Modern smartphones Xiaomi, operating on the basis of shells MIUI or new HyperOS, have transformed the process of connecting to wireless networks into a highly automated procedure. You no longer need to remember complex character combinations or dictate them to guests, forcing them to enter data manually. Simply hold the camera to a special graphic code, and the device will automatically perform all the necessary authorization work.
This feature has become a de facto standard for the ecosystem. AndroidHowever, Chinese devices have their own interface implementation nuances. Users often get confused about where to find the scanner: in the standard camera app, in the settings menu, or through system widgets. In this article, we'll cover all the available methods in detail, so you can choose the most convenient one for your situation.
Connection speed in public places or offices now depends solely on your reaction time. You don't need to search for settings, scroll through menus, or enter a password. The system will automatically detect the network encryption type (WPA2/WPA3) and apply the appropriate security protocols., providing a secure connection in a split second.
Preparing your smartphone for scanning
Before you begin, make sure your phone is Xiaomi or Redmi Ready to work with wireless protocols. First, you need to activate the module. Wi-Fi in the control panel. Without the radio interface enabled, the system won't even attempt to establish a connection, even if the QR code is scanned correctly.
It's also worth checking for updates to the system Camera or Scanner apps. In older firmware versions, recognition algorithms could perform incorrectly, especially in low-light conditions or with low image contrast. Software updates often contain fixes for image recognition libraries.
β οΈ Attention: Make sure your camera lens is clean. Grease or dust can distort the code's geometry, preventing the system from reading the encrypted data the first time.
It's important to understand that an active mobile internet connection is not required for this feature to work. The scanning process occurs locally on the device, using the processor's processing power to decode the image. However, if the code contains a link to a captive portal (the hotel's authorization page), internet access is still required to complete the login.
Using the built-in scanner in the Camera app
The fastest way to connect to the network is to use the built-in application Camera. Engineers Xiaomi We've integrated QR code scanning functionality directly into the viewfinder interface. You don't need to search for separate apps in the menu; you can simply start shooting.
Aim the lens at the code so it's in the center of the frame. The system will automatically detect that it's not just an image, but an encrypted link to a Wi-Fi network. A pop-up notification will appear on the screen prompting you to connect. This usually takes no more than a second.
If automatic recognition doesn't work, try activating the "AI" or "Magic" mode in the camera interface. In some versions MIUI You must manually switch to the "Document" or "Text" mode so that the algorithm can begin to analyze the geometry of the black and white squares in more detail.
After successful reading, a dialog box will appear on the display. It will show the network name (SSID) and a connection confirmation button. By clicking it, you initiate the process of exchanging encryption keys with the router.
Scanner via the Wi-Fi system menu
An alternative and often more reliable method is to use the built-in scanner directly in the wireless network settings menu. This method ensures that the system interprets the data correctly, as it is directly transmitted to the appropriate system module, bypassing common pattern recognition libraries.
To do this, go to Settings β Wi-FiAt the top of the screen, next to the network search field or toggle, you'll see a special icon depicting a square with a dot inside, or a scanner. Clicking it will open a scanning interface optimized specifically for network settings.
This method is especially useful if you have a custom theme installed that may have altered the default camera's behavior. The system settings menu is less susceptible to visual modifications and operates more reliably under all conditions.
After pointing the camera in this mode, you'll see a list of available networks, but the one whose code was read will be prioritized. The system will prompt you to connect immediately, saving the network profile in the device's memory for automatic login in the future.
Using the Code Scanner app
On many devices Xiaomi a separate system application called is pre-installed Code scanner (or Scanner). It's a more powerful tool than just a camera module, and can recognize not only links but also text data, contacts, and, of course, Wi-Fi settings.
Launch the app and point the camera at the image. If the code contains network connection information, the app will prompt you to perform the appropriate action. The advantage of this method is that you can see the code's contents (such as the network name) before agreeing to connect.
