Xiaomi Mi 9T (also known as Redmi K20 in some regions) is one of the most popular smartphones of 2019, which is still actively used thanks to powerful hardware and regular updates. However, many owners face difficulties when trying to turn on NFC, a feature that allows you to make contactless payments, read tags and share data with other devices. In this article, we will discuss where the NFC module in the Mi 9T, how to activate it in settings, and why it may not work even after turning on.
It is important to understand that the Xiaomi Mi 9T came in several versions, and not all of them are equipped with an NFC chip. For example, the global version (M1903F10G) often lacks this module, whereas the Chinese (M1903F10C) or European (M1903F10E) versions support the technology. Before trying to turn on NFC, make sure that your smartphone is technically capable of doing this - we will discuss this in the first section.
If youβve already checked for a module and are ready to start setting up, follow the step-by-step instructions below.Weβll also look at common bugs (like why Google Pay doesnβt see a card) and give tips on how to optimize NFC for fast payments.
1.How to check if there is NFC in your Xiaomi Mi 9T
Before you try to turn on NFC, you need to make sure that your Xiaomi Mi 9T is equipped with the appropriate module, the manufacturer saves on components for different markets, so even seemingly identical devices can differ in the βstuffingβ.
Method 1: Look at the labeling on the box or settings. NFC models have a C (China), E (Europe) or I (India) at the end of the article. Global versions (G) are most often devoid of the module.
Method 2: Use the AIDA64 app (available on Google Play):
- Install and open the application.
- Go to the System section β Sensors.
- Check if the NFC line is on the list.
Method 3: Enter the code ##4636## in the phone number and select Phone Information. If there is an NFC item in the list, the module is present.
β οΈ Attention: If your Mi is yours 9T supportive NFC hardware, no software solution (including firmware and mods) will be able to add this feature. NFC-tagging.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T
If your smartphone supports NFC, it can be activated in a few steps, and the instructions are suitable for official MIUI 10-14 firmware (including global and Chinese versions).
Step 1: Open Settings (the gear icon on the home screen).
Step 2: Go to Connect and Sharing (or Wireless Networks in older versions of MIUI).
Step 3: Find the NFC and move the slider to the right. If there is no such item, update the firmware or check the device model (see section 1).
Step 4: Contactless payments will be enabled, activate it if you plan to use Google Pay or Mi Pay.
For convenience, we have prepared a checklist:
βοΈ Preparation for use NFC
After activation of NFC, it is recommended to test its operation.
- π± Bring the phone to another device with it on NFC (For example, transfer files via Android Beam).
- π³ Try paying for your purchase at a contactless payment store (the terminal must have the PayPass or PayWave logo).
- π·οΈ Scan it. NFC-tag (for example, in transport or on an advertising stand).
π‘
If NFC doesn't turn on after the MIUI update, try resetting the network settings: Settings β System β Settings Reset β Resetting the Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings. This often solves module problems.
3.Why NFC doesn't work on Xiaomi Mi 9T: common issues
Even if the NFC module is present in the device and enabled in the settings, users of Xiaomi Mi 9T often encounter errors.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| NFC is not turned on (slider is inactive) | Outdated firmware or regional restrictions | Update. MIUI Up to the latest version or install EU-Firmware (for experienced users) |
| Google Pay doesn't see the map | Not a certified region or bank | Check the bank support in Google Pay help or use Mi Pay |
| NFC shuts down on its own | Optimizing the battery | Add Google Pay to exceptions: Settings β Battery β Battery Optimization β All Apps β Google Pay β Not Optimizing |
| No markings are readable. | Incorrect position of the antenna | Bring the top of the phone (where the camera is) to the tag - the NFC antenna is located there |
A critical feature of the Xiaomi Mi 9T is that the NFC antenna is located at the top of the body, next to the main camera, which means that for successful tag readers or payment, you need to bring this area to the terminal, not the center or bottom of the phone.
β οΈ Note: If after the update MIUI Google Pay has stopped working, check the certification status of the device in the settings: β The phone. β Version. MIUI. If the status is "Not certified," contactless payments can be blocked.The solution is to reset your phone or install official firmware.
4.Contactless payments setup: Google Pay vs Mi Pay
Once NFC is enabled, the next step is to set up payment systems. The Xiaomi Mi 9T has two main options: Google Pay and Mi Pay. Let's look at the pros and cons of each.
Google Pay:
- β Works with most banks (Sberbank, Tinkoff, Alfa-Bank, etc.).
- β Supports card tokenization (safety higher than physical cards).
- β It may not work on uncertified firmware.
Mi Pay:
- β Optimized for Xiaomi devices (less errors occur).
- β Supports Chinese banks (relevant for tourist trips).
- β Limited list of supported Russian banks.
Instructions for setting up Google Pay:
- Install the app from Google Play.
- Add a bank card (confirmation via SMS is required).
- Install Google Pay as the default contactless payment app: Settings β Apps β Default β Payment.
- Unlock the phone and bring it to the terminal (no need to open the app).
What if the bank does not support Google Pay?
5. NFC Optimization: Tips for Quick Payments
To make the NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T work as fast and stable as possible, follow these tips:
1. Turn off energy saving for payment applications:
Go to Settings β Battery β Battery Optimization, search for Google Pay or Mi Pay and select Not Optimize. This will prevent NFC from spontaneously shutting down in the background.
2. Use the gesture for quick access:
In MIUI, you can set up a gesture to turn on NFC from the lock screen.
- Open the Settings β Lock screen.
- Choose Gestures.
- Activate the option of Double Touch for NFC (not available in all versions of MIUI).
3. Update the firmware of the NFC module:
Sometimes NFC problems are solved by updating the firmware of the module.
- Install the latest version of MIUI.
- Reboot the phone.
- If the problem persists, try resetting NFC settings to Settings β Connection & Sharing β NFC β Reset.
π‘
For maximum payment speed, keep your phone screen on when you reach the terminal. Many terminals require screen confirmation (even if you don't need to enter a PIN).
6.Alternative ways to use NFC on Xiaomi Mi 9T
The NFC on the Xiaomi Mi 9T can be used for more than just payments, here are some useful scenarios.
1. Automation of tasks with the help of tags:
Buy it. NFC-tags (cost from 50 rubles per piece) and program them to perform actions:
- π Turning on/off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when you bring your phone to the tag.
- π± Running a specific application (for example, Yandex Navigator in the machine).
- π Switching to βDo Not Disturbβ on the desktop.
To do this, install the Trigger or NFC Tools app from Google Play.
2. data exchange with other devices:
Android Beam allows you to transfer files, contacts or links between NFC phones:
- Turn on NFC and Android Beam in the settings.
- Open the file or contact you want to send.
- Hold the phones back to each other.
- Confirm the transmission on both devices.
3. Identification in a smart home:
If you have a Xiaomi Smart Home lock or device (such as the Mi Smart Door Lock), NFC can be used to:
- π Unlocking the door without a key.
- π Managing scenarios (e.g., βHomeβ or βGoneΒ»).