Introduction: Why Xiaomi needs to be QR-codes and where they meet
QR-codes have become an integral part of digital life, from paying bills to logging into Wi-Fi networks. POCO You may have to scan them every day, whether itβs logging into your Mi Account, connecting to smart Mi Home devices, or reading menus in a cafe. Fortunately, the manufacturer has integrated several built-in tools for this task, eliminating the need to install third-party apps.
In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of scanning. QR-codes on Xiaomi devices, from standard camera use to hidden features in system utilities. MIUI (12 to 14) and models without module NFC. You will also learn how to get around common bugs, such as when the camera "can't see" the code or when it sends a message "Can't recognize" the code".
Important: If you are using a device older than 2019 (e.g. Redmi Note 7 or Mi 9) SE), Some methods may require firmware updates. MIUI You can set up β The phone.
Method 1: Scanning through a standard camera
The fastest and most versatile method is the built-in Camera app, which works on all Xiaomi devices with MIUI 10 and later, including budget models like the Redmi 10A or POCO M4 Pro. The recognition algorithm here is optimized for speed: the code is read in 1-2 seconds in good lighting.
To scan. QR-code:
- π· Open the Camera app (the icon on the home screen or menu).
- π Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully within the viewfinder frame.
- π Wait for the notification at the top of the screen with a suggestion to click on the link or perform an action.
- π Tap notifications to open linked content (website, Wi-Fi network, etc.).
If the code is not recognized:
- π‘ Increase the brightness of the screen or turn on the flashlight (Notification Panel) β Lantern).
- π Move the phone to the front. 15-20 cm from the code - too close distance interferes with focusing.
- π Restart the Camera app (swipe up the screen in multitasking).
π‘
On some models (such as the Xiaomi 13 Pro), the camera automatically turns on macro mode when approaching the code. If recognition is frozen, turn off macro manually by touching the icon. πΌ camera-interface.
β οΈ Attention: On devices with MIUI 12.5 and older in camera settings (Camera) β Settings β Scanning. QR) You can turn off automatic code recognition. If the function doesn't work, check this setting.
Method 2: Built-in scanner in notification panel
Little-known fact: Xiaomi has a hidden scanner QR-This method is convenient when you need to quickly scan the code without starting the camera - for example, to log in to the application or pay for a purchase.
Instructions:
- Swipe your finger down from the top of the screen to open the notification bar.
- Touch the badge. π¦ "Lantern and hold it. 1-2 seconds.
- In the menu that appears, select "Scanner" (Icon) QR-code).
- Point the camera at the code - the result will appear immediately on the screen.
This works on all devices with MIUI 11 and later, but may not be available on some regional firmware (e.g. Europe).If the Scanner icon is not present, upgrade the system or use alternative methods.
Update MIUI to the latest version |Check regional settings (in Settings β Additional β Region) |Reboot phone |Reset the notification panel settings (Settings β Notifications β Reset)
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| Xiaomi model | Support for scanner in the panel | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 14 Ultra | β Yes. | It works consistently on MIUI 14. |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | β Yes. | Required to be included in the panel settings |
| POCO X5 Pro | β Yes. | Not on the global firmware |
| Redmi 9A | β No. | Only through the camera. |
Method 3: The Scanner App (Mi Scanner)
For users who need to scan codes regularly (for example, to work with documents or inventory), Xiaomi offers a separate application called Mi Scanner, which is pre-installed on most devices with MIUI 12 and later, but can be hidden in the Tools folder.
Advantages of Mi Scanner:
- π It recognizes even damaged or poorly illuminated codes.
- π Stores scan history (up to 100 last codes).
- π Supports generation QR-code.
- π Offline (does not require an internet connection).
How to find and use:
- Open the app menu and find the Scanner (or Mi Scanner). If it's not available, download it from the Mi App Store.
- Launch the app and point the camera at the code.
- To create your own QR-code, touch the icon β lower-right.
How to get back the remote Mi Scanner?
β οΈ Note: Mi Scanner has a default feature for sending statistics to Xiaomi. To turn it off, go to App Settings β Confidentiality β Send usage data and deactivate the switch.
Method 4: Scanning with Google Lens (for MIUI Global)
If you are using a global firmware MIUI (For example, on Xiaomi. 12T or POCO F4), The camera app can be integrated into Google Lens, Google's image recognition service. QR-codes, but also identifies objects, texts and even translations.
How to activate Google Lens:
- Open the Camera and tap the Google Lens icon (the stylized letter "G" in the circle).
- Put the camera on QR-code β the service will automatically offer an action (clicking on a link, saving a contact, etc.).
- For manual scanning, tap the Image Search icon at the bottom of the screen.
Google Lens is especially useful for codes with encrypted content (such as tickets or coupons) because it can recognize the format of data, but it requires an Internet connection and a Google account to work.
Method 5: Alternative methods for older models
On devices older than 2018 (such as the Redmi 5 Plus or Mi A1), built-in tools may be missing or unstable, and one of the proven solutions will help:
1. the application "Barkod Scanner" from Xiaomi:
- π₯ Install from the Mi App Store (search for "Barcode Scanner").
- π Supports barcode scanning and QR, It works without the internet.
2. Google Assistant:
- π€ Activate the voice assistant (Hold the Home button or say OK, Google").
- π Say: βScanned. QR-The assistant will automatically open the camera.
3.Mi Browser browser:
- π Open the browser and enter in the address bar: https://qr.code.
- π· Click on the camera icon in the search bar to activate the scanner.
On devices with MIUI 9 and below, the only reliable way to install a third-party scanner (such as Gamma Playβs QR & Barcode Scanner), but beware: some apps from Google Play contain ads or collect data.
The solution to the problems: why Xiaomi does not scan QR-code
If neither method works, it could be software or hardware constraints, and let's look at typical scenarios and how to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The camera doesn't focus on code | Lens contamination or software failure | Wash the camera with a napkin, restart the application |
| There is an error "failed to recognize" | Too small or corrupted code | Increase the brightness of the screen, try another angle |
| No scanner in the notification panel | Regional firmware restrictions | Install Mi Scanner manually or upgrade MIUI |
| The Scanner app is out. | Conflict with other services | Clear the cache (Settings β Apps β Scanner β Storage β Clear the cache) |
If the problem persists, check:
- π§ Camera Permissions: Go to Settings β Annexes β Camera. β Permits and enable access to the camera.
- π± System Updates: An Older Version MIUI It may not support new formats. QR-Update the firmware to Settings β The phone. β Updating the system.
- π οΈ Hardware malfunctions: if the camera is not focused even in normal mode, the module may be damaged.
π‘
Before visiting the service center, check the camera in safe mode (Plug the power button β Safe Mode). If the scanning is working, the problem is with third-party software.