Installation SIM-cards in the smartphone Xiaomi Redmi seems to be a simple procedure, but in practice users are faced with a lot of nuances: from the wrong size of the SIM to the jammed tray. In this article, we will discuss all possible scenarios, from classic nano-SIMs to modern eSIMs, and how to avoid typical installation errors. 12/13, Redmi 10/11 and POCO, where the design of the trays may differ.
You will learn how to properly remove the tray without damage, what to do if the SIM is not recognized, and how to check compatibility with the device. 5G-And for older models, Redmi. 4/5) And we'll give you some recommendations, and there's a process that's different. FAQ Answering frequent questions and useful life hacks that will save time.
Preparation: which SIM-The card is needed for Xiaomi Redmi
Before inserting the SIM, make sure it fits your smartphone. All modern Xiaomi Redmi (starting with Redmi 9 2020) only supports nano-SIM (12.3×8.8 mm format). If you have an old-style SIM (micro-SIM or mini-SIM), it will have to be cropped or replaced from the operator.
- 📱 Redmi Note 12/13, Redmi 10/11, POCO X5: 2 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid tray) or 1 nano-SIM + eSIM (depending on the region).
- 📱 Redmi 9/9A/9C: 2 nano-SIM + separate microSD slot (no hybrid tray).
- 📱 Redmi 8 and older: only micro-SIM support is possible (check the specifications of the model).
To check compatibility, check the official specifications of your model on the Xiaomi website or use the table below:
| Model | Type SIM | Support for eSIM | Hybrid tray |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 13 Pro+ | 2 nano-SIM | Yes (regionally) | Yes (SIM2 + microSD) |
| Redmi 12 | 2 nano-SIM | No. | Yes. |
| POCO X5 Pro | 2 nano-SIM | Yes (Europe) | No. |
| Redmi 9A | 2 nano-SIM | No. | No (a separate microSD slot) |
Important: in models with a hybrid tray (for example, Redmi Note 12) you can not use two at the same time SIM-I'll have to pick one of these cards and a memory card.
⚠️ Attention: If you cut the SIM on your own, use a template or a special cutter. Uneven edges can damage the contacts of the tray or the card itself. In communication salons, the trimming is usually free when changing the tariff.
2 Where is the slot for SIM-maps
In most models Xiaomi Redmi tray for the SIM-The map is on the left end (if you look at the screen:
- 🔄 Redmi K50 and POCO F4: tray on the right.
- 🔄 Redmi 10C Redmi 9 Activ: tray at the top (under the switch button).
To find the slot, inspect the case - it is marked with a small hole for SIM-If you are not sure, watch the official video for your model (for example, Xiaomi YouTube channel).
What does a tray look like? It comes with a plastic tray with metal contacts, it has notches for SIMs and possibly microSDs, and if the tray is lost, you can order a replacement (the article is usually listed in the user manual).
3. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map
Follow this algorithm to avoid errors:
- Turn off your phone. This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid malfunctioning when recognizing the SIM.
- Find a hole to extract the tray. It's small (about 1 mm), so use it. SIM-kit-piece.
- Carefully push until you click. The tray will extend 2 to 3 mm — pull it with your fingers.
- Put it down. SIM-card to the tray contacts down (the golden part should be visible). For models with a hybrid slot, choose a slot under the SIM1 or SIM2.
- Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skewings can lead to poor contact.
Make sure the SIM is trimmed to nano-SIM
Turn off the phone (recommended)
Use the original SIM-tool
Correctly Orient the SIM (Contacts Down)
Check that the tray is inserted to the point-->
If the tray is not extended:
- 🔧 Check if the tongue is bent inside the hole (carefully tuck it in with a needle).
- 🔧 Try using a thicker paperclip or toothpick.
- 🔧 In extreme cases, contact the service center - perhaps the mechanism jammed.
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If SIM-The card is not recognized after installation, try restarting the phone or slightly moving the tray (sometimes helps to take out and paste back).
4. Features for models with eSIM
Some Xiaomi Redmi (e.g. Redmi Note 13 Pro)+ 5G European market support eSIM - virtual SIM-It doesn't have to be physically inserted, but it does require activation:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
- Scan it. QR-code from the operator or enter data manually (provided by the mobile operator).
- Confirm activation and the phone will restart.
The advantages of eSIM:
- ✅ No risk of damaging the tray.
- ✅ You can quickly switch between tariffs.
- ✅ Freed physical slot for the second SIM microSD.
⚠️ Note: Not all operators in Russia and the CIS support eSIM. Before buying a phone, check this information with your provider. For example, MTS and Beeline offer eSIM, and Tele2 - only for corporate customers.
How to remove eSIM from Xiaomi Redmi?
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even with the right installation SIM-And the maps can get out of hand. Let's look at the typical situations:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The phone can't see. SIM-map | Poor contact, tray pollution | Wipe the contacts of the sim and tray with alcohol, reinstall the card. |
| Simka's recognized, but no network. | Inactive tariff, problems with the operator | Check balance, restart phone, update network settings manually |
| The tray is not fixed, falls out | Tongue bent or mechanism damaged | Carefully buckle the tongue with tweezers or contact the service |
| Phone's asking. PUK-code | Three times injected with an incorrect PIN | Check the PUK from the operator (on the package of the SIM or in your personal account) |
If the phone says "No service" or "Emergency Calls Only" after installing the SIM:
- Check if the mobile network is included in the Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Make sure you choose the right operator (manual or automatic).
- Update your phone’s firmware – sometimes network bugs are fixed in newer versions of MIUI.
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If network problems occur after the update MIUI, Try resetting your network settings: Settings → System and device → Resetting settings → Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings.
6. How do you put it in? SIM-map to old models (Redmi) 4/5/6)
In smartphones Xiaomi Redmi 2016-2018 release (for example, Redmi 4X, Redmi 5A) trays for SIM-cards have their own features:
- 📶 Micro-SIM (instead of nano-SIM) support: If you have a new SIM, you'll have to cut it off or use an adapter.
- 📶 A separate microSD slot (no hybrid tray).
- 📶 The tray may be less durable – do not put excessive effort in extracting.
Instructions for old models:
- Use a thin paperclip - the hole to extract the tray in these phones is shallow.
- If the tray is tight, lubricate its edges with silicone lubricant (not oil!).
- After installing the SIM, check if its edges stick out - this can damage the internal contacts.
Redmi 3/3S and earlier models may need to be rebooted after installing the SIM, as they do not support a hot replacement.
7. Tips for caring for the tray and SIM-card
To avoid problems in the future, follow these guidelines:
- 🧼 Clean the contacts of the tray and SIMKI every 6 months with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol.
- 🚫 Do not use force when removing the tray – if it does not come out, check if the garbage has got inside.
- 🔄 Reinstall the SIM (once a year) periodically to clear the contacts of oxidation.
- 📱 Avoid moisture – if the phone is wet, immediately remove the SIM and dry the tray.
If you change often SIM-card (e.g., on trips), consider buying a magnetic tray, which facilitates extraction and reduces the risk of failure of the mechanism.
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Keep the spare. SIM-tool in your phone case, you'll need it on the road. If you don't have it, you can use an unbended paper clip or even a toothpick (carefully!).