Where is Xiaomi slot for SIM-maps: detailed instructions with photos and videos

You just purchased a new Xiaomi smartphone and faced the first technical challenge – installation. SIM-Are you switching from a different brand and can't find a SIM tray in an unfamiliar case? This problem is familiar to many: the manufacturer regularly changes the slot location depending on the model, and there is no universal "for all Xiaomi" instruction.

In this article, we will discuss all possible accommodation options. SIM-tray in smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO — From budget models to flagships, you'll learn how to distinguish a hybrid slot from a regular slot, what to do if the SIM doesn't recognize, and how to avoid installation errors.

Importantly, if your Xiaomi supports eSIM, the activation process will be fundamentally different, as we will also discuss in a separate section.

1. Types SIM-Xiaomi cards: what kind of SIM supports your smartphone

Before you search for a slot, make sure you have the right format. SIM-maps. 2018 Xiaomi has completely switched to the nano-SIM standard (4FF) — It is the smallest physical format in size. 12.3×8.8 mm. Older micro-SIMs (3FF) and mini-SIM (2FF) Modern models are not used.

Exceptions:

• 📱 Older models (until 2017): Mi 5, Redmi Note 3 - supported micro-SIM.
• 🌐 Hybrid Slots: Allows you to choose between the second SIM-microSD card or memory card (for example, in Redmi) 9A or POCO M3).
• 📲 eSIM: Virtual SIM available in flagships (Xiaomi 13, 14, Mix Fold).

How to check the format of your SIM-Take it out of an old phone and compare it to a template:

⚠️ WARNING: If you trimmed the micro-SIM to nano-SIM size yourself, check if there are any plastic burrs left on the edges!

2 Where to look for a slot for SIM-Maps: 4 Possible Places in Xiaomi

The manufacturer places a tray for SIM-We've collected all the possible options with examples of devices:

📍 Option 1: Right end (most common)

Most modern Xiaomi have a slot on the right side, next to the volume buttons.

• 📱 Redmi Note 11/12, POCO X4/X5, Mi 11/12
• 🔹 Distinctive feature: a small hole for SIM-keys).
• 📏 Distance from the top edge: ~1-2cm.

📍 Option 2: Left end (rarely)

Some models, especially from the series POCO, They put the slot on the left side:

• 📱 POCO F3/F4, POCO X3 Pro
• 🔹 Often combined with an IR port at the top.

📍 Option 3: Upper end (obsolete models)

In smartphones Xiaomi until 2019, the slot could be located on the upper edge.

• 📱 Mi 8, Mi 9, Redmi 6/7
• 🔹 Near the headphone jack (if any).

📍 Option 4: Under the battery (shallable models)

In the earliest Xiaomi (until 2016) SIM-The card was placed under a removable lid:

• 📱 Redmi 3/3S, Mi 4i
• 🔹 Remove the back panel and battery.
• ⚠️ Risk of damaging the plumes during disassembly!

Not sure where exactly the slot is in your model? Use visual search:

1. Look at the end of the case - look for a small hole (diameter) ~1 mm).
2. If there is no hole, check for a removable cover (relevant for models over 5 years old).
3. For flagships (Xiaomi) 13/14) Check eSIM support in settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM).

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

Once the slot is found, it remains to install the SIM correctly. Follow this instruction to avoid damaging contacts or improperly installing:

🛠️ What's the matter:

• 🔑 SIM-key (combined with phone) or unbended paperclip.
• 📱 nano-SIM (if a hybrid slot, select priority: second SIM or memory card).
• 🔦 Good lighting (so as not to confuse the sides of the simka).

📌 Step-by-step action:

1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Find a hole to remove the tray and insert gently SIM-The key will be pushed out 2-3 mm.
3. Take out the tray completely. Pay attention to the SIM slot, which should match the notch on the map.
4. Put the nano-SIM in the tray with the contacts down (the golden side should be visible). For hybrid slots, choose the side: 📞 SIM1 — main sim (usually on the left). 📞 SIM2 or 🗄️ MicroSD – on the right (select one!).

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Turn on your phone and wait for the network to appear (it can take up to 2 minutes).

Critical error: if the tray is not fixed or the SIM is not recognized, DO NOT TRY to insert it by force. This can bend the contacts inside the slot, and then you will need repair.

4. Hybrid slot: how to choose between the second SIM-memory-card

Many budget and mid-budget Xiaomi models are equipped with a hybrid slot, where you can choose from:

• 📞 Second nano-SIM (for two sims).
• 🗄️ MicroSD Memory Card (for memory expansion).

Which option to choose? Depends on your tasks:

Important: In a hybrid slot, you can’t use both options at the same time. If you need both SIMs and additional memory, consider models with a separate microSD slot (for example, the Redmi Note 12 Pro).+).

⚠️ Note: When using a microSD in a hybrid slot, some applications (such as WhatsApp or banking) may refuse to work from the memory card for security reasons.

5. eSIM in Xiaomi: How to activate a virtual SIM-map

Starting with Xiaomi 12T Mix Fold 2, the company adds support for eSIM - virtual SIM-It's a card that doesn't require a physical tray:

• 🌍 Frequent travel (you can quickly connect local operators).
• 📱 Use two numbers without losing the slot for the memory card.
• 🔄 Quick switching between tariffs.

How to activate eSIM on Xiaomi:

1. Make sure your operator supports eSIM (in Russia: MTS, Beeline, Tele2, MegaFon).
2. Get it. QR-Activation code from the operator (via office, application or website).
3. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
4. Scan it. QR-code or enter data manually.
5. Confirm activation and restart the phone.

List of Xiaomi models with eSIM support (2026):

• 📱 Xiaomi 13, 13 Pro, 13 Ultra
• 📱 Xiaomi 14, 14 Pro, 14 Ultra
• 📱 Xiaomi Mix Fold 2, Mix Fold 3
• 📱 Xiaomi Civi 3
• 📱 POCO F5 Pro

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If your carrier doesn't support eSIM, but you travel abroad a lot, consider virtual carrier services like Airalo or Holafly.+ countries without reference to physical SIM.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even after the correct installation SIM-We've got a list of the tops.-5 problems and ways of eliminating them:

🚨 Problem 1: The phone can't see SIM-map

Possible causes and solutions:

• 🔄 Reboot: Turn off your phone for 30 seconds and turn it on again.
• 📶 Flight mode: check if it is activated in the notification curtain.
• 🔧 Network settings: go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Turn on.
• 🛠️ Physical malfunction: try inserting the SIM in another phone. If it doesn't work, contact the operator for a replacement.

🚨 Problem 2: No network or weak signal

If the network indicator shows a 0-1 division:

• 📡 Check the network settings: Settings → SIM-map → [yours SIM] → Type of network → choose 4G (preferably).
• 🔄 Switch to manual operator selection (Settings) → SIM-map → Choice of network).
• 📶 Make sure there are no problems with the operator in your area.

🚨 Problem 3: SIM-The card is recognized, but it does not ring.

Possible causes:

• 🚫 Operator lock: check the balance and status of the number.
• 🔕 Call settings: Settings → Annexes → Phone. → Calls. → SIM-default-card.
• 📵 Conflict with VoLTE: Turn off Settings → SIM-map → [yours SIM] → Calls via VoLTE and restart your phone.

🚨 Problem 4: The tray is not fixed or falls out

It's a sign of mechanical failure.

• 🔧 Gently bend the metal tray contacts (if bent).
• 📎 Use bilateral tape to fix the sim in the tray (temporary solution!).
• 🛠️ Contact the service center to replace the slot (cost) ~500–1500 ₽).

🚨 Problem 5: Hybrid slots don't read microSD

If the phone doesn’t see the memory card:

• 🔄 Reset the device.
• 📁 Format the map in FAT32 or exFAT via computer or computer.
• 🛠️ Check the card on another device – it may be damaged.

⚠️ Attention: If after installation SIM-The phone is overheating or discharged quickly, remove it immediately.

7. Video Instructions for Popular Xiaomi Models

For clarity, we selected a video with a step-by-step installation SIM-maps for the most popular models. Click on the title to go to the viewing:

• 📹 Xiaomi Redmi Note 12: where the slot and how to insert the SIM
• 📹 POCO X5 Pro: Hybrid Slot and eSIM
• 📹 Xiaomi 14: ESIM activation and physical SIM
• 📹 Redmi A2: slot under the cover (budget model)

If your model is not on the list, use the universal guide:

1. Search YouTube for the search for "[your model] sim card slot".
2. Choose a video with a high rating (4.5)+ star).
3. Pay attention to the comments – they often point to nuances.

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If you have a Xiaomi model older than 2018, look for video instructions marked “global version” – in Chinese versions, the location of the slot may differ!

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)