You just bought a Xiaomi Redmi. 9C And I noticed that there was no mention of the NFC — Or vice versa, did the vendor say there was a module, but you don't know how to activate it? This article will look at the nuances of Near Field Communication technology for the Redmi budget model. 9C, And we're going to answer some of the key questions: Does the device support contactless payments, can we redesign the device to work with the phone? NFC, What alternative solutions exist for smartphone owners without a built-in module.
Let's warn you right away. 9C (Angelica codename not officially equipped with a chip NFC In neither version, nor in the global (MIUI Global, neither in Chinese (MIUI However, this does not mean that you will not be able to use contactless functions. In the article you will find an overview of external accessories, software workarounds and instructions for setting up analogues (for example, for example, the user will find an overview of external accessories, software workarounds, QR-code LE). We will also discuss why Xiaomi has been excluded. NFC From the budget line and whether to buy Redmi 9C 2026 if you need to support contactless technology.
For convenience, we have divided the material into practical blocks: from theory (what is it) NFC and how it works) to specific steps to adjust the alternatives. If you need to find an answer quickly, use the table of contents or FAQ end-of-article.
What is NFC in a Smartphone and How Does It Work?
NFC (Near Field Communication is a short-range wireless communication technology (up to 10 cm) that allows you to exchange data between devices or read information from tags:
- 💳 Contactless payments (Google Pay, Apple Pay, Mi Pay).
- 🔑 Key emulations (access cards, transport tickets).
- 📱 Fast File Transfer (Android Beam).
- 🏷️ Interactions with smart tags (task automation).
The technology runs at 13.56 MHz and consumes minimal energy, making it ideal for mobile devices, NFC It doesn't require pairing -- just hold the smartphone to a terminal or other device. 9C hardware-module NFC It is not physically available, so all of the listed functions are not available out of the box".
It is important to understand the difference between passive and active. NFC:
- Passive mode: the smartphone reads data from the tag (for example, a poster from the NFC-chip).
- Active mode: two devices communicate (e.g., transferring contacts between phones).
Without a physical Redmi chip 9C It cannot work in any of these regimes.
⚠️ Note: Some vendors may claim that NFC redmi 9C "It's software disabled, and you can activate it through the engineering menu, and it's a myth that the module just isn't installed on the device board. Any manipulation of the firmware won't add support. NFC.
Why Xiaomi Redmi is in the works 9C no NFC: formality
Absence NFC redmi 9C — Xiaomi’s decision, driven by several factors:
| Reason. | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Budget price | The model is positioned as the most affordable smartphone in the line (start price) ~$100). NFC-Chip and antenna would increase the cost by 5-10%. |
| Target audience | The main markets are developing countries (India, Indonesia, Latin America), where contactless payments are less common. |
| Competition with Redmi 9 | In the same lineup there is a model Redmi 9 (code lancelot) with NFC, standing $30 to 50 more expensive: Xiaomi segments features by price category. |
| Hardware restrictions | Polycarbonate housing and metal frame complicate the placement NFC-antennae without signal degradation. |
Interestingly, even in the newer Xiaomi budget models (e.g. Redmi). 10C or POCO C31) NFC The company is betting on an infrared port (for control equipment) and Bluetooth 5.0 as alternatives, but in 2026, this began to change, with some regions (for example, in Europe) even budget smartphones getting a new version of the smartphone. NFC Due to the growing popularity of contactless payments.
If support is critical to you NFC, Consider Xiaomi’s alternative models with similar price but modules:
- 📱 Redmi 9 (2020, ~$130 - full analogue 9C, s NFC.
- 📱 POCO M3 (2020, ~$150) is a more powerful processor and NFC.
- 📱 Redmi Note 9 (2020, ~$170) – Best screen and camera + NFC.
How to check for availability NFC Xiaomi Redmi 9C: 3 reliable ways
Thought Redmi 9C not officially equipped NFC, You should make sure of this yourself, especially if you're buying a device with your hands:
- Check through Settings: Go to Settings → Connections and sharing → NFC. If there's no point, there's no physical module. 9C This section is completely missing.
- Use of the application NFC Tools: Download the app from Google Play and start the scan. If you don't have a module, a message will appear "NFC not available".
- Check through the engineering menu: Enter the code ##4636## in the dialer, select Phone Information and scroll down. RF The band won't be mentioned. NFC.
You can also use services such as GSMArena or Device Specifications, where the specifications of Redmi are used. 9C clearly indicated absence NFC.
⚠️ Note: Some Chinese marketplaces (e.g. AliExpress) sell “modified” versions of Redmi. 9C stickered "NFC It's a trick -- physically installing a module in a finished device is impossible without soldering the motherboard.
Can we determine NFC-chip?
Alternatives NFC Xiaomi Redmi 9C: 5 working solutions
If you need functionality NFC, But you don’t want to change your smartphone, consider these alternatives:
1.External NFC-tags and readers
Can I buy it? USB-C NFC-adapter (e.g, ACR1255U post ~$30) or a wireless reader (e.g., SonMicro) NFC They connect to the smartphone via a OTG or Bluetooth, and allow:
- 💳 Emulation of bank cards (requires support from the bank).
- 🔑 Reading keys tags (for example, for intercoms).
- 📱 Transfer small files (up to 1 KB).
2. QR-payment-code
Most banks (Sberbank, Tinkoff, VTB) support payments on QR-Advantages:
- ✅ It works on any smartphone with a camera.
- ✅ Safer. NFC (Confirmation is required in the annex).
- ✅ Supported in most stores.
Disadvantage: slower than contactless payment.
3. Bluetooth LE data-transmitting
Bluetooth Low Energy Technology (BLE) It allows you to exchange data between devices up to 10 meters away:
- 📲 Transfer files via Nearby Share (Google) or Mi Share (Xiaomi).
- 🔓 Use your smartphone as a key for smart locks (such as Nuki or Aqara).
4. Smart watches or bracelets with NFC
If you need contactless payments, buy the Mi Band 7 Pro (~$70) or Amazfit GTR 3 Pro (~$150) (c) NFC. They sync with the smartphone and allow you to pay without getting your phone.
5. Cloud services for automation
For replacement NFC-tagging IFTTT Or Tasker. For example, set up geolocation automation:
- 📍 When approaching the house, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on.
- 🚗 When connecting to the car via Bluetooth, the navigator starts.
Identify the main task (payments, automation, data transfer)
Check compatibility with your bank/devices
Compare the prices for accessories (adapters, watches, tags)
Make sure that the solution is supported by your version. MIUI-->
How to set up contactless payments without NFC on the Redmi 9C
Full contactless payments through NFC on the Redmi 9C Impossible, can be used QR-We're going to look at the step-by-step settings for popular banks:
1.Sberbank Online
- Download the SberBank Online app from Google Play.
- Sign in and go to the Payments section → QR-code.
- Press Show QR — It can be scanned in the store.
- For payment on the Internet, select Payment by QR and scan the code from the cash terminal screen.
2. Tinkoff Bank.
In the appendix, Tinkoff:
- Go to the Maps. → Your card. → QR-code.
- Show the code to the cashier to write off the funds.
- For online payments, use Payment by Link (generate a one-time link).
3. Google Pay (without) NFC)
Google Pay requires that NFC For contactless payments, in some countries the option of Payment through QR:
- Open Google Pay.
- Click Pay. → Show me. QR-code.
- Show the code to the terminal or cashier.
⚠️ Attention: When paying by QR-Always check the amount and the recipient on the terminal screen. Fraudsters can swap codes at the checkout box office or in public places.
💡
If you pay a lot of money QR, Add the banking app widget to the home screen, which will speed up access to the code and reduce the risk of errors when manually entering.
Comparison of Xiaomi Redmi 9C with other budget smartphones for support NFC
If you haven't bought a Redmi yet 9C and doubting for lack of NFC, Compare it with the same price range (data for 2026):
| Model | Price (USD) | NFC | Alternative functions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Redmi 9C | $90–110 | ❌ No. | IR port, 3.5 mm audio, 5000 mAh |
| Xiaomi Redmi 9 | $120–140 | ✅ Yes. | IR port, 5020 mAh, Full HD+ screen |
| Samsung Galaxy A03s | $110–130 | ❌ No. | 90 Hz screen, 5,000 mAh |
| Realme C30 | $80–100 | ❌ No. | Unisoc T612, 5000 mAh |
| Nokia C21 Plus | $100–120 | ✅ Yes. | Android Go, 4,000 mAh |
As you can see from the table, Redmi 9C — It’s not the only budget smartphone without NFC. However, only the Redmi 9 and Nokia are listed. C21 Plus supports technology. If contactless payments are critical to you, you should pay extra. $20–30 and choose Redmi 9, which offers a better screen and a more powerful processor (Helio) G80 against Helio G35 into 9C).
On the other hand, if you want the cheapest smartphone for calls, social networks and simple tasks, Redmi 9C It is one of the best options in its segment thanks to:
- 🔋 Battery for 5000 mAh (autonomy up to 2 days).
- 📸 Three cameras (13 + 2 + 2 MPP).
- 🎮 The ability to play light games (Free Fire, PUBG Mobile at low settings).
💡
If you need it. NFC, But budget is limited, consider buying a used Redmi Note 8 (2019) or Redmi 8A — They are cheaper than new flagships, but equipped with NFC.
The future NFC Xiaomi budget smartphones: what to expect in 2026-2026
Recent trends have shown that NFC It's slowly becoming the standard, even for budget devices. Analyzing Xiaomi's announcements, you can make some predictions:
Progressive implementation NFC redmi:
- In 2023 NFC appeared in Redmi 12C (price ~$120 is a signal that Xiaomi is starting to equip even the most affordable models with the technology.
- It is expected that in 2026-2026 NFC It will become standard for all Xiaomi smartphones $120.
2. Alternative solutions for older models:
- Xiaomi may release external NFC-Smartphone adapters without built-in module (similar to Mi Smart Band with a mobile phone) NFC).
- Development UWB (Ultra-Wideband as a more universal alternative NFC (It is already available in Xiaomi 13 Ultra).
3.Integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem:
- NFC will be used more actively to manage the smart home (for example, tags to run scripts in Mi Home).
- New services will appear, such as contactless passes for offices or transport cards in the Mi Pay app.
If you plan to buy a new Xiaomi smartphone in the next 1-2 years, the chances of getting a new one are high. NFC "The box will grow significantly, but for Redmi. 9C The prospects of adding a module are zero – even custom firmware will not solve the problem of lack of hardware support.