Replacing the SIM- card in Xiaomi smartphones seems like a simple procedure, but in practice users face nuances from the non-obvious location of the tray to problems with nano-SIM in hybrid slots. This instruction will help to avoid typical errors, such as damage to contacts or loss of a second slot under the memory card. We will analyze the process for all current models (from the Redmi Note 12 to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra), pay attention to preparing tools and explaining how to properly extract the tray without a clip.
The article focuses on hybrid slots, where you have to choose between a second SIM- card and a microSD card. You will learn how to check the compatibility of your model with two SIM cards, what card formats are supported, and what to do if the smartphone does not see the new SIM after installation. We will also reveal little-known chips – for example, how to activate eSIM on supported devices or transfer contacts from an old card without loss.
Preparation for replacement SIM-Maps: What to do in advance
Before you take out your old SIM, take a few important steps: first, turn off your smartphone – this will prevent malfunctioning of the communication module. Second, check what type of card your model supports: most modern Xiaomi only work with nano-SIM (12.3×8.8 mm), but in older devices (for example, Redmi 4A) micro-SIM (15×12 mm) could be used.
If you plan to use two SIM- cards, check the configuration of the slot:
- 📱 Double slot (DSDS) – supports two physical SIM simultaneously (e.g. POCO X5 Pro).
- 🔄 Hybrid slot – the choice between a second SIM or a memory card (typical for the Redmi Note 11).
- 📲 eSIM + physical SIM – In flagships (Xiaomi 13T), one of the cards can be virtual.
Don’t forget to save your contacts! If they were only stored on SIM, export them to your Google or Mi Account via Contacts → Management → Import / Export. It’s also helpful to write down the PUK- codes of both cards – they may be needed when you block them after you failed to enter PIN.
Tools for extracting the tray: what will suit instead of a clip
Xiaomi's standard kit includes a tray extraction key, a thin metal bracket, and if it's not available, alternatives are suitable:
| Tool. | Pluses | Cons | Suitable for models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paperclip (uncurved) | Always at hand, thin. | Maybe bend, scratch the body. | All except the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 (deep slot) |
| Needle (sewing) | Sharp, not slipping. | The thickness may not fit. | Redmi 9A, POCO M4 Pro |
| Toothpick (sharpened) | Soft, not scratching. | It breaks when pressed hard. | Older models (Mi A2) |
| SIM pusher from another phone | Perfect thickness | Maybe not fit in the length. | All modern Xiaomi |
Critically, do not use knives, scissors or other sharp objects - they can damage the tray O-ring or contacts SIM- card. If the tray is not extended, do not put too much effort: it may be blocked due to a fall of the phone.
Turn off the smartphone
Prepare a paper clip/key
Put your phone on a soft surface
Check for rubber seal (for waterproof models)
Take a picture of the old location SIM (two-card)-->
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and insert SIM-map
The replacement algorithm is the same for most models, but there are nuances for devices with waterproofing (such as the Xiaomi 12S Ultra) or retractable mechanisms (such as the Mix Fold 3).
- Find a slot for the SIM. It is usually located on the top or side edge (see the table below). In models with a metal case (POCO F5), the slot can be hidden under a plug.
- Put the key in the hole before you click. Press it smoothly, without skewing, otherwise you can bend the mechanism. Xiaomi 13 Lite has a smaller hole than the standard, so the clip will have to be undermined.
- Remove the tray smoothly. If it doesn't come out, sway it slightly left-right. In hybrid slots (Redmi Note 10 Pro), first remove the top tray cover.
- Set the new SIM with the pins down. For a dual slot, focus on the SIM1/SIM2 marking. In Xiaomi 12T, the tray has asymmetrical slots - don't try to insert it inverted.
- Put the tray back to the end. Make sure it sits flat - skewed will lead to poor contact. In IP-certified models (Xiaomi 13 Pro), check the integrity of the rubber seal.
After switching on the smartphone, it may take up to 2 minutes to initialize the card. If a notification appears "SIM- card is not supported", check:
- 🔄 Frequency compatibility (e.g., Redmi Note 12 5G does not work with 2G- cards).
- 📶 Installation correctness (contacts must fit tightly).
- 🔧 Network settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Access Point name (APN).
What if the tray is jammed?
Features of replacement in popular Xiaomi models
The design of the SIM- is very different even for devices of the same generation, and the following are the key nuances for popular lines:
| Model | Slot type | Features | Slot location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Hybrid (SIM1 + SIM2/microSD) | Spring-powered tray – do not press hard when installing | Left face (under the volume button) |
| Xiaomi 13 | Double nano-SIM | Supports eSIM (setting up via Settings → Memory → Additional) | Lower facet |
| POCO X5 | Hybrid | SIM2 slot only works in 4G mode (no 5G) | Upper edge |
| Xiaomi Mix Fold 3 | Double nano-SIM | The tray is extended only when the screen is unfolded | Right face (in folded state) |
| Redmi A2 | Double micro-SIM | Outdated format – an adapter for nano-SIM may be required | Upper edge (under the IR port) |
Owners of Xiaomi 12S and newer should pay attention to eSIM support.
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
- Scan it. QR-code from the operator or enter data manually.
- Set network priority (for example, use a physical SIM for calls, and eSIM for the Internet).
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If your mobile data stops working after you replace your SIM, check your APN settings. Often, carriers automatically send the configuration via SMS — just restart your phone.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when replacing the SIM, and here are the most common problems and solutions:
⚠️ Warning: If you have a new SIM smartphone that says "No Network," don't be quick to blame the card. 30 percent of the time, it's because of a failure in the settings IMEI -- especially after you've firmwareed it. Check IMEI through #06# and restore it using the engineering menu if necessary (#4636#*).
1 error: The smartphone does not see the SIM- card.
- 🔍 Check if the card is inserted correctly (contacts must be facing the case).
- 📏 Make sure it’s nano-SIM – Xiaomi doesn’t support micro-SIM adapters.
- 🔄 Reboot your phone or turn on/off flight mode.
Error 2: The second SIM is not working.
- 📶 In hybrid slots, check if the space is taken under the microSD.
- 🔧 In settings (SIM-maps and mobile networks), enable the option to "Allow data switching".
- 📱 Make sure the model supports Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS). For example, POCO M5 only works with one active SIM for 4G.
Error 3: Loss of signal after replacement.
- 📡 Check the carrier coverage - it may not be the phone that is the problem.
- 🔄 Reset network settings: Settings → System system → Resetting settings → Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth.
- 🛠️ If the smartphone fell, the antenna plume could have moved away — it requires repair.
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Before buying a new SIM- card, check with the operator whether your model Xiaomi supports its frequencies. For example, Redmi 10C does not work with 5G networks, and Xiaomi 13T Pro requires nano-SIM with VoLTE support.
How to Transfer Contacts and Data from Old SIM to New SIM
If you've been saving contacts on a SIM- card for years, it'll only take a few minutes to transfer them to a new device or Google account.
Method 1: Export through the Contact Menu.
- Open the Contacts app.
- Click on three points (⋮) → Contact Management → Import/Export.
- Select "Export to the device" (save the file.vcf).
- Copy the file to a new SIM or Google Contacts.
Method 2: Sync with Mi Account.
- 📱 Go to Settings. → Accounts. → Mi Account → Synchronization.
- 🔄 Enable the Contacts option and wait until it is complete.
- 📲 On the new device, log in to the same account – contacts will be automatically downloaded.
Method 3: Manual transfer (if there are few contacts).
- 📞 Insert the old SIM into the phone.
- 📝 Open each contact, click "Edit" → "Copy to phone."
- 🔄 Repeat for all contacts, then export them to your Google account.
⚠️ Warning: If you use Xiaomi with custom firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.eu), standard contact export may not work, in which case use third-party apps like Sim Contacts Backup (available on Google Play).
What to do if the tray for SIM- card is broken
Breaking the tray is one of the most frustrating problems, because without it, you can't use mobile communications, and the reasons can range from mechanical damage to corrosion of contacts (for example, after moisture gets into the Redmi Note 11 Pro with IP53 protection).
Temporary solution (if the tray falls out).
- 📎 Secure the tray with tape on the inside (carefully so as not to close the contacts).
- 🧲 Use a magnet to hold it in place (suitable for metal trays).
- 🔧 Insert the tray without SIM- card and fix it with BF glue -2 (only for older models without waterproof!).
Constant repairs.
- 🛠️ Replacement of the tray in the service center (cost: 500-1500 ₽ depending on the model).
- 🔧 Self-replacement (requires a body disassembly and soldering iron for Xiaomi 12S Ultra with waterproofing).
- 📲 Switch to eSIM (if the model supports it).
If the tray is stuck inside the case, do not try to remove it by force. In 70% of cases, this leads to damage to the motherboard.
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In waterproof models (Xiaomi 13 Pro, Mix Fold 3), self-repair of the tray will void the warranty. If the phone is warranty, contact only an authorized service center.