How to open the tray for SIM-Maps in Xiaomi Redmi 9: all ways and life hacks

Open the tray for SIM-Xiaomi Redmi 9 seems like a simple task — until you encounter a jammed mechanism or no paper clip at hand. This model, released in 2020, is equipped with a standard retractable tray type nano-SIM. + microSD, but it's nuanced. For example, many users don't know that the Redmi 9 has a tray on the side, not on top, like Xiaomi's flagship models. Moreover, if you handle it carelessly, you can damage the O-ring, which will lead to dust entering the body.

In this article, we will discuss three official ways to open the tray (including the method without a paper clip), and also tell you what to do if the mechanism is jammed or broken. You will learn what tools are suitable for replacing the standard key, how to avoid common errors and what specific sounds mean when you press the tray (click vs. grinding). 9A, Redmi 9C, Redmi 9T Redmi 9 Prime.

Where is the tray for SIM-maps in Redmi 9?

Unlike many Samsung or iPhone smartphones, where the tray is located on the top, the Xiaomi Redmi 9 has it on the left side (when viewed from the front of the screen), a typical solution for Xiaomi's budget models, but often causes confusion among new owners.

• 🔍 Look at the left end of the smartphone – there should be a small hole (≈1 mm) with a metal ring inside.
• 📏 The tray is located approximately in the middle of the height of the body, closer to the lower edge (by 2-3 mm above the connector). USB-C).
• 🎨 Some versions of Redmi 9 (e.g. Redmi) 9T) The hole can be marked with a tiny inscription. SIM card-pictogram.

If you can't see the hole, you may have a case with high sides on your smartphone, take it off, which solves the problem of the "vanished" tray in 80% of cases, and check if the hole is closed with a factory protective sticker (relevant for new devices).

Method 1: Standard key or paper clip (official method)

This is the most reliable and recommended way Xiaomi. Complete with the Redmi 9 comes a special metal key with a curved end, but if you lose it, any unbended clip or stationery pin will do, the main thing is that the tool diameter does not exceed 0.6-0.8 mm, otherwise you risk damaging the mechanism.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Insert the key or paper clip into the tray hole at an angle of 45-60 ° to the point.
3. Press 1.5-2 kg (the equivalent of pressing the keyboard) and it should be a clear click.
4. The tray will be pushed out by 2-3 mm - pull it with your fingers to the end.

Is the smartphone turned off (optional)|Is there any dirt in the tray hole?|Is the diameter of the instrument suitable (≤0.8 mm)|Do you press at the right angle (45–60)°)-->

⚠️ Warning: If you hear a grinding sound or the tray is not pushed, stop trying immediately! This is a sign of a jammed mechanism (see section "What to do if the tray is stuck").

Method 2: Without a paper clip - alternative tools

Situations where there is no paper clip at hand often happen. Fortunately, the tray in Redmi 9 can be opened by improvised means, but it is important to be careful here. Inappropriate tools (such as needles or toothpicks) can break the spring mechanism.

How to replace the paper clip:

• 📎 Then, make sure that the end is straight (without the bars).
• 🔑 Key to SIM-cards from another smartphone (such as an old Samsung or iPhone).
• 🧲 Needle from the syringe (diameter 0.6-0.7 mm) - an insulin syringe will fit.
• 🎧 Disassembled headphones - copper wire from 3.5 mm cable (clean the end).

💡

If the tool is too thin (for example, a needle), wrap its end with a thin tape to increase the diameter to 0.7-0.8 mm.

⚠️ Warning: Never use scissors, knives or forks! their ends are too thick and can deform the plastic guide groove of the tray. also avoid magnetic tools - they can damage the compass or speakers of a smartphone.

Method 3: Software extraction (for experienced ones only)

Few people know, but the Xiaomi Redmi 9 has a hidden feature of forcing the tray through the engineering menu, which is useful if the mechanism is jammed, but it does not work 100% and may not work the first time.

1. Open the phone app and enter the code: ##4636##
2. In the engineering menu, select Hardware Testing → SIM Slot Test.
3. Press Eject SIM (if the option is active).
4. Wait 5-10 seconds – the tray should move automatically.

If this method doesn’t work, try the alternative code:

##7465625##

⚠️ Warning: Do not change other settings in the engineering menu! this can cause network failure or lockdown IMEI. If the tray did not move after entering the code, go back to the mechanical methods.

What to do if the tray is stuck or not opened?

A jammed tray is a common problem in the Redmi 9, especially after falls or moisture, and the causes can range from deformation of the plastic guide to corrosion of metal parts.

If the tray is stuck "halfway", try the following:

1. Put the smartphone down on a soft surface.
2. Carefully press the tray on the side (from the screen) with your finger or blunt side of the pencil.
3. At the same time, pull the protruding part of the tray with a smooth movement.

💡

If the tray does not open after the fall of the smartphone, do not apply excessive force! there is a great risk of damaging the motherboard or battery plume.

How to avoid a break in the tray: 5 rules

Tray for SIM-The Redmi 9 is designed to be ~5,000 opening/closing cycles, but if handled carelessly, can break much earlier:

• 🔄 Do not open the tray "on the go" - vibrations (for example, in transport) can lead to a distortion of the mechanism.
• 🧴 Avoid getting creams/oils on your hands when extracting – greasy traces attract dust.
• 🌡️ Do not use your smartphone in extreme temperatures (below). -10°C or higher +40°C) - plastic becomes brittle.
• 🔋 Do not remove the tray when the battery is low (less than 15%) – a sudden shutdown can interrupt the initialization process. SIM.
• 🛠️ Keep the tray key in your case – many breakdowns occur due to the use of inappropriate tools.

If you change often SIM-card (e.g. on trips), consider a two-way SIM or eSIM (if your carrier supports) that will reduce the load on the tray mechanism.

Video Instructions and Frequent Errors

For clarity, we recommend watching the official video from Xiaomi (in English, but the process is intuitive):

Common mistakes when opening the tray:

• ❌ Too strong pressing - leads to the pressing of the mechanism inside the body.
• ❌ Using magnets – can damage the Hall sensor (responsible for the operation of magnetic lock cases).
• ❌ Repeated attempts after grinding - aggravates the breakage of the spring.
• ❌ Removal of the tray when the smartphone is turned on - in rare cases leads to a failure of initialization SIM.

If after removing the tray smartphone stopped seeing SIM-map, perform the following actions:

1. Reset the device.
2. Check if the SIM is installed correctly (the chip must be turned down).
3. Clean the contacts of the tray with a swallow or an alcohol napkin.
4. In settings go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Operator name and select Automatically.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions