Why you need NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T and what it can do
Technology NFC (Near Field Communication in Xiaomi Mi 9T — It's not just a contactless payment module, it's a versatile tool that allows you to share data between devices, connect accessories (such as Mi Band smartwatches or speakers), and automate routine tasks through the use of a mobile device. NFC-Although the model was released in 2019, its chip supports all modern standards, from Google Pay to Mi Pay (in regions where the service is available).
Many users mistakenly believe that NFC on the Mi 9T works only with bank cards, in fact, the range of applications is wider: from fast transfer of photos to control the smart home through Xiaomi Home. The main thing is to properly configure the module and understand its limitations. For example, in some MIUI firmware, the function is turned off by default to save battery power. Next, we will discuss how to avoid typical errors and make NFC work at full capacity.
An important nuance: in Xiaomi Mi 9T, the NFC chip is located at the top of the body (near the camera), so for stable operation, apply the device with this side to the terminal or other gadget.
Checking for NFC in your Xiaomi Mi 9T
Before you set up, make sure your smartphone is equipped with an NFC module at all. There are two models in the Mi 9T lineup:
- 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9T (codename) — NFC It is present in all versions.
- 📱 Xiaomi Mi 9T Pro (codename raphael) – also supports NFC, But may require firmware updates for proper operation.
To check for the module:
- Open Settings → About the phone → Full spec.
- Scroll down to the Wireless Networks block - there should be an NFC string: supported.
- If there is no item, try searching for settings to request NFC.
If the module is not in the specifications, but you are sure that you bought the Mi 9T (not a fake), check the firmware version. In older builds of MIUI 10-11, NFC support may have been hidden. Upgrade to MIUI 12+ through Settings → Software Update.
How to turn on NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T: step-by-step instructions
The module takes less than a minute to activate, but requires attention to detail.
- Open the settings and go to the Connections and Sharing section (in some firmwares, Wireless Networks).
- Slip on NFC (may be in the submenu Additional).
- Transfer the NFC slider to the On position.
- Below you will see the Android Beam option (for data transfer) – turn it on if you plan to share files.
After activation, an N icon will appear in the status bar (top bar), which means that the module is ready to work. If the icon is not available, try restarting the phone or resetting the network settings (Settings). → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings).
Enable NFC in the settings
Activate Android Beam (if necessary)
Update Google Pay to the latest version
Check the balance of the bank card (for payments)
Make sure the terminal supports contactless operations-->
Important! In some regions (e.g. Russia), Google Pay requires an unlocked bootloader and firmware Global ROM to run. If you have China ROM, payments may not work.
Configure contactless payments via NFC
The main use of NFC is to pay for purchases with a smartphone. On the Xiaomi Mi 9T, there are two options:
- 💳 Google Pay – works with most bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, World).
- 💳 Mi Pay – Xiaomi’s service supports UnionPay cards (mainly for China).
To set up Google Pay:
- Download the app from Google Play and log in.
- Tap Add the card and scan it or enter the data manually.
- Confirm the addition via SMS or push notification from the bank.
- Once confirmed, the card will appear on the list, and you can now pay by simply unlocking your phone and bringing it to the terminal.
⚠️ Note: If the terminal does not respond to the Mi 9T, Check: Is it on? NFC (N icon in status bar: Is the screen unlocked (some terminals require input) PIN-Is there any energy saving modes (e.g., ultra-economic in the MIUI shut off NFC).
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal doesn't see the phone | NFC is disabled or operating in the background | Turn on NFC, turn off energy saving |
| Required. PIN-phonecode | The bank has set up additional authentication | Enter PIN from the card in the application of the bank |
| Payment fails | Insufficient funds or the limit is exceeded | Check balance and limits in mobile bank |
| Mi Pay doesn't work | Region not supported or not supported by UnionPay Card | Use Google Pay or Local Alternatives |
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If you pay with your smartphone often, add the Google Pay shortcut to the home screen. To do this, press the free space on the screen → Widgets → find Google Pay and drag it to a convenient place.
NFC Data Transfer: Android Beam and Alternatives
In addition to payments, NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T allows you to quickly share files with other Android devices, using Android Beam technology, but since 2020 Google has officially stopped supporting it, but the feature still works on many smartphones, including the Mi 9T.
To transmit the file:
- Enable NFC and Android Beam on both devices.
- Open the file (photo, contact, link) you want to send.
- Bring the Mi 9T to another smartphone (back to back).
- Wait for the sound signal or vibration – the transmission will start automatically.
If Android Beam doesn’t work, use the following alternatives:
- 📲 Xiaomi Quick Share (built-in) MIUI 12+) — It works via Wi-Fi Direct, but faster. NFC.
- 📲 Applications like Send Anywhere or Files by Google support transmission NFC followed by a Wi-Fi connection.
⚠️ Note: When transmitting data through NFC speed-limited ~400 Kb/s. For large files (video, archives), it is better to use Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth 5.0, which are in Mi. 9T work much faster.
Use of the NFC-tags for automating tasks
One of the most interesting features of NFC is the ability to program tags, which are small stickers that, when you put a smartphone, do things that you want to do, like you can configure:
- 🔊 Automatic Bluetooth turn on and connect to the column in the car.
- 📵 Going to silent mode when applying to a tag on the desktop.
- 📷 Quickly launch a camera or other application.
To work with tags will require:
- Buy NFC-tags (e.g, NTAG213/215/216 — stand ~50-200 pound-a-piece).
- Install a recording application, such as: NFC Tools (a simple interface, suitable for beginners).
Program the tag through the app and attach it to the right place (for example, keys or a desk).
Example of setting up a tag to start a navigator in a machine:
- Open NFC Tools and select Write → Add Record → Launch the application.
- Select Google Maps or Yandex.Navigator.
- Hold the phone to the tag and wait for the record confirmation.
- Now, when you apply the Mi 9T to the tag, the navigator will open automatically.
How to Check Compatibility NFC-tagged with Xiaomi Mi 9T?
Solving NFC Problems with Xiaomi Mi 9T
If NFC is not enabled, payments are not enabled, or the device is not seeing tags, try the following steps:
- 🔄 Phone reboot – sometimes the module “hangs” after the update.
- 📱 Resetting settings NFC: Go to Settings. → Annexes → Application management. NFC In the list, open and click the Warehouse → Clear the cache.
Firmware update
Testing the antenna
If nothing works, check if the module is off at the core level.
- Enter the code ##4636## in the engineering menu.
- Go to the tab Information about the phone.
- Scroll down to the NFC block – if status is disabled, there may be a problem in the hardware.
⚠️ Note: Some custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) NFC It may not work due to the lack of proprietary drivers from Xiaomi. MIUI.
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The NFC in the Xiaomi Mi 9T is sensitive to metal cases.If payments don't pass, remove the case or use thin silicone models.