How to insert it correctly SIM-Map to Xiaomi phone: instructions for all models

Installation SIM-The cards in Xiaomi’s smartphone seem like a simple procedure, but in practice users face typical problems: from the wrong location of the chip to damage to the tray. This is especially true for owners of new models, where the manufacturer is experimenting with formats, for example, combined slots under nano-SIM. + MicroSD or a full eSIM switch (like Xiaomi 13 Ultra).

In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions for all types of smartphones of the brand, from budget Redmi to flagship Mi and gaming Black Shark. We will discuss how to avoid installation errors, what to do if the phone does not see the card, and how to properly remove the tray without damage. And for owners of devices with a hybrid slot, we will give a table of compatibility of SIM and memory cards.

If you’ve just bought a new Xiaomi or are considering a change of operator, this guide will save you time and nerves. Even experienced users are sometimes surprised to find that the SIM tray in their model is not where it usually is – for example, in the top of the body of the POCO F5 instead of the usual side slot.

Preparation: what SIM-cards supports Xiaomi

Before installing, check which type SIM-The maps are compatible with your model. Since 2018, Xiaomi has completely switched to the nano-SIM format (4FF), But in older devices (e.g., Redmi). 4A 2016: Micro-SIMs are still in the mix (3FF). Some models also support eSIM, a virtual card that is activated through software.

To avoid making a mistake, use the official documentation or check the slot visually:

• 📱 Nano-SIM (12.3 × 8.8 mm – standard for all modern Xiaomi, including Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11.
• 🔄 Hybrid slot – allows you to choose between a second nano-SIM or a microSD card (up to 1 TB). 10C, POCO M5.
• 📲 eSIM – supported in flagships: Xiaomi 13/13 Pro, Mix Fold 2/3, Black Shark 5 Pro.
• ⚠️ Outdated formats – micro-SIM and mini-SIM are not suitable for devices newer than 2018.

If you have an old-style card, you can cut it to nano format with a special stack (combined with some SIMs) or in the cabin of the operator. Use of scissors or a stationery knife is strongly discouraged - this can damage the chip and make the card inoperable.

Where is the slot for SIM-maps in Xiaomi

The slot's location depends on the model and series of the smartphone, and in 90% of cases it is on the right or left end of the case, but there are exceptions:

📌 Classical location (most models):

• 📱 Redmi Note 11/12, POCO X4/5, Mi 10/11 — Slot on the left end (when looking at the screen).
• 🎮 Black Shark 4/5 — slot on the right end (near the power button).

📌 Non-standard cases:

• 🔝 POCO F3/F4/F5, Xiaomi 12S Ultra – slot in the upper part of the case (near the IR port).
• 🔄 Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 — slot on the lower end (near the USB-C).
• ❌ Xiaomi 13 Ultra – No physical slot, only eSIM.

If you can't find a slot, check the case for a small metal rim hole, which is a clip socket. In some models (like the Redmi 9A), the slot is hidden under a removable lid, which you need to gently tuck with a nail or a mediator.

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If the slot is located at the top of the case, do not confuse it with a microphone or IR transmitter hole. SIM-map.

Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map

The installation process is the same for most models, but there are nuances for hybrid slots and devices with eSIM. Follow this instruction to avoid errors:

🔧 What's the matter:

• 📌 Paperclip or special tool (combined with phone).
• 📱 Nano-SIM (or microSD if you use a hybrid slot).
• 🔍 Good lighting – the chip on the map should be clearly visible.

⚙️ Step-by-step process:

1. Turn off the phone (required for hot-substitute models) SIM, for example, POCO M4 Pro).
2. Find a hole to remove the tray and insert a clip into it before clicking.
3. Carefully stretch the tray – do not make an effort if it does not give in (the phone may not be turned off).
4. Put it down. SIM-card in the tray chip down, combining the cutout on the map with the ledge in the tray.
5. If you use two SIMs or SIM+MicroSDs, make sure they don’t overlap.
6. Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skewings can damage the contacts.

For eSIM models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Pro):

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile fare.
2. Select Download. SIM-map and scan QR-operator.
3. Confirm activation – the process can take up to 5 minutes.

Make sure the phone is turned off (for models without hot replacement)

Check the compatibility of the SIM format (nano-SIM for new models)

Prepare a paper clip or tool for removing the tray

Examine the tray for damage or dirt-->

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the seemingly simple process, users often make mistakes that lead to a breakdown. SIM-The most common of these is the card damage or phone damage:

❌ Mistake 1: Misdirected orientation SIM-map

If you put the card up or flip it horizontally, the phone won't be able to read it. In some models (like the Redmi 9), the tray is asymmetrical, which helps avoid error, but in the POCO X3 or Mi 10T, the symmetrical design of the tray can be confusing.

❌ Mistake 2: Using an incompatible format

Trying to insert a micro-SIM into a nano-SIM slot (or vice versa) will either make the card unfit or hang around. In hybrid slots (like the Redmi Note 11 Pro), you can’t use two SIMs and a MicroSD at the same time, you have to choose one.

❌ Mistake 3: Use of force in the removal of the tray

If the tray doesn't come out when you press a paper clip, don't try to pull it out with pliers or other tools. This can bend the metal rails or break the locking mechanism.

• Check if the phone is turned off (in some models, the tray is blocked when the power is turned on).
• Try pressing the paperclip deeper - sometimes the click is not the first time.
• If the tray is jammed, contact the service center.

❌ Mistake 4: Ignoring contact hygiene

Dust, moisture or oxidation on contacts SIM-If the phone stops seeing the card after it is removed, wipe the contacts with a dry lilac wipe (do not use alcohol or liquids!).

Compatibility table: SIM + MicroSD in hybrid slots

Many Xiaomi models are equipped with hybrid slots, where the second slot can be used for the second slot. SIM-card, or memory card. Below is a compatibility table for popular devices:

Note: hybrid slots can not use a second SIM and MicroSD at the same time. If you need both, choose models with separate slots (for example, Black Shark 5 or Xiaomi 12T Pro).

Also note that some carriers (such as Tele2 or Yota) may not support two SIMs simultaneously in 4G/5G mode. In this case, one of the cards will only work on a 2G/3G network.

What to do if Xiaomi doesn’t see it SIM-map

If the phone does not recognize after installation SIM-map, follow this algorithm:

🔍 Diagnostics of the problem:

• 📶 Check if Flight Mode is on – it disables all wireless connections, including the mobile network.
• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes it helps to reset the communication module errors.
• 📱 Make sure that SIM-The card is activated by the operator (especially if it is new).

⚙️ Policy solutions:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and select problem SIM.
2. Click Enable (if the card is disabled) or Update (if it is determined, but without the network).
3. Check if the network is correct: Settings → SIM-map → [Yours. SIM] → Type of network. 4G/5G choose LTE/5G.

🛠️ Hardware checks:

• Extract. SIM-Check the card for chip damage or contamination.
• Check the tray - it is possible that the contacts are bent or oxidized (clean carefully with a blower).
• Try inserting the SIM into another phone – if it doesn’t work, the problem is with the card, not Xiaomi.

⚠️ If nothing helps:

⚠️ If the phone is no longer visible SIM If you fall or get moisture, don't try to disassemble it yourself, and you need to diagnose the communication module at the service center, damage to the antenna track or the controller. SIM This can lead to total loss of the network.

In rare cases, the problem lies in the firmware. MIUI Some Redmi Note 10 users have encountered a bug "SIM-Card not supported. Solution: reset network settings (Settings) → System system → Resetting settings → Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth).

Features of SIM installation in Black Shark gaming phones

Black Shark gaming smartphones (series 4, 5) have a unique design that can be confusing when you first install the SIM.

🎮 Differences from standard Xiaomi:

• 🔧 Slot for SIM It is located on the right end (near the power button), rather than on the left, as in most models.
• 🔋 Black Shark 5 Pro has additional contacts to connect gaming accessories – don’t confuse them with a slot SIM!
• 📶 Some models support 5G both SIM-The cards (unlike most smartphones) 5G It only works on one).

⚠️ Important nuance:

⚠️ Attention: In Black Shark 4/5 squash SIM It's double-fixed, you have to insert it before the first click, and then press it harder for the second click, and if you don't insert it all, the contacts won't fit tightly, and the phone won't see the card.

🔧 Instructions for Black Shark:

1. Turn off your phone (required!).
2. Insert the paperclip into the hole on the right end and press up to two clicks.
3. Install. SIM-card in the tray (for a model with two slots - the first card in slot 1, the second in slot 2).
4. Insert the tray back, first before the first click, then until the second (effort should be moderate!).

If you use gaming accessories (such as Shark Space), make sure they do not block the SIM slot. In some cases, you will have to temporarily disconnect the accessory to install the card.

FAQ: Frequent questions about SIM-maps in Xiaomi