Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is one of the brand's most popular smartphones, but even experienced users sometimes have questions about basic operations. SIM-It seems like a simple procedure, but there are nuances here, from the type of tray to the correct position of the chip. If you just bought a device or plan to change operators, this article will help avoid the typical mistakes - from damage to contacts to problems with network recognition.
We’ll take a look at not only the standard installation process, but also rare cases: what to do if the tray is jammed, how to check the compatibility of nano-SIM with your Redmi Note 8 Pro, and why sometimes the smartphone does not see the card even after the correct installation. And also a secret life hack for those who want to use two. SIM-card and memory card at the same time (spoiler: it is possible, but with reservations).
Preparation: What will be needed for installation SIM-map
Before you start installing, make sure you have everything you need. The Redmi Note 8 Pro will require:
- 📱 Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro (off!).
- 🪛 Paperclip or special key for extracting the tray (comes complete).
- 📇 Nano-SIM (require to check the size!) If you have a regular one SIM, It must be cut or replaced in the operator’s cabin.
- 🔍 Good lighting – the tray is small and the contacts are fragile.
Redmi Note 8 Pro supports two nano-SIMs or one nano-SIM + microSD (up to 256GB). If you plan to use a memory card, one of the most important is the SIM-Slot 1 is a hybrid, and slot 2 is only for the second. SIM.
⚠️ Warning: Never use pins, needles or other sharp objects instead of a clip.The risk of damaging the tray mechanism or scratching the body of a smartphone is extremely high.
If you don't have the original key from Xiaomi, you'll want an open-ended paper clip, but the key is to keep the end flat and barred, and you can use a thin sewing needle as a last resort, but you have to be very careful.
Where is the tray for SIM-Maps in Redmi Note 8 Pro
Unlike some Xiaomi models, where the tray is on top, the Redmi Note 8 Pro has it on the left end of the case. To detect it, flip the phone upwards and look at the left side, where you will see a small hole with a metal rim.
The photo below shows the exact location (if you look at the smartphone in portrait orientation):
Photo of the tray's location
If you are holding your phone for the first time, you can focus on other elements:
- 🔊 Dynamics and connector USB-C downward.
- 🔑 The switch on is on the right end.
- 📶 Tray for SIM — on the left end, between the volume buttons.
⚠️ Note: Some versions of the Redmi Note 8 Pro (for example, for the Indian market) may have the tray on the right. To make sure, look at the smartphone box - there's usually a layout of the elements.
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully so that you don't damage the contacts or the tray mechanism.
- Turn off your smartphone. It's a must-have, insert or remove. SIM-card with the phone on is fraught with failures in the operation of the communication module.
- Find the tray hole on the left end and insert a paper clip at a 90 degree angle. Press until you click, the tray will move out a little bit.
- Take the tray out by the protruding part carefully. Don't pull it out, there's a spring mechanism inside.
- Put it down. SIM-The chip should be directed downwards, and the beveled corner of the map should match the shape of the tray.
- Put the tray back in before you click. Make sure it sits smoothly, without skewing.
- Turn on your phone and wait for the network to activate (usually 10–30 seconds).
- Phone's off.
- The paperclip is flat, no burrs.
- SIM-map is trimmed to nano-format
- Chip is down, sloping angle coincides with tray
- The tray is inserted without distortion-->
If you set two SIM-maps, place them like this:
- 📱 Slot 1 (closer to the edge of the tray) - the main SIM memory-card.
- 📱 Slot 2 - an additional SIM (Nano-SIM only, without microSD support).
Important: If you use a memory card, it will occupy slot 1, and the second one will take up the memory card. SIM-This is a limitation of the Redmi Note 8 Pro architecture.
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If the tray doesn't extend, try pushing the paperclip a little harder -- sometimes the mechanism is tight. But don't use excessive force: if the tray doesn't respond, it may have been deformed before.
What to do if your phone can’t see SIM-map
Sometimes even after the correct installation, the smartphone does not recognize SIM-The reasons can be different, from factory defects to errors in settings:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Phone can't see SIM | Card inactivated by the operator | Call the operator or check the status in your personal account |
| No network. | SIM not installed until the end | Remove and insert the tray again, make sure to click |
| Always asking for a PIN. | The card is blocked after 3 incorrect attempts | Unlock through PUK-code (indicated on the plastic holder) SIM) |
| The symbol "X" on the network indicator | Tray or SIM contacts damaged | Check contacts for contamination, gently wipe with alcohol |
| Only one SIM works. | Incorrectly selected network settings | Go to Settings. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and activate both |
If none of these methods worked, try inserting. SIM-If it doesn't work, it's the operator's problem, or it's the card itself, and if it's working, maybe the Redmi Note 8 Pro tray or communication module is faulty.
⚠️ Attention: If after installation SIM-The phone stopped turning on or gives an error "SIM-card is missing even after rebooting, do not try to solve the problem yourself.This may indicate damage to the motherboard - contact the service center.
How to use two of them SIM-cards and memory cards simultaneously
Redmi Note 8 Pro does not support simultaneous operation of two SIM-So, the cards and the microSD are one of the hybrid slots, but there's a workaround: use the adapter for the second. SIM You can buy this adapter on AliExpress or at accessories stores.
How it works:
- In slot 1 you set the main SIM-map.
- In slot 2 (designed for SIM only) – the second card.
- Instead of a memory card, slot 1 inserts a microSD adapter that has a cutout for the second SIM.
Cons of this decision:
- ⚠️ Unreliable fastening – adapter can fall out when vibrating.
- ⚠️ Risk of damage to tray contacts.
- ⚠️ Not all adapters are compatible with the Redmi Note 8 Pro.
If you're critical to have two SIM, and a memory card, consider a cloud storage option (like Google Drive or Mi Cloud) or a portable one. OTG-It's safer than experimenting with adapters.
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Using an adapter for a second SIM in a microSD slot is an informal solution, which can lead to loss of warranty and damage to the phone, and it is better to choose the priority beforehand: either two SIMs or one SIM + memory card.
Frequent errors in installation SIM-maps and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to network problems or damage to the phone.
- 🔄 Installation SIM If you turn on your phone, it can cause a modem to malfunction. Always turn off the Redmi Note 8 Pro before you manipulate the tray.
- 🔧 Use of inappropriate tools: Needles, toothpicks or knives scratch the body and break the tray mechanism, just a paper clip or the original key!
- 📏 Wrong position SIM. If the chip is pointing upwards or the card is not inserted, the phone won't see it.
- 🧹 Dirt or moisture in the tray. Dust and fat from the fingers can disrupt contact.
- 🔋 Ignoring reboot. After installation SIM Some network settings apply only after rebooting.
Another common mistake is trying to insert a micro-SIM without an adapter. The Redmi Note 8 Pro only uses nano-SIM, and even if the micro-SIM fits physically in the tray, it won't work due to mismatches.
If you accidentally drop a tray or bend it, don't try to straighten it yourself. The metal parts are very fragile, and if you handle it sloppy, you can break the spring mechanism, and the only way out is to replace the tray at the service center.
Video instructions and additional materials
If the text instruction seems not clear enough, we recommend watching a video from the official Xiaomi channel or verified reviewers.
- 🎥 Xiaomi official video (usually in English, but the process is clearly visible).
- 📺 YouTube Reviews with the tag "Redmi Note 8 Pro" SIM installation".
- 📖 User manual (electronically available on Xiaomi website).
When watching the video, pay attention to:
- 🔍 The exact location of the tray (sometimes it differs in different versions of the phone).
- 📐 The correct angle of insertion of the paper clip - it should be perpendicular to the body.
- 🔄 The sequence of actions when installing two SIM-map.
If you are looking for a video in Russian, use filters by language and sort the results by date – current videos usually contain more useful information.
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On the official website of Xiaomi in the support section is available 3D-Smartphone models where you can see the tray's location in detail, and it's useful if you're not sure what you're doing.