How to change your phone number to Xiaomi: 5 proven ways

Changing the phone number on Xiaomi devices is a procedure that every second user faces. The reasons can be different: change of operator, loss of operator. SIM-cards, switching to eSIM or just wanting to update your contact details, but not everyone knows that Redmi smartphones are on the same page, POCO Xiaomi phone number is not only linked to SIM-It's also a card, but it's also a Mi Account, and it's also a number of system services, which means that it's easy to replace it. SIM-Cards are often not enough.

In this article, we’ll look at all the ways you can change your phone number on Xiaomi phones, from basic SIM replacement to Mi Account updates to contact sync. We’ll focus on the nuances of switching from a physical SIM to a virtual eSIM, as well as the identity issues of changing your account number. If you’re planning to sell your phone or transfer it to another person, here are the instructions for cleaning your attached data completely.

1. Substitution for physical SIM-maps: basic method

The easiest way to change the number is to replace it. SIM-This method is suitable if you do not change the operator or use the same SIM with a new number (for example, after restoring the old number). SIM It is located on the left end of the device, but on some flagships (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra) it can be located at the bottom.

It is important to consider the format SIM-Maps: Modern Xiaomi smartphones support nano-SIM (smallest format) if you have an old micro-SIM or full-size SIM, It's going to have to be cut or replaced in the cabin, POCO F5) Hybrid trays where you can choose between the second SIM-MicroSD card or memory card – keep this in mind when replacing.

  • πŸ“± Step 1. Turn off your phone (required!) to avoid damaging tray contacts.
  • πŸ”§ Step 2. Insert a paper clip (or a special key from the kit) into the tray hole and carefully remove it.
  • πŸ”„ Step 3. Remove the old one. SIM-map and set a new one, observing the orientation (the skeet must match).
  • πŸ” Step 4: Turn on your phone and wait for the network to register (antenna icon in the status bar).

⚠️ Note: If after replacement SIM The phone is not catching the network, check if the service is activated from the operator, Tele2 or Yota require additional settings APN.

πŸ“Š What kind of operator is yours? SIM-map?
MTS
Beeline
MegaFon
Tele2
Yota
Other

2. Update the number in Mi Account: why it matters

Many users overlook that the phone number is linked to a Mi Account account, a single Xiaomi account that is used to sync data, purchases from the Mi Store, unlock the bootloader, and even some smart home features. If you change the number but don’t update it in your account, you may lose access to:

  • πŸ” Possibility of unlocking the phone when losing the password;
  • πŸ“± Synchronized contacts, notes and photos in Mi Cloud;
  • πŸ›’ History of shopping in the official Xiaomi store;
  • πŸ”„ Remote Device Management (Find Device).

To update your Mi Account number, do the following:

  1. Open Settings β†’ Xiaomi account.
  2. Slip on the avatar or account name at the top of the screen.
  3. Select Account Management β†’ Phone number.
  4. Click Change number and follow the instructions (SMS or email confirmation will be required).
What if no SMS is sent to confirm?
If the confirmation code does not arrive, check: SIM-The card (some operators are blocking the card) SMS - Time and date settings on your phone (they should be automatic). - Try requesting the code on your email if it is linked to your account. - Use the voice call function to get the code as a last resort.

If you are selling a phone, be sure to untie your number from Mi Account for security reasons. The new owner will not be able to link his account until the old number is deleted.

3. Switching to eSIM: Features for Xiaomi

Xiaomi smartphones of the latest generations (starting with Xiaomi 12 and Xiao) POCO F4) Supports eSIM technology – virtual SIM-A card that allows you to activate a number without a physical chip, which is convenient for traveling or using multiple numbers, but the process of changing a number to an eSIM has its own nuances:

  • 🌍 Not all operators in Russia support eSIM (for 2026, the service is officially provided by MTS, Beeline and MegaFon, but not in all regions).
  • πŸ“± An unlocked bootloader is required to activate eSIM (on some models).
  • πŸ”„ When you change the eSIM, the number remains the same, but the profile changes (device binding).

Instructions for activating eSIM on Xiaomi:

  1. Get it. QR-activation code or data from the operator (usually through a personal account or sales office).
  2. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Add a mobile network.
  3. Select Scan. QR-code or enter data manually.
  4. Confirm activation and restart the phone.
Xiaomi modelSupport for eSIMNotes
Xiaomi 13/13 Proβœ… Yes.Requires MIUI 14+
POCO F5/F5 Proβœ… Yes.Supports 2 eSIMs at the same time
Redmi Note 12 Pro+βœ… Yes.Only for global versions
Xiaomi 12T❌ No.Support will be available after the update

⚠️ Note: If you use eSIM for roaming, check the operator's fare. Some offers (for example, "Travel as you are at home" from MegaFon) do not work with virtual devices. SIM.

4. synchronize contacts after changing the number

After replacement SIM-Many users face a problem with missing or duplicate contacts, because Xiaomi defaults to keeping contacts in multiple locations:

  • πŸ“‡ Locally on the phone (internal memory);
  • πŸŒ₯️ In Mi Cloud (if synchronization is enabled);
  • πŸ“± Nana SIM-Card (limited number of records).

To avoid losing contact:

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for the change of number

Done: 0 / 4

To transfer contacts from the old SIM to the new one:

  1. Open the Contacts app.
  2. Slip on the three points in the top right corner and select Contact Management β†’ Import/Export.
  3. Select Import with SIM-maps and indicate a new one SIM goal.
  4. Confirm the transfer and wait until it is completed.

πŸ’‘

If contacts are duplicated after import, use the "Contacts Unite" function in the Contacts app settings to avoid confusion.

5. Network reset: if the phone does not catch the network

Sometimes after shifts SIM-The card or number is not logged online, despite the correct installation of the card:

  • πŸ”„ Settings conflict APN (point);
  • πŸ“‘ Incorrect choice of network mode (for example, the phone tries to connect to the network) 5G, which is not in your region);
  • πŸ”§ Failure of the modem (especially after the update) MIUI).

To solve the problem, reset the network settings:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  2. Select Network Settings Reset (could be called Mobile Network Reset).
  3. Confirm the action and restart the phone.
  4. Once enabled, enter the APN settings manually (you can find them on your carrier’s website).

If the reset didn’t help, try manually specifying the network mode:

  1. B Settings β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks select your SIM.
  2. Tap the network type and install 4G (preferably) or 3G.
  3. Turn off the Automatic Network Selection option and select the operator manually.

πŸ’‘

If the phone still doesn't catch the network, check the IMEI (dial *#06#).If it's missing or incorrect, it could indicate a software failure or hardware malfunction.

6.Identity confirmation issues when changing the number in the Mi Account

One of the most common problems with changing a number in Mi Account is requesting proof of identity.

  • πŸ“§ Confirmation by email;
  • πŸ“ž Code from SMS old-numbered;
  • πŸ†” Passport scanning (for some regions).

If you do not have access to the old number, use one of the following methods:

Method 1: Recovery via email

If you have an email attached to your account, request a number change through it.

  1. On the number change page, select Use email.
  2. Enter the address and wait for the letter with the link for confirmation.
  3. Click here and enter a new number.

Method 2: Appealing for Xiaomi

If none of these methods work, contact official support:

  1. Go to account.xiaomi.com.
  2. Select Help Needed β†’ Contact support.
  3. Describe the problem and attach a passport scan (if required).

⚠️ Warning: Never use third-party services to hack Mi Account.This may result in your device being blocked from the user. IMEI. Unlocking is possible only through Xiaomi support.

FAQ: Frequent questions about changing the number to Xiaomi

Can I change my phone number to Xiaomi without accessing the old one?
Yes, but it must be an email or a backup number, and if none of these are available, you will need to contact Xiaomi with proof of identity (passport).
What happens if you don’t change your Mi Account number?
You will lose access to synchronized data (contacts, notes, photos in the Mi Cloud), and you will not be able to use the functions of remote control (Find Device) or unlock your phone if you lose your password.
Does my Xiaomi eSIM support?
Check the model in the table above or in the official specifications on the Xiaomi website. Most flagships from 2022-2026 support eSIM, but budget models (such as the Redmi 10A) do not.
Why does the SIM change the phone not see the network?
Possible causes: an unactivated SIM from the operator, incorrect APN settings, modem failure or tray damage. Try resetting the network settings or inserting the SIM into another phone for verification.
How to transfer contacts from the old SIM to the new one?
Use the import/export function in the Contacts app (see Section 4). Alternatively, you can sync your contacts with your Google Account and then transfer them to your new SIM.