How to open the tray of SIM-cards in Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 without a key: a step-by-step guide with photos and videos

Lost or broken the key to retrieve the tray SIM-Don’t panic – there are at least 7 ways to open a slot without the original tool. In this article, we will discuss mechanical methods (with paper clips, needles, paper), software workarounds (through phone settings), and emergency solutions for cases where the tray is jammed. Incorrect actions can damage the connector or board – so we will describe each stage in detail with warnings and alternatives.

Redmi Note 8

0.8-0.9 mm

Before you start, check:

• 🔍 Is there a key in the package (sometimes it is attached to documents or packaging).
• 📦 Is the tray stuck due to deformation (for example, after the fall of the phone).
• 🔧 Is there a guarantee – if so, it is better to contact the Xiaomi service center.

Method: paper clip or stationery pin

The most popular and safe method is to use an unbended paperclip, which is 90% of the time if the key hole is not deformed.

You'll need:

• 📎 Paperclip (preferably new, without rust).
• 🔨 Flat-slippers or extension scissors.
• 🔦 Lantern (to better see the hole).

Step-by-step:

1. Untighten the paperclip so that a straight rod of ~ 3 cm length is obtained.
2. Insert the tip into the hole next to the slot at a 90° angle to the body.
3. Press with a force of ~1-1.5 kg - a click should be heard (this worked the fixer).
4. Carefully stretch the tray behind the protruding part.

⚠️ Note: Do not use rusty clips - rust particles can get into the connector and cause corrosion of the contacts. If the clip bends when pressed, take a thicker one (for example, from a stapler).

Method: needle or sewing pin

If there's no paper clip, a sewing needle will do (№3-5 or a pin, the main thing is that the diameter does not exceed 1 mm, otherwise you risk widening the hole.

Advantages of the method:

• 🔹 The needle is thinner than the key, so there is less risk of damage to the mechanism.
• 🔹 Suitable for phones with narrow holes (for example, after a fall).

How to proceed:

1. Take the needle by the blunt end (do not prick your finger!).
2. Put the pin in the hole to the point.
3. Press and simultaneously pull the tray on yourself - it should slip out.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use rusty needles or those that have been in contact with the fabric - fibers may remain inside the phone. If the needle breaks inside the hole, do not try to pull it out yourself - contact the service, otherwise you risk damaging the motherboard.

3. Method: paper or film (for jammed trays)

If the tray does not extend even after pressing the lock, it may be jammed due to dust or deformation, in which case dense paper (for example, a business card) or plastic film will help.

Algorithm of action:

• 📄 Take a strip of paper 5 mm wide and 10 cm long.
• 🔧 Carefully insert it between the tray and the body of the phone.
• 🔄 Pull both ends as if you were sawing the tray back and forth.
• 🎯 As soon as you feel the tray moved, remove it with your hands.

This method works by friction, where paper clings to the tray's protrusions and helps to pull it out. Don't use metal objects (knives, coins) - they will scratch the body and can close contacts.

4. Method: software extraction (for MIUI 12+ firmware)

Few people know, but some versions of MIUI (starting with 12) have a hidden feature for removing the tray without physical impact.

Instructions:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to About the Phone. → Version. MIUI.
3. Click 7 times on the line with the version to activate Developer Mode.
4. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
5. Find the option to Remove the SIM tray (if it is not available, the method is not suitable).

If the option is available, the tray will automatically unlock after activation, minus the method: it only works on some firmware and may disappear after updating.

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Before using the software method, check if the flight mode is turned on - sometimes it blocks access to the flight. SIM-menu.

5. Method: duct tape or scotch

If the tray protrudes from the body by at least 1 mm, you can try to pull it out with duct tape, which is suitable for cases where the locker has worked, but the tray does not come out to the end.

What you need:

• 🎗️ Double-sided tape or tape.
• 📏 Scissors.
• 🧼 Alcohol for surface degreasing.

Step-by-step:

1. Cut a strip of scotch 3-4 mm wide and 5 cm long.
2. Stick it to the protruding part of the tray (if it is drowned, try to pick it up with a toothpick).
3. Press your finger for 10 seconds for a secure fixation.
4. Carefully pull the free end of the tape.

⚠️ Warning: Don't use superglue or other aggressive glues, they can get inside the phone and damage the board. If the tray doesn't respond, don't pull harder: try again with another method.

6. Method: disassembly of the phone (extreme case)

If none of these methods work, the last option is a partial disassembly of the Redmi Note 8, a risky method that can lead to loss of warranty or damage to the plumes, but sometimes it is necessary.

What will be required:

• 🔧 Plastic blade (or mediator).
• 🔩 Screwdriver. T4 screw.
• 🧲 Magnetic propeller substrate.
• 📸 Camera (to photograph the location of the parts).

Procedure:

1. Turn off the phone and remove the battery (if possible).
2. Heat the back cover with a hair dryer (temperature ~60°C) to soften the glue.
3. Put the lid on the side of the SIM slot and carefully remove it.
4. Unscrew the screws fixing the metal plate over the tray.
5. Remove the tray with your hands or tweezers.

⚠️ Note: Disassembling the Redmi Note 8 requires experience - there are many fragile plumes inside (especially under the battery).If you are not sure about yourself, you should contact the service. The cost of replacing a damaged plume can exceed the price of a new phone.

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Disassembling the phone is a last resort. If the tray is not removed, first check if the key hole is contaminated (blow it with compressed air).

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

To make the choice easier, we have compiled a table with the pros and cons of each method:

For most users, a paper clip or a needle is the best option. If the tray is jammed, try the paper method. Software extraction is only suitable for MIUI 12+ firmware, and leave the disassembly for an emergency.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When you try to open a slot without a key, many people make common mistakes that lead to breakdowns.

• 🔨 Too much pressure – if you press the hole with a force of more than 2 kg, you can bend the lock or break the plastic guide groove.
• 🔥 Use of sharp objects (knives, forks) – they scratch the body and can close contacts.
• 💦 Liquid Getting – If you use glue or wet materials, make sure they don’t leak inside your phone.
• 🔌 Ignoring the click - if after pressing no characteristic sound is heard, then the fixator did not work, and pulling the tray is useless.

If after removing the tray you notice that:

• 📶 SIM-card is not determined – check if the contacts in the slot are bent (neatly bend them with a needle).
• 🔋 Phone overheating - may have damaged the antenna plume (diagnosis needed).

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After successfully removing the tray, wipe it and the key hole with an alcohol napkin – this will remove dust and prevent jamming in the future.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions