How to get it right SIM-Map from Xiaomi Mi 9: instructions with photos and life hacks

Xiaomi Mi 9 is the flagship of 2019, which is still popular thanks to the powerful hardware and camera with a triple module. But even such a reliable smartphone sometimes have household problems: you need to change the operator, insert a second one. SIM Or just clean the dust tray, if you've never taken it out. SIM-A card from this machine, the process may seem unobvious - especially if there is no corporate key at hand.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to access the SIM-Xiaomi Mi 9 tray: from the standard key method to emergency solutions without tools, you will also learn why the tray can jam after a smartphone falls (this is due to the design of the locking mechanism) and how to avoid damage to contacts with frequent extractions. For clarity, we provide photos of each stage and a tool compatibility table.

Wherever SIM-tray in Xiaomi Mi 9

Unlike some Xiaomi models, where the card slot is located on top (for example, in the Redmi Note 8 Pro), in the Mi 9 it is on the left end of the body. This is a typical place for the flagships of the brand - the same way Mi 10, Mi 11 and newer models are arranged. It supports either two nano-SIMs or one. SIM + microSD, but not simultaneously!).

It is visually easy to identify by:

  • ๐Ÿ” Small hole with diameter ~1 mm (for key or paper clip).
  • ๐Ÿ“ Metal edging, which slightly protrudes over the plastic case.
  • ๐ŸŽจ Color that coincides with the design of the smartphone (black, blue or silver).

If you hold your phone with your screen, the tray will be roughly at the camera level, just below the middle of the left side, and the photo below shows its exact location (red frame):

โš ๏ธ Attention: Don't confuse SIM-A tray with a microphone hole (located symmetrically on the right side) or an infrared port (upper end) trying to insert the key into these holes will damage the internal components!

What tools will you need

For extraction SIM-Xiaomi Mi 9 cards you will need one of the following tools:

Tool.Is it okay?Notes
Brand Key from Xiaomiโœ… Yes.It comes with a phone, the best option.
Paperclip (uncurved)โœ… Yes.The diameter of the wire should be โ‰ค 0.8 mm.
Sewing needleโš ๏ธ Partially.Risk of breaking the needle inside the hole. Use only thick needles.
ToothpickโŒ No.Too soft material, will not pass into the hole.
Paper clip ("clip")โœ… Yes.Untighten the metal bracket, suitable for emergencies.

If you don't have the right tool, you can use alternative methods (we'll talk about them in the next section), but remember that choosing the wrong tool can lead to:

  • ๐Ÿ”ง The bent lock inside the tray (the card will fall out).
  • ๐Ÿ’ฅ Paint chip around the hole.
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Damage to contacts SIM-The phone will not see the network).
๐Ÿ“Š What you usually open. SIM-tray?
Brand key
Paperclip
Needle.
Something else.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove SIM-standard-map

If you have a corporate key or paper clip, follow this algorithm:

  1. Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety) and press the power button and select Turn off.
  2. Take the key (or an unbended paperclip) and insert it into the hole on the tray at a 90 degree angle to the body, and you need to press with effort, but without fanaticism - a slight click is enough.
  3. The tray will extend 2-3 mm. Carefully pull it with your fingers to the end.
  4. Extract. SIM-card(s) or microSD. Pay attention to the position of the card: the bevelled angle must match the shape of the tray.
  5. Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skewings can lead to poor contact.

If the tray is not moved the first time:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Check if the key is in the hole.
  • ๐Ÿ” Light the hole with a flashlight - it may have accumulated dust inside.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Try to push a little harder (but without jerking!).

โ˜‘๏ธ Preparation for extraction SIM-map

Done: 0 / 4

โš ๏ธ Warning: If after removing the tray you see that the spring mechanism inside is bent, do not try to insert the card back! this can lead to a jamming. ~300-500 rubles in the service center).

How to get it. SIM-Keyless card: 3 proven methods

There are different situations: the key is lost, the paper clips are not available, and the card needs to be replaced urgently.

1.With headphones with a metal plug

Suitable for headphones with a 3.5 mm jack (for example, the standard Xiaomi Piston).

  1. Cut the wire at a distance of 5-7 cm from the plug.
  2. Carefully remove the insulation, baring the metal bar.
  3. Put it in the tray hole and press it.

โœ… Plus: Minimum risk of damage to the hole.

โŒ Cons: Headphones will have to be thrown away.

2.Using the stationery button

Take a standard metal button (not plastic!) and:

  1. Put it on the edge of the tray.
  2. Hit the button with a light object (such as a pen).
  3. The tray will extend a few millimeters - then pull your fingers.

โš ๏ธ Important: Impact force must be minimal, otherwise you risk pushing the button into the body.

3. Scotch or tape

The method is for patient, but works in 90% of cases:

  1. Cut a strip of Scotch 5-7 mm wide and long ~10cm.
  2. Fold it with the sticky side out, "loop."
  3. Put the loop in the gap between the tray and the body (side of the hole).
  4. Pull gently to the side - the tray will come out.

If none of the methods worked, the tray may have jammed due to mechanical damage (fall, impact), in which case it is better to contact the service center.

๐Ÿ’ก

Before using improvised means wrap their tip with thin tape - this will protect the hole from scratches and reduce the risk of breakage of the fixator.

What to do if SIM-card stuck in the tray

One of the most frustrating things is that the card is not taken out of the tray or the tray is not inserted back in.

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Deformation of the tray after the fall of the phone.
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Getting garbage between the card and contacts.
  • ๐Ÿ”ง Nano-SIM trimming is incorrect (if you cut the micro-SIM yourself).

Here's what you can do on your own:

If the card is not taken out of the tray:

  1. Try to gently tamper with a plastic card (bank or discount).
  2. Use tweezers, but without sudden movements โ€“ do not press on the contacts!
  3. If the card is cracked, remove it in parts so as not to damage the tray.

If the tray is not inserted back:

  1. Check if the spring-fixer inside the tray has skewed (you can illuminate with a flashlight).
  2. Clean the contacts of the tray from dust with a dry toothbrush.
  3. Try inserting the tray at an angle and then leveling it.

โš ๏ธ Warning: If the tray only enters halfway and then jams, don't make any effort! This can bend the contact plates inside the phone.

What happens if you insert the tray incorrectly?
If the tray is not inserted to the end or skewed, the phone may not see SIM-The card, or at worst, the motherboard connector will be damaged. SIM-maps or constant modem reboots.

How to avoid problems with SIM-future-tray

To avoid encountering a jammed tray or damaged contacts, follow these tips:

  • ๐Ÿงผ Clean the tray every 3-4 months from dust (use a dry brush or compressed air balloon).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Don't change. SIM-Cards are too often โ€“ contacts wear out every time.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Store the brand key in the phone case or next to charging.
  • ๐Ÿšซ Do not use force when removing / inserting the tray.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Avoid phone falls - a hit can displace the fixing mechanism.

If you travel frequently and change SIM-For the current Xiaomi models (starting with the Mi 12), it is a great solution โ€“ you do not need to physically remove the card.

It is also useful to have a spare tray on hand (it is worth it). ~200 rubles on AliExpress. If the main breaks, you can quickly replace it without going to the service.

๐Ÿ’ก

Regular cleaning of the tray and careful handling of it will prolong the life of contacts SIM-Maps and eliminate the need for repairs.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even in a process as simple as extraction. SIM-These are the most common mistakes that users make, which are the most common ones:

Mistake.Effects of consequencesHow to avoid
Use of too thick object (toothpicking, match)Bent lock, scratches on the bodyUse only metal objects with diameter โ‰ค 0.8 mm
Removing the tray with the phone onRisk of short circuit (if moisture is involved)Always turn off your phone before manipulation.
Excessive force application when pressing the keyBroken tray ejection mechanismPress smoothly, no jerks
The tray insertion is not completeBad contact, phone can't see SIM-mapMake sure the tray sits with a characteristic click
Use of magnets for extractionDamage to the compass and other sensorsNever bring magnets to your smartphone.

If you've already made one of these mistakes, don't panic. In most cases, you can fix the situation:

  • The bent locker can sometimes be straightened with a thin screwdriver.
  • Scratches on the case can be masked with a special pencil (sold in communication salons).
  • If the phone stopped seeing SIM-card, try to clean the contacts of the tray with a stripe (washing gum).
Can we extract? SIM-Xiaomi Mi 9 card without switching off the phone?
Yes, it's possible, but it's not recommended. SIM-There is minimal risk: modem malfunction (reboot required); short circuit if contacts get moisture or metal dust; if you urgently need to change card, at least put the phone in flight mode before retrieving.
Why after extraction SIM-The phone does not see the network?
There are several reasons: Bad contact - check if the card is inserted correctly (the cut corner should match the shape of the tray); contamination of contacts - wipe them with a wipe or an alcohol wipe; damage to the card - try inserting it into another phone. IMEI โ€” If the phone doesn't see any SIM-map may have gone off IMEI (If the problem persists, check the network settings: go to Settings โ†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ†’ Access point settings (APN) And drop them to the factory.
What is the difference between the Xiaomi Mi 9 tray and the Mi 9T?
Although both phones belong to the same line, their trays are not interchangeable: the Xiaomi Mi 9 has a tray for 2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM. + microSD. Xiaomi Mi 9T It only supports 2 nano-SIMs (no microSD slots). Physically, the trays differ in size and location of the lock. If you lost a tray, be sure to check the phone model when buying a replacement!
Can I use a tray from another Xiaomi phone?
Theoretically yes, but with reservations: ๐Ÿ“ฑ The trays from Mi 8, Mi 10 and Mi 11 will fit in size, but may differ in depth of the seat. โš ๏ธ The trays from the Redmi series (for example, the Redmi Note 9) will not work โ€“ they have a different fixing mechanism. ๐Ÿ”ง If the tray from the other model is too free to walk, wrap its sides in a thin layer of insulating tape for a tight fit. MDY-11-EMU (for Mi 9).
How to protect the tray from dust and moisture?
Slot for SIM-maps are one of the most vulnerable parts of a smartphone to extend its life: ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Use a case with a tray cap (sold on AliExpress). ๐Ÿงด Apply silicone lubricant to the tray sealing ring (1 time per year). ๐Ÿšฟ Avoid using your phone in the rain or in the bathroom. ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ Once every six months, blow the tray hole with compressed air (cleaning container). If your Mi 9 has already been in water, immediately remove the tray and dry the phone in rice for 24-48 hours. Do not turn it on until you make sure that the moisture has completely evaporated!