Xiaomi Approximation Sensor: Where to Find and How to Check It

Have you noticed that when you call your Xiaomi screen doesn't go out, or you accidentally hit the buttons with your cheek, or the sensor stops responding when you put your hand up? The problem is probably the proximity sensor, a small but critical component that turns off the screen when you talk, and in this article, we'll look at where this sensor is located in different Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models, how to check it without disassembling the phone, and what to do if it fails.

Xiaomi’s smartphone design has evolved over the years: in older models (like the Redmi 4X or Mi A1), the proximity sensor was often placed next to the front camera, and in newer ones (like the Xiaomi 13 or POCO F5) it can be integrated into the screen or combined with other sensors. We have collected up-to-date data on popular series, including layout diagrams and photos of disassembled devices, so you can accurately identify the problem element.

What is a proximity sensor and how does it work

The proximity sensor is an infrared sensor that detects an object (like your ear or hand) up to 5 to 10 cm from the screen, and its primary function is to turn off touch input during a call to avoid accidental taps.

🔦 The sensor emits an IR ray (invisible to the human eye).
📶 If the beam is bouncing off a nearby object (like your cheek), the sensor picks up the signal.
📵 Android system gets command to lock the screen or disable the touch screen.

Most Xiaomi smartphones combine a proximity sensor with a light sensor (which regulates the brightness of the screen).Together they form a single module, which is usually located at the top of the front panel. However, in the latest flagships (for example, Xiaomi 14) can use under-display solutions – sensors hidden under the screen.

📊 What kind of Xiaomi smartphone do you have?

Redmi Note

POCO

Mi (series)

Black Shark

Other

Where is the proximity sensor in different models Xiaomi

The location of the sensor depends on the model and year of release of the device, and here we have collected data on the most popular series. Please note: if your model is not specified, focus on the year of release - the design of devices of the same generation is often similar.

Xiaomi model	Year of release	Location of the sensor	Features
Redmi Note 10/11	2021–2022	Right of the front camera (in the cutout)	Combined with light sensor
POCO X3/X4	2020–2022	Left of the front camera (in the cutout)	The module is round, black.
Xiaomi Mi 11/12	2020–2022	Under the screen (top)	Under-display technology is used
Redmi 9/9A	2020	Above the screen, next to the speaker	A separate module, seen as a small hole

Two methods can be used to accurately determine the location of the sensor in your model:

View the device's disassembly on YouTube (look for videos mentioning "teardown" or "disassembly").
Use the AIDA64 app (Sensor section) to check for a signal from the sensor.

💡

If your Xiaomi proximity sensor is hidden under the screen, it can’t be seen with the naked eye. In this case, use specialized applications such as Proximity Sensor Reset to diagnose.

How to check the proximity sensor without disassembling the phone

Before you take your phone to the service center, try to diagnose the problem yourself.

Enable the call mode (call another number)

Put your hand to the top of the screen, the screen should go out.

Take your hand away, the screen will light up again.

Repeat the test 3-4 times for reliability-->

If the screen doesn't go out or doesn't turn on after you've pulled your hand, the problem is confirmed, and you can use secret codes to test:

📱 Enter ##6484## (to check the sensors).
🔍 In the Engineering Settings menu, select "Proximity Sensor".
📊 Look at the graph: when you put your hand up, the value should change from 5 (far) to 0 (close).

If the graph doesn't respond or shows a constant value, the sensor is faulty, and you should also check the system settings:

Go to Settings → System → Additional → Special features.
Make sure that the “Screen Rotate” or “Smart Screen” option does not conflict with the sensor.

What if the sensor does not respond to the test?

If the sensor does not show the reaction either in the manual test or through the engineering menu, the reasons may be as follows: 1. Contamination of the module (dust, sweat, fat) - try to gently wipe the top of the screen with an alcohol wipe. 2. Damage to the plume after falling or disassembling the phone. 3. Firmware failure - sometimes helps reset to factory settings (but do not forget about the backup!). 4. Hardware breakdown - in this case, you will need to replace the sensor or the entire display module.

Typical malfunctions of the proximity sensor and their causes

Xiaomi's proximity sensor rarely fails on its own, usually due to external factors.

💥 A phone hit or fall – even if the screen is intact, the sensor plume could have been damaged.
💦 Moisture intake - oxidation of contacts leads to unstable work.
🔧 Poor-quality repairs – if previously changed the screen or battery, could damage the connectors.
📱 Software failure - after update MIUI The sensor may not work properly.
🧴 IR lens contamination – dust or fat blocks the signal.

Symptoms of proximity sensor failure:

📵 The screen does not go out during the call (the most common problem).
🔄 The screen is spontaneously turned on/off when talking.
📱 The sensor stops working when you hold your hand close to the top of the screen.
🔋 Fast battery discharge (the sensor is constantly active and consumes energy).

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If the proximity sensor fails due to mechanical damage (fall, impact), its replacement will cost less than repairing the entire display module. In Xiaomi service centers, the cost of work starts from 1,500 rubles (excluding spare parts).

How to fix the proximity sensor yourself

If the diagnostics confirm that the sensor malfunctions, you can try to fix the problem without going to the service.

1. Program reset

Sometimes the sensor fails because of a firmware error.

🔄 Restart your phone in Safe Mode (click the power button) → "Restarting in Safe Mode").
📲 Reset sensor settings via the engineering menu (code ##4636## → "Testing of equipment").
🔧 Perform reset to factory settings (don’t forget to save data!).

2. Cleaning the sensor

If the sensor is contaminated, gently wipe the top of the screen:

Use soft lilaless fabric soaked in isopropyl alcohol (at least 70%).
Don’t push hard – the sensor can be fragile.
For hard-to-reach places (such as in the camera's notch), use a cotton-tipped toothpick.

Replacement of the sensor (for experienced users)

If you're confident in your skills, you can replace the sensor yourself.

🛠️ Setting screwdrivers (PH00, Y00).
🔥 Hair dryer for softening glue (if you need to remove the screen).
📦 New sensor (buy on AliExpress or in service stores, specify the exact model of the phone!).

⚠️ Note: Sensor replacement in modern Xiaomi (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T or POCO F5 Pro) requires the screen to be removed, which can damage the plumes. If you've never taken a smartphone apart, you'd better call the professionals.

Where to buy spare parts for Xiaomi?

Reliable sites for buying original proximity sensors: 1. AliExpress – look for sellers with a rating above 98% and reviews of compatibility with your model. Example of a request: “Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Proximity Sensor.” 2. eBay – often sell used modules from disassembled phones (cheaper, but not worth the risk). 3. Local service centers – some sell parts in bulk. 4. Donor sites (for example, iFixit) – if you are looking for disassembly schemes and original parts.

Frequent questions about the proximity sensor in Xiaomi

📱 My Xiaomi doesn't turn off the screen when you call?

Not always, check it out too: 📵 A film or glass on a screen – if it closes the sensor, the signal does not pass. 🔧 Call settings: Go to Settings → Annexes → Phone. → Incoming calls and make sure the option "Screen turns off when you bring it to your ear" is enabled. 📲 Application conflict – some launchers or screen locking programs may interfere with the sensor’s operation.

🔧 Can I turn off the proximity sensor if it interferes?

Technically, yes, but it's not recommended. If the sensor isn't working properly, it's better to fix it than turn it off. However, if you're sure it's not needed, do this: Install the Proximity Sensor Reset app from Google Play. Open the app and click "Disable Proximity Sensor." Or use it. ADB-Adb shell settings put system proximity_delay 0 ⚠️ Warning: Disabling the sensor will lead to accidental pressing during calls and quick battery discharge!

💰 How much does it cost to replace the proximity sensor in the service?

Cost depends on the model and region: Xiaomi model (₽) Cost of the spare part (₽) Redmi Note 10/11 1 200–1 800 300–800 POCO X3/X4 1 500–2 000 500–1 200 Xiaomi 12/13 2 500–3 500 1 500–2 500 In official service centers Xiaomi price may be higher 20–30%, But you'll get a job guarantee.

🛠️ Can I replace the proximity sensor separately from the screen?

In most Xiaomi models, the proximity sensor is soldered into a flexible display plume, so replacing it requires removing the screen. However, in some devices (for example, the Redmi 9A or POCO M3), the sensor is a separate module that can be replaced without dismantling the display unit.

Conclusion: what to do if the proximity sensor is not working

So let's summarize:

🔍 First, check the sensor through an engineering menu or apps (AIDA64, Proximity Sensor Reset).
🧹 Clean the top of the screen – it’s possible the sensor is just contaminated.
📱 Update the firmware – sometimes bugs are fixed in new versions MIUI.
🔧 If nothing helps, contact the service or replace the sensor yourself (only if you have experience!).

Remember, the proximity sensor is not just a lotion, but an important element that affects the usability of the phone. If you ignore its malfunction, you risk accidental pressing, rapid battery discharge and even damage to the screen (if the phone is lying down while you call).

If your Xiaomi model was not mentioned in the article, write it in the comments - we will help you find the location scheme of the sensor!