How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: instructions with photos and nuances

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 remains one of the most popular budget smartphones even years after the release – thanks to reliable hardware, a good camera and support for two SIM-But a lot of questions for beginners are how to insert a SIM to keep the trays from getting damaged, what size of card is needed, and what to do if the phone doesn't see the network after installation. In this article, we'll look at the process from A to Z, taking into account all the pitfalls of the model.

It is important to understand that Redmi Note 7 Supports a hybrid slot: either two nano-SIMs or one nano-SIM + MicroSD card. This means that when you use two sims, you can't expand your memory. There's no eSIM support, just physical cards. If you're switching from another phone, check that your sim is trimmed to nano-SIM (12.3 × 8.8 Mmm, otherwise it just won't get in the tray.

The instructions below are a step-by-step algorithm with photos, tips for choosing tools, a carrier compatibility table and answers to frequent errors. If you are first encountering Xiaomi, we recommend reading the article in full to avoid typical problems (for example, a bent SIM contact or a wrong tray installation).

Preparation: what you will need to install a SIM card

Before you open the tray, make sure you have everything you need. The Redmi Note 7 comes with a special key to remove the tray (a curled-end clip), but if you lose it, any thin metal clip or even a toothpick will do (with caution!).

Also check:

• 📱 SIM size: nano-SIM only (if you have a micro-SIM or standard one, you need to trim or replace it in the cabin of the operator).
• 🔋 Battery charge: It is desirable that the phone be turned off (not necessarily, but reduces the risk of failures when first turned on with a new SIM).
• 📡 Operator compatibility: Redmi Note 7 works with all Russian operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2, Yota), but in some regions there may be nuances with the use of the Internet. 4G-frequency.
• 🔧 Clean Workplace: Put your phone on a soft surface (like a napkin) to avoid scratching the screen.

If you plan to use two SIMs, please note that the second SIM (slot 2) may not support the default SIM. 4G — It depends on the firmware. To change the priority of networks, you'll need to go into the settings later. SIM-maps and mobile networks.

Where is the SIM card slot in Redmi Note 7?

In Redmi Note 7, the SIM card tray is on the left side (when you look at the screen with your face), and it's easy to identify from the small hole next to it, which is the extraction key connector. Some models have a barely noticeable SIM card icon next to the hole, but the Note 7 often doesn't.

It is important not to confuse the tray with other connectors:

• 🔌 USB-Type C (bottom of the phone) – for charging and transferring data.
• 🔊 Speaker/microphone (bottom of the phone) USB.
• 📶 Antenna lines (top and bottom of the back panel) - have no holes.

If you can't find the tray, put a flashlight on the left side -- the hole should be about half the height of the case. The photos below show the exact location:

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse the SIM card hole with the microphone! microphone is located at the bottom of the phone next to the microphone USB-It's a port, and it has a grid, and if you try to put a paper clip in there, you risk damaging the microphone.

Step-by-step: how to open the tray and insert the sim

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully so that you don't break the tray mechanism.

1. Turn off the phone (optional but recommended) This will prevent accidental taps and crashes when you first turn on with a new SIM.
2. Take the key to remove the tray (or paperclip) and insert it into the hole on the left side of the phone. Press with force until the tray “pop out” 1-2 mm.
3. Carefully pull the tray over and remove it completely. Don't put too much effort into it -- if the tray doesn't go, check if you pressed the mechanism correctly.
4. Place the tray on the table and place the SIM card(s) in the appropriate slots. Note the notch on the SIM card - it should match the shape of the groove.
5. If you use two SIMs, make sure they don't overlap. The memory card (if you install) is placed in the slot for the second SIM.
6. Put the tray back in the phone before you click. Make sure it sits flat and doesn't protrude.
7. Turn on the phone and wait for the network to activate (it can take up to 2-3 minutes).

A critical nuance: in Redmi Note 7, the SIM card tray is asymmetrical in shape — if you insert it on the wrong side, it won't lock. There's a small bevel on one side on the tray — it has to be pointed towards the phone screen.

Phone off (optional) | Used nano-SIM of the correct size |Tray removed without excessive effort |Simka installed notch in the groove |Tray inserted before clicking-->

What SIM Card Size Is Needed for Redmi Note 7

Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 supports only nano-SIM (4FF) — this is the smallest SIM card format to date. If you have a different size SIM, it needs to be cropped or replaced. In the table below, compare the formats and what to do in each case:

If you need to cut the SIM yourself, use a special template (sold in electronics stores) or scissors with thin blades. The main thing is not to touch the chip and not to cut too much plastic at the edges. Alternatively, contact the communication salon (usually replace the SIM for free in 5-10 minutes).

⚠️ Warning: If the SIM doesn't enter the tray after pruning or the phone doesn't see it, don't try to force it in! This can damage the slot contacts.

What to do if your phone doesn’t see your SIM card

Sometimes, once you have a SIM, the Redmi Note 7 doesn't recognize it, and the reasons can range from a misinstallation to software failures.

1. Check the physical installation: Remove the tray and make sure that the SIM is flat, without skewing. Blow the dust groove (you can use a canister of compressed air). Check if the contact is bent on the SIM or in the slot.

Sometimes the system doesn't immediately recognize a new SIM.

Check the network settings:

• Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
• Make sure the SIM is activated (the slider must be turned on).
• Check if the correct operator is selected (manual or automatic).
• Update the firmware. There are some SIM recognition bugs in older versions of MIUI.
• Check the SIM on another phone, and if it doesn't work there, the problem is the SIM, not the Redmi Note 7.
• Turn on option two. SIM-Call card if you want incoming calls to come to both SIMs.
• For 4G-The second SIM may need to change the preferred network type to 4G/3G/2G (motor-car).

Note that if you use a microSD card, the second SIM will not be available (hybrid slot), and some operators may block the operation of two SIMs at the same time, depending on the tariff.

💡

In Redmi Note 7, only one SIM can use the device. 4G-If you want to have Internet on both SIMs, you'll need to manually turn on/off mobile data.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing a SIM card in the Redmi Note 7, and here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔧 Using the wrong tool (needle, knife) - this can scratch the body or break the tray mechanism.
• 📱 Upside down SIM - the notch on the SIM must match the shape of the groove.
• 🔄 Forced reboot during SIM activation – wait until the phone recognizes the network itself (this can take up to 5 minutes).
• 📶 Ignoring firmware updates in older versions MIUI There are problems with the work of two simks.
• 🛠️ Self-repair slot - if the tray breaks, don't try to fix it at home.In Redmi Note 7, the slot is soldered to the board and replacing it requires professional equipment.

Another common problem is getting dust or moisture into the slot, so if the phone has been in a damp room or been lying idle for a long time, the contacts could oxidize, in which case, gently wipe them with alcohol (at least 90%) and let them dry before installing the SIM.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions