9’s display to 50% – this will reduce glare and improve recognition.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I scan it? QR-codes from another phone screen?
Yes, but it does: Reduce the brightness of the source screen (to avoid glare); turn off automatic brightness control on Redmi 9; bring the phones as close as possible (but not close to avoid distortion); if the code is not read, try taking a picture of it and scanning it from a photo via Google Lens.
Why does the Redmi 9 scanner not recognize codes in the dark?
Redmi 9 doesn't have infrared backlight for the camera, so you can't scan in the dark. Solutions: Turn on the flashlight (Notification Panel β†’ Lantern). Use an external light source (desktop lamp). Increase the exposure manually in the Camera app (swipe your finger up the screen).
How to scan the code if the camera on Redmi 9 is broken?
There are three options: Connect an external camera via USB OTG (you need a USB Camera application); Use another phone and transfer data via Mi Share or Bluetooth; Restore the camera - on Redmi 9, it costs ~ 1500-2000 rubles to replace the module; If the code is static (for example, on paper), you can take a photo of it on another phone and process it through an online service.
Can we create our own? QR-code?
Yes, applications are good for that: QR Code Generator (Simple interface, logo support). Mi Scanner (Create mode). Google Chrome (at the address bar, click Share). β†’ QR-To generate code with a Wi-Fi password, use the command: WIFI:S:net;T:WPA;P: Password; Copy this line to any generator application.
Why does the scan open an advertisement?
It means that QR-The code contains an affiliate link or redirects to an ad site. To avoid this, use an ad blocker (AdGuard or Blokada). URL through services https://www.virustotal.com. Disable JavaScript in the browser (Settings) β†’ Website β†’ If the ads appear in the scanner itself (e.g., in Mi Scanner), update the application or install an alternative.