How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Inserting a SIM card into a Xiaomi smartphone is a seemingly simple procedure, but even it can raise questions for a beginner, especially if it is a hybrid slot, where you have to choose between a second SIM and a memory card, or models that support eSIM. Installation errors can lead to damage to contacts, lack of network or even locking the device.

In this article, we’ll look at all possible scenarios, from classic nano-SIMs to virtual chips, from Redmi Note 12 to Xiaomi’s flagship 14 Ultra, how to remove the tray correctly, what tools you’ll need, and what to do if your phone doesn’t see the SIM after installation, and a table of compatibility with SIM types and answers to frequent questions.

If you are first encountering the Xiaomi brand, it is important to understand that the company has several lines (Mi, Redmi, POCO), and the location of the SIM slots in them may differ. For example, in the POCO X6 Pro, the tray is on the right, and in the Redmi 13C – on the left, we took these nuances into account to make the instruction suitable for any model of 2018-2026 release.

We warn you in advance: do not use improvised means (needles, toothpicks, paper clips) to remove the tray - this is the fastest way to damage the mechanism. Buy a branded key-clip (costs 50-100 rubles) or use a metal deployed stationery clip. And remember to turn off the phone before manipulation - this will save you from short circuit.

1. What SIM cards support Xiaomi smartphones

Since 2018, all Xiaomi models have been using nano-SIM (3FF), the most compact physical format.

✅ Standard models (Redmi Note 11, Xiaomi) 12T etc.) support:

• 📱 Two nano-SIM (trays for 2 sims)
• 📱 One nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid tray)
• 📱 eSIM + nano-SIM (in flagships from 2023)

⚠️ Note: In hybrid slots (Redmi) 9A, POCO M5) You can't use the second SIM and the memory card at the same time.

🔍 How to find out the type of slot in your model?

If you look at the tray, if you have a hole on one side only, it's a hybrid slot (sim + microSD). If you have holes on both sides, you have two SIMs.

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If you travel frequently, choose eSIM-enabled models (such as the Xiaomi 13 Lite or POCO F5 Pro) that allow you to use a local SIM without physically replacing the chip.

💡 Tip: If you buy Xiaomi with your hands, check the tray for damage.Curved contacts or cracks are a sign that the SIM may not be fixable well.

2.What you will need to install a SIM card

Before you start, prepare:

• 🔑 Key to extract the tray (goes with the phone)
• 📱 Nano-SIM (if you have a regular SIM, cut it in the cabin of the operator)
• 🔋 Tweezers (for careful placement of the SIM in the tray)
• 📸 Lights (to see the connector in the dark)

⚠️ Warning: Do not use scissors to trim the SIM! even the slightest deviation from the standard 12.3 × 8.8 mm will cause the chip to not get into the tray or damage contacts.

If you have eSIM, you won’t need physical tools – activation is done via Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM. But check if your operator supports this technology (in Russia, eSIM is available from MTS, Beeline and Tele2).

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi

Follow this algorithm to avoid errors:

1. Turn off your phone. This is a must to avoid damaging your contacts.
2. Find a SIM card slot. It's usually located: 📱 On the right side of the (POCO, Xiaomi 12/13/14) 📱 On the left side of the face (Redmi Note, Redmi A) 📱 On the top edge (rarely, for example, Xiaomi Mi) 10T)

Remove the tray.

1. Put the key in the hole before you click.
2. Carefully pull the tray over yourself - do not make an effort!

Set up a SIM card.

• 🔹 The chip must be face down (contacts to the phone).
• 🔹 Make sure the simka sits tightly in the slots of the tray.

Put the tray back in place.

Turn on the phone.

🔧 If the tray is not removed:

• 🔹 Try to push harder - sometimes the mechanism sticks".
• 🔹 Use a straightened paper clip (but not a thin needle!).
• 🔹 Heat the case with a hair dryer (if the phone was in the cold - the metal could shrink).

4. Features of installation in popular Xiaomi models

Some smartphones have unique nuances. Let's take a closer look at them:

📌 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and POCO X5 Pro:

📌 Xiaomi 13/14 series:

📌 Redmi A2+ budgetary models:

⚠️ Note: In Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and Mi 10 Pro models, microSD support is turned off when installing two sims. If you need a memory card, use only one physical SIM. + eSIM (if supported).

5. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes, and here are the most common ones:

❌ Simka's got "upside down" inserted":

• 🔹 The phone does not see the network, and in the tray are scratches from contacts.
• 🔹 Solution: Turn over the SIM (the chip must be on the bottom).

❌ The tray is not fixed:

• 🔹 Often occurs due to dust or dirt in the connector.
• 🔹 Solution: Blow the slot with compressed air or gently clean with a cotton swab.

❌ Phone doesn't see SIM card:

• 🔹 Check if the mobile network is included in the Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
• 🔹 Reboot your phone – sometimes it helps.
• 🔹 If the SIM is new, it may not be activated (call the operator).

❌ Damaged contacts:

• 🔹 If after removing the sim on the tray there were scuffs or scratches, the contacts could be damaged.
• 🔹 Solution: Contact the service - sometimes it helps to replace the tray (worth it) ~300-500 rubles).

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If the phone stopped seeing the SIM after falling or getting moisture, the problem may be in the antenna module, in which case self-repair will not help - you need a diagnostic scanner.

6. How to activate eSIM in Xiaomi (if supported)

A virtual SIM card (eSIM) is convenient for traveling or using two numbers.

1. Make sure your operator supports eSIM (list: MTS, Beeline, Tele2, MegaFon).
2. Get it from the operator. QR-activation code (can be through the application or in the cabin).
3. Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM.
4. Scan it. QR-code or enter data manually.
5. Confirm activation and the phone will restart.

⚠️ Note: Xiaomi can only use one eSIM at a time, and if you need to change carriers, you will have to remove the old virtual SIM.

🔄 How to remove eSIM:

1. Go to Settings → SIM-cards and mobile networks.
2. Select eSIM and press Delete.
3. Confirm the action - these SIMs will be erased irrevocably.

💡 Tip: If you change your eSIM frequently (for example, when traveling abroad), keep it. QR-codes in secure cloud storage (Google Drive, Mi Cloud).

7.What to do if the phone does not see the SIM card after installation

If following the instructions did not help, check the following:

🔍 Diagnostics of the problem:

• 📶 Check the coverage area – there may be no network.
• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes resetting the communication module helps.
• 🛠️ Update the software - in old versions MIUI There are bugs with sim recognition.
• 🔧 Reset network settings in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset.

🛑 If nothing helps:

• 🔹 Try the SIM on another phone – if it doesn’t work, the operator has a problem.
• 🔹 Inspect the tray for damage or oxidation (green plaque on contacts).
• 🔹 In extreme cases, perform a reset to factory settings (but first make a backup!).

📞 When to contact the service:

• 🔹 The phone does not see any SIM cards (even knowingly working).
• 🔹 After falling or getting moisture.
• 🔹 A message appears on the screen "SIM-Card missing" or "Impermissible card".

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If you suspect the problem is firmware, try flashing the phone through Fastboot. Instructions for your model can be found on the 4PDA or XDA Developers forum.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions