Changing the carrier, switching to a tariff with a new number or the need to remove a memory card to transfer data to a computer – these are the tasks faced by every smartphone owner. Xiaomi brand devices, including the popular Redmi and Poco series, use a standard mechanism for removing the tray, which, however, can cause difficulties for beginners. Wrong actions often lead to damage to the case or slot itself, so it is important to understand the physical principles of the mechanism.
Modern gadgets are designed to fit all the elements tightly to protect against dust and moisture, which means that the tray should not be removed just by your fingers or nails. Access to the inner compartment requires a special tool, an ejector that comes with the kit, or a quality analogue of it. Ignoring this rule can break the latches, which will turn a simple procedure into a difficult repair.
In this guide, we will take a detailed look at the algorithm for retrieving a SIM card, look at the nuances of different models and offer solutions for unusual situations when the tray is stuck or the paper clip is lost.
Tools and workplace preparation
Before you start manipulating the gadget, you need to organize a safe space. Mechanical impact on the body requires a solid support and good lighting. You should not try to remove the tray on weight or in the dark, as there is a high risk of slipping the tool and damage to the screen or side frame.
The main tool is the metal extraction clip that comes with the delivery, and it has a specific shape and thickness designed specifically for the ejector mechanism. MIUI. If the original paperclip is lost, it can be replaced with a thin paperclip, a needle from a sewing machine or a special tweezer for the use of a paperclip. SIM-map.
⚠️ Warning: Never use ballpoint pens, toothpicks or objects too thick to remove the tray. Plastic may break inside the hole, and a thicker metal may damage the internal mechanics of the sensor.
It is also recommended to prepare a soft cloth or mat. Once removed, the trays and map can easily slip out of your hands and fall onto a hard floor, leading to microcracks on the contacts or chips on the body of the SIM card itself.
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Put a small magnet on the table before extraction - if the SIM card pops out, it will not fly far and will not get lost in the pile of the carpet.
Determination of the type of tray and slot location
Xiaomi and Redmi devices can have different slot designs depending on the year of release and the price segment of the model. Most modern smartphones use a combined tray that allows you to install two Nano-SIM SIM cards or one card and a microSD memory card.
The location of the ejector hole also varies. In classic models, it is located on the bottom end of the device, next to the USB Type-C connector and speaker. However, in some protected models or devices with an IR port on the upper end, the slot can be moved to the upper edge so as not to conflict with other components.
- 📍 Classical location: lower end, left or right of charging connector.
- 📍 Top location: typical for models with an IR blaster on the top end (for example, some versions of the Redmi Note).
- 📍 Side location: rare, but found in tablets or specific modifications.
It is important to carefully examine the end of the device before exposure. The ejector hole is always round and located separately from microphones or dynamic grilles. Attempting to press the microphone hole with a paper clip can damage it and worsen the quality of sound recording.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the tray
The extraction process is standardized for the Chinese manufacturer's entire smartphone line, but requires care. Take the device in your hand so that the screen looks up or is turned toward you, providing a good view of the work area. Find a small circular hole on the end face.
Insert the sharp end of the ejector clip strictly perpendicular to the surface of the housing into the hole. You don't have to look for a lever inside, the mechanism works by direct pressure on the spring latch. Smoothly but confidently press until the characteristic click and a sense of resistance, after which the tray must partially extend out of the body.
☑️ Extraction algorithm SIM
Once the tray has moved a few millimeters, remove the paperclip and gently pull the plastic platform with your fingers. Don't put too much effort; if the tray is not going, you have not pressed the ejector deeply or improperly enough.
⚠️ Warning: If the tray is out but stuck halfway, don't pull it aggressively. Try wiggling it slightly from side to side, holding your fingers to release the stale spring.
Nuances for different models of Redmi and Poco
Although the principle is the same, the physical dimensions and shape of the trays may differ. Budget models of the Redmi A or C series often use a simplified tray, where the SIM card is inserted with a spring-loaded mechanism and it needs to be slightly pressed into the tray to get it out.
Special attention should be paid to models with support for memory cards. In combined slots, one side of the tray is designed for a SIM card and the other for a MicroSD. You can not confuse them due to the unique shape of the cutouts, but it is important to correctly orient the contacts.
| Series of devices | Type of tray | Feature of extraction |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note (10-13) | Combined | A tight fit, a rubber seal is possible |
| Poco X / F | Double Nano-SIM | Often there is no SD slot, exact alignment is required. |
| Redmi A / C | Separate or combined | A tighter spring mechanism requires a clear press |
| Xiaomi Mi (old) | Removable battery | In rare old models, the SIM under the battery |
Owners of devices with moisture protection (for example, Xiaomi 12T Pro or Redmi Note 11 Pro+) should remember that after removing and installing the card, you need to tightly press the tray to the end.
What to do if the tray is jammed or not removed
When the tray is not retrievable, it is not common, but it can be confusing. Most often, the reason lies in the deformation of the plastic platform itself or the entry of dirt into the mechanism. If a standard pressing of a paper clip does not work, you should not use force.
Try to change the angle of the paperclip by 1-2 degrees in either direction, while you keep pushing. Sometimes the internal lever will catch up, and a slight shift in the point of application of force helps to free it, and you can also try to slightly tap the end of the smartphone on the palm of your hand at the moment of pressing to shake off possible dust.
Scotch method for stuck tray
In cases where the tray is deformed inside and does not come out even with full ejector pressing, fine tweezers may be required to intervene. Carefully insert tweezers into the gap between the tray and the body (when it is slightly extended) and, opening them, create an additional pulling force.
⚠️ Warning: If the tray is not removed after a few careful attempts, stop the exposure.Further efforts may cause the inner ejector plate to tear off, requiring the smartphone to be disassembled in a service center.
Programmatic aspects and configuration after extraction
After you physically change the card, the Android operating system with the MIUI shell or HyperOS automatically recognizes the changes, a notification of the new SIM card will appear on the screen, however, if you just extract the card to transfer data to your PC, the system can continue to work in No Network or Emergency Calls only.
If the network doesn't appear after installing the card, check if it's installed correctly. Contacts should be directed downwards (to the board), and the cut angle should match the shape of the tray. In rare cases, a software reset of network settings is required.
To do this, go to the settings menu: Settings → Connection and Sharing → SIM cards and mobile networks. Make sure the desired slot is activated. If the problem persists, you can reset the APN settings or restart the device.
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Correct contact orientation and cleanliness of the SIM card’s gold pad are key factors in successful network recognition after extraction.