Xiaomi's new Redmi 9 smartphone in hand, but it doesn't catch the net? chances are you just forgot to install SIM-The card or the wrong card, and although it seems simple, there are nuances to the process, from the type of cards supported to the slot location depending on the device modification. In this article, we will analyze all the installation methods, including working with a hybrid slot, choosing between two SIMs and setting up the mobile Internet after activation.
Many users face common mistakes: flipping the tray on the wrong side, trying to insert a micro-SIM instead of a nano, or not being able to remove the tray without a paper clip, and we'll show you how to avoid these problems, and we'll also tell you what to do if the phone doesn't see the card after installation. This is a good guide for all Redmi 9 versions (including Redmi). 9A, 9C, 9T 9 Power, but with their design features in mind.
Before you start, check if you have:
- π± Xiaomi Redmi 9 (off!)
- πͺ¨ Paperclip or special key for extracting the tray (comes complete)
- π Nano-SIM card (or two if you plan to use two numbers)
- π Good lighting β the tray is small and the map contacts are easy to bend
1. What kind. SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Redmi 9
All Redmi 9s (2020-2026) are exclusively nano-SIM (4FF, 12.3Γ8.8 mm) versions, which is important: if you have an old micro-SIM or a full-size card, you will have to trim or replace it in the operatorβs cabin. Using adapters or hand-cut cards can lead to poor contact or damage to the slot.
Features by model:
- π± Redmi 9 / 9 Prime / 9T: hybrid (2 nano-SIM + microSD or 1 nano-SIM + At the same time, two SIMs and a flash drive are not working!
- π± Redmi 9A / 9C / 9 Activ: separate slots for two nano-SIMs + MicroSD (you can use everything at the same time).
- π± Redmi 9 Power: Similar to Redmi 9 Power 9A, but the slot is located on the other side of the body.
Attention on eSIM! despite rumors, Redmi 9 doesn't support virtual SIM-If the operator offers only this format (for example, Tele2 or Yota), you will need to order a physical nano-SIM.
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Before pruning the old one SIM-Check if the card is blocked by the operator when the form factor changes, for example, MTS and Beeline may require a replacement card in the cabin.
2 Where is the slot for SIM-maps in Redmi 9
The location of the tray depends on the model:
- πΉ Redmi 9 / 9 Prime / 9T: left end (when you look at the screen with the front) next to the volume buttons.
- πΉ Redmi 9A / 9C / 9 Activ: right end (from the power button side).
- πΉ Redmi 9 Power: upper end (near headphone jack).
To make sure you don't make a mistake, look at a small hole next to the slot, where a paper clip is inserted, and on some models, the hole is illuminated by a red dot (for example, on the Redmi 9T).
Example: Redmi 9 (left) and Redmi 9A (right) slots.
How to distinguish Redmi 9 from Redmi 9A in appearance?
3. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
Follow the steps strictly in order to avoid damaging the tray or card contacts.
Step 1. Turn off the phone.
It's a must-do. SIM-If the card is turned on, it can cause network initialization to fail or damage to the card chip. Wait for the card to be completely turned off (the vibration or indicator on the screen will disappear).
Step 2. Remove the tray.
- Take a paper clip (or a special key from the kit) and unbend it.
- Put the tip in the hole next to the slot before you click. Don't push too hard -- just a little press is enough.
- The tray will extend 1-2 mm - pull it with your fingers to the end.
Step 3. Set it up. SIM-map
- π§ Check which side to insert: the card slice (corner) must match the cut on the tray.
- π§ Redmi 9 with hybrid slot: if you need two SIM-Cards, put them in slots. SIM1 and SIM2 (The microSD will not work!).
- π§ For Redmi. 9A/9C: can be used simultaneously by two SIM microSD.
The tray is extracted completely |SIM-card lies sliced to the tray cut | Contacts of the card (golden part) look down | No dust or dirt in the slot-->
Step 4. Put the tray back in place.
Carefully insert the tray back into the slot before the click. Make no effort - if it doesn't come in, check if it lies right SIM-After installation, turn on the phone.
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If the tray is not fixed, then SIM-If you're crooked or not, don't try to push, take the tray out and repeat the steps.
4. Network setup after installation SIM-map
Once the phone is turned on, you may need to manually configure the mobile network.
Activation. SIM-map
- πΆ If the card is new, wait. SMS from the operator with instructions (usually within 1-5 minutes).
- πΆ For the old card: go to Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [Choose. SIM] β Turn on.
Set up mobile internet (APN)
If the internet does not work automatically:
- Open the Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [Yours. SIM] β Access points (APN).
- Click Add APN and enter your operatorβs options (see table below).
- Save the settings and restart the phone.
| Operator. | APN name | APN | Type of authentication |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | mts | internet.mts.ru | PAP |
| Beeline | beeline | internet.beeline.ru | PAP |
| MegaFon | megafon | internet | PAP |
| Tele2. | tele2 | internet.tele2.ru | PAP |
Manual selection of the network
If the phone does not automatically catch the network:
- Go to Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks β [Yours. SIM] β Choice of network.
- Turn off Automatic Selection and select the operator manually.
- If the network is not listed, check if it is activated. SIM-Card (call from another phone to this number).
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If, after setting up, APN Internet not working, try resetting the network settings: β System system β Resetting settings β Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth.
5. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them
β οΈ Attention: If after installation SIM-The phone says "No service" or "SIM-The card is not supported, check it out: πΉ The card is activated by the operator (call it from another phone). πΉ The tray is inserted to the end (try to remove and insert again). πΉ SIM-card not damaged (check contacts for scratches).
Problem 1: The phone can't see SIM-map
Possible causes and solutions:
- π§ Mud in the slot: Clean the tray with a dry toothpick (do not use alcohol or wet wipes!).
- π§ Damaged contacts: If the card is bent, try another SIM Or go to the operator's salon.
- π§ Software failure: reset network settings (Settings) β System system β Resetting settings).
Problem 2: Mobile Internet is not working
- πΆ Check the balance (sometimes operators block the Internet with a zero score).
- πΆ Make sure that in the settings APN correct protocol (IPv4/IPv6 or IPv4).
- πΆ Try switching to another network (for example, a network). 4G on 3G) In Settings β SIM-map β Preferred type of network.
Problem 3: The tray is jammed or not being taken out
If the paper clip doesn't help:
- Try using a thicker object (such as an unburdened stationery brace).
- Put something warm (for example, a heating pad) on the phone for 1-2 minutes - sometimes the tray "gets crummy" from the cold.
- If nothing helps, do not use force β contact the service center.
What to do if the tray is broken SIM-map?
6. Features of the hybrid slot in Redmi 9
In the Redmi models 9 / 9 Prime / 9T slot SIM-MicroSD and cards are combined: you can use either two nano-SIMs or one. SIM + It's a limitation of architecture, and you can't get around it. If you want two numbers and extra memory at the same time, consider Redmi. 9A or 9 Power - they have separate slots.
How do you choose priority?
- π± Two. SIM-Cards: convenient for work and personal calls, but you will have to sacrifice memory (internal) 64/128 GB may not be enough).
- π± One. SIM + microSD: optimal if you need a lot of space for photos/video, but the second number is not important.
How do you change configuration?
To switch between modes:
- Turn off the phone.
- Remove the tray and swap the cards (for example, insert a microSD instead of a second SIM).
- Turn on the phone and wait for initialization.
β οΈ Note: When changing the slot configuration (for example, with two slots) SIM one-on-one SIM + The phone can reset the network settings. Save important settings in advance APN Or take a picture of them.
7. Alternative methods: eSIM and adapters
While Redmi 9 doesnβt support eSIM, there are workarounds:
- π eSIM adapter β nano-SIM: Some operators (e.g. Tinkoff Mobile) issue physical cards for devices without eSIM.
- π Virtual Number: Services like Dingtone or Google Voice let you make calls over the internet, but it wonβt replace the main number. SIM.
Can I use a micro-SIM or a cropped card?
Technically, yes, but:
- β If the pruning is made by a professional stapler (in the operatorβs cabin), the risk is minimal.
- β If you cut the card with scissors, there is a great chance of damaging the chip or contacts.
It is better to spend 10 minutes visiting the operatorβs cabin than to repair the slot.