Xiaomi’s mobile devices have been leading the market for many years for their excellent value for money, but like any complex electronics, they require proper maintenance, especially when it comes to physical components. SIM-Cards are one of the most frequent operations that users face when changing the operator, switching to a new tariff or buying a new device.
The replacement procedure looks simple only at first glance, but inept actions can damage the tray or the card itself. Modern models use compact Nano-SIM formats, which require special care when extracting and installing. In this article, we will discuss all the steps in detail so that you can complete the task quickly and safely for your gadget.
Before you start mechanically, you need to make sure that the device is ready for the procedure. Although modern smartphones support hot replacement, software conflicts or active background processes can sometimes cause a network to fail after you install a new card, so proper preparation is key to success.
Preparation of device and tools
The first step is to choose the right place and lighting, and you'll need a flat surface so that the little parts you've extracted don't roll under the sofa or into the crevices of the table, and the main tool for retrieving the tray is a special metal clip that comes with a smartphone box.
If the original paperclip is lost, you can use a thin needle or pin, but you need to act extremely carefully. Metal objects should not be too thick, otherwise there is a risk of damage to the spring mechanism inside the hole. Also prepare a new SIM-card format Nano-SIM, as this is the standard used in all current models of Redmi, Poco and Mi.
⚠️ Warning: Never use knives, scissors or other sharp objects to pick through the tray hole – this is guaranteed to damage the body or internal contacts.
Some users prefer to turn off the phone completely before changing to avoid software errors when reconnecting the communication module. Although the Android operating system with the MIUI shell or HyperOS can detect changes on the fly, rebooting after installing a new card is still recommended for correct registration in the operator's network.
☑️ Preparation for replacement SIM
Tray extraction algorithm
Place your smartphone down or sideways so you can see the face of the end. Depending on the model, the tray is for you to use. SIM-And the maps can be on the bottom or on top of the case, and you can find a small circular hole next to the elongated nest of the tray, and you can insert the tool into it.
Insert the paper clip perpendicular to the body, strictly in the center of the hole. Do not try to enter it at an angle, as this can lead to slipping and scratches on the phone frame. Smoothly but confidently press the paper clip until the characteristic click. The spring mechanism will work, and the tray will extend a few millimeters.
Carefully remove the tray with your fingers, trying not to touch the golden contacts on the map itself or inside the socket. If the phone has a microSD card installed, it is also in this tray (in combined slots) or in a separate socket. Be careful not to lose small details.
💡
If the tray does not extend after pressing, try to slightly change the angle of the paperclip or increase the pressure, but do it very smoothly, without jerking.
After extraction, inspect the tray for dust or contaminants, blow it or gently wipe it with a dry soft cloth if necessary. Dust inside the slot can cause poor contact and network identification problems in the future.
Installation of a new SIM-map
Carefully examine the shape of the extracted tray. It has a special notch that repeats the contours of the Nano-SIM map. It is important to set the map with the correct side, since the contacts must be directed downwards to the motherboard, and the bevelled angle must coincide with the shape of the tray.
Put the card in the notch tray. It should sit tight and not stagger. If the card dangles, it means it is not fit for size (too big) or the tray is damaged. Some Xiaomi models use a hybrid slot, where the second place is intended for either the second SIM or the memory card.
If you use two of them SIM-cards, make sure they are both installed in the appropriate slots of the first and second type. Usually slot 1 is the main one for data transfer, so it is recommended to put a card with a faster Internet tariff there.
What to do if the card is not suitable in size?
Once you've placed the card, gently insert the tray back into the phone body. Watch your orientation: the tray only enters in one position. Don't use force; if the tray doesn't enter easily, flip it over. The movement should be smooth, it won't match the body.
Network settings after replacement
After you physically install the card, turn on your smartphone. SIM-map and may request PIN-Enter the code provided by the operator or standard (often 0000 or 1234) if you have not changed the security settings.
Then you need to check the network settings. Go to the Settings menu. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks. Here you'll see a list of installed cards. Make sure the new card activation slider is translated into "On».
In the same menu, you can configure your preferred network type. For maximum speed, choose 5G or 4G. If coverage is unstable in your area, you can limit the mode to 3G or 2G to save battery power, although this will reduce data transfer speeds.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Type of network | Preferably 5G/4G | Provides maximum speed of the Internet |
| Data roaming | Off. | Protection from Excess Expenses Abroad |
| Access Point (APN) | Automatically. | It is usually set up automatically by the operator. |
| Voice calls | SIM 1 or SIM 2 | Selecting a card to make default calls |
If the Internet is not automatically running, you may need to manually prescribe the APN hotspot settings, which can be found on your mobile operator's website, and you usually just click "Reset" in the access point menu to download the actual data.
Addressing common problems
Sometimes, after the card is replaced, the phone writes “No network” or «SIM-The first thing you can do is reboot the device. If that doesn't work, remove the tray and wipe the contacts of the card with a soft wipe or an alcohol wipe, allowing it to dry completely.
Another reason could be frequency incompatibility or carrier locking, check if your Xiaomi is a carrier-specific device (often found in devices imported from abroad), and make sure the card is not physically damaged.
⚠️ Note: If your phone says “Blocked,” it means you have entered three times incorrectly. PIN-It'll take a code to unlock. PUK-code that can be found on a plastic card holder or in the operator’s personal account.
In rare cases, the problem is a software firmware failure. Try resetting your network to factory settings. Go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth. This action will not delete your personal data, but will return your network settings to their original state.
Features of working with eSIM on Xiaomi
Xiaomi’s flagship models are increasingly supporting eSIM technology, a built-in digital SIM-This allows you to activate the tariff without physically removing the tray. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and see if there is an option "Add a tariff plan».
ESIM activation occurs by scanning QR-This is convenient for travelers, because it allows you to have multiple profiles and switch between them programmatically. However, if you change your phone, the process of transferring the eSIM can be more difficult than simply rearranging a physical card.
💡
Physical replacement SIM-Cards are a simple process that requires only accuracy, but digital eSIM profiles require a stable Internet connection for initial activation.
When using eSIM, it is important to keep security in mind. Since the card cannot be physically removed, when selling a phone, it is necessary to delete the eSIM profile through the settings menu or through the operator's application so that the new owner does not get access to your number.