Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone owners often face the need to replace SIM-While the design of modern gadgets seems simple, mishandling the delicate mechanisms of the tray can damage the case or the data storage itself. The correct approach to the extraction procedure ensures a long service life of the contact group and maintains a warranty on the device.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail all the nuances of working with SIM-tray in devices of the Chinese brand, including the search for a special hole, the choice of a suitable tool and the algorithm of actions when the card is stuck. You will learn why a standard paper clip can be dangerous for your Redmi Note or Mi, and how to safely carry out a replacement even in the absence of the original needle in the kit.
Before you start to physically affect the case, you need to make sure that the device is ready to manipulate. Although in most cases the replacement is done on the device turned off, modern versions of the MIUI and HyperOS shell allow you to work with the network and on the gadget on, but the risk of short circuits with careless extraction still exists.
Location of holes and preparation of tools
The first step is always to visually inspect the end faces of the smartphone. In the vast majority of Xiaomi and Redmi models, the tray extraction hole is located on the lower end, next to the USB Type-C or Micro-USB connector. However, in some older or specific modifications, it can be on top or side, so carefully inspect all faces in good lighting.
Removal will require a thin metal object. The phone usually comes with a special plastic or metal needle clip. If the original tool is lost, you can use a thin sewing needle, but you should act extremely carefully so as not to damage the internal mechanisms. It is strongly recommended not to use thick stationery clips, as they can break inside the hole or damage the extraction sensor.
It is important to understand that the hole for SIM-The maps are often confused with the noise reduction microphone, which is also a small circular hole on the case. To avoid damaging the microphone, compare the diameter of the holes: the tray hole is usually slightly larger and located separately from the other speakers or microphone holes. On some models, next to the desired hole, a barely noticeable icon in the form of a rectangle with a triangle is applied.
- π Find a small circular hole at the end of the case, usually near the charging port.
- π Use the original needle clip or a thin sewing needle of the appropriate diameter.
- π Make sure you donβt confuse the sim tray hole with the noise reduction microphone.
- π« Avoid using thick paper clips or knives to open.
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If there is no special needle at hand, use a thin cloves earring, but make sure that its tip does not have sharp serrated dents that can scratch the plastic inside the case.
The tray extraction process SIM-map
Once the tool is found and the hole is identified, you can start to mechanically impact. Take a needle perpendicular to the plane of the end of the phone and gently insert it into the hole. The movement should be straight, without skewing, so as not to scratch the metal frame of the device. When positioned correctly, you will feel a slight emphasis of the mechanism.
Then you have to apply a moderate but steady force, pressing the needle inside the body, and the spring mechanism will work, and the tray will pop out a few millimeters. Don't try to pick or shake the needle from side to side, which can cause the plastic holder to break inside. Just one clear press is enough.
β οΈ Attention! Don't put too much effort into the tray if you don't get out. If you don't get a reaction after pressing hard, you may have hit the wrong hole or the mechanism jammed. Try changing the angle of the needle by a microscopic fraction of a degree.
When the tray is partially extended, you can grab it with your nails and carefully pull it out completely. Keep the tray straight so that the map you're setting doesn't fall out or get lost. SIM-card and whether the device has a slot for a microSD card. In two-symbol versions, the cards are located on different sides of the plastic frame or in special depressions.
βοΈ Proper removal of the tray
Tray configuration and map installation
Modern smartphones Redmi and Xiaomi use different layouts of slots. In budget models, a combined tray is often found, where one place is intended for SIM, and the second one is either for a second SIM or for a memory card. Flagship devices usually have a full two SIM slots and a separate memory slot, or no support for expansion cards at all.
When installing a new card, it is important to observe orientation. On the plastic tray there is always a cutout in one of the corners that corresponds to the shape. SIM-The card should be tight, without gaps, and should not protrude beyond the edges of the tray, otherwise it may damage when closed. Make sure that the golden contacts look up (to the screen when installed) or down, depending on the model, which is usually indicated on the diagram directly on the tray.
Below is a table showing (common configurations) trays in different series of devices:
| Device series | Type of tray | Support for microSD support | SIM count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note (budget) | Hybrid | Yes (instead of SIM 2) | 2 (or 1+SD) |
| Xiaomi Mi (flagship) | Separate | No. | 2 |
| Redmi (basic) | Triple (rarely) | Yes (separately) | 2 |
| Poco X/F Series | Standard. | Depends on the model. | 2 |
Once the cards are installed, the tray is inserted back into the phone, and it's also important not to confuse the sides: the tray only comes in with the right side. If you feel resistance, don't push, turn the tray over. It should enter easily and completely, equal to the body of the device.
Software configuration and activation
After you physically install the card, you need to turn on the device. If the phone was turned on during the replacement, the Android system may not immediately see the changes. β SIM-Maps and mobile networks. This shows the status of each card installed.
In the control menu SIM-You can use these cards to give you a priority card for calls and mobile Internet, and this is especially true for dual-symbol devices. You can customize usage scenarios, for example, to use a carrier card with the best coverage in your area for calls, and for the Internet, a tariff with a large amount of traffic.
Sometimes you need to manually enter the APN settings if the Internet is not working automatically, and this data is provided by your mobile operator. Usually, you just select the operator from the list and the settings will be downloaded yourself, but in case of problems, you can manually write them in the corresponding settings menu of the mobile network.
- π± Go to Settings. β SIM-Maps and mobile networks to check status.
- π Set up your preferred network (4G/5G) access point APN if necessary.
- π Set the default card for voice calls and SMS-message.
- π Restart the device if the network does not appear immediately after installation.
β οΈ Attention, if you're using the old one SIM-A card that is cropped under a nano-SIM on its own, it can get stuck in the tray due to uneven edges or greater thickness. Always use standard-sized nano-SIM cards obtained at the operator's office.
Solving problems with map definition
There are times when the phone says, βNo.β SIM-"Put in the cards" or "Put in" SIM-First, check the purity of the contacts. Rub the golden area of the card with a soft dry cloth or eraser, removing oxides and dust. Also blow out the slot on the phone to prevent villi from entering.
If the cleaning didn't work, try installing the card in another slot or phone to make sure it's working, sometimes the problem is a software failure of the communication module, in which case resetting the network settings will help. Go to Settings β Connection and Sharing β Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth. This action will not delete your personal files, but will return network settings to factory values.
In rare cases, the tray may become oxidized or deformed. If the contacts on the tray turn black, clean them carefully with alcohol. If the tray hangs in the nest or enters too tight, you may need to replace the mechanical element in the service center.
What to do if the tray is stuck inside?
Frequent questions and answers
Can I open a SIM in Xiaomi Redmi without a paper clip?
Why can't the phone see the second SIM card?
Is it safe to change your SIM card on your phone?
What does a flashing badge mean? SIM-map?
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Proper installation SIM-If the software methods don't work, the problem is probably physical damage to the card or tray.