How to use the scanner on the phone Xiaomi Redmi Note: from basic features to hidden features

Scanner. QR-The codes and barcodes on Xiaomi Redmi Note smartphones are not just a convenient tool for quick access to links or product information, but users often do not even realize that the standard Scanner app (or the built-in feature in the camera) is capable of much more: From document scanning to plant recognition to text translation, in this article we will explore all the nuances of working with a scanner on Redmi Note, from basic settings to advanced life hacks that will save you time.

The feature of the Redmi Note line (whether it is Redmi Note 12, Note 11 Pro or earlier models) is that the functionality of the scanner may differ depending on the version. MIUI For example, Chinese versions of software often have additional features that are not available in global builds, and we take these nuances into account and show how to make the most of the scanner, regardless of the model.

Important: If you have never used a scanner on your Xiaomi, then after reading this article you will be able to read more than just the scanner. QR-We're going to use codes to pay in stores, but also to automatically connect to Wi-Fi, save contacts, translate text from foreign languages, and even authenticate banknotes.

Where to find a scanner on Xiaomi Redmi Note: 3 ways to launch

Many users mistakenly think that the scanning process QR-You need to install third-party applications like Google Lens or Kaspersky. QR In fact, Xiaomi has already integrated all the necessary tools into the system. Here are three main ways to quickly open the scanner:

  • πŸ“± Through the notification bar: swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the curtain, and find the scanner icon (if not, add through the panel editing).
  • πŸ“· Through the camera: Open the standard Camera app, go to More (or Additional) and select Scanner QR-code.
  • πŸ” Search the system: swipe down the home screen, type "scanner" in the search bar, and select the Scanner app (on some models it is called Mi Scanner).

On the Redmi Note. 10/11/12 s MIUI 13/14 The scanner can also be called by the voice assistant Xiao. AI (If it's activated, say, "Open the scanner." QR-However, this method does not work on all regional firmware.

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi Note models (especially those with custom firmware) may not have a standard scanner, in which case install the official Mi Scanner app from AppGallery or Google Play.

If you use the scanner a lot, we recommend adding its widget to the home screen.

  1. Press and hold the free space on the desktop.
  2. Select the Widgets β†’ Find the scanner or tools.
  3. Drag the widget onto the screen for quick access.

Basic scanner features: what can be scanned on the Redmi Note

The standard scanner on Xiaomi Redmi Note supports recognition of more than 20 code types, including:

  • πŸ”— QR-codes: links to websites, promotions, tickets (air, movies, concerts).
  • πŸ“¦ Barcodes: information about goods (EAN-13, UPC, Code 128 and others.).
  • πŸ“Ά Wi-Fi codes: automatic network connection without password.
  • πŸ‘€ Business cards (vCard): saving contacts in the phone book.
  • πŸ’³ Payment codes: SberPay, Google Pay, AliPay and other services.
  • πŸ“„ Text and documents: recognition and copying of text from images (OCR).

On the Redmi Note models with MIUI 14+ The scanner can automatically detect the type of code and suggest appropriate actions. QR-Wi-Fi code, it will immediately offer to connect to the network, and when recognizing the barcode of the product, it will show prices in online stores.

Type of codeAction after scanningExample of use
QR-linkOpening in the browserScanning the restaurant promo code for the menu
Product barcodeSearching online storesAuthentication of medicines or electronics
Wi-Fi QRAutomatic connectionGuest access to the network in a cafe or hotel
vCard (contact)Saving in the phone bookExchange of contacts at conferences
Text (OCR)Copying or translationReading information from signs or documents

One of the most useful uses of the scanner is to authenticate products, such as the packaging of drugs, alcohol or perfumes often wearing protective protective gear. QR-After scanning, you will see official information from the manufacturer, which will help to avoid counterfeiting.

πŸ“Š How often do you use a scanner on your smartphone?
Every day.
Several times a week
Nearby
Only in the stores.
Never.

Advanced features: hidden scanner functions MIUI

Few people know, but the Xiaomi Redmi Note scanner can perform tasks that typically require separate apps. Here are a few hidden features worth trying:

  • 🌍 Real-time translation: hover your camera over foreign text (like a sign or menu) and the scanner will prompt you to translate it via Google Translate or Xiaomi Translate.
  • 🌿 Plant identification: In some regional firmware (e.g. Chinese firmware), the scanner is integrated with PlantID and can recognize plant species by leaves or flowers.
  • πŸ’΅ Banknote verification: Available in Asia – scanner analyzes the security elements of banknotes and reports authenticity.
  • πŸ“‘ Network port scanning: Professional (not available on all models) can check open ports on routers or smart home devices.

To activate these functions, open the Scanner app, click on the three dots in the upper right corner, and select Settings. Here you will find switches for additional options, such as to enable translation of text:

Settings β†’ Additional functions β†’ Text recognition β†’ Enable translation

Important: some features may require an internet connection, as data processing takes place on Xiaomi servers. Also note that on budget models of the Redmi Note (for example, Note 8 or Note 9), some advanced options may be missing due to hardware limitations.

πŸ’‘

If you don’t have advanced scanner features available in your region, try changing your region to β€œIndia” or β€œChina” in the settings. MIUI. To do this, go to the Settings. β†’ Additionally. β†’ Region.

How to scan documents and save them in PDF

The Xiaomi Redmi Note scanner can replace a full-fledged document scanning app like CamScanner or Adobe Scan to scan a document (passport, receipt, contract) and save it in format. PDF, follow the instructions:

Prepare the document on a flat surface with good lighting

Open the Scanner app and select Document mode.

Point the camera so that the document fits fully into the frame

Press the capture button and adjust the edges (if necessary)

Save the file in PDF Possible to add multiple pages-->

After the scan, you can:

  • πŸ”„ Turn the document if it turns out to be curved.
  • βœ‚οΈ Cut the edges to remove excess background.
  • 🎨 Use filters (Black and White, Improved text) for better readability.
  • πŸ“Ž Add pages to one PDF-File (convenient for multi-page documents).

Ready. PDF possible:

  • πŸ“€ Send by email or messenger (Telegram, WhatsApp).
  • πŸ–¨οΈ Printing through Google Cloud Print.
  • πŸ“ Save to Mi Cloud or Google Drive.

⚠️ Note: When scanning sensitive documents (passports, driver's license), turn off automatic download to the cloud in the scanner settings. β†’ Confidentiality β†’ Download to the cloud and deactivate the option.

If you need to scan a high-resolution document, use Professional mode in the scanner settings. This will increase the size of the final file, but improve the quality of the text. For example, for scanning fine print in contracts, a resolution of at least 1200 is recommended. DPI (If supported by your model).

Problems with the scanner on Redmi Note: causes and solutions

Sometimes the Xiaomi Redmi Note scanner may not work correctly, not recognize codes, not be able to get a bug, or not start at all, and let’s look at the most common problems and how to fix them.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
The scanner doesn't recognize. QR-codePoor lighting or dirty cameraWipe the lens, turn on the flashlight or move to a lighter place
The scanner application is missingRemoved or disabled in settingsInstall Mi Scanner from the store or activate via Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Show system-based
The scanner says the error "I couldn't read the code"Damaged or non-standard codeTry another app (like Google Lens) or check the code on another device
Slow scanner operationBusy memory or weak processorClose the background apps or restart the phone
No sound signal during the scan.Disabled sound in the scanner settingsEnable the scanner settings β†’ Sounds and vibrations

If the scanner stopped working after the update MIUI, Try resetting his settings:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Application Management.
  2. Find the scanner (or Mi Scanner).
  3. Select Warehouse. β†’ Clear the data.
  4. Reboot the phone.

On Redmi Note 10 Pro and later, there is sometimes a conflict between the standard scanner and Google Lens if both apps are trying to process the same code.

Settings β†’ Google β†’ Lens β†’ Automatic recognition β†’ Disable
What if the scanner can’t see the codes in a dark room?
Turn on the flashlight directly from the scanner interface – click on the icon to do this. πŸ”¦ If you don't have an icon, activate the flashlight through the notification panel before you start the scanner, and you can also increase the exposure manually by touching the screen and holding your finger on the focus code.

