How to insert the SIM into the phone Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Inserting a SIM card into a Xiaomi smartphone seems like a simple procedure, but in practice users face problems ranging from unsuccessful attempts to extract the tray to damage contacts due to improper installation. This is especially true for owners of new Redmi or POCO models, where the design of the slot can differ from conventional solutions. In this article, we will analyze the process Step-by-step - from tool preparation to network verification, and also talk about hidden nuances that the manufacturer does not always mention in the official instructions.

It’s important to consider that even one model (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Lite) can have different types of trays: combined (SIM + microSD) or separate for each card. And in recent years, flagships such as Xiaomi 14 Ultra have completely abandoned physical SIM cards in favor of eSIM. We covered all options so that you do not damage the device and configure mobile communication the first time.

What tools will be needed to install a SIM card

Before you start the procedure, prepare everything you need, and without the right tools, you risk damaging the tray or even the body of your phone.

• 🔧 Paperclip or needle from the set Xiaomi (it is better to use the original – it has the optimal thickness and does not bend).
• 📱 Nano-SIM from your carrier, if you have a different format card, you need to trim it or replace it in the salon.
• 🔍 Lantern (optional, but will help to see the groove for extracting the tray in poorly lit places).
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to clean the SIM card contacts if it was previously used).

If you have a model that supports two physical SIMs (like the Redmi Note 12 Pro+), make sure both cards are nano-SIM. Using adapters or hand-cut cards can cause signal loss or slot damage. Also check if your model supports DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby) - meaning both SIMs will be active at the same time, but only one will be able to work on a 4G/5G network.

⚠️ Warning: Never use sharp objects (knives, toothpicks, pins) to remove the tray.This can damage the fixing mechanism or scratch the phone's body. The original clip from the Xiaomi kit has a rounded tip that safely enters the groove.

Where is the SIM card slot in Xiaomi phones

The slot’s location depends on the model and year of the smartphone’s release. In most modern Xiaomi devices (2019-2026), the SIM card tray is on the left side (when you look at the screen).

• 📱 Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra, Xiaomi 12S Ultra – slot on the lower edge next to the connector USB-C.
• 📱 POCO F5, Redmi K60 — slot on the upper edge (a rare solution, but occurs).
• 📱 Xiaomi Civi 3, Xiaomi 13 Lite – slot on the right side (typical for thin models).

To determine the exact location, look at the phone body: look for a small hole (groove to extract) with a metal rim. If you are not sure, check the characteristics of your model on the official Xiaomi website or in the documentation. In some cases (for example, the Xiaomi Mix Fold 3) slot can be hidden under the removable panel, then you need to carefully tweak it.

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If you can’t find the slot, light a flashlight along the facets of the phone – a metal slot for the clip will reflect light.

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

Now, to the most critical step, the tray removal, follow the instructions carefully so that you don't damage the mechanism.

1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Take a paper clip from the kit and insert it into a groove on the edge of the phone. Press with force until the tray is pushed 1-2 mm.
3. Carefully pull the tray on yourself straight, without swaying. If it's tight, don't put too much effort into it -- check if the tool is fully in the groove.
4. Place the tray on a flat surface (such as a table) and prepare a SIM card.

If the tray is not put forward, the following reasons are possible:

• 🔧 The paperclip is not fully in the groove (try to press harder or use another tool).
• 🔧 In the tray previously got dirt or dust (you can carefully blow the groove with compressed air).
• 🔧 The mechanism jammed due to the fall of the phone (in this case, it is better to contact the service center).

⚠️ Warning: If you feel like the tray is crooked or stuck, stop trying and contact the service. Forced extraction can break the plastic guides inside the phone, and then you will need to replace the entire module.

How to properly install a SIM card in the tray

When the tray is removed, it's time to put a SIM card in it, and it's important to keep your orientation and position, or the phone won't recognize the card.

1. Place the tray on the table with contacts upwards (usually it has a diagram with the correct location).
2. Insert the SIM card into the appropriate slot. Make sure that the bevelled corner of the card matches the angle on the tray.
3. If the tray is combined (for example, for two SIM cards and a microSD), place the cards in the correct order. Usually the SIM1 slot is closer to the edge of the tray.
4. Carefully press the tray back into the phone before you click. Don't put too much effort into it - if it doesn't come in, check if the cards are correctly installed.

Pay attention to the following nuances:

• 📱 If you install two SIM cards, make sure they are from different carriers (some Xiaomi models don’t support two cards from the same carrier in mode). DSDS).
• 📱 Don't touch the SIM card contacts with your fingers, which can cause oxidation and loss of signal. If you touch them, wipe the contacts with an alcohol wipe.
• 📱 In some models (for example, Xiaomi 12 Pro) tray has an asymmetrical shape – it can be inserted in only one position.

How to set up a SIM card after installation

After successfully installing a SIM card, turn on your phone and wait for the system to boot. In most cases, Xiaomi automatically detects a new SIM card and suggests setting up a mobile network. If this does not happen, follow the following steps:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose the SIM card installed (if there are two, set each separately).
3. Specify the type of network (recommended 4G/5G for maximum speed).
4. Enable the options Mobile data and roaming (if necessary).
5. Check that the network indicator (an antenna with signal level) appears in the status bar.

If your phone doesn’t see the SIM card, try the following:

• 🔄 Reset the device.
• 🔄 Remove and re-insert the tray (possibly the contacts do not fit tightly).
• 🔄 Check if the SIM card is activated (sometimes it takes time to register on the network).
• 🔄 Update the phone firmware – in older versions MIUI There may be bugs with SIM card recognition.

In support models 5G (for example, Xiaomi 13T pro POCO F5 Pro) additional configuration of the preferred network type may be required. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Settings of the mobile network and select 5G/4G/3G/2G (motor-car).

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If the phone does not see the SIM card, in 80% of cases the problem lies in the wrong installation of the tray or non-activated card from the operator.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing a sim card in Xiaomi, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🚫 A skewed tray — if you put it in a curve, you can damage the contacts inside the phone. Always keep the tray flat and insert effortlessly.
• 🚫 Incompatible SIM format – for example, trying to insert micro-SIM into a slot for nano-SIM.
• 🚫 Dirty contacts – dust or oxidation on a SIM card or tray can cause signal loss.
• 🚫 Ignoring the circuitry on the tray -- if you put the SIM card upside down, the phone won't recognize it. Always check the pattern.

Another common problem is that the phone sees the SIM card, but there's no network, and this can happen for the following reasons:

• 📵 The operator has temporarily suspended service (check balance or service status).
• 📵 In the network settings, the wrong mode is selected (for example, only 2G).
• 📵 SIM-The card is damaged (try inserting it into another phone).
• 📵 In your area, there is a weak coverage (check the operator’s coverage map).

If after all the manipulations the problem remains, try resetting the network settings: go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting the mobile network settings, which will bring back the factory connection settings, which often helps with software failures.

Features of installing a SIM card in different models Xiaomi

The design of trays and support for SIM cards can vary significantly depending on the model. Let’s consider the key features for different Xiaomi lines:

Redmi Note (e.g. Note 11, Note 12)

Most models in this series have a combined tray for two nano-SIMs and one microSD.

• If you use two SIM cards, the microSD slot will be locked (you have to choose between a second SIM or a memory card).
• In some regions (for example, India) versions with a separate slot for microSD are released.

POCO (e.g. POCO X5, POCO F5)

These smartphones often have dual SIM card slots without microSD support.

• Both SIM cards support 4G, but only one can run in 5G mode (if the model supports this technology).
• The tray can be located on the top edge (unusually for Xiaomi, but typical for POCO).

Xiaomi (flagship models, for example 13, 14 series)

The flagships of recent years have the following features:

• Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro have no physical slot, only eSIM.
• In Xiaomi 13 Ultra tray is located on the lower edge, which is uncomfortable with frequent extraction.
• Flagships support Dual 5G – both SIM cards can work simultaneously on the fifth generation network (if there is coverage).

Before buying a SIM, check if your model supports eSIM. For example, Xiaomi 13 Lite has both a physical slot and virtual SIM support, while Xiaomi 14 only supports eSIM. This is important if you plan to use the device abroad or change carriers often.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions