Xiaomi Mi smartphones remain among the most popular devices on the market due to the combination of price, performance and functionality. SIM-This is a very difficult time for owners who are first time to encounter a brand, and in this article we will discuss not only the basic steps, but also the nuances that the manufacturer often does not mention: from the differences between Mi 11 and Mi 13 Ultra models to avoid slot damage when installed carelessly.
You will learn what tool you really need (spoiler: not always a paper clip!), how to determine the type of tool you need. SIM-And we're going to reveal a secret way to retrieve a tray without a special key, which has been working on 90 percent of Xiaomi devices in recent years!
Types of SIM-trays in Xiaomi Mi smartphones: how to determine your own
Before you put it in. SIM-map, you need to understand what type of tray you're dealing with. Xiaomi has three main options:
- 📱 Single slot (only nano-SIM) – found in budget models (Mi) A3, Mi 9 Lite).
- 🔄 Hybrid slot (nano-SIM) + microSD or second-hand SIM) — most common (Mi) 10T, Mi 11).
- 📶 Double slot (two nano-SIMs without memory card support) – in flagships (Mi 12 Pro, Mi 13).
To find out the type of your tray, check:
- The inscriptions on the tray itself (usually there are pictograms).
- Technical specifications of the model on the official website of Xiaomi.
- Marking on the packaging of the smartphone (look for the icons "Dual SIM" or "Hybrid").
Important: In hybrid slots, you can not use two at the same time. SIM-So you have to choose between cards and microSD, like in the Mi 10, when you install a memory card, you have to choose between a slot for the second card. SIM lock-in.
Preparation for installation: what will be needed
It would seem that it could go wrong when inserted SIM-In practice, users are faced with broken trays, bent contacts and even hitting metal shavings inside the device:
- 🔑 Special key for retrieving the tray (goes with the phone).
- 📎 A paper clip or pin (only if you have lost the key!).
- 🔍 Lupa or flashlight - will help to see the guiding slots on the tray.
- 🧴 Alcohol wipes - for cleaning contacts SIM-cards (if old).
Warning: Do not use knives, scissors or other sharp objects to extract the tray! The risk of damaging the mechanism or scratching the phone's body is extremely high. If the key is lost, you'd better order a duplicate (XMSH04ZM article for most Xiaomi models).
Check the type of tray (single/hybrid/double)
Prepare the key or the paper clip
Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended)
Clear the contacts SIM-alcohol-card
Place all the details on a soft surface (so as not to lose them)-->
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions strictly by the steps, and you will be spared from making mistakes.
- Turn off your smartphone (optional, but reduces the risk of short circuits with careless actions).
- Find a slot for SIM-It's usually located: On the right end, most models (Mi 9, Mi 10); on the top end, Mi Mix and some flagships; on the left end, rare, but rare (Mi) A1).
- Remove the tray: Put the key (or unbended clip) into the hole next to the slot. Push until you click, the tray will extend 1-2 mm. Gently pull it with your fingers.
Install. SIM-map
- Put the card in the tray contacts down (the tray has a diagram!).
- For hybrid slots, select the side: SIM1 or SIM2/microSD.
- Make sure the map sits tightly in the slots.
- Put the tray back in before you click. Don't put too much effort in!
- Turn on your phone and check the network in settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks).
After installation SIM-The card is not determined, try it:
- 🔄 Reboot the phone.
- 📶 Manually select the operator in the network settings.
- 🔧 Check if the contacts on the tray are contaminated (wipe with alcohol).
What to do if the tray is not moved?
The difference between the models: Xiaomi Mi 11 vs Mi 13 vs Redmi Note
Installation process SIM-The maps may vary depending on the series and year of release of the device:
| Model | Type of tray | Slot location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi 11 | Hybrid | Right end | Supports 5G only on SIM1. The tray extends with effort. |
| Xiaomi Mi 13 Ultra | Double. | Right end | No microSD support. Spring-powered tray -- don't push too hard! |
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | Hybrid | Left end | The SIM2 slot only works in 2G/3G mode with active SIM1. |
| Xiaomi Mi A3 | Single | Upper end | The tray is fragile - often breaks when removed with a paper clip. |
Important: In models with support 5G (Mi 11 or Mi 12, for example, is the main SIM-The card must be installed in the slot SIM1 — 5th generation network will not work, even if the operator supports it.
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If you have a Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra or newer, before installing it SIM-Update the firmware to the latest version. MIUI There was a mistake that caused the phone to fail to see the other one. SIM-map.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when working with the Internet. SIM-Here are the most common of these and how to prevent them:
⚠️ Attention: If after installation SIM-If you're not able to see the network, don't try to re-insert the card many times, it can damage your contacts.
- 🚫 Installation of the card "upside down" - contacts should be directed down, and the cut corner - coincide with the shape of the tray.
- 🔨 Use of force when inserting the tray -- if it doesn't come in easily, then the card is set incorrectly!
- 💦 Getting moisture into the slot - if the phone is wet, don't insert SIM-card until it is completely dry (minimum 24 hours).
- 🔋 Removing the tray when the phone is turned on – although this is not dangerous for most models, in rare cases can cause a failure of the communication module.
Another common problem is that the tray doesn't lock after installation.
- SIM-The card protrudes beyond the edges of the tray (cut it according to the template).
- The tongue of the fixator is bent (try to bend it back gently).
- The trash got into the tray (clean it with a toothpick).
Alternative ways to remove the tray without a key
Lost the key to SIM-Here are 4 proven methods that work on most Xiaomi Mi models:
- Paperclip or pin: Unwind the paperclip so that you get a straight end length of ~3 cm. Insert in the hole next to the slot and press until you click.
- Toothpick or match: Sharpen the end of the toothpick at a 45° angle. Insert it into the hole and press with force (it may take several attempts).
- Adhesive tape (scotch): Stick a piece of scotch to the end of the tray (if it protrudes a little). Pull it carefully.
Vacuum cleaner
- Turn the vacuum cleaner on at maximum power.
- Hold the tube to the tray slot - the flow of air can push it out.
⚠️ Warning: The vacuum cleaner method is only suitable for trays that are already slightly pushed (by 1-2 mm).Do not use it if the slot is completely recessed in the case - the risk of damaging the microphone or speaker!
If none of the methods worked, do not try to disassemble the phone yourself - in Xiaomi Mi models, the tray is attached to the motherboard, and careless actions can lead to a loss of warranty.
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Never use metal objects (knives, forks, nails) to retrieve the tray! they can close contacts on the board and disable the phone.
What to do if SIM-map not recognized
Situation: you've got the map right, but the phone can't see it.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Map not determined | Contaminated contacts | Wipe your contacts. SIM-card-tray. |
| No network. | Incorrectly selected network | Go to Settings. → SIM-map → Selecting a network and selecting an operator manually. |
| SIM-card" | Failure of the | Reboot your phone or reset your network settings (Settings → Memory → Reset → Network Settings Reset). |
| Only 2G/3G | The card is inserted into SIM2 | Move it to SIM1 (in hybrid slots, SIM2 often only works in older standards). |
If the problem persists, check:
- 📶 Does it work? SIM-Card on another phone (possibly damaged).
- 🔧 Is the firmware updated (Settings) → The phone. → Updating the system).
- 🛠️ Is the slot itself damaged (light with a flashlight - the contacts should be smooth, without oxidation).
In rare cases, the phone itself is to blame. For example, in the Xiaomi Mi 9 there was a hardware problem with the communication module, which caused the device to stop seeing. SIM-If the warranty is still valid, contact the service center.