Fingerprint unlock on Xiaomi: how to set up, add and fix bugs

The fingerprint scanner in Xiaomi smartphones is one of the most convenient ways to unlock, but not all users know how to set it up correctly, especially if you are talking about new models with HyperOS or devices with a non-standard location of the sensor (for example, under the screen or on the side button). In this article, we will discuss all the stages of configuration, from the basic addition of a fingerprint to solving typical problems when the scanner suddenly stops working.

Many people mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply put your finger to the sensor - but in practice, for reliable work, you need to take into account the nuances: for example, on models with a high-performance sensor. AMOLED-screens (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi) K60 Ultra) scanner under the display requires tighter pressing than the side sensor on the POCO X5 It is also important to understand that after resetting settings or updating the firmware, all saved prints are deleted automatically - they will have to be added again.

If you encounter an error such as "failed to add a fingerprint" or "Sensor is not responding", do not rush to bring the phone to the service. In 90% of cases, the problem is solved software - just clear the cache or restart the device. 9T) We have prepared separate recommendations for optimizing the scanner.

1. Does your Xiaomi support fingerprint unlocking?

Before you set up the scanner, make sure your Xiaomi model is equipped with a fingerprint sensor at all.In budget devices (like Redmi). A2 or POCO C50) It's often excluded for the cost of the sensor, and there are two ways to check for the sensor:

Method 1: Visual inspection

• 🔍 Side sensor: located on the power button (typical for Redmi Note 11, POCO X4 Pro).
• 📱 Subscreen sensor: no physical button, scan area is marked on the display (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T, Mi 11 Ultra).
• ❌ Absent: If there is no round or oval sensor on the back and the power button is not recessed, there is no scanner.

Method 2: Checking the settings

Go to Settings. → Passwords and security → Fingerprint: If the partition is missing or gray, there is no sensor. On some firmware (e.g. HyperOS), the path may be different: → Lock screen → Fingerprint.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI for Russia (e.g. Redmi) 10C The fingerprint scanner can be disabled software due to legal requirements, in which case unlocking the fingerprint will not be available even if there is a physical sensor.

2. Step-by-step fingerprint settings on Xiaomi

If you have a sensor, we'll move on to setup: MIUI 14, HyperOS and even old Android-based builds 11/12.

Step 1: Set your primary password

The fingerprint scanner is an additional way to unlock. You need to set the primary password first (PIN, It's a pattern lock or a text key, and without it, you can't add a print.

• 🔐 Go to Settings. → Passwords and security → Screen locking.
• 📝 Select the type of password (recommended) PIN 6+ figure).
• ✅ Confirm the new password twice.

Step 2: Adding a fingerprint

Now we add the print itself:

1. Open the Settings. → Passwords and security → Fingerprint (or Lock Screen) → Fingerprint on HyperOS).
2. Enter the current password for confirmation.
3. Click "Add fingerprint" and follow the instructions on the screen.
4. Place your finger on the sensor at different angles until the scale is 100% full.
5. Name the print (for example, "Indicative right") and save.

Fingers clean and dry

Sensor intact (no scratches)

The phone is charged at more than 20%

Disabled. VPN and energy-saving regimes-->

Step 3: Set up the action

After adding the fingerprint, you can configure what it will be used for:

• 🔓 Unlocking the screen is the main function.
• 🛡️ Payment confirmation (in Mi Pay, Google Pay).
• 📁 Access to secure folders (in Gallery or Notes).

⚠️ Note: On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) The default fingerprint scanner is disabled for payments due to bank requirements. → Annexes → Permit management → Fingerprint and activate the option for the desired banking application.

3. Optimization of the scanner: tips for different models

Even when you set it up properly, the scanner can be unstable, and here's how to improve it depending on the type of sensor you have.

For subscreen scanners (ultrasonic/optical):

• 🌡️ Avoid bright sunlight when scanning – sensor may crash.
• 💧 Wipe the screen with a dry wipe: greasy spots or moisture impair recognition.
• 🔄 If the scanner doesn’t work, try re-registering the print with a stronger press.

For side sensors (in the power button):

• 👆 Apply your finger not perpendicularly, but at a small angle (15-20).°).
• 🧴 Avoid hand creams before scanning – they create a film.
• 🔋 If the sensor stopped working after falling, check the integrity of the button (the plume may have moved away).

Subscreen (optical/ultrasonic)

Side (in the power button)

Rear (on the panel)

No sensor.

I don't know.-->

For older models (until 2020):

On devices like the Redmi Note 7 or Mi 9, the scanner can eventually "forget" fingerprints due to sensor wear.

• 🔄 Reboot your phone – sometimes helps to reset temporary errors.
• 🧹 Clear the system cache: Settings → The phone. → Memory. → Clear the cache.
• 📥 Update the firmware: in new versions MIUI Frequently fix scanner bugs.

💡

If the scanner refuses to recognize the finger after a shower or pool, wait 10-15 minutes - moisture in the pores of the skin can distort the print.

4.Typical errors and how to fix them

Let’s look at the most common problems and how to solve them. If your error is not described below, check the “Frequent Questions” section at the end of the article.

Mistake: "Can't add a print. Try again."

Causes and solutions:

• 🧼 Dirty Sensor or Finger: Wipe both with an alcohol napkin.
• 🔋 Weak battery charge: Connect charging (minimum 20%).
• 📱 Damaged Software: Reset the scanner settings in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Systemic → Fingerprint. → Warehouse → Clear the data.

Error: "Fingerprint sensor is not responding"

Algorithm of action:

1. Reboot the phone.
2. Check if the In-plane or Energy Saving mode is on, they can block the sensor.
3. Update the firmware through Settings → About the phone → System update.
4. If nothing helps, reset your settings (but back up first!).

Error: The scanner works, but it recognizes the fingerprint again

Possible fixes:

• 🔄 Remove the old print and add it again, putting your finger at different angles.
• 📉 Turn off animations in the developer settings (this speeds up the sensor response).
• 🛠️ If the problem occurred after a fall, the sensor could be mechanically damaged - a replacement is required.

5.Security: How to protect data when using a fingerprint

Although the fingerprint scanner is convenient, it's not as reliable as it might seem. Here's what you need to know about security:

Myths and reality:

• ✅ The fingerprint cannot be “guessed” – unlike the PIN-code.
• ❌ But it can be copied: with a high-quality picture of a finger (like a glass), attackers can recover the fingerprint.
• ⚠️ On some models (for example, Xiaomi with an optical scanner), the fingerprint is stored in a less secure form than on flagships with an ultrasonic sensor.

How to improve security:

1. Use the print together with PIN-code, not in its place.
2. Do not add fingerprints that you often leave on public surfaces (such as your thumb).
3. Enable the option "Require password after reboot" in the lock settings.
4. Regularly update the firmware – new versions close the scanner vulnerabilities.

What to do if your phone is stolen:

If your Xiaomi is in the wrong hands, your fingerprint can become a vulnerability.

• 📱 Remotely lock your device through the Mi Cloud service.
• 🔄 Change passwords from linked accounts (Google, banks, social networks).
• 📧 Remove the device from trusted in the Google Account settings.

💡

A fingerprint is a convenience, not a complete password replacement. Always use a complex one. PIN-code as a backup method of unlocking.

6. Comparison of scanners on different Xiaomi models

Not all fingerprint sensors are the same, and consider the key differences between the technologies Xiaomi uses in its smartphones:

Which scanner is better?

The choice depends on priorities:

• 🏆 Maximum safety: ultrasonic (but it is only in top models).
• ⚡ Unlock speed: optical subscreen.
• 💰 Budget option: side sensor in the button.

If you are often outdoors or work with wet hands (such as in the gym), an ultrasound scanner will be the best choice.

7. Alternative ways to unlock on Xiaomi

Fingerprint is not the only biometric unlocking method on Xiaomi.

Face Unlock (Face Unlock):

• ✅ It works even in the dark (on models with an IR camera, for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro).
• ❌ Less secure than a print (you can fool a photo on some devices).
• 🔧 Settings: Settings → Lock screen → Facial recognition.

Voice unlocking:

• 🎤 Available on all models with microphone.
• ⚠️ It works only in a quiet environment, easily fooled by voice recordings.
• 📢 Settings: Settings → Voice assistant → Voice unlocking.

Smart Lock (automatic unlocking):

Allows you to disable locks in trusted locations (such as home) or when connected to a trusted device (such as Mi Band).

• 🏠 Settings: Settings → Passwords and security → Smart Lock.
• 🔒 Requires an active Internet connection to determine location.

⚠️ Note: On HyperOS devices, some alternative unlock methods (such as voice) may be disabled by default due to security policies. → Additionally. → Special facilities → Universal access.

8. Frequent Questions (FAQ)