How to Enable and Use NFC for Contactless Payments on Xiaomi Phones
How to Enable and Use NFC for Contactless Payments on Xiaomi Phones
NFC is available on most Xiaomi mid-range and flagship phones from 2020 onwards. Here's how to enable it and start paying contactlessly.
Step 1 – Check If Your Phone Has NFC
- Settings → About Phone → All Specs — look for NFC: Supported.
- Alternatively, search "NFC" in Settings search bar.
- Common Xiaomi models without NFC: Redmi 13C, Redmi A series, some POCO C/M variants.
Step 2 – Enable NFC
- Settings → Connection & sharing → NFC.
- Toggle NFC on.
- Or swipe down → long-press NFC icon in Quick Settings.
Step 3 – Set Up a Payment App
Google Pay:
1. Install Google Pay from Google Play (if not pre-installed).
2. Open the app → add your debit/credit card.
3. Go to Settings → Connection & sharing → NFC → Contactless payments.
4. Select Google Pay as the default payment app.
Other payment apps: Same process — install the app, add card, set as default NFC payment.
How to Pay at a Terminal
- Wake your phone (no need to unlock on most Android).
- Hold the back of your phone near the contactless terminal.
- Hold for 1–2 seconds until you see/hear a confirmation.
- Some terminals require unlocking or fingerprint first.
NFC Tips for Xiaomi
| Feature | Notes |
|---|---|
| NFC position | Usually near the camera module (top-center of back) |
| Works through case | Most slim plastic cases — yes; thick cases — may need removal |
| Phone screen on? | Usually required for payment; varies by app |
| Works offline? | Most payment apps require connectivity for first use; tap-to-pay can work offline for transit |
Other NFC Uses on Xiaomi
- Mi Tag / Xiaomi NFC tags — automate phone settings by tapping NFC tags.
- Transit cards — add local transit cards (country-specific, e.g., Japanese Suica, UK Oyster).
- NFC file sharing — quickly share small files by tapping phones back-to-back (both NFC enabled).
Pro Tips
- After adding a new card to Google Pay, you may need to verify via bank app or SMS before the first contactless payment works.
- If payment fails at a terminal, try removing the phone case and hold the back flat against the reader.