Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, but even it is not immune to problems with the proximity sensor. If the screen does not go out when you hold the phone to your ear during the call, or vice versa, it does not turn on after you turn it off, this sensor is to blame. In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by software calibration, not replacing the module.
Approximate sensor on Redmi Note 10 Pro (model) M2101K6G) It's located next to the front camera, and it's responsible for turning off the screen during a conversation, and it can be caused by software errors after an update. MIUI, This article contains three working calibration methods, including hidden engineering menus and ADB-teams, as well as methods of diagnosing malfunction.
Signs of malfunction of the proximity sensor
Before you start calibrating, make sure the sensor is the problem.
- 📱 The screen does not go out when you bring the phone to your ear during a call (the risk of accidental pressing).
- 🔄 The screen does not turn on after the phone is taken away from the ear (you have to press the power button).
- 🔦 Automatic brightness control is not working correctly (light and proximity sensors are often combined).
- 📞 In the call logs there are messages about the error SensorError: Proximity.
If the sensor is not fully responsive, check its physical condition: remove the protective glass (it can block the IR sensor) and wipe the area around the camera with an alcohol wipe. In 30% of cases, the problem is solved by cleaning.
⚠️ Note: On the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the proximity sensor is combined with the light sensor. If after calibration the automatic brightness stops working, reset the sensor settings in the engineering menu (section 3 of this article).
Method 1: Calibration through the engineering menu (without ROOT)
The safest method, no superuser rights required, is the engineering menu hidden in MIUI, but accessed through a secret code:
- Open the Phone app.
- Enter the combination: ##6484###
- Select Proximity Sensor (approximation sensor).
- Press Calibrate and follow the instructions on the screen.
Once calibrated, restart your phone. If the menu doesn't open, check if your carrier is blocking it (some firmware requires code entry ##4636# → Testing → Sensor Test).
Try another code (#36446337###)
Remove call blocking apps (they can intercept codes)
Update MIUI to the latest version
Reset network settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset)
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Method 2: Manual calibration via ADB (for advanced)
If the engineering menu didn't work, use ADB (Android Debug Bridge), a method that requires a computer and enabled USB debugging.
Steps:
- Turn on Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and click on MIUI Version 7 times.
- Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and activate Debugging over USB.
- Connect the phone to the PC, open the command line and type:
adb shell
su
echo 1 > /sys/class/sensors/proximity/proximity_calibrateIf the team doesn’t work, try an alternative route:
echo "1" > /sys/bus/i2c/devices/1-0044/proximity_calibrate⚠️ Note: Some of the Redmi Note firmware 10 Pro, the path to the sensor may be different. To find the right one, type in ADB ls /sys/class/sensors/ Look for a folder with the word proximity.
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If ADB issues a “permission denied” error, try getting a temporary ROOT first via Magisk (without unlocking the bootloader) or use the Sensor Calibration app from the Play Market.
Method 3: Reset sensor settings via Safe Mode
If the sensor is unstable (it turns on, then not), the problem may be in conflict with the installed applications.
- Turn off the phone.
- Press the Power button and hold until the Redmi logo appears.
- Once the logo disappears, immediately press and hold the Volume Down button until the phone boots up.
- In the lower right corner, the inscription Safe mode will appear.
In this mode, test the sensor (e.g., call another phone) if it works properly, uninstall the recently installed apps (especially those related to calls or automation).
Rebooted phone |Cleaning sensor with alcohol |Updated MIUI |Used the engineering menu |I haven't tried anything-->
Diagnostics of the sensor: how to check its performance
Before you calibrate the sensor, make sure it's physically fit.
- Install the Sensor Test application (e.g. com.innovative.sensortest).
- Open the Proximity Sensor tab.
- Close the sensor with your hand – the value should change from 5.0 cm to 0.0 cm.
- Remove your hand – the value should return to 5.0 cm.
If the readings are unchanged or the sensor shows N/A, the problem may be:
- 🔌 Oxidized plume contacts (disassembly required).
- 🛠️ Damaged sensor (replacement required).
- 📱 Incorrect firmware (try to reflash your phone via Fastboot).
| Symptoms. | Probable cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The screen does not go out during the call. | Sensor contaminated or uncalibrated | Cleaning + Calibration through the Engineering Menu |
| The screen will not turn on after the call. | Incorrect sensor thresholds | Reset via ADB or Safe Mode |
| The sensor is not responding at all. | Hardware malfunction | Diagnostics at the service center |
| Automatic brightness is not working | Failure of the light sensor (combined with the approximation) | Calibration of both sensors |
Frequent calibration errors and how to avoid them
On the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the proximity sensor uses an IR sensor that can fail when exposed to direct sunlight during calibration. Always perform the procedure in a room with normal light.
Common user errors:
- 🔄 Calibration through third-party applications without checking compatibility with MIUI 12/13/14.
- 📱 Use of non-original protective glasses (they can block IR rays).
- 🔧 Skipping the reset step after calibration (settings apply only after rebooting).
- 🛠️ Attempt to mechanically clean the sensor with sharp objects (use only a soft brush or napkin).
⚠️ Note: If after calibration the sensor is turned on backwards (on when approaching and off when diverted), then the threshold values have been confused. proximity_delay 1000 (where 1000 — delay time).
What if the sensor is calibrated but the problem remains?
Hardware replacement of the sensor: when it is not possible to do without it
If software methods fail, the proximity sensor can be physically damaged. On the Redmi Note 10 Pro, it is soldered into a flexible plume along with the front camera and light sensor.
- 💰 Replacement of the plume with sensors: 1500-2500 rubles (depending on the region).
- 🔧 Independent replacement: 800-1200 rubles (price of a plume on AliExpress).
- ⚠️ Risks: If you replace the camera or microphone, it can damage the camera.
If you choose to change the sensor yourself, use a temperature-adjusted hair dryer (not above 300°C) and a plastic mediator to separate the plume. On the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the plume is not only attached with glue, but also with latches - they are easy to break when you carelessly move.
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Before replacing the sensor, check if the problem is due to damage to the motherboard (for example, after a phone fall), in which case replacing the plume will not help, and you will need to solder the contacts.