How to use the scanner on the phone Xiaomi Redmi: the complete guide

Modern Xiaomi Redmi smartphones have a built-in scanner that allows you to read QR- codes, barcodes and even scan documents without additional applications. However, many users do not realize the full potential of this feature or face difficulties in configuring it. In this article, we will discuss all the ways to activate the scanner, its hidden features and give practical tips for solving typical problems.

Unlike the older models, where the scanner was only available through third-party apps, the new Redmi (starting with MIUI 12) integrated this feature directly into system tools, which means that you don’t have to install Google Lens or other programs — everything works out of the box. But there are nuances: for example, on some models, the scanner is hidden in non-obvious menu sections, and in the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ it supports advanced text recognition from photos.

We tested the scanner on Redmi 10, Note 11 Pro, K50 and other popular models to create a universal instruction manual, and if you want to not only read codes for payment, but also digitize business cards, translate text from foreign languages or verify the authenticity of goods, this article is for you.

Where is the scanner in Xiaomi Redmi: 3 ways to open

Depending on the model and version of MIUI, access to the scanner may vary, and we've gathered all the options, including hidden methods for older devices.

The quickest way is to use the notification panel. Swipe down to open the curtain and find the scanner icon (pictured with a dot inside). If it's not there, click on Edit (pencil in the upper right corner) and add the widget manually. On Redmi with MIUI 14, the scanner can be called QR- code or Quick Scan.

• 📱 Through Camera: Open the standard Camera app, tap the More icon (three dots or lines) and select Scanner. On some models, the function is activated automatically when getting stuck over QR-code.
• 🔍 Through Search: Swipe down the screen to call a search, type in the “scanner” and select the Xiaomi Scanner system app.
• ⚙️ Through Settings: Go to Settings → Additional → Special Features → Scanner (relevant to MIUI 11-12).

If none of these things worked, check if the scanner is disabled in the security settings. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management → Scanner and make sure the feature is active. Redmi with Android 13 may require permission to use the camera, which the system requests when it first starts.

How to scan QR- Codes and Barcodes: Step-by-step instructions

The scanning process takes less than 5 seconds, if you know the nuances, and we'll look at it in the case of QR in the store or reading information from the packaging of a product.

1. Open the scanner in any of the ways described above. The framed viewfinder will appear on the screen, which is the scan zone. 2. Point the camera at the code so that it fits fully into the frame. The distance to the code should be 10-30 cm (for small barcodes, closer). 3. Wait for an audible signal or vibration - this means that the code is recognized. 4. The screen will display a notification with a request to click on the link (for QR) or product information (for barcode).

If the scan fails, try:

• 💡 Increase screen brightness (sometimes code is poorly read due to glare).
• 🔄 Turn the phone around — some codes are read only in a specific orientation.
• 📸 Insert a flashlight (the icon in the upper right corner of the scanner).
• 🔍 Clean the camera lens of dust or fingerprints.

On the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and newer models, the scanner supports recognition of multiple codes simultaneously, for example, you can read data from a label that has both a QR and a barcode on it. To do this, hold the camera still for 2-3 seconds, the system automatically detects all available codes.

Hidden Scanner Functions: What it Can Do, Apart from QR- Codes

Few people know that Xiaomi Redmi’s built-in scanner can do more than just read codes for payment, and here are some useful tips to make everyday tasks easier:

1. Document scanning. Point the camera at the passport, driver's license or other document, and the scanner will automatically highlight the boundaries, straighten the perspective and save the file in PDF or JPG format. The finished document can be sent by mail or to the messenger directly from the application.

2. Translation: If you point the camera at a foreign text (for example, on a package of goods), the scanner will suggest translating it through Google Translate or Xiaomi Translate.

3.Authentication of goods: When scanning the barcode on food or clothing, the system shows information from the Xiaomi Verify database, including the country of origin and reviews of other users, which helps to avoid counterfeiting.

4. Fast action. On MIUI 14, the scanner is integrated with system tools.

• 📞 Save the phone number from the business card directly to the contacts.
• 📅 Add an event to the calendar by scanning a poster or ticket.
• 🌐 Connect to Wi-Fi by reading QR- code from the router (without entering a password).

On the Redmi K60 and later, the scanner supports plant and animal recognition through integration with PlantNet, and just point the camera at a flower or tree to find out its name and description.

Problems with the scanner and their solution

Even on new Xiaomi Redmi smartphones, the scanner may not work properly, and we have collected common errors and ways to fix them, proven in practice.

Problem 1: The scanner won’t open or fly out

• 🔄 Reboot your phone – it resets temporary system errors.
• 📥 Update MIUI to the latest version in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
• 🛠️ Clear the scanner cache: Settings → Applications → Application Management → Scanner → Storage → Clear the cache.
• 🔧 Reset the application settings: in the same menu, click Reset settings.

Problem 2: Codes are not recognized or are read with errors

• 📸 Check the camera for physical damage (scratches on the lens).
• 🔦 Turn off the energy-saving mode — it may limit the camera's performance.
• 📱 Make sure the code is not corrupted (blurred, torn, or blocked by other objects).
• 🔄 Try another scanning app (like Google Lens) to rule out hardware problems.

⚠️ Warning: If the scanner stopped working after the MIUI update, try rolling back to the previous version via Settings → About Phone → Version MIUI → Three-point icon → Select a service pack. This will help if the error is related to a software failure.

Problem 3: No sound or vibration when scanning

Check the sound settings:

1. Go to Settings. → Sound and vibration.
2. Make sure that the media volume slider is not at zero.
3. Turn on the vibration when touching in the same menu.
4. For the scanner, set up alerts separately in Settings → Notifications → Scanner.

If the problem persists, reset the sound settings to factory: Settings → System → Resetting → Resetting the sound settings.

How to improve the quality of scanning: expert advice

If you use a scanner regularly (for example, for work or study), these tips will help speed up the process and avoid errors.

1. Optimize the lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates glare on glossy surfaces; it's better to scan with diffuse light or flashlight on; Redmi Note 11 Pro and later has Night Scan mode, which automatically adjusts exposure.

2 Use a manual focus. Tap the screen in the area of the code and hold your finger for 1-2 seconds to capture the focus. This is especially useful for small barcodes on drugs or machinery.

3.Tune sensitivity. In some models (Redmi K50 Pro, Note 12 Turbo) you can adjust the recognition speed:

1. Open the scanner and tap the ⚙️ icon (settings).
2. Select Scan Sensitivity.
3. Move the slider to High for quick readout or Low for accuracy (relevant for corrupted codes).

4. Create a shortcut on the home screen. To avoid opening the scanner through the menu every time, add it to the desktop:

• Press and hold the free space on the main screen.
• Select Widgets → Tools → Scanner.
• Drag the icon to a convenient place.

💡

If you often scan the same types of codes (for example, subway tickets), turn on the function Automatic Action in the scanner settings. The system will automatically open the desired application (for example, Metro Moscow) after recognizing the code.

Security: How to Avoid Fraud in QR Scanning

QR- codes are convenient, but can be dangerous if they contain malicious links. Fraudsters often forge codes on posters, in cafes or in parking lots to steal data.

1. Check the URL before you click. After scanning, the scanner shows the link -- take your time to click on it.

• 🔗 Domain: Official websites of banks or government services always have a secure protocol (https://) and a familiar name (for example, sberbank.ru, not sber-pay.ru).
• 📌 Text errors: Fraudsters often miswriting (e.g., "Public Services" instead of "Public Services").
• 🛡️ Security Certificate: There must be a lock icon next to the address.

2. Do not enter personal data. Legal QR- codes for payment (for example, to Sberbank Online or Tinkoff) never require entering a password or code from SMS during the scanning stage. If you are asked to provide such data after the transition, it is fraud.

3.Use verified apps. Xiaomi's built-in scanner has a database of dangerous links and warns of suspicious codes.If in doubt, check QR via Kaspersky QR Scanner or Avast Mobile Security.

⚠️ Warning: Be especially careful to scan codes in public places (stops, shopping malls). Fraudsters stick their stickers over real QR- parking or Wi-Fi codes. Always compare the code visually to official sources (for example, on the website of the city hall or telecom operator).

4. Turn off automatic actions. In the scanner settings (⚙️ → Automatic actions), you can prevent:

• Automatic connection to Wi-Fi.
• Opening links without confirmation.
• Keeping contacts from business cards.

This will add an additional confirmation step and reduce the risk of malicious code accidentally executing.

Alternative scanning apps on Xiaomi Redmi

If the built-in scanner is not functional or unstable, you can use third-party applications. We tested 5 popular options and selected the best ones.

To install an alternative scanner:

1. Download the app from the Play Market.
2. When you first start, grant permissions to use the camera and storage.
3. In the application settings, select the desired options (for example, automatically save scans in Google Drive).

If you work with documents often, we recommend CamScanner, which automatically improves scan quality, removes shadows and aligns perspective. For security, it is better to use Kaspersky QR Scanner, especially if you scan codes in public places.

💡

The built-in Xiaomi Redmi scanner is quite reliable for everyday tasks, but for professional use (digitization of documents, text translation) it is better to install a specialized application.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions