How to pull out a slot for SIM-Xiaomi maps: the manual

Changing a mobile operator or having to install a new memory card always requires access to the device’s internal compartment. Owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco smartphones often face a situation where the standard paper clip is lost and the tray is urgently needed to be removed. Despite the apparent simplicity of the procedure, inept actions can damage the case or break the extraction mechanism itself.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how to correctly and safely pull out a SIM card slot on Chinese brand devices. You will learn about the location of holes in various models, suitable tools and methods of solving problems if the tray does not respond. The accuracy of movements here plays a crucial role, so it is important to follow the proven recommendations.

Modern smartphones are getting thinner and waterproofing requirements are increasing, making the extraction mechanism more tight and demanding to be precise. We'll look at the nuances of working with hybrid slots and tell you how not to confuse the sides during installation, this knowledge will help to avoid unnecessary trips to the service center.

Location of the extraction hole

The first step is always to visually inspect the ends of the case. In the vast majority of cases, the tray extraction hole is on the bottom of the device, next to the USB Type-C or Micro-USB connector. However, in some models, especially with moisture protection or a specific layout, engineers can place it on the top edge.

So, look carefully at the perimeter of the phone, and you want to find a narrow, oblong slit that has a small circular hole inside, and that's where you have to use the tool, and don't confuse it with the microphone hole, which may also be on the ends, but it's different shape and size.

• 🔍 The bottom edge is a classic location for the Redmi Note series and the base Xiaomi models.
• 🔍 Top edge – often found in the flagship Mi and Xiaomi Number series with water protection.
• 🔍 Side facet is a rare option, typical of some tablets or devices with a rotating camera mechanism.

⚠️ Warning: Never try to pick through the speaker or microphone openings, which will cause permanent damage to the acoustic system or noise sensors.

If you can't find a hole on the bottom or the top, use a flashlight and a magnifying glass. Sometimes a factory film or a protective case can mask the technological gaps. Make sure you're looking at the end, not the side frame.

Tools and workplace preparation

Before you start extracting, you need to prepare the workplace, the lighting should be bright so that you can clearly see the small hole, it is recommended to perform the procedure at a table covered with a soft cloth, so that in case of loss of light. SIM-The cards or trays were not lost or scratched.

The main tool is a paper clip that comes with the phone, and it has a flat or slightly pointed end, perfect for the mechanism, and if the original paper clip is lost, you can use a paper clip to straighten one of the ends, or a thin needle.

It's important that the tool is strong and not bend the first time you press it, that the thin sewing needles can break inside the machine, which will create a serious problem. 1-1.5 mm.

• 🛠️ The original paper clip is the best option, since its shape is designed to force the spring.
• 🛠️ Paperclip is an affordable alternative, but requires straightening.
• 🛠️ Special key-scapula - sold in electronics stores, convenient for frequent use.

Do not use knives, toothpicks or other objects that may break or scratch the body for this procedure. A toothpick, for example, can crumble inside the hole, blocking the mechanism completely.

Step-by-step instructions for removing the tray

The extraction process requires a confident but controlled effort, and you take a tool that you've prepared and you place it perpendicular to the face of the phone, and you have to put the tip in the hole smoothly, without any distortion, so that you don't damage the inner walls of the machine.

Press the instrument to the point. You should feel a slight click or spring resistance, at which point the tray will extend out of the body by several millimeters, allowing you to grip it with your fingers. Don't be afraid to exert force, the mechanism is designed to fit tightly to protect against moisture and dust.

Sequence of action:


1. Insert the instrument perpendicularly.




2. Push until you click.




3. Remove the tray with your fingers.

Once the tray has appeared outside, gently pull it with your fingers. Try not to touch the golden contacts on the very top. SIM-A card or memory card, if it's installed, and fatty traces can impair the connection.

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If the tray is tight, try to sway the tool slightly from side to side without removing it so that the lubricant inside the mechanism is evenly distributed.

It is important to note that some Xiaomi models use a combined slot, which means that the second slot can be installed either in the second slot. SIM-card or microSD card, be careful when you reverse install so that you don't damage your contacts.

What to do if the slot is stuck

Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the tray does not extend even when pressed hard, this can be caused by oxidation of the contacts, getting dirt or deformation of the mechanism. First of all, make sure that you press strictly perpendicular, not at an angle.

Try using a thinner but stronger tool, such as a medical needle (with caution). If the tray is still not moving, you can try to slightly tap the end of the phone on the palm when you press the paper clip. Vibration can help move the stale spring.

⚠️ Warning: It is strictly forbidden to use glue, superglue or other adhesives to stick a paper clip to the tray.You risk permanently sealing the hole and ruining the phone.

If the mechanism is jammed due to corrosion (for example, after water hits), drip a drop of alcohol (isopropyl) into the hole and wait a couple of minutes. Alcohol will dissolve the oxides and help to free the mechanism. After removing the phone, it is better to dry.

In extreme cases, when the tray is broken inside, you need to disassemble the device, which is a complex procedure that requires skills and special equipment, and if you are not confident in your abilities, you should contact the service center.

Features of hybrid slots

Many of Xiaomi's budget and mid-budget models feature hybrid slots. This design saves space inside the case, but imposes limitations. SIM-cards simultaneously or one SIM-memory-card.

When you install two SIM-The second slot for the memory card becomes inaccessible. If you need to expand the memory, you have to choose between the second SIM and the MicroSD. Visually, these trays often have two cells of different sizes or a special shape for the cards.

• 💾 Mode 1: SIM 1 + SIM 2 (Memory card not supported).
• 💾 Mode 2: SIM 1 + MicroSD (second SIM card is not working).
• 💾 Mode 3: In some rare cases, one may work alone. SIM and a memory card without a second SIM.

When setting cards, make sure the contacts are positioned correctly. The tray usually has a schematic image showing how the card should lie. Incorrectly placing the card in a hybrid slot can short-circuit and burn the power controller.

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A hybrid slot is a trade-off between body thickness and functionality, and choose the configuration that matters most to you: two SIMs or lots of memory.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One of the most common mistakes is the installation SIM-And if the card doesn't fit perfectly in the tray, don't push it. Turn it over and try again.

Another mistake is using too thick or handicrafted SIM-Cards hand-cut from Mini or Micro format to Nano often have uneven edges or a plastic base that is too thick.This can lead to a tray getting stuck inside the phone.

Don't forget to clear the contacts. SIM-And you can use a card to collect dust and oxides in the slot itself, and you can wipe them with a dry soft cloth or a weasel before you install them, and that will improve the signal and the stability of the network.

⚠️ Warning: Never remove or insert SIM-card while the phone is on, unless urgently needed (although modern standards support Hot-swap, the risk of a power surge or software failure always exists.

Also, avoid touching the card chip with your fingers. The fat from the skin creates a dielectric film that impairs contact. Hold the card only by the plastic edges.