The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 is still a popular budget smartphone, despite the release of new models. One of the frequent questions users ask is where the NFC module is located in this device and how to use it correctly. Many people mistakenly look for an antenna under the back cover or in the battery area, when in fact everything is much easier.
In this article, we will not only show the exact location. NFC-The chip in Redmi Note 8 (including the Pro version), but also to understand the nuances of its activation, diagnostics of malfunctions and compatibility with contactless payments. NFC allegedly “disabled at the firmware level” or that it can be “filled” on its own.
Is there NFC in Redmi Note 8: official data and model versions
Before you look for a chip, you need to make sure that it is present in your modification at all. Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 was released in several versions, and not all of them were equipped with an NFC module:
- 📱 Standard version (M1908C3JG, M1908C3JH, M1908C3JI) — NFC It is not available in all regional firmware, including the global (MIUI Global) and European (MIUI EU).
- 📱 Redmi Note 8 Pro (T00, Begonia) — NFC It is available only in the Chinese version (model number). M1906G7E) and some Asian versions, European and global versions (M1906G7G, M1906G7T) go without a module.
- 📱 Redmi Note 8T (M1908C3XG) — The only modification of the line, where NFC It is available in all regional versions, including Russia and Europe.
To determine your model accurately, go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and see the Model line. You can also use the command in the engineering menu:
##4636##⚠️ Note: If your Redmi Note 8 is purchased in Russia, Ukraine or Europe and has a model M1908C3JG or M1906G7G (Pro, then NFC It's guaranteed to be missing at the hardware level, and no firmware or patches will fix it.
If you are in doubt, check for the chip through the app. AIDA64 (section → NFC) or CPU-Z (Sensors tab: missing item NFC Controller means that the module is not physically.
2 Where physically located NFC-chip in supported versions
In the Redmi Note 8 models where NFC is present (Note 8T and Chinese Note 8 Pro), the chip is integrated into the motherboard and connected to an antenna that runs along the top of the body.
- 🔧 The main chip NFC — is located under a metal screen next to the battery connector, closer to the upper left corner of the board (if you look at the phone from behind).
- 📡 antenna NFC — is a thin metal track running along the top frame of the display (under a plastic lining).
- 🔌 Connection Contacts – connect the chip to the antenna through a flexible plume that is attached to the board next to the camera.
The photo below shows the disassembled board Redmi Note 8T (clickable):
Photo of location NFC-chip
It is important to understand that NFC antennas have nothing to do with:
- ❌ antenna Wi-Fi/Bluetooth (flat-board).
- ❌ Wireless charging coil (not in this model).
- ❌ Approximate sensor (located above the display).
⚠️ Note: If you are taking your phone apart for inspection NFC, Be careful with the flexible antenna plume, which can be easily damaged when the back cover is not removed neatly. 80% of the time, it is not working. NFC» after repair is associated with the break of this plume.
3. How to enable NFC on Redmi Note 8T and Chinese Note 8 Pro
If your model supports NFC, you can activate it through standard MIUI settings.
- Open Settings → Connection and Exchange → NFC.
- Transfer the NFC slider to the On position.
- Select the mode of operation: 💳 Cards for emulation of bank cards (Google Pay, Mir Pay). 📱 Reading tags - for reading NFC-tag. 🔄 P2P — Data exchange between devices (Android Beam).
Google Wallet
Mi Pay
Pay World
If the NFC item is not on the menu, it means one of three:
- Your model does not support NFC (see section 1).
- Installed custom firmware, where the function is disabled in build.prop.
- The NFC controller or antenna is damaged.
In terms of price/efficiency ratio, it is easier to buy another phone with NFC (for example, Redmi Note 10 or POCO X3 NFC) than to upgrade the Note 8.
💡
It is not cost-effective to redesign the Redmi Note 8 to add NFC, and the cost of parts and work often exceeds the market price of the phone.
6.How to check NFC on Redmi Note 8 without special tags
If you don't. NFC-tags or terminal for payment, you can test the module at hand:
- PayPass/PayWave Bank Card: Turn on NFC on your phone. Hold the card to the top of the back cover (where the antenna is located).
Transport card (Troika, Strelka, Plantain)
Attach the card to the phone – in NFC Tools its UID (unique identifier) will be displayed.
Another smartphone with NFC
Activate Android Beam mode on both devices and try transferring a file (such as a photo).
If the phone does not respond to any of the devices:
- 🔄 Reboot your smartphone.
- 📱 Check if the signal is blocked by a cover or metal sticker.
- 🔧 Update the firmware to the latest version MIUI (bug NFC patch-fix).
What if NFC reads cards but doesn’t work with payments?
7. NFC Alternatives for Redmi Note 8 without module
If your Redmi Note 8 doesn’t support NFC, but you need contactless features, consider these options:
| The challenge | The alternative | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contactless payments | 💳 Bank card with PayPass | It works everywhere, no matter the phone. | You need to carry the card separately. |
| Label reading | 📱 QR-codes (via camera) | No need for additional equipment | Fewer functions than NFC |
| File transfer | 🔗 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Direct | High speed, no size restrictions | Requires pairing setup |
| Smart home. | 🏠 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth-Devices (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Home) | More automation opportunities | Higher energy consumption |
For payments can also be used:
- 💻 Samsung Pay (if there is a Samsung device) MST, It works even on terminals without NFC.
- 📱 Apple Pay (for iPhone) – if you have a second phone.
- 💳 Virtual cards in banking applications (SberBank Online, Tinkoff) – generation of one-time codes for online payment.