The problem is QR-Xiaomi codes: why standard methods donβt work
QR-Codes have become an integral part of everyday life, from paying for purchases to logging in to Wi-Fi networks. However, owners of Xiaomi smartphones often face a situation where standard scanning through the camera refuses to work - the code is not recognized, the application crashes or there is no built-in scanner. MIUI: Depending on the firmware version and regional assembly, the functionality may differ dramatically.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods of reading. QR-codes on any Xiaomi models - from the budget Redmi Note to the flagship Xiaomi 14. MIUI, You'll also learn how to get around common errors (e.g., "Code failed to recognize") and why some of the errors are not recognized. QR-The codes are not scanned through a standard camera.
Method 1: Built-in scanner in Xiaomi camera
The most obvious method is to use the camera's built-in software. But there's a nuance here: MIUI 12 and newer scanning function QR-The codes can be turned off by default or hidden in settings to activate it:
- Open the Camera app.
- Go to Additional Mode (or Depending on the MIUI version).
- Select Scanner item QR-code (if not, see the next paragraph).
- Point the lens over the code. Recognition is automatic.
If the item Scanner QR-code not on the menu:
- π§ Go to Camera Settings β Additional features and enable the Scan option QR-code.
- π± In some models (for example, POCO X3) You need to update the camera app via Google Play.
- π After activation of the function, it may be necessary to restart the phone.
π‘
If the camera stubbornly does not recognize the code, try to turn on macro mode (flowers in the camera interface) - this helps when scanning small ones. QR-close-range codes.
β οΈ Attention: In regional firmware MIUI for Russia (for example, RU ROM) scanning QR-The codes through the camera may be blocked due to restrictions of Google Mobile Services. in this case, use alternative methods from the following sections.
Method 2: Mi Scanner application β hidden utility MIUI
Few people know, but in the firmware MIUI The Mi Scanner app (formerly called Xiaomi Scanner) is preinstalled, which can read not only the app. QR-codes, but also barcodes, and generate your own:
- π Through Application Search (Swipe Down on the Home Screen) β Enter Scanner).
- π In the Tools folder (if you have it on your phone).
- π οΈ In settings: Settings β Annexes β Application management β The βAllβ tabΒ» β Mi Scanner.
The Mi Scanner features a wider range than the camera:
| Function | Description | Example of use |
|---|---|---|
| QR scanning | It recognizes codes even from screens of other devices | Payment via SberPay or Tinkoff |
| QR generation | Creating codes for Wi-Fi, contacts, text | Quick transmission of password from the network to guests |
| The history of scanning | Save the last 50 scanned codes | Reopening the link without a new scan |
| Lantern | Automatic lighting in low light | Scanning codes in dark rooms |
Important: On models with MIUI Global Stable (e.g. Xiaomi 13T Pro), Mi Scanner may not be available β in this case, use Google Lens (see Method 3).
Method 3: Google Lens is a universal solution for all Android
If the built-in MIUI tools fail, Google Lens, a service from Google that is integrated into most Xiaomi smartphones (except Chinese firmware without GMS), will come to the rescue.
- Open the Google app (the icon with the letter βGβ).
- In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (a stylized image of the camera).
- Put the camera on QR-Lens automatically recognizes it and offers an action (open a link, save a contact, etc.).
The advantages of Google Lens:
- π It works even with corrupted or blurred codes.
- π Not only does he recognize QR, But also texts, plants, sights.
- π± Integrated in Google Photos β you can scan codes from already taken photos.
β οΈ Note: On smartphones with Chinese firmware (e.g. Xiaomi for the market) CN) Google Lens is missing because of the blocking of Google services. APK-version from apkmirror.com or use Method 4.
Make sure you're connected to the Internet|Allow access to the camera in the settings|Clear the Google app cache (if Lens doesn't open)|Update Google Play Services-->
Method 4: Third-Party Applications for QR Scanning
When standard methods don't work, third-party utilities come to the rescue. 10 popular scanners and selected the top-3 Xiaomi:
| Annex | Pluses | Cons | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR & Barcode Scanner (by Gamma Play) | Quick recognition, no advertising, scan history | No QR generator | Google Play |
| Kaspersky QR Scanner | Checking links to viruses, blocking phishing sites | Registration is required for full functionality | Google Play |
| NeoReader QR & Barcode | Recognises codes from screens, supports 50+ formats | Advertising in the free version | Google Play |
How to choose the best application?
- π‘οΈ For safety: Kaspersky QR Scanner (checks links to fraud).
- πΈ For scanning with photos: NeoReader (recognizes the codes in the pictures in the gallery).
- β‘ For speed: QR & Barcode Scanner (works without the internet).
How to check QR-security code before opening?
Method 5: Hidden MIUI features for advanced users
MIUI It hides a few useful pieces for working with QR-codes that are not mentioned in the official instructions:
- Quick scan from the notification panel: Add the Scanner widget to the Quick Settings panel: Settings β Notification panel β Edit β find the Scanner and drag into active elements Now you can scan the codes with one swipe down!
- Generation QR for Wi-Fi without third-party apps: Go to Settings β Wi-Fi β tap on your network β Share. The system will generate QR-plug-in.
- Scanning codes in energy saving mode: Enable in Settings β Battery β Energy saving mode β Additional β Allow scanning of QR.
Unique chip. MIUI 14+: If you point the camera at QR-code with a contact, the system will offer to immediately save it to Mi Contacts with reference to the Xiaomi account (synchronized between devices).
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Hidden MIUI features often depend on the firmware version, for example, MIUI 13 does not have a Wi-Fi QR generator, but MIUI 14 does. Update the system to access new tools!
Common mistakes and their solutions
Even on new Xiaomi smartphones, users face problems when scanning QR-Let's take a look at the top.-5 errors and ways of correcting them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| I couldn't recognize the code. | Poor lighting or blurred code | Turn on the flashlight, clean the camera, try another angle |
| The camera doesn't focus on the code | Dirt on the lens or close distance | Wipe the camera, move the phone 15-20 cm |
| Scanner app flies out | Conflict with other programs or an outdated version | Clear the cache (Settings β Applications β Mi Scanner β Storage β Clear the cache) |
| QR-The code leads to a non-existent page. | Code is out of date or damaged | Try scanning the code with another app (like Google Lens). |
| No sound when a successful scan is performed | System sounds or βDo Not Disturbβ mode are disabled | Check the sound settings in Settings β Sound |
If none of the methods worked, try resetting the camera settings:
- Go to Settings β Applications β Camera β Storage.
- Click Clear Data and Clear Cache.
- Reboot the phone.
β οΈ Note: On some models POCO (for example, POCO F5) After resetting the camera settings, Scanning mode disappears QR. In this case, update the camera app via Google Play or use Mi Scanner.