Installation SIM-Xiaomi’s smartphone card seems like a simple procedure, but in practice users face problems ranging from the wrong size of nano-SIM to a jammed tray. SIM. This article will help you understand all the nuances - from the choice of tool to the diagnosis of problems after installation.
We will take a detailed look at the process for different Xiaomi lines (including Redmi, POCO and Mi), explain how to avoid damaging contacts, and give tips on how to set up the network after activating the card. And if you have a model with eSIM, you will find instructions for this case, all the steps are illustrated with photos and accompanied by warnings about typical errors.
What are they? SIM-The cards support Xiaomi phones
Most modern Xiaomi smartphones use the format of nano-SIM (4FF) - the most compact standard size 12.3×8.8 mm.
- 📱 Budget models (Redmi) 12C, POCO C50): Usually supports 2 nano-sims. + microSD (hybrid slot).
- 📱 Mid-segment (Redmi Note 12, Xiaomi 13 Lite): most often 2 nano-SIMs without memory card support.
- 📱 Flagships (Xiaomi 14, POCO F5 Pro: can have 1 nano-SIM + eSIM or 2 nano-SIM.
Important: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Ultra does not support microSD – they have a slot only for the SIM-Before buying, check the specifications on the official website or in the documentation.
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If you have an old micro-SIM or mini-SIM, do not cut it yourself - it is better to contact the communication salon for a free replacement with nano-SIM. Incorrect cropping can damage the contacts of the phone.
| Xiaomi model | Slot type | Support for eSIM | Max, the volume of microSD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | 2 nano-SIM | No. | — |
| POCO X5 Pro | 2 nano-SIM + microSD | No. | 1 TB |
| Xiaomi 13T | 2 nano-SIM | Yes. | — |
| Redmi A2+ | 2 nano-SIM + microSD | No. | 512GB |
For models with eSIM (e.g. Xiaomi 13 or XiP) POCO F4 GT) physical SIM-The card is optional, you can activate the virtual one through settings, but in Russia this function is not supported by all operators (for 2026, MTS, Beeline and Tele2 are working).
What will be needed for installation SIM-map
Before you start, prepare:
- 🔧 A paper clip or key to remove the tray (combined with the phone) will also work.
- 📇 SIM-Nano-SIM card (if you have another one, replace it in the operator’s cabin).
- 🔍 Flashlight (useful for viewing the slot in poorly lit places).
- 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to clean contacts if the card is not recognized).
If you have a hybrid slot model (e.g. Redmi) 10C), Decide what is more important in advance: the second SIM-card or memory card, use 2 simultaneously SIM + MicroSD cannot be used!
⚠️ Warning: Never use sharp objects (knives, forks, scissors) to remove the tray, which can damage the fixing mechanism or scratch the body of the phone.
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
The installation process is the same for most models, but there are differences in the slot's location.
- Turn off the phone. This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid crashes when initializing the card.Push and hold the power button, then select Turn off.
- Find a slot for SIM-It's usually located: 📱 On the right end (most of the Redmi models and the POCO). 📱 On the top end (some flagships, for example, Xiaomi 12). 📱 On the left end (rarely, for example, Black Shark).
Remove the tray. Put the paper clip in a small hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend 1-2 mm - carefully pull it out with your fingers.
Install. SIM-Put it in the tray with the contacts down, aligning the bevelled corner of the card with the same angle on the tray:
- 📇 SIM1 — center-tray.
- 📇 SIM2/microSD — near-end.
- Put the tray back in. Make sure the card doesn't protrude beyond the edges. Put the tray in without skewing until it snaps.
- Turn on the phone. Wait for the initialization of the card (may take up to 2 minutes) If you have a request to enter. PIN-code, enter it.
Not all Russian operators support eSIM, and as of 2026, the service is provided by:
- 📡 MTS (for individuals and legal entities).
- 📡 Beeline (only for postpaid rates).
- 📡 Tele2 (limited number of regions).
⚠️ Note: With eSIM, you cannot transfer the number to another phone by physically changing the card.
What happens if the operator does not support eSIM?
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing SIM-These are the most common maps:
| Mistake. | Effects of consequences | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| Installation of the map with contacts up | Phone can’t see SIM, possible scratches on contacts | Turn the map over and insert it again |
| Use of a damaged tray (bent, cracked) | The jamming mechanism, the inability to remove the map | Replace the tray (cost) ~300–500 ₽) |
| Power on tray insertion | Bending contacts in the slot, damage to the body | Insert without skewing, until a slight click |
| Use of inappropriate tools (knife, forks) | Scratches on the body, damage to the extraction mechanism | Use only a paper clip or a corporate key |
Critical error: if the tray is stuck inside the phone, don't try to remove it yourself - it can damage the motherboard.
Another common problem is that the phone can see SIM-- a map, but it doesn't catch the net:
- 📶 Non-activated card (new) SIM You need to activate the operator).
- 📶 Wrong settings APN (Check in the settings → SIM-map → Access point (APN)).
- 📶 Problems with the coating (try switching to the 2G/3G manually).
- If the internet is not working, check the APN Settings. These are usually set automatically, but if necessary, enter the data manually (you can find them on the operator's website).
For models with two SIM-cards (Redmi Note 11, POCO X4 Pro et al.) can be configured:
- 🔄 Data Switching: Choose which one SIM It will be used for the Internet by default.
- 📞 Priority of calls: for example, always call with SIM1, if both are active.
- 📶 Shutdown one SIM: If not used to save the charge.
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If after setting up the network, the phone still does not catch the signal, try manually selecting the operator in Settings. → SIM-map → Network selection. Sometimes automatic search fails.
What to do if your phone can’t see SIM-map
After installation SIM-The phone does not recognize the card, perform diagnostics by steps:
- Check the physical condition of the card and slot: 🔍 Check the contacts. SIM-maps for scratches or contamination. 🔍 Make sure the tray is not bent and inserted without backlash.
- Restart your phone in safe mode: 🔄 Press the power button. → Hold it down. → Choose Safe Mode. 🔄 If the card works in safe mode - the problem in the installed software.
- Update the firmware: 📱 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Updating the system. 📱 Install the latest updates (sometimes bugs with the SIM Corrected in new versions MIUI).
- Reset the network settings: 🔧 Settings → SIM-map → Resetting network settings. 🔧 After resetting, the phone will restart, and the settings APN re-introduce.
Check out the IMEI:
- 📞 Dial *#06# - if IMEI missing or incorrect, it could be a hardware problem.
- 📞 In this case, contact the service center.
⚠️ If the phone is no longer visible SIM-If you drop or get moisture, don't try to disassemble it yourself, because the water could oxidize the slot contacts, and the mechanical impact could damage the soldering joints.