How do you put it in? SIM-Map in Xiaomi Redmi Note 3: instructions for all versions (2016–2023)

Xiaomi Redmi Note 3

how to insert SIM-map

microSD

In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions with a photo, a video guide, and answers to common questions: what to do if the tray does not open, how to trim the nano-SIM under the micro, and why the smartphone does not see the card after installation. We have reviewed all the modifications of the Redmi Note 3 — standard, Pro, Prime and Special Edition (SE) — as their design of slots may differ.

If you have just bought a used machine or pulled it out after a long downtime, don't rush to use force on the tray. 80 percent of the time, problems with installing the SIM are due to improper positioning of the card or a jammed mechanism, and our recommendations will help you avoid breakdowns and save on repairs.

For convenience, we have divided the material into blocks: from tool preparation to troubleshooting. And if you need urgent help, use the FAQ at the end of the article or check the current prices for repairing the slot in Xiaomi service centers.

1. Which one? SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Redmi Note 3

Before you insert the card, it is important to make sure that its format is suitable for your model. Redmi Note 3 was released in several versions, and their support for SIM is different:

All versions of the smartphone work with two nano-SIM (format 4FF, 12.3 × 8.8 mm) or one nano-SIM + microSD (in hybrid slots).

• 📱 Standard version (MTK): 2 slots for nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + microSD (hybrid slot).
• 📱 Redmi Note 3 Pro (Snapdragon): similar, but the microSD slot supports cards up to 256 GB (in the standard version – up to 128 GB).
• 📱 Redmi Note 3 Prime/SE: Hybrid Slots (Nano-SIM) + microSD, second SIM unsupported.

If you have an old micro-SIM (3FF) or mini-SIM (2FF), you'll have to trim it to a nano-format, and you can use a special stepper (sold in the salons) or gently trim it with template scissors. Importantly, when you trim it, don't touch the chip, it will cause the card to fail.

To check which slot is in your device, look at the marking next to the tray:

- If it says SIM1 + SIM2/microSD — It's a hybrid slot.

If only SIM1 + SIM2 are two separate SIM slots.

2. What will be required for installation SIM-map

To extract the tray and install the card, you need a minimum set of tools. Here's the full checklist:

Paperclip or needle to remove tray (company with phone)

Nano-SIM of the desired operator (activated)

Tweezers (optional, for convenience)

Lantern (if lighting is weak)

Microfiber wipe (to wipe the tray from dust)-->

If the original paperclip is lost, any metal clip that is straight-lined or a toothpick (but less reliable) will do, as long as the tool is thin and durable, because objects that are too thick (such as spokes) can damage the lock mechanism.

If you are planning to use two SIM-Redmi Note 3 supports Dual Standby, meaning both cards will be active, but calls will only come to the one selected as the main one in the settings.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use magnets or metal objects with magnetic coating (such as some cases) near the slot.This can disrupt the Hall sensor, which detects the position of the tray.

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to open the slot and insert the SIM

Now, let's get to the process itself. Follow the instructions carefully so you don't break the mechanism.

1. Turn off your smartphone. This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid accidental taps on the screen and failures in the communication module.
2. Find a tray for SIM-It's on the right end of the body (if you look at the screen), and there should be a small hole next to it.
3. Insert the paperclip into the hole and press with a force of 1-2 kg (don't worry, the mechanism is designed for this). The tray should jump out 1-2 mm - after that it can be pulled out with your fingers. 💡If the tray does not come out, try pressing the clip at a different angle (30-45 degrees) or swaying it slightly left-right.
4. Put the nano-SIM in the tray chip down, as shown in the diagram (usually engraved on the tray itself: 📇 SIM1: top-groove (main map). 📇 SIM2/microSD: bottom groove (second card or flash drive).

Carefully insert the tray back before the click. Make sure it sits straight - if there is still a gap, repeat the procedure.

Turn on your phone and check the network signal. If it says "No network," reboot the device.

If after installation the smartphone does not see the SIM, check:

- Is the card inserted correctly (chip down!).

- Is it active at the operator (call from another phone).

- Any physical damage to the tray contacts.

4. Features of the hybrid slot: SIM + microSD

Owners of the Redmi Note 3 Pro and some other versions are faced with a hybrid slot, where you have to choose between a second SIM or a memory card.

In a hybrid slot, you can use:

Two nano-SIMs (if you don’t need a microSD).

One nano-SIM + microSD (the second SIM is turned off).

If you want both SIMs and a flash drive, you'll have to donate one of the cards.

Use Google Drive (Mi Cloud) instead of microSD.

Buy an adapter for two SIMs in one slot (but this can cause the communication module to overheat).

⚠️ Note: If you are using a microSD in a hybrid slot, the second is the SIM It automatically shuts down, even if it's physically installed. It's a hardware constraint, it can't be circumvented by software.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even with the right SIM installation, there may be failures, and let’s look at typical situations and how to fix them:

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

• 🔄 Reset the machine.
• 🔧 Check if the tray contacts are contaminated (wipe with alcohol).
• 📶 Make sure the card is activated by the operator (call the phone number from another device).
• 🛠️ If nothing helps, the communication module may have failed (repair is needed).

Problem 2: The tray is not fixed, falls out.

• 🔍 Check if the metal tongue is bent on the tray.
• 🧲 Make sure there are no foreign objects (dust, sand) in the slot).
• 🔨 If the mechanism is broken, replace the tray (cost: 300-800) ₽).

Problem 3: The phone sees the SIM, but there is no network.

• 📡 Check your network settings: Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Set up the network and select the mode 4G/3G/2G (motor-car).
• 🔄 Reset network settings: Settings → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings.
• 📱 Update the firmware (sometimes network bugs are fixed in new versions) MIUI).

💡

If the SIM doesn't work after all the manipulations, try inserting it into another phone, and if it doesn't work there, it's in the card, not the smartphone.

6. How to trim. SIM-nano-format

If you only have a micro-SIM or a mini-SIM, you can trim it to a nano-sized size. Here's how to do it safely:

You'll need:

- Sharp scissors or a stationery knife.

- Line and pencil (for markup).

- Sandpaper (fine-grained, optional).

- Template for pruning (can be printed from the Internet).

Step-by-step:

1. Draw the pattern markup on the map (nano-SIM: 12.3 × 8.8 mm).
2. Carefully trim along the lines, leaving 1-1.5 mm of stock (it is better to grind later).
3. Clean the edges with sandpaper so that they do not scratch the tray.
4. Check that the chip is not damaged and insert the card into the phone.

If you are afraid of damaging the card, it is better to contact the communication salon - they will be cut for 50-100 ₽. You can also order an adapter (such as a nano-to-micro) and insert a nano-SIM into a micro-slot, but it is less reliable.

7. Alternative methods: eSIM and cloud services

If you’re short on slots in Redmi Note 3, consider modern alternatives:

1. eSIM (Virtual SIM)

• ✅ Pros: does not take up a physical slot, you can quickly switch between tariffs.
• ❌ Cons: Redmi Note 3 does not support eSIM (this is a hardware limitation).

If eSIM is critical, you will need to change your smartphone (for example, Xiaomi 12T or later).

2 Cloud storage instead of microSD.

• 📁 Mi Cloud: 5GB free, integration with MIUI.
• 📁 Google Photos: Unlimited storage for compressed photos.
• 📁 Yandex Disk: 10GB free, convenient for backups.

3. USB OTG-flash-drive.

You can connect an external storage device through USB Type-C (microUSB adapter required) → USB OTG, ~200 ₽). Read/write speeds will be lower than microSD, but it’s a solution for those who need both. SIM.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions