The proximity sensor on Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones often becomes a source of serious inconvenience for users. The situation when the screen goes out during a call and does not light up after moving the phone away from the ear is familiar to many owners of the Redmi 9 model. This is due to design features or contamination of the sensor, which forces them to look for ways to deactivate this function.
You can disable the proximity sensor on Redmi 9 in several ways, from simple settings in the call menu to using the engineering menu. However, it is worth understanding that completely disabling it can lead to accidental pressing of the cheek during a conversation, so this step should be resorted to only in extreme cases.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the available methods for solving the problem, including calibrating the sensor and using third-party applications. You will learn how to diagnose a malfunction and what actions to take if the standard settings do not help restore the device's functionality.
Diagnosing a faulty proximity sensor
Before you start disabling the function, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the sensor, and not in a software failure of the “Phone” application. On the model Redmi 9 the sensor is located at the top of the screen, often hidden under glass next to the earpiece. Contamination of this area with dust or grease stains is the most common cause of incorrect operation.
Checking the functionality of the sensor is carried out through the built-in MIUI engineering menu. To do this, open the calls application and enter a special combination of characters. This action will launch a hidden equipment testing section, where you can see the real state of the sensor in real time.
In the menu that opens, select the item responsible for testing sensors. Bring your palm to the top of the screen and remove it. If the indicator on the screen changes value from 0 to 1 (or from “Far” to “Near”), it means that the sensor is physically working, and the problem may be in software calibration. If there is no response, cleaning or repair may be required.
⚠️ Attention: Do not attempt to disassemble the smartphone to clean the sensor if the device is under warranty. Opening the Redmi 9 case yourself will result in loss of warranty from the manufacturer.
It is also worth checking whether there is a protective film or glass glued to the screen that covers the working area of the sensor. Some low quality accessories have an opaque frame or poor transparency in the sensor area, which blocks its operation. Remove the protection and repeat the test.
Disable via the Phone application settings
The easiest and safest way to solve the problem with a blank screen is to disable the screen lock function during a call in the system settings. This method does not physically turn off the sensor itself, but prevents the system from responding to its signals by turning off the display.
To access the necessary parameters, go to the application Settings of your smartphone. Next, find the section related to system applications or directly to call functions. The MIUI interface may differ slightly depending on the firmware version installed on your Redmi 9.
In the call settings menu, look for an item called “Proximity sensor” or “Turn off screen during a call.” Unchecking this option will prevent the screen from automatically blanking. This solution is ideal for those who use a headset or speakerphone, but do not want to face a black screen.
- 📱 Open the application Phone (green handset).
- ⚙️ Click on the three dots in the corner and select Settings.
- 🔍 Go to section Incoming calls.
- 🚫 Find the switch Proximity sensor and disable it.
If you did not find such a switch in the standard phone settings menu, this may mean that your version of MIUI has hidden this option. In this case, you need to use alternative methods, for example, through the engineering menu or installing third-party software.
If the switch is missing in the settings, try updating the "Phone" and "Google Play Services" application through the GetApps or Google Play Store - sometimes the option returns after updating the system components.
Using the engineering menu for calibration
The engineering menu provides access to deep equipment settings that are hidden from the average user. With its help, you can not only test the sensor, but also recalibrate it. Often it is a faulty calibration that causes the screen to go dark, even when the phone is lying on the table.
To enter the test mode, enter the code ##6484## in the dialing field. Immediately after entering the last asterisk, the CIT (Customer Information Test) menu will open. Here is a complete list of all modules of the device, from the screen to the vibration motor.
Find the item in the list Proximity Sensor. Click on it to start the test. Follow the on-screen instructions, which usually involve covering the sensor with your hand and then opening it. The system will record the minimum and maximum values. After a successful test, press the button Pass or Calibration, if available.
| Parameter | Value at rest | Value at closing | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Data | 0.0 - 5.0 | > 100.0 | Normal |
| Threshold | 5.0 | 5.0 | Fixed |
| Status | Far | Near | Active |
| Calibration | Required | Completed | Success |
In some firmware versions for Redmi 9, a separate calibration button is available inside the test. Press it and remove your hand from the sensor when the system asks. This will reset the old values and write new ones that are relevant for the current state of the device. After that, reboot your smartphone.
☑️ Checking the sensor in CIT
Forced disabling through engineering code
If calibration does not help, you can try to forcefully disable the sensor through another engineering menu, available on MediaTek processors installed in Redmi 9. This method is more radical and requires caution, as it affects the operation of the radio module and sensors.
Enter the code ##3646633## in the call application. The menu Engineer Modewill open. Go to the tab Hardware Testing, then select Sensor and further PSensor. In this section you can manage sensitivity parameters.
In some cases, a disable option is available here. However, most often users use this section to view logs. If there is no direct shutdown button, you can try setting the Threshold value to the maximum value so that the sensor is never triggered by proximity.
⚠️ Attention: Changing parameters in the engineering menu
3646633can lead to unstable operation of the network or other sensors. Write down the original values before any changes so that you can change everything back.
An alternative option for advanced users is to use ADB commands via a computer. By connecting your smartphone to a PC with USB debugging, you can send a command to disable a specific service responsible for the sensor, but this requires drivers and knowledge of the command line.
adb shell settings put system proximity_on 0This command may not work on all versions of Android, since Xiaomi often blocks changing system settings via ADB without root access. However, it’s worth trying to enter it if other methods have not worked.
Risks of using engineering codes
Incorrectly changing parameters in the engineering menu can lead to the phone stopping seeing the SIM card or not responding to screen touches. Recovery requires flashing the device.
Third-party applications for controlling the sensor
When system methods are exhausted, applications from the Google Play store come to the rescue. There is special software developed by enthusiasts specifically to solve problems with sensors on Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones. These utilities can intercept the sensor signal and ignore it.
One of the popular solutions is an application Proximity Sensor Reset Fix or analogues with a similar name. After installation, such an application requests rights to display on top of other windows and access to the phone. It works in the background, adjusting the data that the system receives from the sensor.
Another approach is offered by call management applications, such as Calls Blacklist or specialized dialers. Their settings often have a checkbox “Do not turn off the screen during a call,” which duplicates the system function, but works forcibly, ignoring MIUI system restrictions.
- 📥 Download the application Proximity Service from the Play Market.
- 🛠️ Grant all requested permissions at the first startup.
- ⚙️ Select the operating mode Force Disable (Forced shutdown).
- ✅ Reboot the device to apply the settings.
Using third-party software has its disadvantages: increased battery consumption and possible advertising in free versions. However, for Redmi 9, where the sensor problem is a common "disease", this is often the only working solution without obtaining root access.
Third-party applications are a compromise between convenience and battery resources. They are effective, but require constant presence in RAM.
Physical reasons and mechanical solutions
Sometimes the problem lies not in the software, but in the physical condition of the device. On the Redmi 9 model, the proximity sensor may be covered with a factory sticker that they forgot to remove, or it may be dirty inside the case. Mechanical action may temporarily or permanently solve the problem.
Try gently wiping the top of the screen with an alcohol wipe. If this does not help, you can use the "warm-up" method. Sometimes the adhesive that holds the components in place, or the sensor itself, “sticks” at low temperatures. Heating the phone in your hands or on a warm (not hot!) surface can restore contact.
There is also a radical mechanical method used by service center technicians. They stick a small piece of opaque tape directly onto the sensor area inside the case or outside (if the design allows), simulating the permanent “closing” of the sensor, but programmatically disabling the reaction to this condition. However, this is too difficult for the average user.
⚠️ Attention: The heating of the smartphone should be moderate. Do not use hair dryers, radiators or direct sunlight to warm up the Redmi 9, as this can damage the battery and display.
If you notice that the sensor only works in the case, it means that the accessory is pressing on the body or blocking the sensor. Try removing the cover and checking the operation. In some cases, replacing the case with a model with thinner sides at the top helps.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why did the sensor stop working after updating MIUI?
Firmware updates often change the operating algorithms of sensors. The new version may be more sensitive to contamination or have driver errors. Try resetting the sensor settings through the engineering menu or rolling back to the previous version of the software if the problem is critical.
Does disabling the sensor affect the operation of auto-brightness?
No, these are different sensors. The light sensor (for auto brightness) and the proximity sensor are separate components. Disabling one will not affect the operation of the other, although they may be physically located next to each other.
Is it possible to replace the proximity sensor separately?
On Redmi 9, the proximity sensor is often soldered into the display cable or is part of the front panel. Separate replacement is possible only in specialized services with equipment for micro-soldering, which is not economically feasible. Usually they change the entire screen assembly.
Is it safe to use the phone with the sensor disabled?
You can use it, but during a call without a headset the screen will not go dark. This will result in accidental ear or cheek presses (call failure, speaker on). It is recommended to use a speakerphone or headphones.
Will a factory reset help?
A data reset (Hard Reset) eliminates software conflicts, but does not solve hardware problems. If the sensor is dirty or physically faulty, resetting will not help. However, it’s worth a try if you have ruled out all other reasons.