Security when using a scanner: how not to run into scammers

QR-Not only can codes and barcodes be useful, they can be dangerous. Fraudsters often use them to spread malicious links or phishing. Here's how to protect yourself when scanning:

  • πŸ›‘οΈ Check the links before opening: if you see suspicious after scanning URL (For example, with typos in the name of the site, do not go through it.
  • πŸ”’ Do not enter logins / passwords: legitimate services (banks, public services) are never asked to log in through the service. QR-code.
  • πŸ“± Use Proven Scanners: Xiaomi’s standard scanner blocks known malicious code, unlike some third-party apps.
  • πŸ’³ Beware of β€œpayment codes” if you are offered to pay something through the payment process. QR, Make sure it is an official code (e.g. in SberMarket or Wildberries stores).

On the Redmi Note with MIUI 12+ If the scanner shows a message, "This code may be dangerous," you better ignore it:

Settings β†’ Privacy β†’ Security of the scanner β†’ Enable link verification

Be especially careful with codes that:

  • πŸ“Œ Pluted over official (for example, at ATMs or payment terminals).
  • πŸ“§ They are sent by unknown senders (SMS, messengers).
  • 🎁 Promises of winnings or gifts (a common phishing method).

⚠️ Note: On Redmi Notes with root rights or custom firmware, the standard scanner may not block malicious code. In this case, install additional link verification software, such as VirusTotal or Dr.Web LinkChecker.

Alternative apps for scanning on Xiaomi Redmi Note

If you don't like the standard scanner, you can use third-party apps.-5 Alternatives with unique functions:

AnnexAdvantagesDeficiencies
Google LensIntegration with Google Search, Object Recognition, Text TranslationRequires an internet connection, sometimes works slowly
Kaspersky QR ScannerChecking links to viruses, blocking phishingFree Advertising, Limited Functionality
CamScannerProfessional scanning of documents, export to PDF/DOCXPaid features, watermarks in the free version
QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play)Quick scan, code history, generator QRAdvertising, there is no Russian language in the interface
Microsoft LensGood text recognition, integration with Office 365Registration is required for some functions

To install an alternative scanner:

  1. Open Google Play Market or AppGallery.
  2. Enter the name of the application in the search.
  3. Click Install and wait for the download to be completed.
  4. At the first start, give access to the camera and storage.

On Redmi Note with limited memory, we recommend using lightweight scanners, such as: QR & Barcode Scanner (weight) ~5MB) or Barcode Scanner from ZXing Team. They don't load the system and they don't work with the Internet.

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Xiaomi’s standard scanner is suitable for most tasks, but if you need specific features (e.g. scanning in the computer). 3D or voice recognition, it is better to use specialized applications.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the scanner on Xiaomi Redmi Note

Can I scan it? QR-codes?
Yes, the standard Xiaomi scanner recognizes codes offline, but some features (such as translating text or searching for goods by barcode) require a connection to the network. QR & Barcode Scanner with Local Database.
How to scan the code from another phone screen?
Reduce the brightness of the screen of the device you are scanning from to avoid glare. You can also take a screenshot of the code and open it in the gallery - then click Share. β†’ Scanner (if this option is available in your firmware).
Why can't the scanner see the codes on the packages?
Possible causes: too small or damaged barcode, low lighting, or a camera with low resolution (on older Redmi Note models). Try to bring the phone closer (5-10 cm) or use a flashlight. Also check if the code is closed with protective film.
Can we create our own? QR-code for Xiaomi Redmi Note?
Yes, for that: Open the Scanner app. Click on the icon. + Create or create (depending on version) MIUI). Select the code type (link, text, contact, Wi-Fi). Enter the data and press G.ENERSave or share code. If a standard scanner doesn't have a generator, use apps. QR Code Generator or Barcode Generator.
How to transfer the scan history to another phone?
The standard Xiaomi scanner doesn't sync history between devices. To save scans: Open the history in the Scanner app. Click three dots next to the code you want and select Export. Save the data to a file or send it to your own mail. On a new phone, import data through the same app. Use cloud services like Google Drive or Mi Cloud to automate.