How to put it right SIM-Map to the smartphone Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Installation SIM-Xiaomi cards seem like a simple procedure, but in practice users face a lot of nuances: from the wrong size of the chip to a jammed tray.+ or POCO F5), Where to choose between the second SIM-In this article, we will discuss all the steps from tool preparation to network verification, as well as the features of different generations of Xiaomi smartphones (including devices with eSIM support).

It’s important to consider that even within a single line (say Redmi 10 vs Redmi 10 Prime), slot location and tray type may differ. We’ve collected up-to-date data for 2026, including unique guidelines for models with mobile tray mechanisms (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra), where careless handling is fraught with breakdown. If you just bought a smartphone or are planning to change operators, this guide will help avoid typical errors.

Preparation: What to Know Before Installation SIM-map

Before you start a physical installation, check out three key points:

  • πŸ“± Type SIM-Previous articleModern Xiaomi supports only nano-SIM (12.3Γ—8.8 If you have an old card (micro-SIM or mini-SIM), you will have to cut it off or replace it from the operator. 12S Ultra) do not have a physical slot - only eSIM.
  • πŸ”§ Tray extraction tool: complete with the smartphone comes a special paper clip (it is often lost), also fits the unbended paper clip or needle, but do not use sharp objects - they can damage the mechanism.
  • πŸ“‘ Network compatibility: check with the operator if your model supports the desired frequencies, POCO M6 Pro does not work with networks CDMA, Redmi. A2 may not catch 5G in some regions.

If you are switching from another smartphone, remember to save contacts (for example, via Mi Cloud or export to.vcf file). SIM-All data from the card (sms, calls) will be lost, and check if the service is active. SIM to your operator’s device – this can block the card after reshuffling.

πŸ“Š What kind of Xiaomi smartphone do you have?
Redmi (Series Note, A, K)
POCO (F, M, X)
Mi (11, 12, 13, etc.)
Black Shark
Other

Types. SIM-Trays in Xiaomi smartphones: how to determine your

Xiaomi uses three main types of trays for SIM-It depends on how many cards can be installed and what combinations are possible:

Type of trayExamples of modelsPossible combinationsFeatures
Double SIM (2 nano-SIM)Redmi Note 11 Pro, POCO X5 Pro, Mi 11 Lite2 SIM-mappingThere's no memory card support. Both SIMs are active, but one can only be for data.
Hybrid (nano-SIM + nano-SIM/microSD)Redmi 12, POCO M5, Xiaomi 12TOr 2. SIM-card, or 1 SIM + memory-cardPriority is given to the second slot (if it has SIM, the microSD does not work).
eSIM + nano-SIMXiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Xiaomi 12S Ultra1 physical SIM + 1 virtual SIM (eSIM)eSIM is configured through Settings β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks: Not all operators support eSIM.
Single (1 nano-SIM)Redmi A1, POCO C50Only 1. SIM-mapBudget models without second SIM or microSD support.

To find out the type of tray in your model, check the specifications on the official Xiaomi website or look at the tray itself - it usually has pictograms with supported combinations. SIM1 + SIM2/microSD, It's a hybrid slot.

⚠️ Note: In models with a movable tray mechanism (for example, Xiaomi Mix Fold 2) do not make an effort to extract - it can break the spring. Use only the original paper clip and press strictly perpendicular to the hole.

Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map

Follow this algorithm to avoid damage:

  1. Turn off your smartphone. It's a must-do step -- hot replacement. SIM-The cards may cause the communication module to crash. Press and hold the power button, then select Turn off.
  2. Find a tray for SIM-In most models, it is located on the upper or lateral edge (for example, in the Redmi Note 12 - on the right, in the upper side). POCO F4 β€” The exception is the flagship models with an aluminum body (for example, Xiaomi). 13T Pro), where the tray can be covered by a stub.
  3. Remove the tray: Put the paper clip in a small hole next to the tray. Press until you click, the tray will extend 1-2 mm. Carefully pull it over yourself.

Install. SIM-map)

  • Put the nano-SIM in the appropriate slot chip down (the tray has a hint in the form of a silhouette of the card).
  • If the tray is hybrid, choose the second SIM or microSD (but not both!).
  • Put the tray back in place. Make sure it's up straight -- skewed things can lead to poor contact.
  • Turn on your smartphone and wait for registration on the network (usually takes 1-2 minutes).

The tray is inserted to the point.|SIM-card doesn't stand for edges|Chip contacts unscratched|The paper clip hole is not deformed-->

After switching on the smartphone does not see SIM-map, check it out:

  • πŸ”„ Installation correctness (turn the card up with a chip and try again).
  • πŸ“Ά Frequency support by your operator (c Settings) β†’ SIM-map β†’ Network settings select mode 4G/3G/2G (motor-car)).
  • πŸ› οΈ Integrity of contacts on the tray (in case of damage, a replacement module will be required).

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique nuances that you should know in advance:

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G and other models with hybrid slot

In these devices, the second slot is combined with a microSD connector. SIM-The card will be disabled, the memory card will be disabled, and to get back access to the microSD, you have to remove one of the cards. SIM. Note: when restarting, the smartphone can β€œforget” the priority of the slot – check the settings in Settings β†’ SIM-map β†’ Management SIM-map.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra and flagships with eSIM

Here, the physical tray is for one nano-SIM only, and the second card is configured as eSIM.

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Add eSIM.
  2. Scan it. QR-code from the operator or enter data manually.
  3. Assign eSIM as the primary for calls/internet (if necessary).

Importantly, not all operators support eSIM, for example, in Russia at the beginning of 2026, the service is provided by MTS, Beeline and Tele2, but only for certain tariffs.

POCO F5 and models with metal body

These smartphones have trays for SIM-The cards often get stuck because of the oxidation of the contacts, unless they're extracted in the standard way:

  • πŸ”₯ Carefully warm the area of the tray with a hairdryer (no more than 60)Β°C!).
  • 🧲 Apply a magnet to the case next to the tray - this can move the mechanism.
  • πŸ›’ If nothing helps, contact the service center - self-extracting can damage the antenna module.
What if the tray is jammed?
If the tray is not pushed out even after heating, do not make excessive efforts - it can break the spring mechanism. Xiaomi service centers use a special tool with a vacuum sucker for such cases. The cost of repair usually does not exceed 1-20 thousand rubles, but if you try to damage the motherboard, the risk increases to 70%.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing SIM-Here are the most frequent maps:

  • πŸ”„ Upside down SIM-map: the chip should be downwards, and the bevelled angle should match the angle on the tray. If you put the card upside down, the smartphone won't see it, and re-extracting it can scratch the contacts.
  • πŸ“΅ Ignoring Phone Shutdown: Hot Replacement SIM may cause a failure IMEI (Especially relevant to Redmi. 9A and other budgetary models. IMEI will require firmware through EDL-regime.
  • πŸ”§ Using the wrong tools: toothpicks, knives or forks often break the lock of the tray, and as a result, the smartphone will have to be disassembled to remove the debris.
  • πŸ“Ά Incorrect network settings: after installation SIM Some models, for example, POCO X3 Pro) by default select 2G. To turn on 4G, Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-map β†’ Preferred type of network.

⚠️ Attention: If after installation SIM-Smartphone stopped seeing the network, but the signal indicator is on, check IMEI If you use the code *#06# instead of a 15-digit number, you have zeros, you have lost the number. IMEI β€” frequent consequence of incorrect installation SIM switched-on.

Another typical problem β€” "SIM-This is an error that appears if the card is not from your region:

  • You're using it. SIM-Foreign operator card in a regionally blocked model (e.g. Chinese version of Xiaomi) 12S Does not support Russian SIM).
  • The Regional Lock function is activated (disabled via Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Region).

πŸ’‘

If the smartphone does not see the second SIM-In a hybrid slot, try swapping them. In some models (e.g. Redmi). 10C) The first slot has priority for data and the second slot has priority for data. SIM You may not be registered on the network.

How to activate SIM-map

Successful installation SIM-The cards are only half the business, and to make it work, take the following steps:

  1. Check the network registration: The network indicator should appear in the status bar (for example, 4G+ or 5G). If there is no indicator, go to Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks and switch on the switch next to the operator name.
  2. Set up network settings: Select Preferred Network Type: Set 5G/4G/3G/2G (auto) for maximum internet speed. If your smartphone doesn't catch 4G, try manually specifying the operator in Settings β†’ Mobile Network β†’ Network Operators.

Activate the operator's services

  • Send. USSD-request to activate the Internet (for example, *111# for MTS).
  • Install. APN-Profile: Go to Settings β†’ SIM-map β†’ Access points (APN) Choose your operator profile.

How to transfer contacts with the old SIM-maps on Xiaomi?
There are three ways: πŸ“± Import through settings: Contacts β†’ Settings β†’ Imports/Exports β†’ Import with SIM-map. ☁️ Mi Cloud Sync: Export contacts to Xiaomi account, then import to new smartphone. πŸ“Ž Manual export: copy contacts to your computer via Mi PC Suite, then move them back. Pay attention: SIM-The card only stores names and numbers, with no photos or additional fields.
What to do if the tray is for SIM-card breaks?
If the tray mechanism is damaged: πŸ› οΈ Contact an authorized Xiaomi service center - the replacement will be performed under warranty (if the breakdown is not due to your fault). πŸ’° Cost of repairs outside the warranty: 800-1500 rubles (depending on the model). ⚠️ Do not use a smartphone without a tray - dust and moisture can damage the antenna module. SIM-Scotch the card and tape it (but it’s risky!).
Does my Xiaomi eSIM support?
At the beginning of 2026, eSIM is available in the following models: Xiaomi 13, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Ultra Xiaomi 12S, Xiaomi 12S Pro, Xiaomi 12S Ultra Xiaomi Mix Fold 2, Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 POCO F4 GT, POCO F5 To check for support, go to Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ Full specifications β†’ SIM-If there is a paragraph Add eSIM, your device is compatible.

πŸ’‘

Before buying a new one SIM-Check if your model supports the desired frequencies. For example, the Redmi Note 11 does not work with the right frequency. 5G ranged n78, which uses MegaFon in some regions.