Installation SIM-The cards in the Xiaomi Redmi smartphone are the first challenge faced by every new owner of the device. Despite the apparent simplicity, the process has nuances, from the type of slot (hybrid or separate) to the correct location of the chip. Installation errors can result in a lack of network, damage to contacts, or even a tray breakage.
In this article, weβll break down the step-by-step instructions for all current Redmi models (including Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 12/13 and earlier), explain the difference between nano-SIM, micro-SIM and eSIM, and show you how to avoid typical problems. If you just unpacked a new Xiaomi or plan to change carrier, this guide will help you get it right the first time.
What are they? SIM-The cards support Xiaomi Redmi smartphones
All modern Xiaomi Redmi models (starting with the 2020 Redmi 9) are equipped with nano-SIM slots (4FF format, size 12.3Γ8.8 mm). Older devices (for example, Redmi 5/6/7) could support micro-SIM (3FF, 15Γ12 mm), but today such cards are practically not used - operators issue universal chips that can be broken down to the desired size.
Importantly, most Redmis have a hybrid slot where the second connector is combined with a microSD card tray, which means that you can use either two nano-SIMs or one SIM + microSD at the same time. The exception is flagship models like the Redmi K60, where there are sometimes separate slots for two SIMs and a memory card.
- π± Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 12/13, POCO X5/6: 2 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid slot)
- π± Redmi 10/11, Note 10/11: 2 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid)
- π± Redmi 9/9A/9C: 2 nano-SIM + MicroSD (non-hybrid)
- π± Redmi K50/K60: 2 nano-SIM (without microSD support in some versions)
To find out the exact configuration of your model, check the specifications on the official Xiaomi website or look at the tray for the model. SIM-Maps β usually marked with supported formats.
β οΈ Warning: Never try to insert a micro-SIM into a nano-SIM slot without an adapter! this can bend contacts or jam the tray. If you have an old card, contact the communications salon to replace it with a nano-format.
Preparation for installation: what will be needed
Before you insert SIM-Map in Xiaomi Redmi, prepare everything you need:
- π§ A paper clip or tool to remove the tray (company with the phone) will also work with an unbended stationery clip or a thin needle.
- π Nano-SIM from your carrier. If the card is larger, cut it to the template or get a new one in the cabin.
- π Good lighting. The tray and slot are small, so it's best to work in bright light.
- π§² Magnetic screwdriver (optional) will help if the paperclip slips inside the case (relevant for Redmi Note 10 Pro and similar models with a deep hole).
In Xiaomi Redmi models from 2023-2026 (for example, Redmi) 13C or Note 13 Pro) trays for SIM-The card may have an additional lock, a small protrusion, which keeps the card from falling out. SIM Not fixed, check if you have mixed the sides when installing.
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
The installation process is the same for most Redmi models, but there are nuances for hybrid slot devices.
- Turn off your phone.This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid accidental button pressing or network failure during installation.
- Find a slot for SIM-It's usually on the top or side of the map (right for most Redmis). 9T) slot.
- Remove the tray: Insert the paperclip into a small hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend 1-2 mm - gently pull it with your fingers.
Place it. SIM-card-tray:
- πΉ There's a diagram on the tray with a designation SIM1 and SIM2 β You can focus on her.
- πΉ The chip should be directed downwards, and the beveled corner of the card should coincide with the angle on the tray.
- πΉ For hybrid slots: if you use microSD, it is installed in a separate connector (usually). SIM2).
- Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skews can damage the contacts.
- Turn on the phone and wait for the network to be determined (it can take up to 2 minutes).
If the network does not appear, check:
- π Correct installation SIM-cards (turn it over and try again).
- πΆ Network settings in Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- π§ Integrity of contacts on the tray (in case of damage, replacement will be required).
The tray is clean (no dust/mud)|
SIM-map is trimmed to nano-format|
The bevelled corner of the map coincides with the angle on the tray |
Phone off (recommended)-->
Features of hybrid slots: SIM + microSD
A hybrid slot is a compromise between the ability to use two. SIM-card SIM + Memory card. Xiaomi Redmi models have different implementations:
| Model | Slot configuration | Max, the volume of microSD | Support for 5G support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/13 | SIM1 + SIM2/microSD | 1 TB | Yes (SIM1 only) |
| Redmi 12/13 | SIM1 + SIM2/microSD | 512GB | No. |
| Redmi 10/11 | SIM1 + SIM2/microSD | 512GB | No. |
| Redmi 9/9A | SIM1 + SIM2 + microSD | 512GB | No. |
Key points when using a hybrid slot:
- πΆ SIM1 usually 5G (if the phone is compatible, and SIM2 β only 4G.
- πΎ If you are installing a microSD, SIM2 It will be unavailable, and vice versa.
- π Network Priority can be changed in Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Priority SIM-map.
β οΈ Note: In the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ And newer when using microSD, the write speed can drop to UHS-I (up to 90 MB/s, even if the card supports UHS-II. It's a hardware constraint.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing SIM-Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
- π« "SIM-card not found": "Chip the card down, sloped corner matches. Clear the contacts on the tray and SIM-map with dry cloth (no alcohol!) Restart your phone or reset your network settings in Settings β SIM-map β Resetting network settings.
- π The tray does not lock or fall out: Make sure the tray is inserted to the point (click should be heard). Check if the guides on the tray are bent (relevant to the Redmi 10 and Note 11).
- π΅ No network after installation: Turn on Flight Mode for 30 seconds, then turn off. SIM-The card is with the operator (especially if the card is new). MIUI There are bugs with the definition of the network.
If none of these methods helped, the problem may be the problem. SIM-card (chip damaged) or hardware malfunction of the phone (for example, oxidation of contacts after moisture hits.
What to do if the paper clip breaks inside the slot?
How to activate eSIM on supported Xiaomi Redmi models
Some Xiaomi flagship models (e.g. Redmi) K60 Pro or Redmi Note 13 Pro+) Support eSIM β Virtual SIM-A card that doesn't require a physical chip to activate it:
- Make sure your operator supports eSIM (in Russia it is MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2).
- Get a QR-code activation in the personal account of the operator or the communication salon.
- Go to Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Add eSIM.
- Scan it. QR-code or enter data manually.
- Confirm activation and restart the phone.
The advantages of eSIM:
- β No risk of damaging the physical card.
- β You can switch between fares quickly (for example, for travel abroad).
- β Frees up a microSD slot or a second physical slot SIM.
β οΈ Note: On Xiaomi Redmi models with a hybrid slot when activating eSIM slot SIM2 It automatically shuts down. If you need two physical ones. SIM, eSIM cannot be used to use the eSIM.
π‘
If you travel frequently, keep QR-eSIM codes from different carriers in the cloud storage (e.g. Google Drive) so you can quickly activate local storage. SIM, off-site.
Video instruction and additional resources
If you can see it visually, check out official videos from Xiaomi or vetted bloggers. Pay attention to models similar to yours β the process may be slightly different.
Useful links:
- π₯ YouTube video instructions (see for your phone model).
- π Official support for Xiaomi (section "SIM Card & Network").
- π§ Forum MIUI β They often discuss non-standard problems with SIM-map.
If you have lost a paper clip to remove the tray, it can be replaced:
- π A regular paper clip (unwind it).
- πͺ‘ Needle with an ear (carefully so as not to bend the mechanism).
- π Special key from the remake for phones (sold in electronics stores).
π‘
After installation SIM-The phone does not see the network, first check the settings APN. Often, operators (especially virtual ones like Yota or Tinkoff Mobile) require manually entering Internet access settings.