When the QR code scanner on your Xiaomi 15 Ultra stops working, everyday tasks suddenly become harder. You cannot scan payment codes, Wi-Fi codes, or links from posters and screens. This problem is usually caused by camera permissions, disabled system features, or temporary app issues, all of which can be fixed with a few focused checks.
Why Your Xiaomi 15 Ultra QR Code Scanner Is Not Working
- Camera permission is disabled for the Camera or system scanner.
- The QR scanning feature is turned off in Camera settings.
- The Camera app cache is corrupted.
- System apps related to scanning are restricted in the background.
- Temporary software glitches after an update.
1. Make Sure Camera Permission Is Enabled
QR scanning relies directly on camera access. If permission is denied, the scanner will fail even though the camera itself may still open.
Open Settings, and then tap Privacy and security.
Tap Permission manager, and then select Camera.
Make sure Camera and System UI have permission set to Allow.
2. Turn On QR Code Scanning in the Camera App
On Xiaomi phones, QR scanning can be disabled inside the Camera app itself. When this happens, the camera opens normally but refuses to recognize any code.
Open the Camera app, and then tap the Settings icon.
Scroll down and tap Scan QR codes.
Toggle the switch on, and then close the Camera app completely.
3. Clear the Camera App Cache
A corrupted cache can prevent the scanner from detecting QR codes correctly. Clearing it refreshes the app without deleting photos or videos.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Tap Manage apps, and then select Camera.
Tap Clear cache, and then reopen the Camera app to test scanning.
4. Enable Google Lens or System Scanner
Some QR codes are handled through Google Lens or Xiaomi’s built-in scanner. If these are disabled, scanning may silently fail.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Tap Manage apps, and then find Google Lens or Scanner.
Make sure the app is enabled and not restricted.
5. Restart Your Phone
Restarting refreshes camera services and background scanners. It also clears minor system glitches that can block QR detection.
Swipe down from the top right to open Quick Settings.
Tap the Power icon, and then tap Restart.
Wait for the phone to boot up, and then try scanning again.
Most QR scanner issues on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra are caused by permissions or disabled features rather than hardware problems. Once camera access and scanning options are restored, the scanner should work instantly again.
FAQs
Why does the camera open but not scan QR codes?
This usually means QR scanning is disabled in Camera settings or camera permission is restricted. Turning both back on fixes the issue.
Does QR scanning require an internet connection?
No. Basic QR scanning works offline, but codes that open websites or apps may need mobile data or Wi-Fi.
Can third-party QR scanner apps cause conflicts?
Yes. Some scanner apps override system handlers, which can break built-in scanning. Removing unused scanner apps often resolves the problem.