Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards are a procedure that every device owner will face sooner or later, and this may be required when changing operators, losing an old card, switching to a new tariff, or even buying a used phone. From tray type (single, dual or hybrid) to proper nano-SIM trimming if your card is old format.
In this article, we will analyze all the stages of replacement - from tool preparation to activation of a new one. SIM-We will pay special attention to models with hybrid slots (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro).+ Xiaomi 13 Ultra, where it is simultaneously with the SIM You can install a microSD card, and you can also learn how to avoid common errors, such as damage to tray contacts when you're not getting it properly, or problems with card recognition after you've installed it.
The manual is universal and suitable for all modern Xiaomi smartphones, including the Redmi line, POCO, Black Shark and flagship models. if you've never changed SIM-map yourself - do not worry: with the right approach, it takes no more than 5 minutes.
Preparation for replacement SIM-map
Before you start removing the tray, make sure you have everything you need.
- 📱 New SIM-map (necessarily nano-SIM format - others will not fit!).
- 🔧 Paperclip or special key to extract the tray (comprised with the phone).
- 🔍 Lupa (optional if the connector is poorly visible).
- 📲 Backup of your contacts (unless you sync them to your Google or Mi Account).
If your new SIM-You can cut it yourself or contact the phone. Don't use adapters, they're not suitable for Xiaomi smartphones! Also check if your phone supports two. SIM-cards at the same time, POCO X5 The Pro has a hybrid slot, where the second one is SIM The microSD card occupies one slot.
⚠️ Note: If you are using eSIM (virtual) SIM-You can not install a physical card, but not all Xiaomi models support eSIM – check this in the specifications of your device.
Turn off the smartphone before removing the tray, which will prevent possible failures in the communication module. If the phone is discharged, charge it to at least 20% - sometimes the first time you turn on with a new SIM, you need additional energy to activate.
2. How to remove the tray for SIM-map
Tray for SIM-Xiaomi's smartphone cards are usually on the side of the device, and most models have the right end, but some models (like the Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite) can have it on top to extract it:
- Find a small hole near the tray on the end of the phone.
- Insert a paper clip or key from the set to the end.
- Press with a little effort - the tray should jump 1-2 mm.
- Carefully pull the tray over yourself and pull it out completely.
If the tray does not come out, do not apply excessive force - this can damage the mechanism. Try to slightly shake the paperclip in the hole or check if it is not contaminated. In rare cases, the tray can "stick" due to moisture intake - then professional help will be required.
☑️ What to do if the tray is not removed
On some models (such as the Black Shark 5 Pro), the tray may have a protective cover that must be opened first, usually with a latch or a small screw. If you're not sure, watch the official video from Xiaomi for your model.
Installation of a new SIM-map
When the tray is removed, place a new one on it. SIM-Pay attention to the map:
- 🔄 Card position: There is a diagram on the tray showing which side to insert SIM (chip up).
- 📏 Size: the card should sit tightly in the slots, do not hang out.
- 🚫 Foreign objects: make sure there is no dust or debris in the tray.
If you have a double slot, you can install a second one. SIM-microSD card or memory card, but remember:
| Xiaomi model | Slot type | Max, the volume of microSD | Support for two SIMs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Hybrid | 1 TB | Yes (SIM1 + SIM2 or SIM1 + microSD) |
| POCO F5 | Hybrid | 1 TB | Yes. |
| Xiaomi 13T | Double. | — | Yes (two SIMs only) |
| Black Shark 6 | Single | — | No. |
Once the card is placed, gently insert the tray back into the smartphone before clicking. Make sure it sits straight - if the tray skews, the phone may not recognize SIM-map.
⚠️ Note: If you install a microSD with a SIM-Map, format it only via phone (Settings) → Formatting on a PC can lead to reading errors.
Activation SIM-maps and network settings
After you install the tray, turn on the phone. SIM-The card must be automatically determined, but sometimes manual adjustment is required:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose a new one. SIM-map and turn it on.
- If required, enter PIN-code (indicated on the plastic holder) SIM-map).
- In the Access Points (APN) section, check your Internet settings. These are usually downloaded automatically, but if mobile internet is not working, set up the APN manually (you can find the options on your carrier's website).
If the phone can't see SIM-map:
- 🔄 Reset the device.
- 📶 Check if the card is correctly installed in the tray.
- 🛠️ Clear the contacts. SIM-card and tray with dry soft cloth.
- 📞 Contact the operator – the card may not be activated.
On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Ultra may need a firmware update if the phone does not recognize new formats SIM-Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
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If, after the replacement, SIM-mobile Internet, try to manually select the operator network in the settings (Settings) → Mobile network → Network operators. Sometimes automatic search fails.
5. Frequent errors and their solution
Even with the right installation SIM-These are the most common and the ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The phone can't see. SIM-map | Incorrect installation, contamination of contacts | Reinstall the card, clean the contacts with alcohol |
| There's no mobile Internet. | Wrong APN settings | Reset network settings or set up APN manually |
| SIM-The card is defined as “invalid" | Card not activated by operator | Call the operator or check the activation through your personal account |
| Phone's asking. PUK-code | Three times injected with an incorrect PIN | Check the PUK with the operator (on the plastic holder or in the contract) |
If none of these things worked, there may be a problem with the phone's communication module, which can happen after a drop, moisture, or a failed firmware update, and then you can contact Xiaomi's service center.
What to do if the tray breaks when extracted?
6. Features for different Xiaomi models
Although the process of substitution SIM-The maps are generally the same, some Xiaomi models have nuances:
- 📱 Redmi 9/10 The tray is on top. In hybrid models, when you install microSD, the second is the second. SIM shut down.
Flagship models (such as Xiaomi 14 Pro) may need to be rebooted after installing a new one. SIM-card to allow the phone to properly initialize the network 5G. There is also a dual function on some devices. SIM, double-waiting (DSDS), This allows you to use two cards at the same time without rebooting.
If you use eSIM, it is set up through the Settings menu. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM. Activation will require QR-operator code or manual connection data.
7 How to Transfer Contacts and Data to a New One SIM-map
If you change SIM-You'll probably need to move the contacts. Here's how to do it:
- Exports from the old SIM: Go to Contacts. → Settings → Imports/exports → Exports to SIM-Select the contacts to transfer and confirm the export.
Imports to the new SIM:
- Insert the new one. SIM-map.
- In the same menu, select Import with SIM-map.
- Account Sync: The best way to avoid losing contacts is to sync them with Google or Mi Account. Go to Settings → Accounts → Google → Contact Sync.
- Check it out. IMEI: In rare cases, after replacement SIM-cards may be lost IMEI (For example, after a failed update, make sure it displays correctly in Settings. → The phone. → General information → Status.
If the problem persists, contact the operator – there may be time restrictions on your number (for example, when changing the tariff), and check whether the firewall or VPN block the connection to the network.
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If the phone does not catch the network after replacement SIM-maps, first check the settings APN. In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by resetting or manual adjustment.