Where is the slot for SIM-Xiaomi Redmi cards: detailed installation instructions

You just purchased a new Xiaomi Redmi smartphone and faced the first technical challenge – installation. SIM-Are you going to change your device and you can't find a SIM tray? This is a problem that many users are familiar with, especially if you're looking at models with a non-standard slot arrangement or a hybrid format. Unlike older push-button phones, where the socket is for the SIM box. SIM The modern Redmi requires accuracy and knowledge of design features.

In this article, we will discuss how to find a slot for SIM-Maps of popular Xiaomi Redmi models (from Redmi Note 10 to Redmi) 13C), What tools are needed to retrieve the tray, and what to do if the phone does not see the SIM after installation, especially for hybrid slots, where you have to choose between the second one. SIM-You will also learn how to avoid errors that lead to breakage of contacts or jamming of the tray.

Where is the slot for SIM-Xiaomi Redmi cards: general principles

Most Xiaomi Redmi models are a slot for SIM-The card is located on the side of the case - usually on the left or upper side. A1), where the tray can be under the removable lid, to pinpoint the location:

  • πŸ” Inspect the case of the smartphone: look for a small hole with a metal rim (this is a connector for the device). SIM-ejector).
  • πŸ“ The size of the hole rarely exceeds 1 mm - it is easy to miss if you do not look closely.
  • πŸ”„ On some models (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro)+) slot is hidden under a decorative stub, which you need to tuck your nail.

Important: Don’t confuse the slot for SIM-A microphone or speaker hole card, which is usually a mesh structure, and is located closer to the bottom end of the device, and if you're not sure, flash a flashlight, and you'll see a metal tray mechanism in the ejector hole.

πŸ“Š What Xiaomi Redmi model do you use?
Redmi Note 10/11/12
Redmi 9/10/13 Series
Redmi K50/K60
Another model
I haven't bought it yet.

Tools for tray extraction SIM-Maps: What to use instead of a paper clip

To extract the tray Xiaomi provides a special tool β€” SIM-The ejector that comes with the phone, but many users lose it or buy a smartphone without the original packaging:

  • πŸ“Ž Paperclip (unfolded, without plastic coating).
  • πŸͺ‘ Sewing machine needle (thin, no burrs).
  • πŸ”§ Toothpick (sharpened under a cone).
  • πŸ“± Special key from the phone repair kit (sold in electronics stores).

Never use a knife, scissors or other sharp objects - they can damage the slot's O-ring or scratch the body. If you don't have a suitable tool at hand, try gently pressing the tray on the back side (through the speaker hole) with the blunt side of the pencil - sometimes this helps push it 1-2 mm, after which you can put your nail on.

πŸ’‘

If the ejector does not come complete, it can be ordered on AliExpress on request "SIM card ejector pin" - they cost a penny, and will be useful for years to come.

Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map

Installation process SIM-The cards are the same for most Redmi models, but there are nuances depending on the type of slot (conventional or hybrid:

  1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
  2. Find a hole for the ejector and insert the tool to the end until the tray is extended by 2-3 mm.
  3. Take the tray out of the case carefully. Don't make any effort -- if it doesn't come out, check if the ejector is inserted correctly.
  4. Put it down. SIM-map(s) in the tray according to markup: πŸ“± For nano-SIM (smallest format) – contacts should be facing down. πŸ”„ If the slot is hybrid, select the priority: SIM MicroSD (cannot be used at the same time!).

Insert the tray back into the slot before the click.Make sure it sits flat - skewings can lead to poor contact.

Turn on the phone and check for the network in the status bar.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for installation SIM-map

Done: 0 / 5

After installation, the phone does not see SIM-map, try it:

  • πŸ”„ Reset the device.
  • 🧹 Gently wipe your contacts. SIM-card-tray.
  • πŸ“Ά Manually select the operator in the settings: Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Choice of network.

Features of hybrid slots: SIM + microSD

Many Xiaomi Redmi models (e.g. Redmi Note 11, Redmi) 10A) equipped with a hybrid slot, where the second connector can be used for the second SIM-It's either a microSD card or a microSD card, which means you can set two cards at the same time. SIM-MicroSD and cards are not available, you have to choose.

ModelSlot typeMax, the volume of microSD4G support for both SIMs
Redmi Note 12 Pro+Hybrid1 TBYes.
Redmi 10CHybrid512GBNo, only. SIM1)
Redmi A2+Normal (2 SIM + microSD)1 TBNo.
Redmi K60Hybrid1 TBYes.

If you need both SIM-cards and additional memory, consider options:

  • πŸ“± Use cloud storage (Mi Cloud, Google Drive) instead of microSD.
  • πŸ”„ Buy a model with a separate microSD slot (e.g. Redmi) A2+ or POCO M5).
  • πŸ“Ά Translate one SIM in-SIM (if the operator supports).
How to check if your Redmi e-SIM supports?
Open the Settings. β†’ SIM-If you have a "Add mobile" or "e-SIM" option, it's supported. Otherwise, it's not.

Frequent errors in installation SIM-maps and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to problems with network recognition.

⚠️ Warning: If you feel resistance when inserting the tray, don't push harder - most likely, SIM-The card is set incorrectly (e.g. upward contacts). Remove the tray and check orientation.

  • 🚫 Using micro-SIM instead of nano-SIM. Even if it physically enters the tray, the contacts won't match, and the phone won't see the card. Solution: trim the micro-SIM to nano-SIM size (but better order a new one from the operator).
  • πŸ”‹ Installation SIM-This can cause the initialization of the communication module to fail. Always turn off the device before manipulating the tray.
  • 🧲 If you've used an uncomfortable tool (like a knife), the sawdust can close the contacts, so you can blow the slot with compressed air or clean it gently with a toothpick.

Another common problem is that the tray doesn't lock in the case, and this happens if you:

  • Slot contaminated (dust, sand).
  • The tray is deformed (for example, after the fall of the phone).
  • The ring is worn out (relevant to older models).

In the first two cases, cleaning will help, in the third - replacing the tray (it costs a penny, but requires accuracy when installing).

πŸ’‘

After installation SIM-The card says "No network" or "Registration error", first check if active SIM The operator (possibly blocked for non-payment).

Xiaomi Redmi models with non-standard slot location

Most Redmis have a slot on the side edge, but there are exceptions:

  • πŸ“± Redmi 9A/9C/10A: The slot is hidden under the removable back cover (you have to put it on the mediator or plastic card!
  • πŸ“± Redmi Note 8 Pro: the tray is located on the upper end next to the headphone jack.
  • πŸ“± Redmi K30 Pro: The slot is pushed upwards (not sideways like most models), so the ejector needs to be inserted at an angle.

For models with a removable lid (Redmi 9A, Redmi 8A) proceed carefully:

  1. Turn off the phone and remove the battery (if it is removable).
  2. Put the cover on the gap near the headphone jack.
  3. SIM slot is under the battery or next to it (see the diagram in the instructions for the phone).

If you're afraid of damaging the lid, use a plastic mediator (sold in stores for phone repair) or a guitar mediator. Metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) can leave scratches or snap latches.

What to do if Xiaomi Redmi doesn’t see it SIM-map

If the phone doesn't recognize. SIM-map, follow the algorithm:

  1. Restart the device – sometimes the communication module β€œhangs” at the first initialization.
  2. Check the correct installation: πŸ”„ Take the tray out and make sure that SIM downwardly. 🧹 Wipe the contacts of the card and tray with alcohol (voilless fabric!).

Update the firmware

Settings β†’ About the phone β†’ System update

Reset the network settings

β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Network reset

This will remove saved access points and operator settings, but often solves the problem.

Check it out. SIM-map on another phone

⚠️ Attention: If none of these methods worked, and the phone has fallen or got wet before, the problem may be that the antenna module is damaged, in which case you will need a diagnosis at the service center!

If SIM-The card is working, but the network signal is unstable:

  • πŸ“Ά Try to manually select the operator in the settings.
  • πŸ”„ Turn off VoLTE (if enabled): sometimes it conflicts with some operators.
  • πŸ“± Install an alternative firmware (e.g. Xiaomi.EU) if the problem is due to an official software bug.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can you use micro-SIM instead of nano-SIM in Xiaomi Redmi?
Technically possible, but not recommended. Nano-SIM is smaller in size, and if you cut the micro-SIM to the desired dimensions, there is a risk of damaging the contacts. It is better to contact the operator for a replacement card - it is free or costs a symbolic amount (50-100 rubles).
What to do if the tray SIM-The cards are jammed and he's not coming out?
Don't try to pull it out by force! Try the following methods: Use a thicker tool (like a toothpick) to push deeper. Blow in compressed air (from a canister) into the slot - sometimes this helps move the tray from the dead end. If nothing helps, contact the service center - self-attempts can damage the mechanism.
Does my Xiaomi Redmi support two? SIM-MicroSD cards and microSD cards simultaneously?
It depends on the model: πŸ“± Hybrid slot (most Redmi Note and Redmi numerical series): you can use either two SIM-card SIM + microSD. πŸ“± Three separate slots (rarely, for example, Redmi) A2+): supported by 2 SIM + Check the characteristics of your model on the official Xiaomi website or in the instructions.
Should I turn off the phone when installing? SIM-map?
No requirement, but recommended for hot replacement. SIM-The initialization of the communication module may fail (without turning off) especially on older versions. MIUI. If you did, SIM-card with the phone on and it doesn't see it, just restart the device.
Can I use it? SIM-card from another operator in roaming?
Xiaomi Redmi supports the work with SIM-maps of any operators, but there are nuances: 🌍 Roaming may have Internet speed restrictions (for example, some operators). 4G It only works with "natives" SIM-map). πŸ“Ά Before traveling, check if your phone supports local carrier frequencies (for example, the US uses different bands than the US does). πŸ”„ Set up an access point (APN) manually if the Internet is not working: the way to set up β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN).