How to Set Up Face Unlock and Fingerprint Lock on Xiaomi Phone
Biometric authentication is faster and more convenient than a PIN. Here's how to set it up properly on Xiaomi HyperOS.
Set Up Fingerprint
- Settings → Passwords & security → Fingerprint unlock.
- If first time: set a backup PIN/password first (required as fallback).
- Tap Add fingerprint.
- Place your finger on the in-display sensor (most Xiaomi 13/14/15 series) or side-mounted sensor (most Redmi / POCO).
- Lift and re-place as prompted — register 8–12 touch points.
- Tap Done — name the fingerprint (optional).
Add multiple fingerprints (recommended):
- Add your thumb, index finger, and both hands for convenience.
- Maximum fingerprints: usually 5–10 depending on model.
Improve Fingerprint Recognition
- Register the same finger twice (as two separate entries) — this captures more angle variations and improves recognition accuracy.
- Register fingertips in slightly different positions each time.
- Ensure fingers are clean and dry during registration and daily use.
- If recognition is poor: delete the fingerprint → re-register more carefully.
Set Up Face Unlock
- Settings → Passwords & security → Face unlock.
- Ensure PIN/password is set first.
- Tap Add face data.
- Hold the phone at eye level, look directly at the front camera.
- Move your head gently in the circle as prompted.
- Complete — face data is saved.
Face Unlock Security Levels
| Level | Security | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| Standard face unlock | Fast | Lower security (can be fooled by photo on some models) |
| Raise to wake + face | Seamless | Moderate |
| Fingerprint + face (dual unlock) | Highest | Moderate |
Xiaomi's standard face unlock uses the front camera only — it is not 3D secure like Face ID on iPhones. Do not use it for banking apps requiring high-security biometrics.
Use Fingerprint / Face for App Lock and Payments
- Settings → App Lock — enable fingerprint/face for locked apps.
- Settings → Mi Pay / Google Pay — enable fingerprint for payments.
- Mi Account → Security — enable biometric for Mi Account sign-in.
Troubleshooting Fingerprint Issues
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Slow recognition | Re-register with more angle variations |
| Fails when fingers are wet | Expected — use PIN in wet conditions |
| In-display sensor misses taps | Press with flat finger pad, not fingertip edge |
| Face unlock fails in dark | Enable "Improve face recognition in dim light" in face settings |
🤔Pro Tips
- On flagships (Xiaomi 14/15 series) with ultrasonic in-display fingerprint, accuracy is far better than optical sensors — wet fingers work better too.
- Xiaomi's side-mounted fingerprint (power button sensor on Redmi Note series) is extremely fast — often faster than in-display optical sensors on mid-range models.