How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 4: instructions with photos and videos

Xiaomi Redmi 4 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, released in 2016, but still actively used. SIM-The maps in this model raise questions for beginners: where is the tray, what tool is needed to extract, and how not to damage the slot on the first use. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances - from tool preparation to checking the connection after installation.

The Redmi 4 feature (including the Redmi 4A, Redmi 4 Prime and Redmi 4 Pro) is a hybrid slot for two nano-SIMs or one nano-SIM + microSD. This means that you can’t use two SIMs and a memory card at the same time. We’ll show you how to choose the right configuration for your tasks and avoid common mistakes, such as installing a card on the wrong side or in the wrong format.

Preparation: what you will need to install a SIM card

Before you start installing, make sure you have everything you need. Unlike today's flagships, the Xiaomi Redmi 4 does not support eSIM, so a physical nano-SIM is a must.

• 📱 Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 4 (any modification) with power off.
• 🪛 Paperclip or special key to remove the tray (goes with the phone).
• 📇 Nano-SIM card (if you have a micro-SIM or standard, it should be trimmed or replaced in the cabin of the operator).
• 🔍 Good lighting – the tray is small and the SIM card contacts are sensitive to damage.

If you don't have the original key from Xiaomi, an unbended paperclip or even a toothpick (but neatly - the plastic tray is brittle) will do. Never use a knife or metal objects with sharp edges - they can scratch the body or damage internal contacts.

Note the state of the SIM card: if it was hand-cut, check if there are any barbs left at the edges. They can interfere with the proper installation or even get stuck in the slot. If you plan to use two SIM cards, make sure that both support the nano-SIM format (12.3 × 8.8 mm).

Where is the SIM card slot in Xiaomi Redmi 4

In Redmi 4, the SIM card tray is located on the left end of the case (when you look at the screen with the front side), it is easy to recognize by the small hole next to it - this is the extraction connector. On some versions (for example, Redmi 4A), the slot can be on the right, but in most cases it is on the left.

To avoid confusion, pay attention to the following visual markers:

• 🔴 Inscription SIM or SIM card icon near the hole.
• 🔴 The tray is located approximately in the middle of the end, closer to the bottom of the phone.
• 🔴 On the opposite end (right) are usually located the volume and power buttons.

If you're not sure, light up with a flashlight - a metal extraction hole will reflect light.In the Redmi 4 Pro, the slot can be hidden under a plug, but that's rare - it's usually open.

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If you can’t find a slot, try removing the case – sometimes it closes the hole to extract the tray.

Step-by-step: how to insert a SIM card

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions strictly to avoid damage.

1. Turn off your phone. This is a must, even if you have 1% charge left, and a switched-on smartphone can damage the SIM card contacts when installed.
2. Insert the paperclip into the hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend 2-3 mm - pull it with your fingers.
3. Place the tray on a flat surface (for example, a table) with contacts up. Pay attention to the notches - they will tell you which side to install the SIM card.
4. Place the nano-SIM in the appropriate slot. Options are available for Redmi 4: 📱 Slot 1 - the main SIM card (supports) 4G). 📱 Slot 2 is a second SIM card or microSD (but not simultaneously!).

Carefully insert the tray back in

Turn on the phone.

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

• 🔄 SIM card installation (contacts should be directed downwards).
• 🔄 Presence of a protective film on the SIM card (sometimes it is forgotten to remove after purchase).
• 🔄 Slot state - whether there is dust or foreign objects inside.

What SIM cards supports Xiaomi Redmi 4

Xiaomi Redmi 4 only works with nano-SIM (4FF) — this is the smallest format used in modern smartphones. If you have a SIM card of a different size, it needs to be replaced or trimmed.

If you decide to trim the SIM card yourself, use the template for nano-SIM (you can find it online) and sharp scissors. Note: after trimming, the SIM card will not be inserted back into the micro-SIM slot or standard SIM!

Also note that Redmi 4 supports dual SIM cards, but with limitations:

• 📶 Both SIM cards can work in mode. 4G, But only one at a time (the second switches to the second). 2G/3G).
• 📞 During a conversation on one SIM card, the second will be unavailable.
• 📱 If you use a microSD, the second SIM card is turned off.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 4. Here are the most common problems and solutions:

⚠️ Note: If after installing the SIM card, the phone says "No network" or "SIM-Do not try to reboot the device repeatedly. First, remove the SIM card and check it on another phone - it may be damaged or blocked by the operator.

• 🚫 The SIM card is inserted by the wrong side, the contacts should be downward, and the beveled angle should match the notch in the tray.
• 🚫 The tray is not fixed, which means that the SIM card is installed incorrectly or interferes with a foreign object (dust, plastic clippings).
• 🚫 The phone doesn't see the second SIM card. Check if it conflicts with the microSD (in a hybrid slot, you can use either a second SIM card or a memory card).
• 🚫 The SIM card is stuck in the slot. Don't try to pull it out yourself, go to the service center. Forced extraction can damage the contacts.

Another common mistake is to use a SIM card from another carrier without first activating it, for example, if you bought a new SIM card from MTS, but did not activate it through the SIM card. USSD-The team or the personal account, the phone won't see it:

1. Insert the SIM card into another phone and activate it.
2. Or call the operator's hotline from another number.
3. Or activate it through an official application (for example, My MTS).

How to check if the SIM card is installed correctly

After installing the SIM card, turn on your phone and follow the following steps to diagnose:

1. 📶 Check the network indicator in the top bar, and if it says "No Service" or it's empty, the SIM card won't be recognized.
2. 📞 Try making an outgoing call (for example, to the number 112 – it works without money in the account).
3. 📱 Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks and make sure the SIM card is displayed in the list.
4. 🔄 If the network appears and disappears, check the density of the SIM card in the tray – it may be staggering.

If the SIM card is recognized, but the Internet does not work:

• 🌐 Make sure that mobile data is included in the settings.
• 📡 Check that the correct profile is selected APN (It is usually set up automatically, but sometimes manual input is required).
• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes it helps to restore the connection.

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If the phone sees the SIM card but does not catch the network, the problem may be blocking the IMEI (for example, after firmware) or a malfunction of the communication module, in which case a diagnosis is required at the service center.

To verify IMEI (Unique Phone Identifier), enter the command in the dialer:

*#06#

If you see zeros or an error instead of IMEI, it's a software failure, and the solution is flashing or restoring through the Mi Flash Tool.

Video instructions and additional materials

If the text instruction seemed complicated, we recommend watching the video on installing the SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 4. There are no official videos from Xiaomi, but there are dozens of reviews from users on YouTube.

• 🎥 "Xiaomi Redmi 4 SIM installation card” (English version).
• 🎥 "How to insert a SIMKA in Xiaomi Redmi 4 (Russian-language bloggers).
• 🎥 "Redmi 4 Hybrid Slot Teachial (Phybrid Slot).

Note the date of the video release — current videos are no older than 2022-2023, and older ones may show outdated firmware with a different interface.

Also useful materials:

• 📄 Official specifications of Redmi 4 on the Xiaomi website (section "SIM Card").
• 📄 Forum MIUI — There are topics to solve problems with SIM cards.
• 📄 Instructions for setting up APN for your operator (can be found on its official website).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions