Unlocking fingerprint on Xiaomi: full instructions from A to Z

The fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi smartphones is not just a convenient way to unlock, but also an additional layer of security. However, many users face problems: the sensor does not recognize the finger, works with a delay or refuses to save fingerprints at all. In this article, we will examine all the nuances of the configuration, from the basic addition of a fingerprint to solving common errors.

It is important to understand that the scanning algorithms on Redmi, POCO and Xiaomi flagship models (such as Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro+) may differ. We will take these features into account and give recommendations for different versions of MIUI (including MIUI 14/15).

If you’ve just bought a smartphone or upgraded your firmware, the first thing you do is check if the sensor is activated in your security settings. Often, problems arise from software failures or physical damage to the module, and we’ll teach you how to distinguish one from the other.

1. Preparing the smartphone before setting up the fingerprint

Before you add a fingerprint, make sure your Xiaomi is ready for it.

• 📱 Update. MIUI Up to the latest version: old firmware may contain bugs in the sensor. → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🔋 The battery must be at least 20% charged, and at low charge, the system can block the addition of biometric data.
• 🧴 Sensor and finger cleanliness: fat, sweat or dirt on the sensor or skin distorts the scan.Wash the sensor with a dry wipe.
• 🔒 Install. PIN-code or pattern lock, without which you can not add a fingerprint (android security requirement).

Pay special attention to the type of sensor on your model:

⚠️ Warning: If you have recently dropped your phone or noticed cracks near the sensor, do not try to add fingerprints. A damaged sensor may not store data correctly, which will lead to permanent unlock errors.

2. Step-by-step instructions: how to add a fingerprint

The process of adding a fingerprint takes no more than a minute, but requires accuracy.

1. Open Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Enter yours. PIN-code or pattern lock for confirmation.
3. Click Add Fingerprint and select a finger (e.g., right thumb).
4. Hold your finger tightly against the sensor until you feel the vibration, repeat this 10 to 15 times, changing the angle of the finger.
5. After a successful scan, set up fingerprint actions: unlock, confirm payments, access to hidden folders.

The important point: if you use Xiaomi with AMOLED-screen (e.g. Redmi) K70), The sensor might be worse off in bright sunlight:

Dim the brightness of the screen to 50-70%

Use your finger without gloves or stickers

Hold your phone perpendicular to your finger (not at an angle)

Repeat the scan in a dark room if the sensor is optical-->

If the system gives an error "Can't add a fingerprint", try:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone and repeat the process.
• 🧼 Wipe the sensor with an alcohol napkin (without abrasives!).
• 👆 Adding another fingerprint – possibly a problem in skin damage.

💡

If you have dry or cracked skin on your fingers, apply a little cream before the scan. This will improve contact with the sensor, but do not overdo it - excess cream will backfire.

3. How to remove or change saved prints

Removal of the fingerprint may be necessary if:

• 🚫 You don’t want to use this finger to unlock it anymore.
• 🔧 The fingerprint is poorly stored (permanent recognition errors).
• 👥 Another person is using the phone and you want to delete their data.

To remove the print:

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Fingerprint.
2. Enter. PIN-proof-code.
3. Click on the desired print and select Remove.

To save the print (if it is not working properly):

1. Delete the current print.
2. Add it again, paying attention to the edges of the finger – they are often scanned incorrectly.
3. When scanning, change the force of pressing: light → medium → strong.

⚠️ Note: On some Xiaomi models (e.g, POCO X5) After removing all fingerprints, the system may require reconfiguration. PIN-It's okay -- that's how unauthorized access protection works.

4. Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even when you're properly configured, the sensor can malfunction.

If the sensor stops working after a phone drop or contact with water:

• 💧 Don’t dry your phone with a hair dryer – it can damage the sensor permanently.
• 📴 Turn off the device and leave in rice for 24 hours (if there was moisture in the air).
• 🔧 After drying, check the sensor. If there is a problem, contact the service.

5. Optimization of the sensor: tips for experienced users

If you want your fingerprint scanner to work as quickly and error-free as possible, use these tips:

• ⚡ Turn off animations in the developer settings (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Tap 7 times, then Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Animation. = 0.5x). This will speed up the sensor response.
• 🔄 Add the same finger twice at different angles, for example, save your right thumb as your thumb (top) and your thumb (bottom) by scanning it at different inclinations.
• 🛡️ Use the fingerprint to confirm payments in Google Pay or Mi Pay. To do this, turn on the option in the fingerprint settings: Use for payments.
• 🔋 Watch the temperature of the phone. When overheating (above 40)°C) the sensor may be deactivated for protection.

For models with optical sensors (under the screen), it is useful to calibrate the sensor:

1. Delete all prints.
2. Reboot the phone.
3. Add the fingerprints again, starting with the most commonly used fingers.

💡

Not only does the sensor affect the speed of fingerprint recognition, but the performance of the processor as well. On budget models (like the Redmi 12C), latency can be as high as 1-2 seconds, which is normal for their hardware platform.

6.Security: How to protect fingerprint data

Fingerprints are stored in the Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) and not transferred to the cloud, but there are risks to be aware of:

• 🔓 Physical phone access: If someone gets your phone unlocked, they can add their fingerprint.Always lock the screen when transferring the device.
• 🛠️ Repairs to unofficial services: When replacing the motherboard or sensor, fingerprints may be lost or copied. Use only authorized Xiaomi service centers.
• 📱 Outdated versions MIUI: firmware MIUI 12 were vulnerabilities that circumvent biometric security.

To check which apps have access to the fingerprint sensor:

1. Open Settings → Applications → Permissions → Other permissions → Biometrics.
2. Make sure that only trusted programs (such as banking applications) have access.
3. Turn off permission for suspicious applications.

⚠️ Note: On some Xiaomi models (e.g, POCO F4) There's a bug: once you reset the settings, the prints remain in the sensor's memory, but they don't show up in the menu. /data via Fastboot (this will delete all user data!).

7. Alternative methods of unlocking in case of sensor failure

If the fingerprint scanner has stopped working, it is important to have spare unlock options.

• 🔢 PIN-code or password: required to add fingerprints, but also serves as a backup method. Use a combination of 6+ symbolism.
• 🖼️ pattern lock: convenient, but less secure. MIUI 14+ You can configure an invisible key (lines are not displayed when you enter).
• 👤 Facial recognition: works on most Xiaomi models (except the most budget ones). → Passwords and security → Facial recognition.
• 🔑 Smart Lock: Automatically unlock in trusted locations (home, work) or when connected to trusted devices (e.g. Mi Band).

To enable Smart Lock:

1. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Smart Lock.
2. Add Trusted Devices (such as Mi Band 8) or Trusted Places (via GPS).
3. Set up an automatic lock timeout (recommended 5-10 minutes).

If you forgot. PIN-code and can not unlock the phone:

• 📧 Use your Mi Account to reset your password (if sync is linked and enabled).
• 🔄 Perform a hard reset via Recovery Mode (delete all data!). To do this, pinch the Power + Volume up when the phone is off.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up fingerprints on Xiaomi