The Code Scanner app often has a scan history available. This is useful if you accidentally closed the login window but want to return to it in a few minutes. You can find the saved code in the history and try logging in again.
Why doesn't the scanner see the code?
Sometimes the issue lies with the screen resolution or pixel density. Try increasing the display brightness or, conversely, decreasing it if the code is displayed on another high-brightness screen to avoid backlight bleeding.
It's worth noting that this app has access to deeper system functions. It can automatically open the necessary settings without further confirmation if you've previously granted the appropriate permissions in the security menu. MIUI.
Checking Android Compatibility and Versions
Scanning functionality may vary depending on the operating system version. On older versions Android 9 or 10 with shell MIUI 11-12 the algorithms worked differently than on the current ones Android 13-14 With HyperOSThe new versions feature improved response speed and recognition accuracy for damaged codes.
If you have an older phone model, for example, Redmi Note 8 or Mi 9, and the standard camera does not see codes, it may be worth updating the Scanner app through the store GetApps or Google PlayDevelopers frequently release patches to improve compatibility with new encryption formats.
It is also important to consider the firmware region. In global versions (Global ROM) the interface may differ from the Chinese versions (China ROMIn Chinese firmware, the scanner is often embedded deeper into the system and is accessed by long-pressing the camera icon, while in global firmware, it's located in a separate menu.
| MIUI / HyperOS version | Scanner location | Features of work |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12 - 13 | Standalone app or widget | Basic recognition, requires manual activation |
| MIUI 14 | Built into Camera and Settings | Automatic detection, support for complex codes |
| HyperOS 1.0 | Universal scanner in the system | High speed, smart home integration |
| Android 14 (Clean) | Google Lens / Settings | Standard Android behavior, dependence on Google Services |
Troubleshooting connection issues
Even with the correct procedure, errors can still occur. Often, the problem lies not with the phone itself, but with the code itself or the router settings. If you see the message "Unable to connect" after scanning, check to see if the password on the access point has changed.
Another common reason is that the memory of saved networks is full. Xiaomi stores the connection history, and sometimes a new profile conflicts with an old one that has the same name (SSID), but different security settings. In this case, you need to forget the network in the settings and try again.
βοΈ Diagnosing connection problems
β οΈ Attention: The settings interface and menu item layout may change after a firmware update. If you don't see the options described, use the settings search by entering "Wi-Fi" or "Scanner."
It's also worth considering that some corporate networks use complex security certificates that can't be transmitted via a simple QR code. In such cases, the code may only contain partial data, and full access requires entering a username and password through a browser (Captive Portal).
Security when using QR codes
Using QR codes to connect to Wi-Fi is convenient, but requires caution. Attackers can create fake codes that will redirect you to a phishing site or connect you to a rogue hotspot with a name similar to a legitimate one (e.g., Free_WiFi_Mall instead of Mall_Official).
Always check the network name (SSID) in the pop-up window before confirming the connection. If you're scanning the code in a public place, make sure it's on the establishment's official sign and not pasted over the original by an unknown person.
Modern versions HyperOS And MIUI have built-in protection that warns you about suspicious links within codes. However, if the code only contains Wi-Fi settings, the system relies on your vigilance. Avoid connecting to open networks to transfer sensitive data.
For maximum security, we recommend using a guest Wi-Fi network if your router has this feature. This will isolate your device from other devices on the network and limit access to your personal files.
What if the camera focuses on the background and not the code?
Try tapping the screen where the QR code is to force the focus. If that doesn't work, move your phone away a bit and slowly bring it closer again. You can also try turning off the flash if it interferes with contrast.
Is it possible to create your own QR code for guests?
Yes, many Xiaomi phones have a "Share" feature in the Wi-Fi settings. Tapping it will generate a code that guests can scan with their devices to quickly connect to your network.
Does the scanner work if the screen is broken?
Physical damage to the screen, cracks, or dead pixels in the camera area can interfere with autofocus or distort the image. In such cases, it's best to use an external webcam or ask another device for help entering the password manually.