The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, but many users still don’t know it supports NFC technology, which allows you to make contactless payments, transfer files quickly and even manage smart devices, but it’s not as obvious as it might seem: in some firmware, the menu item is hidden, and in others it requires additional settings.
In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step picture guide, understand why NFC might not work even after activation, and learn how to check if your Redmi Note 8 Pro is compatible with contactless services. We’ll also look at the unique feature of this model: the NFC module is implemented through a separate chip, rather than integrated into the processor, which affects the stability of the operation.
Check NFC support on Redmi Note 8 Pro
Before trying to turn on NFC, Make sure your smartphone supports this technology at all, because the Redmi Note 8 Pro came in a number of different versions, and not all of them are equipped with this technology. NFC-Here's how to test it:
- 📋 Look at the box: the original packaging should have a sticker with the inscription «NFC» or contactless pictogram.
- 🔍 Use it. AIDA64: install the application from Google Play, open the System section and find the item «NFC». If there is one, the module is present.
- 🛠️ Disassemble the smartphone: on the motherboard next to the battery should be a separate chip with markings NXP PN54T (That's it. NFC-module).
If neither method has confirmed NFC, then your version of the Redmi Note 8 Pro does not support the technology, in which case all further manipulation is useless. Note that even if the module is present, it can be disabled at the firmware level - especially in the Chinese versions of the smartphone (with a CN marker in the model number).
Where is NFC in the Redmi Note 8 Pro settings
Unlike Xiaomi’s flagship models, where NFC is enabled in two clicks, the way to setup on the Redmi Note 8 Pro may vary depending on the version of MIUI.
- Standard path (MIUI 12 and later): Settings → Connections and Sharing → NFC Here you will see a slider for activating the function.
- Hidden mode (MIUI 11 and old firmware): Settings → Additional → Wireless networks → NFC If there is no item, try updating the firmware.
- Through the notification bar: Swipe down from the top edge of the screen and find the NFC icon (it may not be the default one – add manually by clicking “Edit”).
If you don't find NFC in the settings, it doesn't always mean it's not there. It may be hidden by the manufacturer for specific regions, in which case unlocking hidden settings through the engineering menu or third-party apps (more on this in the next section).
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Some firmwares have a point. NFC It only appears after insertion SIM-cards with support for contactless payments (for example, Sberbank or Tinkoff).
How to turn on NFC if it is not in the settings
If the standard methods don't work, don't get upset. There are several alternative methods that can help activate the module:
- 🔧 Use the engineering menu: Open the Phone app and type ##4636##. Go to Phone Information. Scroll down and find the item «NFC». If you have it, tap it and turn it on.
Install third-party software
Applications like NFC Tools or Trigger sometimes wake up the sleeper module, download them from Google Play and follow the instructions.
Update the firmware
Go to Settings → About Phone → Update system and install the latest version of MIUI. In new builds, NFC often appears on the menu.
⚠️ Warning: Be careful with the engineering menu! improper actions can result in a network reset or even a lockdown IMEI. Do not change the settings unless you are sure of their purpose.
Check the availability of the module through AIDA64
Update MIUI to the latest version
Install an app for NFC diagnostics
Make a backup copy of the data (in case of resetting)-->
Configuring contactless payments
Turning on NFC is only half the battle, and to use contactless payments, you need to set up your wallet correctly and link your bank card.
- Install the Bank App: Download the official application of your bank (for example, Sberbank Online, Tinkoff or Alpha-Click) from Google Play.
- Add a card to Google Pay: Open Google Pay (if not, install it). Click Add Card and scan or enter data manually. Confirm the addition via SMS or push notification from the bank.
- Setting up your default payments: In the NFC settings, select Payment → Google Pay (or another wallet if you use Samsung Pay or Mir Pay).
Important: for contactless payments to work on the Redmi Note 8 Pro, it is necessary that the smartphone is unlocked (there was no active payment). PIN-the code or pattern lock at the time of payment, otherwise the terminal may not recognize the card.
| Bank | NFC support for Redmi Note 8 Pro | Max, the sum without a PIN. |
|---|---|---|
| Sberbank | Yes (via Google Pay) | 1 000 ₽ |
| Tinkoff | Yes (own appendix) | 5 000 ₽ |
| Alfa-Bank | Yes (Google Pay) | 3 000 ₽ |
| VTB | Yes (Mir Pay only) | 1 000 ₽ |
Why does the terminal not see the phone when paying?
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even after successfully activating NFC on the Redmi Note 8 Pro, users are experiencing bugs, and here are the most common ones and ways to fix them:
- 🚫 NFC Turns on but doesn't work: Check if the feature conflicts with other modules (like Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth). Turn them off temporarily. Network resets: Settings → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings.
- 🔋 Quick battery discharge after switching on NFC: This is normal: the module consumes energy in active mode. To save charge, turn off. NFC, When not needed, or use the Energy Saving mode in the settings.
- 📵 Terminal can't see your phone: Try rebooting your smartphone. If it doesn't work, delete it and add it back to Google Pay. Sometimes changing the default payment app helps.
- 🔄 NFC It spontaneously shuts down: It's a firmware bug. Update. MIUI Up to the latest version or install custom software (e.g. LineageOS) where the problem is solved.
⚠️ Note: If you are using a custom recavator (TWRP) Or rooted firmware, contactless payments may not work due to a security breach, in which case you have to return the stock firmware or abandon the root rights.
Additional NFC features on the Redmi Note 8 Pro
Contactless payments are not the only use of NFC. On the Redmi Note 8 Pro, the technology can be used to:
- 🔑 Smart locks and tags: Set up automatic door unlock when you hold your phone (requires a compatible lock, such as Xiaomi Mi Smart Door Lock).
- 📲 Fast File Transfer: With Android Beam (built into the MIUI) You can send photos, contacts or links to another smartphone from NFC.
- 🎮 Gaming controller connections: Some gamepads (e.g, 8BitDo) maintain connection through NFC fast-pair.
- 🚗 Car control: In cars with CarPlay or Android Auto support NFC-The tag can run pre-configured scripts (e.g., enable the navigator).
To work with labels will need an application NFC Tools or Trigger, and they can program chips to do certain things: launch an application, turn on Wi-Fi, send it. SMS etc. For example, you can attach NFC-sticker to the bedside table, so that one touch is included in the night mode and alarm clock.
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NFC on the Redmi Note 8 Pro runs most stable on MIUI stock firmware. Castom builds often break the functionality of contactless payments due to the lack of Google certificates.