The Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro, launched in 2018, is still a popular choice among users who value the balance of performance and price. SIM-The Mi 8 Pro supports the cards and what nuances are associated with their use, and the answer to this question is important not only for those who plan to use two numbers at the same time, but also for travelers, businessmen or simply economical users who want to optimize the cost of communication.
In this article, we will discuss the technical characteristics of slots for SIM-The Mi 8 Pro, explaining eSIM support (if any), explaining how to install the cards correctly, and giving practical tips on setting up. SIM-And if you're just planning to buy this smartphone or you've already owned it, this information will help you make the most of the experience.
Technical specifications: how many SIM-Maps in Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro?
Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro is equipped with two physical slots for nano-SIM (format) 4FF), This is a device that allows you to use two mobile networks at the same time. SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) The technology where both cards are active, but only one can operate in data mode at a particular time. It is important to understand that despite the presence of two slots, the Mi 8 Pro does not support eSIM – this feature Xiaomi began to implement only in later models, starting with the Mi 10 and Redmi Note 11 Pro.+.
Both slots in the Mi 8 Pro compatible with networks 2G/3G/4G LTE, But there is a caveat: if you use two SIM-The second card will not work in the 4G, When the first one is active in this mode, that's a limitation of Qualcomm's Snapdragon architecture. 845, So, basically, you get the smartphone:
- 📱 Slot 1: Support 4G LTE (priority slot for mobile Internet).
- 📱 Slot 2: Works in 2G/3G, if 1 busy 4G-joining.
- ⚡ Switching: You can manually choose which one SIM will be used 4G.
It is also worth noting that the Mi 8 Pro supports the dual VoLTE function. LTE), But only in some regions and if you have the appropriate firmware, and in the standard global version, this feature can be disabled.
How to properly install SIM-Maps in Mi 8 Pro: step-by-step instructions
Installation SIM-The maps in the Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro are a simple procedure, but require care. The card tray is located on the left side of the device (if you look at the screen). To extract the tray, you will need a paper clip or a special key that comes with the smartphone.
Follow this instruction:
- Turn off your smartphone.This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid accidental crashes.
- Insert the paperclip into the hole on the tray and press gently until the tray is pushed out.
- Place the nano-SIM in the appropriate slots. Notice the notch on the map, it should match the contour of the slot.
- Put the tray back in before you click. Make sure it sits smoothly, without skewing.
- Turn on your smartphone and wait for the network recognition.
☑️ Preparation for installation SIM-map
If, after installation, one of the SIM-maps not defined:
- 🔄 Reset the device.
- 📶 Check if your company supports the work in the region.
- 🛠️ Clear the contacts. SIM-dried-cloth cards (without alcohol!).
- 📱 Try to swap the cards in places – perhaps one of the slots is faulty.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use metal objects (knives, forks) to remove the tray - this may damage the mechanism or contacts. SIM-Micro-SIM in nano-SIM cards, as this often leads to poor contact.
Setting up two SIM-Maps: How to manage networks and calls
After installation SIM-In Mi 8 Pro, you need to configure the card settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks:
- 📞 Assign names for each SIM (For example, “Worker” and “Personal").
- 🌐 Select the default network for mobile Internet.
- 📞 Prioritize the outgoing challenges.
- 📶 Enable/disable automatic network selection.
One of the most important things is to set up mobile Internet. By default, the Mi 8 Pro uses the same data transfer system. SIM-The card that's set in the first slot to change that:
- Go to Settings → SIM-cards and mobile networks → Mobile Internet.
- Choose the right one. SIM-map.
- Activate the option to use for data transfer.
If you want both of them SIM-cards can receive calls at the same time, make sure that the call settings include the option Always Ask or Use SIM This will allow you to choose which card to call from each call you make.
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If you travel frequently, keep in your contacts the prefixes for international calls with the right call. SIM-For example, maps, "+7 (Worker)” and "+7 (Personal)".
Support 4G both SIM-maps: myth or reality?
Many users of Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro are wondering whether it is possible to use the device. 4G both SIM-Unfortunately, the answer is no. This limitation is due to the hardware architecture of the Snapdragon 845 chipset, which does not support Dual. 4G VoLTE to its fullest. Here's how it works in practice:
| Script | SIM 1 (slot 1) | SIM 2 (slot 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Both cards in 4G | 4G active | Automatically switches to 2G/3G |
| SIM 1st 4G, SIM 2nd 3G | 4G active | 3G active |
| Calling by SIM 2 on time 4G on SIM 1 | 4G shuts down, switches to 2G/3G | The call goes into 2G/3G |
| Dual VoLTE (if supported) | 4G active (VoLTE) | 4G Active (VoLTE) but only for calls |
Are there workarounds? Partially. Some users claim that after you run custom software (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience) you can activate it. 4G both SIM-This is not guaranteed and can lead to unstable network operation. Officially, Xiaomi does not provide such an opportunity for the Mi 8 Pro.
⚠️ Note: If you plan to use a smartphone with two 4G-SIM, Consider newer Xiaomi models like the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Xiaomi 13T, Where is Dual Support 4G implemented at the hardware level.
Which tariffs are best to choose for two SIM-maps in Mi 8 Pro?
Use of the two SIM-There are many ways to optimize your communication costs. Here are some strategies to help you save money:
- 💼 Work. + personal calls: One SIM with unlimited minutes (for example, the tariff "All for 500" from Tele2), the second - with cheap Internet (for example, "Internet S" from MTS).
- 🌍 Travel: Main activities SIM roaming, the second is local SIM host country (e.g. Airalo for eSIM, but Mi 8 Pro will have to use physical).
- 📶 Maximum coverage: Combination of operators with the best signal in your region (e.g. Megaphone) + Beeline).
- 💰 Savings: One SIM with unlimited Internet, the second - only for calls at cheap rates (for example, "kopeika" from Yota).
When choosing tariffs, pay attention to:
- 📞 Cost of minutes for outgoing calls between SIM-Cards (sometimes calls between your numbers are free).
- 🌐 Traffic restrictions – some operators reduce speed after the limit is exhausted.
- 📡 Quality of communication – check the coverage 4G in your area on the operators' websites.
An example of a good combination for Moscow:
- SIM 1: MTS Tarifishche (unlimited calls) + 30 GB of internet).
- SIM 2 Tele2 "My Online" (cheap minutes on other networks) + 15GB).
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Combining tariffs with different priorities (calls vs. internet) saves up to 30% on communications compared to the universal tariff.
Frequent problems with SIM-Mi 8 Pro cards and their solutions
Despite the reliability of the Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro, users sometimes face problems associated with the development of the new model. SIM-Here are the most common ones and how to eliminate them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The smartphone doesn't see one of them. SIM-map | Bad contact, damaged card, faulty slot | Reinstall the card, wipe contacts, check the card in another phone |
| There is no network on one of the SIMs | Incorrect settings of APN, problems with the operator | Update settings APN manually, restart the phone, contact the operator |
| 4G does not work on the second SIM | Chipset Limitation (Snapdragon 845) | Move the cards in places or use them 3G second SIM |
| The smartphone itself switches to 2G | Battery savings, weak signal 4G | Disable "Traffic Savings" in the settings, check coverage |
If none of these things worked, maybe the problem is the firmware or the hardware malfunction.
- 🔄 Try resetting your network settings: Settings → System system → Resetting settings → Resetting network settings.
- 📱 Update your firmware to the latest version through Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
- 🛠️ If the slot is damaged, contact the service center (slot replacement will cost 1,000-1,500 rubles).
What to do if your smartphone doesn’t see any SIM-map?
Alternatives: What to do if you have two SIM-mapping?
If you need more than two numbers or want to use eSIM, the Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro has limitations.
- 📱 Use a second smartphone: For example, a low-cost Redmi 9A as a "call caller" for number three.
- 🌐 ViLTE or Calling Apps: Services like Google Voice or Skype allow you to have additional virtual numbers.
- 🔄 Frequent replacement SIM: If the third SIM You need to use an adapter for quick card replacement.
- 📶 Mobile Wi-Fi router: For example, Xiaomi MiFi with support SIM-Internet cards, and leave two voice cards in your smartphone SIM.
If you are critically interested in eSIM support, consider switching to newer Xiaomi models:
- Xiaomi 12T Pro — Dual SIM + eSIM.
- Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G — Dual SIM (without eSIM).
- POCO F5 Pro — Dual SIM + eSIM (in some regions).
Also worth paying attention to the hybrid slots that are in some Xiaomi models, which can be installed either second. SIM-There's no such slot in the Mi 8 Pro, there's two full-fledged slots. SIM-slot without the possibility of expanding memory.