How to open a nest for SIM-Maps in Xiaomi smartphones: instructions for all models

We have a problem with installation. SIM-Can't find a tray or are you afraid to break the mechanism when you open?This situation is familiar to many brand users - especially those who first encounter Redmi devices, POCO Unlike older button phones, modern smartphones hide the slot for the SIM card under a sealed case, and its opening requires a special tool and accuracy.

In this article, we will look at all possible ways to extract the tray, from the standard key to the tools at hand, explain where the slot is in different Xiaomi models (including hybrid versions with MicroSD support), and warn against typical errors that can lead to breakage, and you will learn what to do if the tray is jammed or it does not lock after installing the card.

Important: the procedure may vary slightly depending on the series of devices. For example, in Xiaomi 12T Pro and Redmi Note 11, different types of locks are used, and in POCO F4, the tray is located on the side, not on the top, we took these nuances into account and prepared a universal guide.

Where is the tray for SIM-card in Xiaomi

Before you try to open the nest, you need to determine its location. Most Xiaomi models have a SIM card slot:

• 📱 On the top edge – typical for flagships (Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Mi 11) and most devices of the Redmi Note line (for example, Note 10 Pro, Note 12).
• 📱 On the left side edge - characteristic of the series POCO (POCO X5 Pro, POCO F4 GT) and some budget Redmi (Redmi) 10A).
• 📱 Under the removable cover - only in outdated models (until 2017, for example, Redmi). 4A).

To avoid making a mistake, examine the case of the smartphone: look for a small hole (diameter) ~1 mm) with a metal rim, next to which there may be a pictogram SIM-chart SIM. In hybrid slots (for example, in Redmi Note 11 Pro)+) The same slot is used to install a microSD memory card - its location is no different.

If you can't find the hole, check the device's configuration - the box should have a diagram indicating all the connectors. You can also use the official Xiaomi website: in the characteristics section of the model there is usually a photo indicating the location of the slot.

What tools will be needed to open

The manufacturer recommends using the brand key to extract the tray (aka SIM-eject tool), which comes with most smartphones. However, if the key is lost, alternative items will also work. The main rule is that the tool should be thin, durable and not bend when pressed.

If you use a paper clip, straighten it so that the tip is flat and has no burrs. The optimal diameter is 0.8-1 mm. Never use force: if the tray does not open, then you press in the wrong place or the tool does not fit.

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Before using improvised means, wrap the tip of the tool with a thin layer of tape - this will protect the hole from scratches and metal shavings.

Step-by-step: how to open the tray of SIM-cards

Follow this algorithm to avoid damage:

1. Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Take a key or a paper clip and insert it into the hole at a 90 degree angle to the body. Press smoothly, but confidently, it should be clicked.
3. After clicking, the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm. Carefully pull it with your fingers until completely removed.
4. Install. SIM-card (or cards if the slot is hybrid) according to the markings on the tray. Note the cutout in the corner - it should match the shape of the socket.
5. Put the tray back up to the point. It should lock with a slight click.

Turn off the smartphone (optional)

Check the SIM type (nano-SIM for all Xiaomi after 2016)

Prepare the key or the paper clip

Check the tray for damage-->

If the tray is not extended:

• 🔍 Check what you are pressing into the right hole (sometimes users confuse it with a microphone or pressure sensor).
• 🔧 Try another tool – perhaps the current one is too thick or thin.
• 📱 Reboot the device – rarely, but it happens that a software failure blocks the mechanism.

Features of hybrid slots (SIM + MicroSD)

Many Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 11S, POCO X4 Pro) are equipped with a hybrid tray that allows you to choose between two nano-SIMs or one SIM + MicroSD memory card.

• 📱 You can't use two at the same time. SIM MicroSD – you will have to sacrifice one SIM card.
• 🔄 Replacement of configuration (e.g., with 2) SIM 1 SIM + MicroSD – be sure to restart the smartphone, otherwise the second one SIM may not be determined.
• 📶 MicroSDXC memory cards (over 64GB) may not be supported in older models (until 2019).

In hybrid slots, the tray has a special markup:

SIM1 – upper socket (usually 4G/5G)

SIM2/MicroSD - Lower socket (depending on the configuration selected).

⚠️ Note: If you insert a MicroSD into a slot SIM1, The smartphone does not recognize the card, but SIM-slot-card SIM2 It can only work in the mode 2G. Always check the markings on the tray!

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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

1. Use of force. If the tray doesn't open, don't push hard, it can bend the mechanism or break the spring. You'd better check if you pressed the hole correctly.
2. Misdirectional orientation SIM-If you put a card upside down, your smartphone won't see it. Always check the silhouette on the tray.
3. Ignoring sealing gum. In IP53-protected models (like the Redmi Note 12 Pro+), there's a thin seal on the edge of the tray, and if it's damaged, it's going to lose its water protection.
4. MicroSD installation without formatting. A new memory card may not be detected if it is formatted in NTFS or exFAT. Xiaomi recommends using FAT32.

Another common problem is that the tray doesn't lock after installation, and this can be because of:

• 🔧 Solution: blow the slot with compressed air (for example, a can of canister to clean the keyboard).
• 📱 Deformation of the tray (for example, if you stepped on it), Solution: replace the tray (cost - from 200 rubles).
• 🔄 Incomplete insert. Solution: press the tray until the characteristic click.

1. Correct installation (turn the map).

2. carrier compatibility (some Xiaomi does not support CDMA-network).

3. Settings APN (manually add your operator’s settings to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Access points (APN)).-->

Models with non-standard slots: POCO, Black Shark and others

Some Xiaomi devices have unique tray designs that require a special approach:

• 🎮 Black Shark 4/5: The slot is on the right, and the extraction hole is hidden under a decorative stub. Use the key from the kit - improvised tools can scratch the game design.
• 📱 POCO F3 GT: The tray is not fully extended, but only 50%. Don't try to pull it out completely, which is a normal feature of the model.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mix Fold 2: slot is on the lower edge, and the opening mechanism is two-stage (you need to press twice at intervals of 1 second).

For the POCO M4 Pro and POCO X3 GT, the problem of sticking the tray due to moisture entering the seal is relevant. If the smartphone has been in the rain or in the bath, dry it in rice or silica gel for at least 12 hours before removing the SIM.

⚠️ Note: Black Shark and some POCO It uses a reinforced tray locking mechanism, and if you feel resistance to pulling it out, don't pull it, call the service.

What to do if the tray is broken or jammed

If the tray opening mechanism fails, you have several options:

At home, you can try the following manipulations:

1. Blow the hole with compressed air (for example, from a can of cleaning equipment).
2. Carefully swing the tray to the sides by pressing the hole. Sometimes this helps to move the jammed mechanism.
3. If the tray is pushed out halfway, try to tamper with a thin plastic card (for example, a discount).

If nothing helps, don’t take risks – contact an authorized service center Xiaomi. Self-repair can lead to loss of warranty or damage to the motherboard (for example, if the case gets metal shavings).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions