How do you put it in? SIM-map M3: photo-instruction

Xiaomi Poco M3 — popular smartphone with a hybrid slot for SIM-Unlike the flagship models with a separate tray for each SIM, there are nuances to consider: whether two cards are supported at the same time, what format is needed (nano-SIM or microSD), and how not to damage the contacts during installation. This article will help you understand all the details – from tool preparation to checking the network after installation.

We're going to look at not only the standard procedure, but also the rare cases of what to do when the slot is jammed, how to extract the card without a paper clip, and why the phone may not see the SIM once installed, and we're going to focus on the common mistakes that make users go to service centers, many of which are easy to prevent.

If you’ve just bought a Poco M3 or are considering changing carriers, bookmark this guide and it’s useful for other Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco models with a similar hybrid slot (like the Redmi Note 9 or Poco X3).

What are they? SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Poco M3

The smartphone is equipped with a hybrid slot that allows you to install:

• 📱 Two nano-SIM cards (format) 4FF, 12.3×8.8 mm) – for working with two numbers at the same time.
• 📱 One nano-SIM + microSD (up to 512GB) – if you need to expand your memory, but donate a second SIM.

Important: Poco M3 doesn't support micro-SIM (3FF) or mini-SIM (2FF) cards without an adapter. If you have an old SIM, you'll have to cut it off or replace it in the carrier's cabin, and the phone is not compatible with eSIM, just physical cards.

Network: the device works with all standards of Russian operators (2G/3G/4G), but for maximum Internet speed it is recommended to use nano-SIM with VoLTE support (voice over 4G).

Where is the slot for SIM-POCO M3

In Xiaomi Poco M3, the SIM card tray is located on the left end of the case (when viewed from the front of the screen).

• 🔍 Small hole for extraction (near the volume buttons).
• 🔍 Plastic insert with contours for cards (seen if illuminated with a flashlight).
• 🔍 Inscriptions. SIM TRAY near the hole (in some versions).

Don’t confuse this slot with a headphone jack (at the bottom) or a microphone (a small hole next to the USB-Type C). If you can’t find a tray, try swiping your finger on the left edge – it should protrude slightly above the body (by 0.5-1 mm).

⚠️ Note: On some versions of Poco M3 (For example, an Indian or a global slot can be on the right end. Check the location in the documentation for your model or look at the box - there is usually a diagram.

If you are still not sure where to look, use a flashlight: direct light to the end of the case at an angle - a plastic tray will reflect light differently than a metal case.

Preparation for installation: what will be needed

Before inserting the SIM, prepare:

Details on each item:

• 📎 Paperclip or special key, complete with Poco M3 There's a metal tool to remove the tray (usually in a document tray in a box) if you don't have one, you'll get an unbended paper clip or a stationery pin. Don't use needles or toothpicks, they can damage the mechanism.
• 📱 SIM-If you have an old card, cut it to nano-SIM with a stapler (sold in the salons) or a template scissors. A 1 mm error can cause the phone to fail to see the network.
• 🧹 Clean.Dust or moisture on the SIM contacts or in the slot can cause malfunctions.Wash the card with a dry lilaless cloth (e.g., microfiber for glasses).

Also check that the phone is off. Although the Poco M3 allows you to set the SIM on the device on, it is recommended to turn off the power to avoid accidental damage to the contacts by static electricity.

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If you don't have a paper clip, you can use a thin guitar string or hairpin wire, so you don't have a diameter greater than 0.8 mm, or you risk bend the extraction mechanism.

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

Follow this algorithm to avoid errors:

1. Turn off your phone. Press the power button and select Turn off from the menu. Wait for the screen to turn off completely (usually takes 5-10 seconds).
2. Find a hole to remove the tray. It's on the left end (see section above). Put a paper clip or tool in the hole to the end.
3. Remove the tray. Press the paperclip with a little force (the click should be heard), after which the tray will extend 2-3 mm. Carefully pull it with your fingers - it should come out completely.
4. Install. SIM-Place the tray on a flat surface with the contacts upwards. Insert the nano-SIM into the appropriate slot (usually marked with a symbol) 📱). If you install two SIMs, the second one is placed in the bottom slot. For microSD, use the top slot (marked) 🗃️).
5. Put the tray back in place. Put it in the slot before you click, making sure it's in straight (no skewings), press it all the way to the end, and it's got a characteristic fixation sound.
6. Turn on the phone. Press the power button for 2-3 seconds. After downloading, check for the network (the antenna icon in the status bar).

If the phone does not see the SIM after turning on, restart it or check the installation correctly (see the section "Frequent errors").

How to properly position cards in a hybrid slot

In the Poco M3, the tray has two slots for nano-SIM and one for microSD, but you can't use them at the same time.

* In the case of two SIM-One of the cards can work in the mode. 3G, If the operator does not support Dual 4G (For example, MTS and Beeline can have both SIMs. 4G, Tele2 has only one.

In Poco M3, the bottom slot (Paz 2) is usually the priority for the network. If you care about Internet speed, set the main SIM there. You can also assign the main SIM for data manually in the phone settings:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose Mobile Internet.
3. Please indicate preferred SIM-map.

⚠️ Note: If you install a microSD in the bottom slot (instead of nano-SIM), the phone won't see the memory card. SIM-map!

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing a SIM, and here are the most common problems and solutions:

• 🚫 The phone can't see. SIM-Reasons: Map not fully installed (check the tray fixation) SIMKA contacts are contaminated (wipe with an alcohol napkin). SIM not activated (call the operator or check in the personal account) slot damaged (repair required).
• 🚫 Solutions: Try to push harder (but not fanatically); use a thicker tool (like a handle bar); if the tray is jammed, don't try to pull it out with pliers, it will damage the mechanism.
• 🚫 The phone sees only one of the two SIMs. Possible reasons: One of the cards doesn't support pairing (e.g., the old one). SIM without 4G). In the settings, the second is disabled. SIM (Check the settings. → SIM-The operator blocks the operation of two cards at the same time (rarely, but sometimes).

If you still have a problem after all the manipulations, try inserting the SIM into another phone to help determine if the card is the problem, and check if there are any IMEI restrictions (relevant for phones purchased abroad).

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Before contacting the service center, always test the SIM on another phone - this will save time and money for diagnosis.

How to extract SIM-paper-card

If there is no paper clip or special key at hand, you can use the available means:

• 📌 Toothpick or match. Break the tip to make a sharp rod. Put it in the hole and press. Minus: risk of breaking the toothpick inside.
• 🔑 The key to a watch or an earring, any thin metal object with a pointed end will do.
• 📎 Paper clip. Open it up and use it as a paper clip.
• 💡 LED lamp (as a last resort) Carefully insert the glass tip into the hole and press. Dangerous.

If the tray is not removed anyway:

1. Try to heat the case with a hairdryer (no more than 1 minute) - sometimes this helps with deformation of the plastic.
2. Place the phone in a packet of rice for 10-12 hours – if the condensate is a problem, it will absorb moisture.
3. Contact the service center. The cost of extracting the tray is from 300 to 800 rubles (depending on the complexity).

⚠️ Warning: Never use a knife, scissors or other cutting objects to remove the tray.This can damage the O-ring and cause dust to enter the body.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions