Scanning. QR-Xiaomi Redmi seems like a simple task β until you encounter errors like βCamera does not recognize the codeβ or βThe application does not support this formatβ. In 2026, the manufacturer simplified the process, but hid some features deep in the settings, and in new models (for example, the Redmi Note 13 Pro).+) Scanning algorithms work differently than in older Redmis 9A Note 10.
In this article - 5 proven ways to read QR-Xiaomi Redmi codes (including methods without installing third-party applications), analysis of typical errors and a unique life hack to scan corrupted codes through developer mode. If your smartphone does not recognize the code the first time, here you will find a solution.
1. Standard method: scanning through a Xiaomi camera
The most obvious method is to use Xiaomi's built-in camera, but not everyone knows that you don't need to install additional apps to do this: the QR scan feature is sewn into MIUI firmware since version 12.
- π± Open the camera app on your Redmi.
- π Point the lens at QR-code so that it fits fully in the viewfinder (distance - 10-30 cm).
- π If the code is recognized, a notification will appear telling you to click on the link.
β οΈ Note: On Redmi models with version MIUI 14+ (For example, Redmi Note 12 Pro, the scanning function is disabled by default to save battery power. To activate it, go to Settings. β Camera. β Scanning. QR-codes and switch on the switch.
Lighting's pretty bright (QR-code should not cast shadows)
The camera screen is clean (fingerprints interfere with focusing)
The code is not corrupted (more than 30% of the pixels must be read)
Portrait or Night mode is disabled (they distort the code)-->
If the camera persistently does not recognize the code, try an alternative gesture: hold your finger on the screen in the area. QR-It's 2-3 seconds, and on some firmware, it causes a forced scan.
Scanning through the notification panel (fast access)
Xiaomi Redmi has a hidden QR scanning feature right from the notification panel β it works even when the camera is busy with another app β which is especially handy for models with a weak processor (like the Redmi 9C or Redmi A1), where it takes a few seconds to start the camera.
- Swipe your finger down to open the notification panel.
- Find the Scan QR icon (usually hidden under the βMoreβ or βEditβ button).
- Click on it, and the camera's mini window opens. Point it to the code.
πΉ How to Add a Scan button to the Notification Panel if it is not available:
- Open Settings β Notification panel and status bar.
- Choose to edit Quick Settings.
- Find the Scan QR list and drag it to the active area.
Why can the scan button disappear?
3.Using the βScannerβ app from Xiaomi
All Redmi smartphones have a Scanner app pre-installed on them, and it's not just reading. QR-It can also recognize barcodes, it can recognize texts, it can even translate inscriptions in real time, but many users delete it because it's unnecessary:
- π Launch the Scanner app (if removed, download from Google Play at Xiaomi ScannerΒ»).
- πΈ Put the camera on QR-The application will automatically determine the type of code.
- π If the code contains a link, the Open button will appear in the browser. For Wi-Fi codes, a prompt to connect.
β οΈ Attention: The Scanner app has a hidden feature to save scan history. To disable it (for example, if you scan sensitive codes), go to the App Settings β History β Clean up.
| Application function βScannerβ | Supported code types | Features |
|---|---|---|
| QR scanning | URL, Wi-Fi, Contacts, Text | It works without the internet. |
| Text Recognition (OCR) | Printed text in 50+ languages | Requires a connection to the network for translations |
| Barcode scanning | EAN-13, UPC, Code 128 | Can be exported to Excel |
| Generator QR-code | Links, text, contacts | Codes are saved to the gallery |
Through a standard camera.
App "Scanner" from Xiaomi
Third-party applications (e.g. Google Lens)
Notification panel
In other ways.-->
4. Scanning through Google Lens (for complex codes)
If Xiaomiβs built-in tools fail (e.g., code is corrupted or too small), Google Lens will help, using cloud-based recognition algorithms that better handle distorted code.
- Open the Google (search engine) or Google Photos app.
- In the search bar, click on the Google Lens icon (the icon with a dot in a circle).
- Put the camera on QR-The service will automatically prompt actions (open a link, save a contact, etc.).
πΉ The Benefits of Google Lens:
- π Recognises codes even when 50% of the damage is done.
- π Supports codes with Cyrillic and hieroglyphics.
- π Can "finish" the code if part of the pixels are erased.
β οΈ Note: When scanning through Google Lens data QR-If the code contains sensitive information (such as a Wi-Fi password), use offline methods (built-in scanner or camera).
π‘
If Google Lens doesnβt recognize the code, try taking a screenshot. QR-And then open it in Google Photos and click on the Lens icon at the bottom of the screen. Sometimes it works better than direct photography.
5. Hidden method: scanning through developer mode
This method only works on Xiaomi Redmi with unlocked developer settings and allows scanning. QR-codes even when the main camera is turned off (for example, if it is damaged), the method requires preliminary adjustment, but can help in emergency situations.
π§ Step 1: Activate the Developer Mode:
- Go to Settings. β The phone.
- Press 7 times in a row on the MIUI version.
- Enter the password from the lock screen if necessary.
π§ Step 2: Enable the hidden scanning function:
- Back to Settings β Additionally. β For developers.
- Find the option to Enable QR scanning via ADB (Enable QR scanning via ADB).
- Activate it and restart the phone.
π§ Step 3: Scan the code through the engineering menu:
- Open the Phone app and enter the code ##4636##.
- Go to the tab Information about the phone.
- At the bottom of the screen will appear button Scan QR β press it and bring the phone to the code.
β οΈ Note: This method can reset network settings on some firmware (e.g., Redmi Note 11 with a s) MIUI 13.0.4.Pre-use save the Wi-Fi access points manually (write down passwords).
π‘
Developer mode allows scanning QR-codes even when the main camera is not working, but requires caution: careless actions in the engineering menu can disrupt the smartphone.
6.The solution to the problems: why Xiaomi Redmi does not scan QR-code
If neither method works, it could be due to settings or hardware limitations, and here are the typical errors and solutions.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The camera doesn't focus on code | Dirty lens or screen protection | Wipe the camera with microfiber, remove the case |
| The code is recognized, but the link is not opened. | Browser is not installed by default | Install Google Chrome or MIUI Browser as the default browser |
| The scanner app is giving you an error. | An outdated version of MIUI | Update the firmware in Settings β System Update |
| QR-Wi-Fi code does not connect to the network | Incompatible code format (e.g. WPA3) | Generate code again in WPA2 format through the Wi-Fi QR Generator app |
π Additional steps if nothing helps:
- π Restart your phone β sometimes a camera failure is fixed by a simple reboot.
- π± Check if the power saving mode is on, it can block the scanner from running in the background. Turn it off in Settings. β Battery.
- π§ Reset the camera settings: Settings β Annexes β Application management β Camera. β Warehouse β Clear the data.