Installation SIM-While the cards in Xiaomiβs smartphone seem like a simple procedure, in practice users face typical problems, from the wrong format of the card to errors when activating the mobile network. POCO, In this article, we will examine not only the basic instructions, but also the nuances that the manufacturer often does not mention in official documentation.
It is important to understand that the wrong installation SIM-The cards can damage contacts inside the device or even lock the network. For example, in models with a hybrid slot (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro), improper placement of the nano-SIM next to the microSD card often causes a lack of signal. We will take a detailed look at all the stages β from tool preparation to diagnosis of connection problems.
What are they? SIM-The cards support Xiaomi smartphones
All modern Xiaomi devices (released after 2018) use the nano-SIM format (4FF) β a card measuring 12.3 Γ 8.8 Γ 0.67 mm.
- π± Single-slot models (e.g. Redmi Note 12) 5G): Only 1 nano-SIM + eSIM capability (in some regions).
- π Hybrid slots (most budget models): 2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + 1 microSD, but not at the same time!).
- π Regional differences: Many smartphones in China are sold without a physical slot SIM (eSIM only, and for Europe, adapt to nano-SIM.
If you have an old micro-SIM or a standard SIM, it needs to be trimmed to nano-format. Using adapters (for example, to switch from nano to micro) often leads to poor contact and loss of network.
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Before pruning. SIM-Make a backup of contacts β some operators erase data when changing the format.
Pay attention to network support: new Xiaomi models (e.g. Xiaomi) 14) Nano-SIM with VoLTE support for correct call operation in networks 4G/5G. Old ones. SIM-cards (issued before) 2015 years) may not provide a stable connection.
Preparation for installation: what will be needed
Before you start the installation, make sure you have everything you need:
- π§ A paper clip or needle (combined with your phone) to remove the tray. Do not use sharp objects (knives, pins) - they can damage the mechanism.
- πΆ Nano-SIM of the right operator, check if the card is activated (especially if it is new).
- π Charge at least 30%. Upon first activation, the smartphone may require a firmware update, which will drain the battery.
- π‘ Stable signal on the network, if you install SIM For the first time, a phone can search for a network in a room with poor coverage.
If you are switching from another phone, transfer contacts through Mi Cloud in advance or export them to a VCF file. Otherwise, the contacts may not sync automatically when you first turn on a new SIM.
Make sure the phone is turned off
Check the format SIM-maps (nano-SIM)
Prepare a paper clip for the tray
Charge your phone at least 30%
Find a location with a good network signal-->
In Xiaomi models with Dual function SIM + microSD (e.g. Redmi Note 11) is given priority to the second slot for the SIM-maps β if you care about mobile internet speed, install the basic SIM exactly.
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
The installation process is the same for most models, but there are differences in the slot location.
- Turn off the phone. This is a must to avoid damaging the contacts when you remove the tray. In some models (e.g., the POCO F5), you can also remove the tray when the phone is on, but the risk of network error increases.
- Find a slot for SIM-map: π± In most models, the slot is located on the right end (for example, Xiaomi). 12T). π In some flagships (for example, Xiaomi Mix Fold 3) slot can be on the top end. π On the phone box there is usually a scheme with the slot location.
Remove the tray.
1.Put the paperclip into the hole next to the slot.
2. Press until the click - the tray will be pushed 1-2 mm.
3. Gently pull the tray over yourself.β οΈ Warning: Do not use excessive force. If the tray does not come out, check if the locking mechanism is bent (a common problem after phone falls).
Install. SIM-map
- π Place the nano-SIM in the tray with the contacts down (the tray usually has a circuitry).
- π If you have a hybrid slot, choose the priority: either the second slot. SIM, microSD.
- π« Do not install a memory card and a second one. SIM At the same time, it will lead to an error.
- Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skews can damage the contacts.
- Turn on the phone and wait for the network to activate (it can take up to 5 minutes).
If you turn on the phone, you canβt see SIM-map, try it:
- π Reset the device.
- πΆ Manually select the operator in the settings (Settings) β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Choice of network).
- π§ Check if your contacts are contaminated SIM-map (wipe them with a soft cloth).
One slot (nano-SIM only)
Hybrid (2 SIM or 1 SIM + microSD)
eSIM only (without physical SIM)
I don't know.-->
Features of installation in popular Xiaomi models
The design of the tray and the location of the slot may vary depending on the series of devices.
| Model | Slot type | Location. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/13 | Hybrid (2 nano-SIM or 1 SIM + microSD) | Right end | Slot 1 is the priority for the main SIM. supports 5G only in slot 1. |
| Xiaomi 13/14 Pro | Dual nano-SIM (without microSD) | Right end | Support for eSIM in some regions.Slot 2 may not work with 5G in some firmware. |
| POCO X5/F5 | Hybrid | Right end | V POCO F5 MicroSD slot is combined with the second SIM-slot, but the speed of reading the memory card is lower. |
| Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 | Double nano-SIM | Upper end | The tray is pushed upwards, not sideways. It takes more effort to extract. |
| Redmi A2/A3 | Hybrid | Right end | Budget models often have problems with second SIM recognition. |
In metal-framed models (such as the Xiaomi 11T Pro), the tray can be tightly extended due to a tight fit. Don't try to pull it out by force - it's better to sway the paperclip slightly left-right until you feel the backlash.
For IP53/IP68 smartphones (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra), after removing the tray, check the sealing gum - it must remain in place. If the gum is torn, the phone will lose moisture protection.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing SIM-Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
- π« The phone can't see. SIM-card: Check if the card is inserted correctly (contacts should be directed downwards). SIM-card and phone slot with dry cloth (do not use alcohol!) Try another one SIM-The map is probably a problem with the operator.
- πΆ No network or often a signal disappears: In settings (Settings) β SIM-Maps and mobile networks) enable Automatic Network Selection. If you use a hybrid slot, make sure that close to the network SIM No memory card, it can interfere with contact. Update the firmware of the phone, in older versions. MIUI There are bugs with the communication module.
- π The phone discharges quickly after installation SIM: Turn off Network Search in Roaming in Settings SIM-Check if the modem modem has been activated (sometimes it is automatically activated).
- π Second one's not working. SIM-Card: In hybrid slots, the second SIM It might conflict with the memory card. Try changing it. SIM Some operators (e.g., some operators, Tele2) No support for slot 2 on Redmi budget models.
β οΈ Attention: If after installation SIM-If you're not turning on or rebooting, immediately remove the card, which may indicate a short circuit due to damaged contacts.
Dual SIM models (such as the Xiaomi 12 Pro) sometimes have a conflict if both cards are from the same carrier, the solution being to temporarily disable one of the SIMs in the settings or use cards from different carriers.
What if the tray is jammed?
How to activate SIM-map
Successful installation SIM-The cards are only half the story, and in order for the phone to work with the mobile network, you have to activate the card correctly:
- Turn on your phone and wait for the load. The operator's name should appear on the lock screen.
- Check status. SIM-Maps: Go to Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks. Make sure you're near the number. SIM Green tick is lit and it says Connected.
- Set up network settings: Enable Mobile Data for the desired SIM-Select the type of network: 5G-Smartphones (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) set up 5G/4G/3G/2G (Disable the data limit if it interferes with the connection.
Activate the operator's services
- If SIM new, may require sending USSD-commands (e.g. *111# for MTS).
- Check for activation of the Internet APN-settings (they must be automatically loaded).
If the internet is not working, manually add an APN:
1. Go to the settings of β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [Your SIM] β Access Points (APN).
2. Click "Add" and enter your operator's settings (can be found on its website).
3. Save and restart the phone.Some of the Xiaomi models (for example, POCO X4 Pro) after installation SIM-You may be asked to update your firmware. Don't ignore it, because without the update, the communication module may not work properly.
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After installation SIM-The phone does not catch the network, first check the settings APN β In 60% of cases, the problem is solved by adjusting it.
What to do if SIM-card
If after all the manipulations SIM-The map is not detected or the network is lost, follow this algorithm:
- Check Compatibility: Make sure your SIM-The card supports the frequencies that your Xiaomi works. 5G need SIM VoNR-enabled models (e.g. Redmi) 9A) may not work SIM-eSIM cards.
- Diagnose the hardware: Try inserting SIM-card to another phone - if it doesn't work, the operator has a problem).
- Check the software settings: Reset network settings: Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Reset network settings. Update firmware through Settings β The phone. β Updating the system.
Contact the service.
- The phone doesn't see any of them. SIM-Cards (even known to work).
- After installing the SIM, an error appears SIM-card is not supported.
- The slot is physically damaged (for example, after a phone crash).