How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Mi 10: tray, tools and network setup

Since the Xiaomi Mi 10 launched in 2020, the flagship has remained a popular choice among users who value performance and quality, but even such an advanced smartphone can be baffled by the simple question of where and how to insert a SIM card, especially if you are first encountering the brand’s devices. Unlike budget models, where the slot is often on the side, the Mi 10 has a more elegant hidden one — and that’s not the only feature.

Many people mistakenly think that it is enough to simply insert a card into the tray and wait for the network to appear. In practice, you have to consider the type of SIM card (only nano-SIM!), the correct location of the chip, and in the case of two-sim versions, also the order of installation. And if you are talking about a model with eSIM support, the process requires pre-configuration in the menu. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances from tool preparation to mobile Internet activation.

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Usually, a special key is included with the Xiaomi Mi 10 to extract the tray (it is easy to lose!), but a straight-lined clip will also work, the main thing is not to use sharp objects like needles or knives: they can damage the fixing mechanism. Also, make sure that your SIM card is trimmed to nano-SIM format (12.3 × 8.8 mm). If you plan to use two physical cards, remember: the second SIM will occupy a slot designed for a microSD card, they can not be used simultaneously.

Special attention should be paid to the models Mi 10 Pro and Mi 10 Ultra: they have a similar slot, but in some regions sold versions without the support of a second SIM card. To avoid unpleasant surprises, specify the specifications of your modification in advance – it is enough to look at the box or enter the serial number in the service mi.com/verify.

Where is the SIM card slot in Xiaomi Mi 10

In the Xiaomi Mi 10, the SIM card tray is located on the top of the body, a non-standard solution for the brand’s smartphones, where the slot is usually placed on the side, which is explained by the desire of engineers to make room for a large battery and cooling system. To find it, turn the phone down and look at the top end: you will see a small hole with a metal rim and a barely noticeable icon of the SIM card.

It is important not to confuse this slot with an infrared port (if your model has one) or a microphone. The tray extraction hole is about 1 mm in diameter and is located strictly in the center of the upper edge. On some modifications (for example, the Mi 10 Lite), the slot can be on the left end - it depends on the regional build option. If you are not sure, check the official documentation or use a flashlight for a better view.

• 📍 Main model of Mi 10: upper face, center
• 📍 Mi 10 Pro/Ultra: upper face, shifted to left
• 📍 Mi 10 Lite / Mi 10T: left-handedness (in some parties)

If you can't find the slot, you may have a protective film or a cover on your device that covers the hole, carefully remove them and re-examine them, and at the very least use a magnifying glass, because sometimes the manufacturer puts the labeling in very small print.

What tools will be needed to install a SIM card

To retrieve the Xiaomi Mi 10 tray, you will need a special key (it comes with a phone in a box, usually attached to the documentation with tape).

• 📎 Extended stationery clip (diameter 0.8-1 mm)
• 🔧 Needle from sewing machine (dumb end!)
• 🖊️ The cap from the gel handle (if it is metallic)

What can not be used: toothpicks (break inside), knives (scratch the body), pins (too thin and sharp).

In addition to the tool for extracting the tray, prepare:

• 📱 Nano-SIM (cut to the desired size or new from the operator)
• 🔍 Loop (optional, to check the chip)
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to wipe SIM card contacts if necessary)

If you plan to use two SIMs, consider that the second SIM will replace the microSD slot, which means you won’t be able to expand memory and use two carriers at the same time, and consider using eSIM (if your model supports it) or cloud-based file storage services.

Find a SIM card slot on the top edge

Prepare the key or the paper clip

Check the size of the SIM card (nano-SIM)

Turn off the phone before removing the tray

Wipe SIM card contacts if necessary-->

Step-by-step: how to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Mi 10

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully to avoid damage to the tray or SIM card contacts.

1. Turn off your phone. It's a must-do! By inserting a SIM card when the device is on, you risk damaging your contacts or causing a communication module to malfunction.
2. Put the key in the slot hole. Press with effort, but without fanaticism — the tray should slip out about 2-3 mm. If it does not give in, check if the tool is skewed.
3. Remove the tray completely. Pull it gently on your back. Don't put too much effort into it, the fixing mechanism is fragile!
4. Put the SIM card in the tray. Notice the notch in the corner of the SIM card, it should match the shape of the nest. Chip down!
5. Put the tray back in. Make sure the SIM card doesn't fall out and is securely fixed. The tray should come in smoothly, without resistance.
6. Turn on the phone. Wait for the network indicator to appear (usually it takes 30 to 60 seconds).

If the network does not appear after turning on, check:

• 🔄 Is the SIM card installed correctly (chip down, notch matches)
• 📶 Does your operator support the Xiaomi Mi 10 frequency (especially relevant for the mobile phone) 5G)
• 🔧 Is the SIM card activated by the operator (sometimes a call to the hotline is required)

For models with support for dual SIM (Dual SIM) installation order is the same, but there is a nuance: the first SIM (Slot 1) usually supports 5G, and the second (Slot 2) – only 4G. If you are interested in maximum Internet speed, place the main SIM in the first slot.

Network settings after installing the SIM card

Once a SIM card is installed successfully, the phone must automatically connect to the operator's network, but sometimes manual setup is required, especially if you're using a virtual carrier MVNO or roaming.

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose your SIM card (if there are two, set each separately).
3. Make sure that the mobile data switch is active.
4. In Network Type, select 4G/5G (if your carrier supports it).
5. If the internet is not working, check the APNs – they should match your carrier’s settings.

For MTS, Beeline, MegaFon and Tele2, APN settings are usually set automatically. If this does not happen, enter them manually:

If you use two SIM cards, you can set the priority for calls, SMS and mobile Internet in your settings, for example, you can set the first SIM to make calls and the second SIM to make calls, which is convenient if you have different rates for voice and data.

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If the phone still doesn't pick up the signal after setting up the network, try restarting the device or turning on/off flight mode, sometimes helping to reset the errors of the communication module.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes encounter problems when installing a sim card in the Xiaomi Mi 10, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to solve them:

• 🚫 SIM card is not recognized. Causes: wrong installation (chip up), contamination of contacts, non-activated SIM card. Solution: remove the tray, check the position of the SIM card, wipe the contacts with an alcohol napkin, call the operator to activate.
• 🚫 The phone's not catching the network. APN, Operator problems, antenna damage. Solution: check the settings. APN, Restart your phone, contact the operator.
• 🚫 The tray doesn't fit back in. Reasons: SIM card protrudes over the edges, tray skewed, trash hit. Solution: gently remove the tray, check the SIM card, clear the slot from dust.

Pay special attention to SIM cards with adapters. If you cut a regular SIM to nano format yourself, make sure there are no burrs or plastic debris left. They can block contacts or scratch the tray.

⚠️ Attention! Never use metal objects (knives, forks) to retrieve the tray, this can short the SIM card contacts and cause the communication module to fail. If the key is lost, buy a new one from the service center - it costs no more than 100-150 rubles.

If the SIM card doesn't work after all the manipulations, check it on another phone, maybe the card itself is the problem (for example, it's damaged or blocked by the operator), and in rare cases, a hardware failure is to blame, then you will need to diagnose it at the service center.

Features of working with eSIM in Xiaomi Mi 10

Some Xiaomi Mi 10 modifications (mostly sold in Europe and Asia) support eSIM technology, a virtual SIM card that is activated through software, which is handy if you don’t want to sacrifice a microSD slot or travel frequently.

To configure the eSIM:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
2. Select Download eSIM.
3. Scan it. QR-code provided by the operator or enter data manually.
4. Confirm activation.

The list of eSIM operators in Russia is limited to:

• 📡 MTS (for corporate clients)
• 📡 MegaFon (pilot project in Moscow and St. Petersburg)
• 📡 Tele2 (for business rates only)

If your carrier does not support eSIM, virtual carrier services such as Tinkoff Mobile or Yota can be used, and they often offer favorable terms for eSIM, including free minutes and gigabytes when activated.

⚠️ Attention! When using eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time, the Xiaomi Mi 10 may limit the Internet speed on one of them. 5G Only available on the first SIM, the second will work in the mode 4G. Check with your operator before setting up.

Tips for caring for the slot and SIM card

To avoid connection problems in the future, follow simple guidelines:

• 🧼 Regularly (every 3-6 months) clean the contacts of the SIM card and tray from dust with a soft brush or an alcohol wipe.
• 🚫 Avoid getting moisture into the slot – even a small drop can cause contacts to corrosion.
• 🔄 If you change your SIM cards frequently (e.g. when traveling), use a nano-SIM adapter to avoid damaging the tray.
• 📦 Store spare SIM cards in an antistatic bag to protect the chip from damage.

If you don't use a second SIM card for a long time (for example, you keep it on reserve), remove it from the tray. Prolonged stay in the slot can lead to oxidation of contacts, especially in high humidity conditions.

Also, look at metal cases, some models can shield the signal if the metal is too close to the antenna, and if the connection quality deteriorates after the case is installed, try removing it or replacing it with a plastic one.

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Regular cleaning of the SIM card and slot contacts prolongs the service life of the communication module and prevents connection problems.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions