Replacement of SIM- card with Xiaomi: instructions for all models (2026)

Replacing the SIM- card on Xiaomi smartphones seems like a simple procedure, but even here users face unexpected difficulties, from jammed tray to network recognition errors. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances from tool preparation to configuration of the connection after installing a new card. Particular attention will be paid to models with hybrid slots (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ or POCO X5 Pro), where the choice between the second SIM and the memory card requires a balanced approach.

The manufacturer does not always attach a paper clip to the device to remove the tray, and instructions often lack details about the compatibility of nano-SIM and eSIM formats. We have collected current information for the 2026 year, including the compatibility table of popular models and step-by-step photos with the markup of contacts. If you plan to use two SIM- cards simultaneously or switch to a virtual format, here you will find the answers to all questions - without general phrases and water paragraphs.

Preparation for replacement: what you need to know before removing the tray

Before you get the tray for the SIM- card, check three key points:

• 🔍 SIM- card format: Modern Xiaomi (starting with Mi 10 2020) supports only nano-SIM (12.3×8.8 mm). If you have an old card (micro or standard), it will have to be cropped or replaced in the operator's cabin. Using adapters or homemade cropping can damage the slot contacts due to inaccurate fit.
• 📱 Slot type: Check whether the slot is hybrid in your model (e.g., in Redmi 10C or POCO M4 Pro): this means you can choose either the second SIM or the microSD card, but not both options at the same time.
• 🔋 Battery charge. If you replace the SIM- card, you'll have to reboot the phone, and if it's below 20 percent, plug it into charging, and that will prevent you from suddenly shutting down while you're setting up the network.

Also prepare the tools:

• 📎 A clip (or a special key from Xiaomi's kit) will do any metal clip that is straight straight straight. Don't use needles or toothpicks, they can break inside the hole.
• 🧲 Magnet (optional) If the tray is jammed, the magnet will help to remove it gently without damage (bring it to the top of the slot).
• 📸 Flashlight: Lighting will help to correctly orient SIM- the map when installed, especially if the contacts on it are asymmetrical.

⚠️ Warning: Do not remove the tray when the smartphone is on if it is in call or data mode. This may cause the communication module to crash and require a reboot.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and insert SIM-map

The replacement process is the same for most Xiaomi models, but there are nuances for devices with a side or top slot location (such as the Mi 11 Ultra or Black Shark 5).

1. Turn off your smartphone (not necessarily, but it is recommended for models older than 2021 to avoid network conflicts).
2. Find the tray extraction hole. It's located: 📱 On the right side of most models (Redmi Note 11, POCO F4). 📱 On the top end, at the flagships (Xiaomi 13 Pro, Mix Fold 3).

Put the paper clip in the hole before you click. The tray will extend 1-2 mm - carefully pull it with your fingers.

Remove the old SIM- card (if it was installed). Pay attention to the position of the bevelled angle - the new chip should be oriented in the same way.

Install the new SIM- card with the contacts down. For models that support two physical SIM (e.g. Redmi K60), the second card is installed in the same tray, but in a separate slot.

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

After switching on, wait for the network indicator to appear (usually 1-3 minutes).

• 🔄 Reboot your smartphone.
• 📶 Manually select the operator in the settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Choice of network.
• 🛠️ Check if the contacts of the SIM- cards are contaminated (wipe them with a wipe or an alcohol wipe).

Hybrid Slot: How to Choose Between Second SIM and Memory Card

Xiaomi models with a hybrid slot (for example, Redmi Note 12, POCO X4 Pro) force users to choose between a second SIM- card and a memory extension via microSD.

If you have chosen a memory card, consider:

• 🔧 Xiaomi supports microSD up to 1TB, but the actual speed depends on the card class. 4K Video recordings require a UHS-I (U3 class.
• 📲 The card can be used as a portable storage (files are only available through a file manager) or as internal memory (when formatted into Settings → Storage).

⚠️ Warning: In models with MIUI 14 and later, when formatting microSD as internal memory, the system reserves up to 20% of the volume for its needs. For example, on a 128 GB card, ~100 GB will be available.

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If you need both a second SIM and extra memory, consider models with a separate microSD slot, such as the Redmi 10 2022 or the POCO M5.

Xiaomi eSIM: How to activate a virtual SIM

Since the 2022, Xiaomi has started to equip flagship models with eSIM support (built-in SIM- card).

• 📱 Xiaomi 12T Pro, 13/13 Pro, 13T Pro
• 📱 POCO F5 Pro, Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3
• 📱 Redmi K60 Pro (Chinese version only)

To activate the eSIM:

1. Make sure your operator supports eSIM (in Russia – MTS, Beeline, Tele2, MegaFon).
2. Get QR- activation code from the operator (via personal account or communication salon).
3. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
4. Select “Add eSIM” and scan the QR- code.
5. Confirm activation and restart the smartphone.

The advantages of eSIM on Xiaomi:

• 🔄 Quickly switch between fares without physically replacing the card.
• 🌍 Travel convenience: You can add a local eSIM without removing the main one.
• ⚡ Lower battery consumption (no need to communicate with two physical modules)

⚠️ Warning: On hybrid slot models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Lite), when eSIM is activated, the physical slot automatically turns off for the second SIM. You will only be able to use one physical card + eSIM.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even with the correct installation of SIM- cards, users face problems, and let's analyze typical scenarios and how to fix them:

If the smartphone does not see the SIM- card even after the reboot:

1. Check if your model supports your carrier frequency: Xiaomi, for example, sold in China, may not work with Russian carriers in the 800 MHz (Band 20) band.
2. Update your firmware: Go to Settings → About Phone → Update MIUI. Sometimes SIM recognition errors are fixed in new versions of the software.
3. Reset network settings: Settings → SIM-map → Resetting mobile network settings.

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If the SIM has been replaced, check the integrity of the slot contacts with a magnifier, and if the damaged contacts (dark or bent) require repair at the service center.

Features for specific Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi devices have unique nuances when replacing the SIM- card, and we collected them in one section:

• 📱 Xiaomi 12S Ultra and Mix Fold 2: The SIM slot is located under a removable lid (unscrewed with a cross screwdriver). Don't bother to open it -- the plastic latches are fragile.
• 📱 POCO F3 GT and Black Shark 4/5: the tray extends upwards, not sideways. Pull it strictly perpendicular to the body.
• 📱 Redmi 9A/9C: There is no support for two SIM in 4G mode at the same time. If both cards 4G, the second card will only work in 2G.
• 📱 Xiaomi Civi 1S/2: the slot is paired with the power button. When you remove the tray, don't press the button, it can cause an accidental reboot.

For models with 5G support (Xiaomi 11T Pro, 12 Pro, 13) consider:

• 📶 5G only works on the main SIM- card (slot 1). The second SIM will be limited to 4G.
• 🔧 In settings SIM (Settings → SIM- maps → [Select SIM] → Network Type], enable the 5G/4G/3G/2G mode for maximum speed.

How to avoid damaging your smartphone when replacing the SIM

Failure to replace the SIM- card can cause serious damage.

• 🛠️ Do not use force to remove the tray. If it does not come out, check if the debris has entered the clip hole.
• 💧 Avoid replacing SIM in wet conditions (e.g., in the bathroom).
• 🔥 Do not use heated tools (such as a heated needle) – this will deform the plastic tray.
• 🔋 If the smartphone has been disassembled (for example, to replace the battery), check before installing SIM whether the antenna plume is disconnected, which is a common reason for the lack of network after repair.

If after replacing the SIM smartphone:

• 🔥 Overheating: Possibly damaged communications module, turn off mobile data and contact service.
• 📵 Does not catch the network indoors: check if the antenna contacts on the motherboard are bent (relevant after falls).
• 🔄 Reboots spontaneously: This may indicate a short circuit in the SIM slot. Remove the card immediately.

⚠️ Attention: If you use Xiaomi with unofficial firmware (e.g., xiaomi.eu or LineageOS), after replacing SIM, you may need to re-assign IMEI. To do this, enter the engineering menu (##4636##) the command AT+EGMR=1,7,"IMEI_1" and AT+EGMR=1,10,"IMEI_2" where instead of IMEI_1 and IMEI_2 are written on the original battery box (14].

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions