How to properly remove a memory card from a Xiaomi phone: instructions for all models

Why it is important to get your memory card right

The microSD cards in Xiaomi smartphones are not just an extra storage, but a full-fledged component of the system. Incorrect extraction can lead to data loss, file system damage, or even physical slot failure. This is especially true for models with hybrid slots (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro or the Redmi Note). POCO X3 Pro, where the memory card divides the space with SIM-card.

Unlike flash drives for a computer, where it is easy to pull out USB-Xiaomi phones are complicated by the compactness of the device and the design features. For example, in the Mi 11 Ultra card slot is hidden under a sealed cover, and in Redmi the card slot is hidden under a sealed cover. 9A — If you have never retrieved a card from your Xiaomi, this article will help you avoid typical errors and keep the data intact.

Also, consider that some models (such as the Xiaomi 12T or POCO F4) do not support memory expansion at all – they do not have a microSD slot. Before trying to extract anything, make sure that your model supports memory cards.

Preparing the phone before removing the card

Before you physically pull a card out of the slot, you need to properly complete the card in the system, which will prevent file corruption and malfunction of applications that may have used the microSD as storage.

Follow this algorithm:

• 📱 Open the map in the settings: go to Settings → Warehouse → Memory card and select "Disable" (or "Extract"). in some firmware (MIUI 14+) This item may be called “Safe Removal».
• 🔋 Turn off your phone if the slot is combined with SIM-This will prevent short circuits when extracted.
• 🔍 Check Active Processes: Close applications that may have written data to a map (e.g. cameras, self-saving media messengers).
• 📁 Back up important files to the cloud or computer – especially if the card was used as internal storage (Adoptable Storage feature in Android).

If you use the card as a portable storage device (i.e. files are only accessible through the file manager), the risk of data loss is minimal, but if the card is formatted as internal memory, removing it without first disabling it can cause the system to crash.

To unmount the card in the settings

Turn off the phone (for hybrid slots)

Close all active applications

Backup of important data

Prepare the extraction tool (key or paper clip)

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Removal instructions for models with removable lid

Most budget and mid-budget Xiaomi smartphones (e.g. Redmi 9/9A/9C, POCO M3/M4) have a removable back cover, under which a memory card slot is hidden.

1. Turn off the phone and place it on a flat surface with the screen down.
2. Find a small notch or groove on the bottom edge of the lid (usually next to the charging socket). Tap the lid with a plastic shoulder blade or nail. Don't use metal objects - they can damage the latches!
3. Carefully remove the lid, starting at the bottom corner. If it doesn't lend itself, check if the latches on the sides have gone unnoticed.
4. Under the cover you will see a microSD slot (sometimes combined with a microSD slot). SIM-Carefully remove the map by pulling it in the opposite direction to the contacts.

In some models (e.g. Redmi 8A), the slot can be fixed with a small plastic latch, which needs to be bent slightly upwards to free the card. Don't put too much effort: if the card is not taken out, check if it rests on the battery.

Removal of cards from models with tray (Redmi Note, POCO, Mi)

Flagship and most modern models of Xiaomi (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+, POCO F5, Xiaomi 13) use a retractable tray for SIM and microSD. To extract the memory card you will need a special key (comes with) or a clip.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your phone (required for hybrid slots!).
2. Find a hole to extract the tray on the side of the phone (usually on the top or left end).
3. Put the key or the unbended paperclip in the hole to the point. The tray should be slightly extended.
4. Carefully remove the tray completely. The memory card is usually located at the bottom (below). SIM-card if the slot is hybrid).
5. Remove the microSD by pulling it in the direction indicated by the arrow on the tray.

Note the orientation of the card: the contacts should be downwards and the bevelled angle should match the shape of the slot. When installing a new card, make sure it is not inverted, which can lead to a jamming of the tray.

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If the tray is not retractable, try to press it slightly on the back side (for example, through the speaker hole) - sometimes it jams due to dust. Do not use force so as not to break the mechanism!

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when retrieving a memory card, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🚫 Removal without disabling in settings - can cause file damage, especially if the card is used as internal storage. Always use the Safe Retrieval feature».
• 🔧 Using the wrong tools (knives, forks) to open the tray, it scratches the body and can damage the mechanism.
• 🔄 You can mix sides of a card when you put the microSD in the back, and if you put the microSD in the back, the phone won't see it, and it can be difficult to re-extract it.
• 💦 Get moisture or dust into the slot. Remove the card in a clean, dry place. If the phone has been in water, dry the slot for at least 24 hours before extracting.

Another common problem is a jammed tray, which happens when the card is crooked or there's garbage in the slot.

1. Try to gently swing the tray left-right without making much effort.
2. Use tweezers to pick up the card if it protrudes from the slot.
3. If nothing helps, contact the service center - independent attempts can damage the connector.

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If the memory card was used as an internal storage device, removing it without formatting can render the phone inoperable, requiring a factory reset.

What to do if the card is not retrieved

Sometimes the memory card gets stuck in the slot due to warping, dust or improper installation.

⚠️ Warning: Do not try to pull the card by force - this can damage the slot contacts. 2-3 Attempts card does not respond, contact the service center.

Solutions:

• 🔹 For tray smartphones: Try inserting the tray back before the click and then re-extracting. Sometimes this helps to move the jammed card.
• 🔹 For models under the lid: Carefully place the card with a plastic blade on the side opposite to the contacts!
• 🔹 If the card protrudes halfway: Take a thin plastic card (like a discount card) and try to pick up a microSD by the edge.

If the card breaks inside the slot (for example, the edge broke off), do not try to remove it yourself. The service center uses special tools to carefully remove the fragments without damaging the contacts.

In rare cases, the problem may be a warped slot — for example, after a phone crash.

• The tray is not fixed in the slot.
• The map is inserted only at an angle.
• The phone doesn’t recognize microSD, although it works on other devices.

In this case, the connector will need to be replaced.

How to check the memory card after retrieval

Once the card is removed, it is recommended to check its performance, especially if it has been used for a long time.

1. External inspection: Check the contacts for scratches, oxidation, or contamination. If the contacts are dimmed, wipe them gently with a smoother (no pressure!).
2. Computer Test: Insert the card into the card reader and check through Properties → Service → Check (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS).
3. Speed Check: Use programs like CrystalDiskMark or H2testw to make sure your read/write speed is as stated (for example, UHS-I is ~90MB/s).
4. Error Test: In the Windows command line, run: chkdsk E: /f (replace E: with the letter of your drive).

If the card is determined but the files are not read, try:

• 🔄 Connect it to another device (e.g. a camera).
• 💾 Use data recovery software (Recuva, PhotoRec).
• 🗑️ Format the map (if the data is not important) SD Formatter – This often solves file system problems.

⚠️ Note: If the card is heated during operation, emits cracking or is defined as "RAW" — It's a sign of physical wear and tear, and don't use it to store sensitive data, because it could fail at any time.

FAQ: Frequent questions about retrieving a memory card