How to open the compartment for SIM-Xiaomi cards with a needle: full instructions with photos and videos

Open the tray for SIM-cards in smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO It seems like a simple task until you encounter it for the first time, and many users are afraid of damaging the device by using too much force or the wrong tools, and it actually takes less than a minute if you know a few key nuances: from choosing the right tool to the angle of pressing.

In this article, we will discuss not only the standard method with a paper clip or a needle, but also alternative methods for emergency situations (for example, if there is nothing sharp at hand), especially the models with a dual slot (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12), where the tray can “stuck” due to design features, and you will learn what to do if the compartment does not open even after several attempts – this is a common problem for devices after falls or moisture.

Why a needle or a paper clip: the physics of the process

Xiaomi manufacturers use mechanical lock to fix tray SIM-This is a card that works when you press a microscopic spring tongue inside the hole, and the diameter of this hole is usually 0.8 to 1.2 mm, so only thin and durable objects are suitable:

• 🔹 Standard paper clip - the best option (wire thickness) ~It is easy to bend to obtain a straight rod 3-4 cm long.
• 🔹 Sewing needle - suitable, but requires caution: too thin can bend, and too thick (for example, for sewing skin) will not enter the hole.
• 🔹 The special key from the kit is perfect, but often lost, and Xiaomi replaces it with a metal clip even in service centers.

It's important to understand that inside the hole is not just a button, but a miniature lever that shifts sideways when you press it. If the tool is too thick (like a toothpick), it won't be able to move the lever deep enough and the tray won't open. On the other hand, a too thin object (like a pin) can slip past the lever or bend.

Step-by-step: how to open a tray of SIM-cards in Xiaomi

Before you start, make sure that the smartphone is turned off - this will eliminate the risk of short circuit if a metal object accidentally hits the board.

1. Find a hole to extract the tray. It's located on the end of the device: 📱 On most Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi 11, Redmi Note 10) – on the right end (when looking at the screen). 📱 In some flagships (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra) – on the upper end next to the power button. 📱 In models with protection IP68 (for example, Xiaomi 12S Ultra) the hole can be covered with a rubber plug - it must be carefully moved.

Insert a paper clip or needle into the hole at an angle of 45-60 degrees to the body. Press with enough force to trigger the mechanism, but do not overdo it - the spring can deform.

The tray should extend 2-3 mm. Then you can pull it out with your fingers. If the tray does not come out, try to press again, sometimes the mechanism sticks.

Turn off the smartphone.|Check the location of the hole (not to be confused with the microphone!)|Prepared paper clip/needle (at least 3 cm long)|Pressed at the correct angle (45–60)°)|He didn't make too much effort.-->

Video instructions for clarity (clickable):

[Insert a video player or YouTube hyperlink here to demonstrate the process for popular Xiaomi models]

⚠️ Attention: If the tray does not extend after 3-4 attempts, DO NOT increase the force of pressing. 90% of the time the problem is contamination of the hole (dust, moisture) or deformation of the spring after falling.

Alternative ways: what to do if there is no paper clip

There are different situations: there are no paper clips at hand, and the trays need to be removed urgently.

• 🖊️ The rod from the gel handle is suitable if the diameter does not exceed 1 mm. Cut a piece 3-4 cm long and sharpen the tip with a knife.
• 📎 Toothpick - only if it is sharpened and shortened to 2-3 cm Minus: it can break inside the hole.
• 🔧 Thin screwdriver (for example, for repairing watches) The main thing is not to use magnetic nozzles that can damage the internal components.
• 💳 Credit card edge – suitable for models with “recessed” tray (for example, POCO X3). Insert the card in the gap between the tray and the case and gently dent.

The most extreme but effective way is to use a thread:

1. Take a strong thread (such as from a balloon) and fold it in half.
2. Put the loop in the clip hole and try to hook the tongue of the tray with it.
3. Pull the thread sideways - the tray should move.

⚠️ Warning: Never use scissors, knives or metal objects with burrs. they can scratch the body or, worse, damage the antenna tracks on the board (they are located next to the tray in most Xiaomi models).

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even with the right actions, the tray may not open. Let's look at the typical scenarios and how to eliminate them:

Critical error: using glue or tape to extract the tray, which can lead to the adhesive getting on the contacts. SIM-map or antenna module, which will cause communication problems.

Features for popular Xiaomi models

The design of the tray may vary depending on the series and year of release of the device, here are the key nuances for the most common models:

• 📱 Xiaomi Redmi Note 11/12: The hole is on the right end, but the tray often gets stuck because of a tight landing. 2–3 successively.
• 📱 Xiaomi 13/13 Pro: rubber seal tray. It is recommended to blow the hole before extraction to avoid sticking.
• 📱 POCO F4/F5: scalp-hole (diameter) ~0.7 Use a thin needle or a special key.
• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite: The tray is only extended to 1/3 lengths – do not try to pull it out completely by force, pull it carefully.

In 5G-enabled models (such as the Xiaomi 12T), the tray may have an additional contact for the MIMO antenna. When extracting, do not touch the gold contacts with your fingers - this can degrade the quality of communication.

💡

If you change often SIM-card, buy a magnetic key for the tray (sold on AliExpress for a fee) ~It's attached to the case of the smartphone and always at hand.

What to do if the mechanism of the tray is broken

If after a few attempts, the tray never opened and the paper clip fails without resistance, the spring or the plastic lock is likely to break.

1. Try to remove the tray with a plastic card, inserting it into the gap between the tray and the body, the movements should be smooth, without jerking.
2. If the tray is not amenable, do not use metal objects - the risk of damage to the antenna module is too high.
3. The cost of repairing the tray mechanism in official Xiaomi services is 500-1200 rubles (depending on the model). In informal workshops, the price may be lower, but the guarantee for work is not always given.

In extreme cases, you can disassemble a smartphone, but it requires experience and special tools (suction cup, mediator, screwdriver T3/T4). In Xiaomi models with adhesive screen mounting (for example, Mi 10), self-examination is fraught with damage to the plumes.

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If the tray SIM-The card does not open after the smartphone falls, first check the antenna (calls, mobile Internet.

How to avoid problems in the future

To the tray SIM-card served for a long time and does not cause trouble, follow the simple rules:

• 🔄 Don't remove the tray too often. Every opening/closing wears out the spring. SIM-Cards (for example, for travel), use a double tray or eSIM.
• 🧴 Protect the hole from moisture. IP68 the sealer loses its elasticity over time. Rub the hole with an alcohol napkin every six months.
• 🛠️ Keep a special key in your smartphone case or in your car glove compartment. It takes up little space and is always at hand.
• 🚫 Do not use the tray to "storage" the micro-SD If you don't plan on getting them out often, the constant friction blurs the contacts.

If you drop your smartphone frequently, consider buying a cover with end protection – this will reduce the risk of tray deformation when hit. In Xiaomi models with an aluminum frame (for example, the Mi 11), the body can bend even when it falls slightly, which will block the mechanism.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions