NFC in Xiaomi Redmi 8: full instructions for setting up and using

Xiaomi Redmi 8

NFC

Unlike flagship devices, where the function is activated automatically, Redmi 8 requires manual configuration through hidden MIUI menus. Moreover, due to firmware features and regional constraints, users often encounter errors such as "NFC is not supported" or "Device is not detected." In this article, we will discuss all the activation methods, from standard to alternative, and also explain how to avoid typical problems.

We will focus on contactless payments through Google Pay, Mi Pay and banking applications (SberBank, Tinkoff, etc.), because this feature is the one most users are interested in, and you will learn how to use NFC to transfer files, work with smart tags, and even emulate transport cards (where possible).

Note: The instructions are valid for Xiaomi Redmi 8 (codenamed olive) on MIUI 12-14 firmware (including global and Chinese versions). If you have a different model, check compatibility in FAQ.

1.Verify NFC support in Xiaomi Redmi 8

Before you set up, make sure your smartphone is actually equipped with an NFC module. The fact is that the Redmi 8 came in several versions, and not all of them support the technology.

How to check:

• 📱 Physical inspection: There should be a logo on the back next to the camera NFC (If you don't have a wavelength letter, you don't have a wavelength letter.
• 🔍 Through Settings: Go to Settings → The phone. → All specifications. In the Wireless Networks section, look for the line. NFC: Yes.
• 🛠️ Using the app: Install Avira NFC Checker – it will show the presence of the chip and its condition.

If there is no NFC, no instructions will help, you will need to replace the motherboard. Otherwise, move on to the setup.

2. Activate NFC through standard MIUI settings

Most of the time, the NFC module is disabled by default, so you can turn it on.

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to Connections and Sharing (or Wireless Networks in older versions of MIUI).
3. Slip on NFC.
4. Activate the slider Use NFC.
5. (Optional) Enable Android Beam to transfer files.

If there's no NFC on the menu, your firmware hides it. This is typical of the Chinese versions of MIUI (e.g. MIUI China Stable). Solution -- see the next section.

3. How to turn on NFC if it is not in the settings

If the MIUI menu doesn't have an NFC option, it doesn't mean it doesn't. Often the problem is the firmware. Here are 3 working ways to get the function back:

Method 1: Resetting network settings

Sometimes a network configuration failure blocks access to NFC.

1. Go to Settings → System → Additional → Resetting settings.
2. Select Network Reset (not to be confused with a full reset!).
3. After the reboot, check for the NFC item in the menu.

Method 2: Manually Adding the NFC Label

In MIUI, you can manually add the NFC button to the notification panel:

1. Swipe down from the top edge of the screen to open the notification bar.
2. Put the badge on. ⚙️ (Edit).
3. Find the NFC list and drag it to the active area.
4. Now you can turn on/off NFC directly from the panel.

Method 3: Installation of global firmware

If the first two methods fail, you have to reflash the device to a global version of MIUI (e.g. MIUI Global Stable). Chinese firmware often blocks NFC for foreign users.

• 📥 Download the official firmware from Xiaomi’s website (select the Redmi 8 model).
• 🔧 Use the Mi Flash Tool to install (unlocked bootloader required).
• ⚠️ Before the firmware, make a data backup!

4.Configure contactless payments (Google Pay, Mi Pay, banking applications)

The main use of NFC is to pay by phone, and you have to link your bank card to one of the services, and let's look at all the options.

Google Pay (recommended for most users)

Instructions:

1. Download Google Pay from the Play Market.
2. Open the application and add a card (Visa, Mastercard, MIR are supported).
3. Confirm the binding via SMS or client bank.
4. Set up your default payment: Settings → Contactless payments → Google Pay.

To pay, bring your phone to the terminal (screen up) – unlocking is not required if the amount is up to 1000 ₽.

Mi Pay (for users with Chinese firmware)

If you have MIUI China, Google Pay may not work. Instead, use Mi Pay:

1. Install Mi Pay (only available on Chinese firmware).
2. Link a Chinese bank card (UnionPay) or add a virtual card via Mi Credit.
3. Enable the Quick Payments option in the NFC settings.

⚠️ Note: Mi Pay does not support Russian bank cards. Use Google Pay or banking apps to pay in Russia.

Banking applications (SberBank, Tinkoff, VTB)

Many banks offer their own contactless payment solutions:

• 💳 Sberbank Online: Section "Payment by phone" → "Add a map".
• 💰 Tinkoff: “Maps" → "Payment by phone" → "Connect".
• 🏦 VTB: “My cards" → "Payment by smartphone".

After linking the card in the banking application, select it as the default payment in Settings → Contactless payments.

1. Make sure the NFC is on.

2. Bring the phone to the terminal at a distance of 1-2 cm (no further!).

3. disable the case or magnetic accessories - they can block the signal.

4.Reboot the phone and try again.-->

5.Use of NFC for data transfer and tagging

In addition to payments, the NFC allows:

• 📤 Transfer files between devices (Android Beam).
• 🏷️ Read and write labels (for example, to automate tasks).
• 🚇 Emulated transport cards (in some regions).

Transfer files via Android Beam

To send a photo, contact or link:

1. Turn on NFC and Android Beam in the settings.
2. Open the file you want to transfer.
3. Bring the back of the Redmi 8 to another device (screens must be unlocked).
4. Wait for the beep - the transmission will start automatically.

⚠️ Note: Android Beam only works between Android 4.0-9.0 devices. On newer versions, Google has removed this feature – use alternatives like ES File Explorer.

Work with NFC-marker

Applications like NFC Tools can:

• 📖 Read information from labels (for example, in museums or shops).
• ✏️ Write down command tags (enable Wi-Fi, open a site, etc.).
• 🔄 Copy data from one label to another.

Example of automation: stick a label on the door, and when you touch the phone will turn on Wi-Fi and start music.

Emulation of transport cards (limited support)

In some cities (Moscow, St. Petersburg) Redmi 8 can be used instead of Troika or Strelka.

1. Install the Metro Moscow or St. Petersburg Metro application.
2. Link the virtual card to the phone.
3. Turn on the NFC and hold the phone to the turnstile.

⚠️ Note: Not all turnstiles support payment with Redmi 8. check compatibility on the carrier's website before traveling.

Typical errors and their solutions

When working with NFC on Xiaomi Redmi 8 users often face problems.

If none of these solutions worked, check the NFC module with a test app (like the Avira NFC Checker) if the chip doesn't respond, you'll need repairs.

💡

Before you go to the service center, make sure that the problem is not the firmware. 80 percent of the time, NFC starts working after you switch to the global version of MIUI.

7 Safety in the use of NFC

NFC is a convenient but potentially vulnerable technology, and follow these rules to avoid fraud:

• 🔒 Turn it off. NFC, When not in use, this will prevent unauthorized reading of data.
• 🛡️ Use it. PIN-code to unlock the screen before payment (set up in Google Pay).
• 🚫 Do not store sensitive data (passwords, pin codes) on NFC-marker.
• 📱 Update the firmware - in new versions MIUI closing vulnerabilities.

Also be careful with publicity. NFC-Attackers can install skimmers to steal card data, always check that the terminal belongs to an official bank or store.

FAQ: Frequent questions about NFC in Xiaomi Redmi 8