How to get a SIM card from a Xiaomi smartphone: all ways and life hacks

Why extraction SIM-Xiaomi cards can be a problem.

Xiaomi smartphones (including the Redmi, POCO and Black Shark sub-brands) are known for their ergonomics, but not always for the convenience of accessing a SIM slot. Unlike older button phones where the SIM was removed in a second, modern devices require accuracy. The main difficulty lies in a miniature tray, which is easy to damage if handled carelessly. In addition, many users face the problem of a jammed tray after a phone falls or dust hits.

Another nuance is the variety of designs. For example, in Xiaomi 12T Pro or Redmi Note 11 models, the tray is located on the side, and in the POCO F4 GT on the top. And some flagships (like the Black Shark 5 Pro) do not have a physical slot at all, supporting only eSIM. If you have never removed a SIM card from Xiaomi, there is a high risk of breaking the plastic lock or losing the tiny extract key that comes with the kit.

In this article, we will look at all the current methods, from standard extraction with a paper clip to emergency methods for jammed trays, and also tell you how to avoid the typical mistakes that lead to expensive repairs.

Preparation: What will be needed to extract SIM-map

Before you start the procedure, make sure you have everything you need on hand. The main tool is the key to extract the tray (aka SIM-eject tool), which usually comes with the phone. If it is not available, alternatives are suitable:

• 📎 Paperclip (unfolded, without plastic tip)
• 🔧 Needle or thin screwdriver (with a diameter not exceeding 0.7 mm)
• 🖊️ gel pen rod (empty, no ink)
• 📱 Clamp for SIM-cards (sold in communication salons)

Important: the tool must be thin and strong, and stupid or too thick objects (such as toothpicks or matches) can damage the opening to extract or the tray itself.

• 🔦 Lantern (if there is not enough light)
• 🧲 Magnet (in case the tray falls out and rolls under the furniture)
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes (for cleaning contacts) SIM-maps if necessary)

If you are planning to replace the SIM card, check its format. Xiaomi smartphones of recent years support only nano-SIM (12.3 × 8.8 mm). Outdated micro-SIM or mini-SIM will not work without trimming (which is not recommended - you can damage the chip).

Standard method: extracting the tray with a key

This is the safest and most recommended method.

1. Turn off your smartphone (optional, but preferably for safety).
2. Find a tray for SIM-In most Xiaomi models, it is located on the right end (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro, Xiaomi 13 Lite, POCO X3 Pro) - at the top end.
3. Put the key (or paperclip) in a small hole next to the tray. Press until you click, the tray will move out a little.
4. Carefully pull the tray over yourself and get it out completely.

If the tray doesn't retract the first time, don't put too much effort into it. You may not have pressed the locking mechanism hard enough. Try wiggling the key slightly in the hole without taking it out.

Some models (e.g. Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra) have a dual tray for two nano-SIMs or one SIM + microSD. In this case, make sure you insert the cards on the correct side - otherwise the tray will not fall into place.

What to do if the tray is jammed: emergency methods

If the standard method didn't work and the tray didn't extend, don't panic. Here are some proven methods:

Method 1: Heating of the housing

Sometimes the tray jams due to deformation of the plastic (for example, after the fall of the phone). Carefully warm up the area around the tray with a hair dryer (temperature not higher than 50 ° C) for 10-15 seconds. The plastic will expand slightly, and the mechanism can unlock.

Method 2: Use of scotch

If the tray is half-out but not fully removed, stick a piece of tape to its edge and pull carefully.This method is suitable for models with a metal tray (for example, Xiaomi 12S Ultra).

Method 3: Software Reboot

In rare cases, the tray is blocked due to a failure in the communication module. Try restarting the phone in Fastboot mode (keep Power + Volume down when you turn off).

Critical information: if the tray broke inside the phone, do not try to remove it yourself - this can damage the motherboard. SIM-tray".

How do you put it in? SIM-Map back: nuances for Xiaomi

Remove the tray is half the battle, and it's just as important to put it back in the right way to avoid communication problems.

1. Make sure there is no dust or debris on the tray, wipe it with a dry wipe if necessary.
2. Put it down. SIM-Make sure the chip angle is the same as the angle on the tray.
3. If the tray supports microSD, insert it into a separate slot (usually signed).
4. Insert the tray before you click. Don't push too hard -- if it doesn't come in, check if the cards are properly installed.

After installation, turn on the phone and check the signal level. If the network is not catching, restart the device or check if it has moved. SIM-card.

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If the phone can't see SIM-After you install the map, try to activate the flight mode for 10 seconds, then turn it off.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when working with the Internet. SIM-Here are the most common ones:

⚠️ Warning: Never use metal objects (knives, scissors) to retrieve the tray. They can close contacts on the motherboard, which will cause the phone to fail.

• 🔌 It can break the lock of the tray or bend its body. If the tray does not come out, it is better to try again with another tool.
• 🔄 Misdirectional orientation SIM-If you put a card upside down, the phone doesn't recognize it, and the tray may not be fixed.
• 💦 Moisture is ingested. If you remove a tray in a wet room (like a bathroom), the contacts may become oxidized.
• 📱 Removing the tray when the phone is on, it won't hurt the device, but it could cause the communication module to malfunction.

Another common problem is the loss of the key to extract, and if you lose it, don't use the first sharp object you find, but rather order a duplicate from a Xiaomi service center or buy a universal key from an accessories store.

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If, after extraction, SIM-The phone stopped seeing the network, check if the contacts in the slot have bent. This is a common problem with careless handling of the tray.

Features for old and new Xiaomi models

The design of trays in Xiaomi smartphones has evolved over the years: in older models (until 2018), hybrid trays were often found, where the second slot could be used either for the second one. SIM-In new devices (starting with the Xiaomi 11 series), the manufacturer abandoned support for memory cards, leaving only slots for nano-SIM.

Some flagships (such as the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2) don’t have a physical slot at all, supporting only eSIM. SIM-The card can only be programmatically - through the operator's settings.

For owners of older models (e.g. Redmi) 4X or Mi A1) Plastic over the years could become brittle, so extract SIM-map.

In the table below - comparison of trays in popular models:

FAQ: Frequent questions about extraction SIM-maps from Xiaomi