Xiaomi smartphone owners often face the need to replace SIM-card when changing operator or switching to a tariff with a large amount of traffic, and retrieval of the tray is required to install a microSD card if the device model supports storage expansion. Despite the apparent simplicity of the procedure, careless actions can lead to damage to the body or breakage of the extraction mechanism.
Modern gadgets of the Chinese manufacturer are equipped with combined or separate slots, the location of which varies depending on the series and year of release of the device. In this article, we will discuss in detail where the hole for the paper clip is located, which tools are better to use and how to safely get the tray of the SIM card without damaging the tightness of the case.
Before you start mechanically, you need to make sure you understand the design of your particular device. Redmi Note, Poco and flagship Mi series models can have nuances in the location of ports and buttons. Proper preparation will eliminate the risk of accidental scratching of the screen or end face during manipulation.
Tools and workplace preparation
To do this successfully, you'll need a minimal set of tools, which is usually bundled with the device. The main element is a special metal needle or clip that has a pointed end. If the original paper clip is lost, you can use a thin sewing needle, but you should use extreme caution to avoid bending the tool inside the hole.
It is crucial to ensure good lighting of the workplace. A small opening to extract the tray often blends with the color of the frame, especially in black or dark blue models. Bright light will help you aim accurately and avoid slipping the tool, which can leave scratches on the glossy surface.
⚠️ Warning: Never use knives, toothpicks or other items that could break inside the hole or scratch metal to extract the tray. A piece of wood or plastic will get stuck inside and it will be impossible to remove them without disassembling the phone.
It is recommended to cover the table with a soft cloth or use a special mat. If the tray pops out sharply during the extraction process (which happens due to the effort of the spring), it will not hit the hard surface of the table. Falling on the floor can lead to the loss of small parts or damage to the very surface of the table. SIM-map.
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Put the phone down on the soft fabric – this will prevent the appearance of micro scratches on the display during pressure on the body.
Determination of the type of tray and its location
The first step in the process is to visually inspect the end faces of a smartphone. In the vast majority of modern Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco models, the SIM card slot is located on the top or bottom end of the device. Traditionally, manufacturers place it on the top edge, but in some models with an infrared port, the slot can be shifted downwards so as not to interfere with the infrared emitter.
You need to look carefully at the frame for a small circular hole next to the elongated tray, and that's where the tool is inserted. SIM-The microphone hole is usually smaller in diameter and often located separately, sometimes surrounded by a decorative ring.
There are two main types of trays used in company devices:
- 📱 Separate slot: Designed for only one SIM-Nano-SIM maps.
- 🔄 Combined slot: Allows you to install either two SIM-card SIM and one microSD card.
- 💳 Triple slot (rarely): Allows simultaneous installation of two SIMs and a memory card with no choice (found in newer models).
Determining the type of tray is critical if you plan to use a memory card. In combined slots, installing a microSD automatically disables the second SIM card. Visually inspecting the tray (if it is slightly visible) or studying the model specification on the Internet will help you understand what support format is available in your case.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the tray
The extraction process requires precision and the right angle of inclination of the tool. Take a paper clip or needle in a comfortable hand, and hold the phone firmly with the other hand. Put the phone back in the palm of your hand or put it on a hard surface with your fingers.
Insert the sharp end of the tool into a circular hole perpendicular to the edge of the body. You don't have to try to insert the needle at an angle, it can lead to slipping. When you feel a slight accent, start gently but confidently pressing inside the body. You should feel a slight click of the mechanism.
☑️ Extraction algorithm
Once you click, the tray will extend a few millimeters, allowing you to grab it with your nail or tweezers. Smoothly pull the tray out until it is fully removed. Don't pull sharply so as not to damage the contacts inside the phone. If the tray does not extend after a hard press, check if you have confused the hole with the microphone.
In some cases, especially in newer models with increased moisture protection, the mechanism can run tight, in which case you can slightly sway the tool from side to side without removing it from the hole to loosen the hold, the main thing is not to apply excessive force that can deform the metal frame.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone has just been running and heating, let it cool before removing the tray.The thermal expansion of the metal can make the mechanism tighter and the hot body slippery.
Working with Nano-SIM and microSD cards
Modern Xiaomi smartphones use the Nano-SIM card format, which is the smallest of the existing standards. When installing or extracting, it is important not to touch golden contacts with your fingers, as fatty traces can oxidize and disrupt the connection.
Notice the shape of the cutout in the corner of the card and the response form in the tray. The card is only set in one correct position. If you're trying to put the card down and it doesn't fit in the slots flatly, don't push. Turn the card over or turn it 180 degrees. Incorrect installation can lead to short circuits.
The same principle applies to microSD cards: In combined trays, there are often special protrusions that hold the card on top of or next to the SIM card, and make sure that the memory card fits tightly to the base of the tray and does not hang around.
Once you have all the modules in place, insert the tray back into the phone, and it's also important to be guided, so that the tray is inserted by the side that was on the outside, and usually with the side that is bent up or down, repeating the bend of the frame. Push the tray until the characteristic snap of the lock.
What to do if the memory card is not identified?
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Even with careful handling, there can be technical difficulties. One of the common problems is getting the tray stuck. This can happen due to dust getting in, deformation of the tray after a fall, or factory defect. If the tray is stuck halfway, do not try to pull it with your nails with force - it is better to use a thin tweezer with a grip on the edge.
Sometimes users are faced with a situation when after removing the tray, the phone ceases to see the network. In this case, you need to check the integrity of the contacts inside the slot, visible contamination, you can gently blow the slot with compressed air or use a soft brush.
The table below will help diagnose common problems:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The tray is not moving out. | Wrong hole or jamming | Check the hole, slightly sway the tool |
| No network after replacement | Contact contamination | Wipe SIM contacts with alcohol |
| The tray is hanging. | Metal deformation | Carefully bend the edges of the tray with tweezers |
| SD reading error | Incompatible format | Format the map through the phone menu |
If the tray is deformed (bent), you can try to align it by placing it on a hard flat surface and pressing your finger slightly. However, if the metal is cracked, it is better to order a new part, since a sharp edge can damage the internal components of the smartphone when inserted.
Software setting after card replacement
After the physical installation of the new SIM-Return or return of the old operating system MIUI or HyperOS should automatically recognize changes. Usually, a sign-up message appears in the notification curtain. If that doesn't happen, go to the settings menu.
To manage SIM cards, use the path: Settings → SIM-You can choose the default card for calls and mobile Internet, and you can activate or deactivate specific slots. This is especially useful in dual-symbol models, where you need to distribute the load between tariffs.
Important: If you change SIM-New card with the number saved, old PIN-The code will not work because it is tied to the card's physical chip. The new card comes with a new code listed on a plastic basis.
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After any replacement SIM-Always restart the device so that the network registers correctly and the settings are updated. APN mobile-internet.
In some cases, you need to manually configure APNs to run mobile internet. Operators usually send these settings automatically, but if the internet doesn’t work, you can find the settings on your carrier’s official website and manually enter them in the corresponding menu section.