Smartphone users Xiaomi i Redmi often face the need to find a unique device identification code. This question becomes especially relevant when transferring data to a new gadget, activating warranty service, or verifying the authenticity of the device. However, the location of this information is not always obvious, since manufacturers are constantly changing the shell interface MIUI and the physical design of the cases.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the methods of detecting QR code or a barcode with a serial number on devices running Android. You will learn where to look for stickers on the case, how to display data on the screen through the system menu, and what alternative methods exist if the standard methods do not work. Understanding these nuances will save you time when contacting a service center.
Looking for the factory sticker on the device body
The easiest and fastest way to find identification data is to inspect the physical body of the smartphone. On new models Redmi i Poco manufacturers often place the necessary information on the back panel or frame of the device. Usually this is a small white or silver sticker containing a barcode IMEI and serial number S/N.
It is important to consider that on modern smartphones with a non-removable back cover, this sticker can be protected by a layer of factory film. If you have just unpacked the device, carefully examine the back side. Sometimes the information is duplicated on the box from the device in the form of a large a sticker with a QR codewhich contains encrypted data about the configuration and region of sale.
If your model has a removable back cover, then the treasured sticker is almost guaranteed to be under the battery. To access it, you need to turn off the phone, remove the cover and carefully remove the battery. Do not try to do this while the device is turned on to avoid short circuiting the contacts.
⚠️ Attention: On some global versions of smartphones, the IMEI sticker may not be on the case itself due to certification features in a particular region. In this case, the only reliable source remains the device screen or the original packaging.
If the sticker on the case is erased or damaged, do not try to restore it yourself with a marker. For official purposes, use the data from the settings menu or box.
View the QR code and IMEI through the system settings
If the physical inspection is unsuccessful, the software method is the most reliable. The shell MIUI provides convenient access to technical information directly through the interface. To find the necessary data, you will need to go to the settings menu and select the "About phone" section.
In the window that opens, you will see general information about the processor, version Android and memory size. However, the QR code or detailed list of identifiers is often hidden in the “All characteristics” or “General information” subsection. By clicking on this item, the system will generate a graphical image of the code, which can be scanned by another device for quick pairing or registration.
Sometimes users cannot find the desired item due to differences in firmware versions. In such cases, a universal engineering code helps. Open the "Phone" application (dialer) and enter the combination *#06#. A pop-up window with all serial numbers will instantly appear on the screen.
- 📱 Main IMEI 1 —the unique number of the first SIM card used by telecom operators.
- 📱 IMEI 2 —identifier of the second slot if your smartphone supports two SIM cards.
- 🆔 MEID — code used primarily in CDMA networks (relevant for some American versions).
- 📦 S/N —device serial number required for warranty service.
Using the Mi Credit and Mi Store application
In the ecosystem Xiaomi there are pre-installed utilities that can also display information about the device. The application Mi Credit or a regional analogue Mi Store often requires linking the device to your account in order to accrue bonuses. During the binding process, the system automatically reads IMEI and displays it in the user profile.
This method is especially useful if the smartphone screen is broken but the sensor is partially responsive, or if you want to check the device remotely through the web interface of a cloud service. By logging into your account Mi Account through a browser on your computer, you can see a list of linked devices with their serial numbers.
It is worth noting that the display of data in third-party applications depends on the regional firmware version. In Chinese romcoms (China ROM), the set of pre-installed software differs from the global versions (Global ROM), so the paths to information may vary slightly.
⚠️ Attention: Never share screenshots with your IMEI and QR code to unknown persons on the Internet. This data can be used by scammers to clone a device or illegally activate services.
Why do you need a Mi Account?
Linking to a Mi Account allows you to use the "Search for Device" function, block your phone if it is stolen, and synchronize contacts, photos and notes between Xiaomi gadgets.
Specifics of different Redmi and Poco models
The brand’s line of smartphones is extremely extensive, and the arrangement of elements may depend on the specific series. Budget models of the series Redmi A or Redmi Go often have a simplified design with a removable battery, which makes physical access to the sticker easier. Flagship series Redmi K or Poco F have a monolithic body, eliminating the possibility of opening without special equipment.
The table below shows the location of identification data for popular series of devices:
| Device series | Sticker location | Access through the menu | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note (old) | Under the battery | Settings → About phone | Easy access to the battery |
| Redmi Note (new) | On the back panel / Box | Settings → All characteristics | Fixed case |
| Poco X / F series | Only on the box | Engineering menu *#06# | Minimalistic design |
| Redmi A / C series | Under the battery | Settings → About phone | Budget segment |
For owners of series devices Poco it is important to know that the brand positions itself as a separate line, although it is programmatically based on MIUI or new HyperOS. The settings interface here may be slightly changed, but the search logic remains the same: the “About the device” section is key.
☑️ Verifying the authenticity of the device
How to scan a QR code with a smartphone camera
Often, users do not need to find their code, but consider someone else's QR code to connect to Wi-Fi, pay, or follow a link. In modern versions Android and shell MIUI this function is built directly into the standard "Camera" application. You do not need to install third-party software.
Simply open the camera, point the lens at the code and hold the phonesteady. The system will automatically recognize the graphic pattern and prompt you to perform an action: follow a link, save a contact, or connect to the network. If automatic recognition does not work, check the camera settings.
In some cases, the scanning function may be disabled in order to save resources or due to a software failure. To enable it, go to the camera settings and find the item "Scanning QR codes" or "Google Lens". Make sure the switch is active.
An alternative is to use the built-in scanner in the control center. Pull down the notification shade and find the scanner icon. If it is not on the visible part of the panel, click on the pencil to edit the tiles and drag the scanner icon to the active zone.
The built-in camera and MIUI control center are the fastest scanning tools that do not require installing additional applications.
Solving problems with data display
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the settings menu displays dashes or the words “Unknown” instead of IMEI numbers. This may indicate a serious software failure, damage to the radio module, or the consequences of an unsuccessful flashing of the device.
First of all, try rebooting your smartphone. If the problem persists, check for system updates. Go to Settings → About phone → MIUI version and click the check for updates button. Installing the latest security patch often restores the correct reading of identifiers.
If software methods do not help, there may be a hardware malfunction. In this case, you must contact an authorized service center. Specialists will diagnose the motherboard and, if necessary, restore the recording IMEI into non-volatile memory.
⚠️ Attention: The menu interface and location of items may differ depending on the version of the operating system. If you do not find the described items, check the official user manual for your specific model.
What to do if the IMEI has disappeared after the firmware?
Restoring IMEI requires the use of special engineering cables and software (for example, Maui Meta). Inexperienced users are strongly discouraged from doing this on their own, as there is a risk of completely blocking the modem.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to change the IMEI code on a Redmi smartphone?
Technically this is possible using root access and special software, but in most countries the change IMEI is illegal. In addition, this will void the warranty and may lead to blocking of the device by the telecom operator.
Where can I find a QR code for paying with Xiaomi Pay?
To pay via Xiaomi Pay, a separate QR code for the device is not needed. You need to link a bank card in the "Wallet" application (Mi Wallet) and use NFC technology for contactless payment with the terminal.
Why does the camera not see the QR code?
There may be several reasons: the lens is dirty, poor lighting, the code itself is damaged, or the scanning function is disabled in the camera settings. Try wiping the camera and turning on the flashlight for better illumination.
How to find the phone model if the sticker has been erased?
Go to Settings → About phone. At the very top of the screen the exact model name and build number will be indicated. This information can also be seen when you turn on the phone, on the loading screen with the logo MIUI.
Is it safe to enter IMEI on third-party sites for verification?
Enter data only on the manufacturer’s official website or proven services for checking warranty status. Transferring complete data about the device to dubious resources may lead to information leakage.