How to open the tray for SIM-Maps in Xiaomi smartphone with a paper clip: a detailed guide

Replacement SIM-The card or the second one is a routine task that every Xiaomi owner faces, but what if the SIM tray doesn't want to leave when you press it? The most proven way is to use a standard stationery clip. Incorrect pressure can damage the mechanism, and in some models, the Redmi or POCO vent.

In this article, we will break down the step-by-step algorithm for opening the tray with a paper clip for all modern Xiaomi smartphones (including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11 and others), tell you how to avoid typical errors, and what to do if the tray is jammed, and you will find visual hints, tool compatibility table and answers to frequent questions.

If you have never taken out a tray for SIM-The process takes less than a minute, but requires precision. The main thing is to use the right tool and not apply excessive force. The paperclip is ideal, since its diameter (usually 0.7-0.9 mm) is the same as the size of the hole to extract. Not all the pieces are the same, we’ll talk about that below.

Why paper clip is the best tool for removing tray

Smartphone manufacturers, including Xiaomi, are specifically designing trays for the... SIM-The hole next to the tray (usually on the upper or lateral face of the case) is designed for an object with a diameter of 0.7-1 mm, which is the thickness of an unbended stationery clip.

Advantages of the paper clip over other tools:

• 🔹 Availability: available in any home or office.
• 🔹 Safety: soft metal does not scratch the body and does not damage the tray mechanism.
• 🔹 Universal: Suitable for 99% of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO.
• 🔹 Controlled force: the paper clip bends under excessive pressure, signaling the risk of breakage.

Alternatives like a needle, toothpick or pin are not recommended: they are either too thin (needles can break inside) or too thick (toothpicks split). SIM-The trays that come bundled with some models (like the Xiaomi 13 Pro) but are easy to lose.

Preparation: which paperclip to choose and how to unbend it

Not every paper clip is good for retrieving a tray. The best option is a standard paper clip. №1 (size 28-30 mm, diameter of wire) ~0.8 mm. Avoid:

• 🚫 Plastic-coated paperclip - it can peel off and get stuck in the hole.
• 🚫 Too large paperclips (for example, for a brochurer) - they will not enter the hole.
• 🚫 Rusty or bent paper clips - they can break when pressed.

How to unwind the paperclip correctly:

1. Take a paperclip and straighten it completely to get a straight wire.
2. Measure 1.5-2 cm from the end and bend at an angle of 90° (this will be a “handle” for convenience).
3. Blunt the tip on any hard object (for example, rub on the table) so that it does not scratch the case.

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If there is no paper clip at hand, you can use a carnation earring (thin, without stones) or a stapler bracket - the main thing is that the diameter does not exceed 1 mm.

Step-by-step: how to open the tray with a paper clip

Turn off your smartphone before you start – this will prevent accidental button pressing or damage to contacts SIM-Follow the algorithm:

1. Find the hole to extract: It is located on the side or top of the body, next to the tray. On most Xiaomi models, the hole is marked with a small dot or SIM. On the Redmi Note 11 and later, there can be a plug - it needs to be carefully tucked with a nail.
2. Insert a paper clip: Place the blunted end of the paper clip into the hole at an angle of 45-60 ° and press with a force of 1-1.5 kg (as when you press a button home). You will feel a slight click - this is the locking mechanism.
3. Remove the tray: After clicking, the tray will extend 2 to 3 mm — pull it with your fingers to the end. Do not force if it does not come out: check if the paperclip is fully in.

If the tray doesn't leave:

• 🔧 Check if the hole is clogged with dust (clean with a toothpick).
• 🔧 Try pressing the paper clip at a different angle (sometimes the mechanism only works at strictly perpendicular pressure).
• 🔧 On models POCO F4 Xiaomi 12T the hole may be deeper – use a longer tool (e.g., an unbended brace).

Location of the tray in popular Xiaomi models

Different Xiaomi series have trays for SIM-The maps can be in different places. Below is a table with the exact location for popular models:

On models with a hybrid tray (SIM + microSD), the mechanism can be tighter — that's normal. If the smartphone is new, sometimes the tray "sticks" to the body due to the factory lubrication, in which case a slight swaying of the clip in the hole will help.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with this simple procedure, users make mistakes that can cause the tray to break or the body to damage, and here are the most common:

⚠️ Warning: Never use a knife, scissors or screwdriver to retrieve the tray, the metal of these tools is harder than Xiaomi's aluminum body and leaves scratches, and the sharp edge can damage the plastic lock inside the tray.

• 🔴 Pressure too much: If the paperclip doesn't come in, don't push hard - better check if the tip has skewed. On Xiaomi Mix models, the mechanism is fragile and can break.
• 🔴 Using a rusty paper clip: rust particles can get inside the hole and block the mechanism.Wash the paperclip with alcohol before using.
• 🔴 Removal of the tray at an angle: pull it strictly perpendicular to the body, otherwise you can bend the guides.
• 🔴 Moisture intake: If the smartphone is wet, dry the hole with a hair dryer (cold air) before extraction.

If the tray is not fixed back after extraction, check:

1. Are not bent metal "twistle" on the tray (they can be carefully straightened with tweezers).
2. Have you ever had any stains in your mouth (clean your teeth).
3. Whether or not it's established SIM-Upside-down card (chip should be pointing down).

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If the tray is not inserted back after extraction, do not press it with force in any case. This can lead to a breakage of the spring mechanism, and then the entire module will need to be replaced (cost ~ 1500-2500 rubles in the service).

What to do if the tray is jammed

If the paper clip does not help, and the tray does not extend despite all efforts, the reasons may be as follows:

• 🔧 Mechanical locking: debris or deformation of the case (for example, after a fall).
• 🔧 Breakage of the spring: often found in older models (Redmi) 4X, Mi A1).
• 🔧 Corrosion: if the smartphone was in contact with moisture.

Algorithm of action:

1. Try rocking the tray: Carefully press the paperclip on different sides of the hole, wiggling it slightly, sometimes this helps to move the jammed mechanism.
2. Use vacuum: Apply a vacuum cleaner to the tray at minimum power (through a thin tube) The vacuum can stretch the tray a few millimeters, after which it can be picked up.
3. Disassemble the case (for experienced ones only!): On models with a removable back cover (Redmi 7A, Mi 8 Lite), you can gently tuck the tray from the inside with a plastic card.

⚠️ Note: If the tray jammed after the fall of the smartphone, do not try to remove it yourself. In 60% of cases, this leads to damage to the motherboard (repair cost - from 5000 rubles».

If nothing helps, and the smartphone warranty - do not disassemble it yourself. Xiaomi service centers have special tools to extract trays without damage. The cost of the service (if the user's fault) - about 500-800 rubles.

Alternative ways to remove the tray (if there is no paper clip)

Here are 5 proven ways to open a tray without it:

• 📌 Stapler brace: untighten it and use it as a paper clip. Diameter is perfect.
• 📌 Carnation earring: a thin metal earring without stones can replace a clip.
• 📌 Toothpick: sharpen it to 1 mm diameter and press it carefully.
• 📌 Syringe needle: Remove the plastic cap and use the metal part. Suitable for Redmi 9 and similar models.
• 📌 A string or a line: put it in the hole, loop it around the lock and pull it. It works if you extend the tray 1-2 mm.

On some models (for example, POCO M3) trays can be removed without tools:

1. Place the smartphone screen down on a soft surface.
2. Press with a nail or plastic card on the protruding edge of the tray (if it protrudes by 0.5 mm).
3. Pull aside while pressing the body next to the tray.

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In extreme cases, you can use a heated needle (heat with a lighter and quickly insert into the hole). The plastic tray will melt a little, and it will push out. The risk is damage to the body!

FAQ: Frequent questions about tray extraction in Xiaomi