Replacement of SIM-card in Xiaomi Redmi 4: instructions with photos and nuances

Xiaomi Redmi 4 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, released in 2016. Despite its age, the device is still actively used due to its reliability and the ability to install custom firmware. However, even such a time-tested gadget periodically there is a need to replace SIM-card – whether it is switching to a new tariff, replacing a damaged SIM card or installing an additional card.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how to properly remove and insert SIM-map in Redmi 4, what tools you need, and also consider the typical errors that can lead to a breakage of the tray or slot. SIM-maps) and compatibility with modern nano-SIM.

Preparation for replacement SIM-maps: what you need

Before you start retrieving your old SIM, make sure you have everything you need on hand. Unlike modern flagships, where the tray is often extended without additional tools, the Xiaomi Redmi 4 requires the use of a special key.

Here is a complete list of what might be useful:

  • πŸ”‘ Paperclip or needle to remove the tray (usually comes with a phone, but any thin metal detail will do).
  • πŸ“± New SIM-Nano-SIM card (Redmi 4 does not support micro-SIM or standard SIM without an adapter!).
  • πŸ” Flashlight (will help to consider the slot if the light is not enough).
  • 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to clean the contacts of the SIM and slot, if necessary).
  • πŸ“¦ Phone box (there can be stored a spare clip or instructions with the location of the slot).

If you don’t have the original Xiaomi paperclip, don’t use too thick objects (such as toothpicks or spokes) – they can bend the tray mechanism, in extreme cases, an unbended stationery clip or a thin sewing needle will do.

πŸ“Š How often do you change? SIM-phonecard?
Every 1-2 years
Only when changing operators
Never changed.
More than once a year.

Where is the slot for SIM-maps in Redmi 4

Xiaomi Redmi 4 slot for the game SIM-The map is located on the left side of the body (when viewed from the front of the screen), which is a small hole with a metal bulge inside. On some modifications (for example, Redmi 4 Pro or Redmi 4 Prime) the slot can be moved to the right side - it depends on the version of the device.

To determine the exact location:

  1. Take your phone in your hand with the screen.
  2. Look at the left end, there should be a small round connector with the SIM or the icon of the card.
  3. If there is nothing on the left side, check the right side (especially if you have a modification with a metal body).

On some devices, there may be a second connector next to the slot, which is a microphone or an infrared port (depending on the model). Don't confuse them! The SIM hole is always smaller in diameter and has a metal ring inside.

πŸ’‘

If you are not sure about the slot location, look at the phone box – there is usually a diagram with the designation of all connectors.

Step-by-step: how to remove the tray for SIM-map

Removing the tray is the most important step, since careless actions can lead to failure of the mechanism.

  1. Turn off the phone (optional, but recommended for safety) to do this, press the power button and select Turn off.
  2. Take a paper clip or a needle and gently insert it into the slot hole to the point. Press it with a little effort, it should be a slight click.
  3. Once you click, the tray will move out of the case a little bit. Pull it gently over yourself without putting too much effort.
  4. Completely remove the tray and place it on a flat surface.

If the tray doesn't come out after you press it, don't try to pull it out with pliers or other tools! This can damage the guides. Try pressing the paper clip again or swaying the phone slightly in your hands - sometimes the tray gets stuck due to dust.

Turn off the phone (optional)|Find a hole for the clip on the side face|Prepare a paper clip or needle|Press until clicking without applying excessive force|Carefully pull the tray out over the speaking part-->

Installation of a new SIM-maps: nuances and possible errors

Now that the tray is removed, you can start replacing it. SIM-Xiaomi Redmi 4 supports two formats:

  • πŸ“‡ Two nano-SIMs (in two-slot models).
  • πŸ“‡ One nano-SIM + microSD (in hybrid versions, where the second slot is combined with a card reader).

Pay attention to the following points:

  • ⚠️ SIM-The card must be set with contacts down (the golden side looks at the phone case).
  • ⚠️ In hybrid models, when installing a microSD, the second slot for SIM-The cards become unavailable!
  • ⚠️ Do not use micro-SIM adapters or standard SIMs – they won’t fit in size and may get stuck.

If you have a hybrid model (Redmi) 4/4A with microSD support, decide in advance what is more important to you: SIM-You can't switch between on-the-fly modes, you have to pull out the tray every time.

Modification of Redmi 4Slot typeMax, the volume of microSDSupport for two SIMs
Redmi 4 StandardHybrid (SIM + microSD)128GBNo (only 1 SIM + microSD)
Redmi 4 PrimeDual SIM + microSD128GBYes (2 nano-SIM + microSD)
Redmi 4 ProDouble SIM.β€”Yes (2 nano-SIM)
Redmi 4AHybrid128GBNo.

⚠️ Attention, if after installing a new one SIM-The phone doesn't see the card, check: Is the SIM card inserted correctly (contacts should be directed downwards), is there any oxidation on the slot or SIM contacts (wipe with alcohol if necessary), does your model support working with two SIM-maps (see table above).

What to do if the tray is stuck or does not come out

One of the most common problems with replacement SIM-Redmi 4's maps are a tray jam. This can happen because of the:

  • πŸ”§ Infection of dust or dirt into the mechanism.
  • πŸ’₯ Excessive effort when pressing the paper clip.
  • πŸ”„ Deformations of the tray (for example, if they tried to pull it out with pliers).

If the tray doesn’t come out after a few attempts, try the following methods:

  1. Heat the case. Sometimes the metal parts of the tray "stick" due to oxidation. Carefully warm up the area of the slot with a hairdryer (no more than 1-2 minutes at minimum power) and try again.
  2. Use duct tape. Stick a piece of tape to the protruding part of the tray and pull it. This method works if the tray is pushed out at least on the other side. 1-2 mm.
  3. Disassembling the phone, which is a last resort, if you have to remove the back cover (in the removable battery models) or gently tuck the tray from the inside, it takes experience β€” without repair skills, you better go to the service center.

If the tray bent, do not try to straighten it yourself - this can lead to breakage of contacts. In such cases, it is cheaper to order a new tray (costs about 100-300 rubles) and replace it.

How to Disassemble Redmi 4 to Remove a Stuck Tray
1. Turn off the phone and remove the battery (if the model has a removable battery). 2. Carefully tuck the back cover with a plastic card, starting at the corner near the slot for the device. SIM-3. Once you take the lid off, you'll see a metal tray -- you can tweez it with tweezers or a screwdriver. 4. Be careful with the plumes! Redmi 4 has some pretty fragile plumes.

Set up the phone after replacement SIM-map

After successful installation of a new SIM-In most cases, the Xiaomi Redmi 4 automatically determines the network settings, but sometimes manual configuration is required.

Follow these steps:

  1. Turn on the phone and wait for the network signal to appear (usually takes 10-30 seconds).
  2. If the connection is not established, go to Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  3. Choose yours. SIM-map and check if the switch is on Mobile data.
  4. If the Internet does not work, click Access Points (APN) and add your operator’s settings (they can be found on the official website of MTS, Beeline, MegaFon or Tele2).

To speed up the process, you can use automatic setting:

  • πŸ“Ά Send. USSD-request *111*1# (for Beeline), *505# (for MTS or *105*09# (for MegaFon).
  • πŸ“± Install the official application of the operator (for example, "My MTS" or "Beeline.Pro") - it will automatically apply the desired parameters.

⚠️ Attention, if after the replacement SIM-The phone stopped seeing both SIMs, check: Are the contacts in the slot bent (take a light carefully) Is the microSD installed in the hybrid model (it blocks the second slot for the device) SIM). Is the "Flight" mode activated (Settings) β†’ Flight mode).

πŸ’‘

If the phone doesn’t see a new one SIM-In 90 percent of cases, the problem is incorrect installation (inverted SIM) or contamination of contacts.

Frequent questions and problems with replacement SIM-map

Even after successful replacement SIM-Xiaomi Redmi 4 users face various nuances. Let's consider the most common of them.

Can I use a micro-SIM or standard SIM? SIM-map?

No, Redmi. 4 It only supports nano-SIM (format) 12.3 Γ— 8.8 If you have a different sized SIM, you need to cut it or replace it in the operator's cabin. Adapters are not recommended, they can get stuck in the slot.

Why does the phone ask for PUK-code-in-class SIM-map?

This means that the old SIM-The card was blocked after three incorrect attempts to enter PIN-code. PUK-code can be found:

  • πŸ“„ On the SIM starting package (usually indicated on the plastic carrier).
  • πŸ“ž Calling the operator's support service (number is listed on the website).
  • πŸ“± In the personal account on the website of the mobile operator.

If you enter PUK-code is wrong 10 times, SIM-The card will be permanently blocked!

How to transfer contacts with the old SIM-new-card?

There are several ways:

  1. Copy contacts to your phone: Contacts β†’ Settings β†’ Import / Export β†’ Export to the device.
  2. Sync with your Google or Mi Account account.
  3. Use applications like Super Backup to back up.

Can I put two in? SIM-MicroSD cards and microSD cards simultaneously?

Not if you have a hybrid model (Redmi). 4 Standard or Redmi 4A). In these devices, the second slot is combined with the card reader, so you have to choose between the second SIM or the additional memory. 4 Prime/Pro There is a separate microSD slot, so you can use it there. 2 SIM + memory-card.

The phone doesn't see a new one. SIM-map, although it is correctly installed

Try the following steps:

  1. Reboot the phone.
  2. Check if it's on. SIM-map in settings (Settings) β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks).
  3. Clean the contacts of the SIM and slot with alcohol.
  4. Try inserting the SIM into another phone – if it doesn’t work, the problem is in the card, not the device.
What to do if you replace it after replacement SIM-The card is missing mobile internet?
First, check if mobile data is included in the settings (Settings) β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ If so, make sure you have enough money in your account to access the Internet. APN (access points - they may have reset. Go to Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN) And add the parameters to your operator. 4G (preferably 3G customized SIM-If nothing works, contact the operator - perhaps your tariff does not have an included Internet package.
How do I know which version of Redmi 4 I have: Standard, Prime or Pro?
There are several ways: Look at the box or sticker on the back of the phone - there should be a full model (like the Redmi 4 Pro). Go to Settings β†’ About the phone β†’ Model of the device. Compare the look: Redmi 4 Standard: plastic case, no fingerprint scanner. Redmi 4 Prime/Pro: metal case, fingerprint scanner on the back.
Can I use it? SIM-card from another operator without changing the number?
Yes, if you have: πŸ“± Multiformat SIM-card (e.g. eSIM or universal SIM with the ability to change operator without replacing physical card). πŸ”„ Support for eSIM technology (but Redmi 4 doesn’t support it) – physical replacement required). πŸ“ž Service "Mobilization of the number" (MNP) β€” This allows you to save the old number when you change operators, so you need to contact the new operator with a passport, otherwise you need to change the operator. SIM-map.

Conclusion: tips for caring for the slot SIM-map

To avoid problems with replacement SIM-Maps in the future, follow these guidelines:

  • 🧹 Regularly (once in) 3-6 months) clean the slot from dust with a dry brush or a spray of compressed air.
  • 🚫 Don't use the tray for SIM-cards as a lever when disassembling the phone - this can bend the guides.
  • πŸ”‹ Avoid getting moisture into the slot (for example, when using your phone in the rain without a cover).
  • πŸ”„ If you change often SIM-cards, store the tray in a dry place to avoid contact oxidation.

If you are planning to use Xiaomi Redmi 4 with two SIM-In hybrid models, you have to sacrifice either a second SIM or a memory card, and the best option is to choose a tariff with a large amount of Internet in advance and use cloud services to store files instead of microSD.

I hope this guide helped you to replace it without any problems. SIM-If you have any questions about a specific modification of the phone or have difficulties with setting up the network, please contact us in the comments - we will try to quickly help you!