How to Set Up an eSIM on Xiaomi: Instructions for All Models (2026)

Virtual SIM-eSIMs are rapidly replacing traditional physical chips, offering users easier mobile activation, the ability to use multiple numbers on a single device, and saving space in the case of a smartphone. Mi 12 and Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G, Most flagship and mid-budget models support eSIM technology, but the setup process often raises questions, from finding the activation menu to solving errors such as “Can’t upload a profile».

In this article, we will discuss all the stages of setting up eSIM on Xiaomi – from checking the compatibility of the device to manually adding a profile through the app. QR-operator code or application, and we'll focus on the hidden settings. MIUI, which allow to bypass the restrictions of some Russian operators, and also compare the pros and cons of eSIM compared to the physical SIM-If your Xiaomi can't see the virtual SIM or gives an error when activating – here you will find proven solutions.

Which Xiaomi models support eSIM?

eSIM technology is not available on all Xiaomi devices. Basic rule: support for virtual SIM appeared in smartphones released after 2021, and only in models with a module 5G. Below is a complete list of compatible devices for 2026:

• 📱 Xiaomi 13/13 Pro/13 Ultra – flagships with dual support for eSIM + physical SIM
• 📱 Xiaomi 12/12 Pro/12S Ultra – the first models with eSIM (requires an update) MIUI beforehand 14+)
• 📱 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G — Budget options with eSIM
• 📱 POCO F5 Pro and POCO X5 Pro 5G — gaming smartphones with virtual support SIM
• 📱 Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 — folding devices with eSIM

⚠️ WARNING: Even if your model is on the list, check the firmware region. on some Xiaomi for the Chinese market (with suffix) CN in the model number) the eSIM function can be disabled software. To find out the firmware version, go to Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI.

If your device is not listed but released after 2022, check the specifications on Xiaomi’s official website or use IMEI.info by entering the device. IMEI Please note that some carriers (such as Tele2) may restrict eSIM support on individual models, regardless of the technical capabilities of Xiaomi.

Preparing for eSIM activation: what to do before setting up

Before moving on to virtualization SIM, Follow 3 mandatory steps:

1. Check the compatibility of the operator. in Russia eSIM officially supports: 🏢 MTS (for individuals and legal entities) 🏢 Beeline (only for new rates) 🏢 MegaFon (with regional restrictions) 🏢 Yota and Tinkoff Mobile (full support)

Tele2.

SberMobail

Update. MIUI.

13.0.4

Settings → About the phone → System update

Connect to Wi-Fi or mobile internet.

🔹 Additional advice: If you plan to move the number from the physical SIM on eSIM, check with the operator in advance the possibility of saving the current tariff. Some operators (for example, MegaFon) when switching to eSIM automatically transfer the user to the new tariff plan.

Checking the support of Xiaomi model|Update MIUI last-minute|Checking operator compatibility|Connection to Wi-Fi/internet|Backup of contacts (if you transfer the number)-->

Step-by-step: how to install eSIM on Xiaomi

The process of activating eSIM on Xiaomi depends on the method of obtaining a profile: QR-code, operator application or manual data entry. Let's look at each option.

Method 1: Activation through QR-code (recommended)

Most operators provide the majority of QR-code for activating eSIM. To establish a profile:

1. Get it. QR-code from the operator (usually arrives by email or in the personal account).
2. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
3. Select Add eSIM → Scan. QR-code.
4. Put the camera on QR-If the scan doesn't start, click on the gallery icon and select the saved image.
5. Confirm profile installation. No reboot is required.

⚠️ Note: If after scanning there is an error "Can not download profile", check:

• 🔄 Internet connection stability (switch to Wi-Fi if you use mobile data).
• 📱 Model compatibility (some Xiaomi for the Chinese market block eSIM installation via the QR).
• 📧 Correctness QR-Code (Ask the operator to send a new one).

Method 2: Installation through an operator application

Operators MTS, Beeline and MegaFon offer to activate eSIM through their mobile applications.

1. Download the official operator app from Google Play.
2. Sign in and go to the “Management” section SIM-card».
3. Select the option “Activate eSIM” and follow the instructions.
4. After generating a profile, the system will redirect you to Xiaomi Settings to complete the installation.

🔹 Note: In the MTS application, eSIM is available in the “My devices” section, and in Beeline – in the “Personal Account” section» → «SIM-If there is no option, update the app or contact support.

Method 3: Manual eSIM addition (for power users)

If QR-You can't have a code or an application, you can type in the eSIM data manually:

1. Get activation data from the operator (usually SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code).
2. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network → Add eSIM manually.
3. Enter the data received and confirm the installation.

⚠️ Attention: Manual input is highly likely to cause error. Make sure the data is copied accurately, without spaces. If the profile is not installed, ask the operator for a new activation code.

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If the operator does not provide QR-The code, try to get it through online support chat, and often managers send it on request, even if it's not displayed in their personal account.

Comparison of eSIM and physical SIM Xiaomi: pros and cons

Transition to virtualization SIM-The card has both advantages and limitations. Below is a comparison table for Xiaomi owners:

🔹 Key takeaway: eSIM is beneficial for frequent travelers or multiple number users (e.g., work and personal).However, if you own Xiaomi older than 2021 or your carrier does not support the technology, the physical is not a good idea. SIM It's the only option.

Frequent Errors in ESIM Configuration and Solutions

Even with the right actions, Xiaomi users are faced with eSIM activation errors. Let’s look at the most common problems and ways to fix them.

Error: “I was unable to download an eSIM profile”

Causes and solutions:

• 📶 No internet. Connect to Wi-Fi or check your mobile traffic balance.
• ⏳ The operator's server is overloaded. Wait 10-15 minutes and try again.
• 📱 Incompatible firmware. Update. MIUI Up to the latest version (minimum required 13.0.4).
• 🔒 Operator lock. Contact support to unlock eSIM for your Xiaomi model.

Mistake: “This SIM-card not supported»

This error occurs if:

• 📋 Your Xiaomi model doesn’t support eSIM (check the list above).
• 🌐 Chinese firmware installed (CN). Solution - firmware for the global version.
• 🔄 eSIM profile corrupted. Delete it in Settings → SIM-map → Remove the eSIM and install it again.

Problem: eSIM does not catch the network

If the profile is installed but the network is not available:

1. Reboot your smartphone.
2. Check if mobile data transfer for eSIM is enabled in Settings → SIM-map → [Your eSIM] → Mobile data.
3. Update the operator settings: Settings → SIM-map → [Your eSIM] → Update settings.
4. If nothing helps, contact the operator – it is possible that the profile is not activated on their side.

🔹 Useful advice: If after installing eSIM, access to the LTE/5G, Check Network Priority in Settings → SIM-map → Preferred network type: Some operators (e.g. Yota) require manual mode indications 5G/4G/3G/2G.

How to Uninstall or Switch Between eSIM to Xiaomi

Virtual management SIM-Xiaomi is intuitive, but it has nuances. For example, you can only use one eSIM at a time. + physical SIM (On some flagships - two eSIMs).

Removal of eSIM

To remove the profile:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Select the desired eSIM and press Delete eSIM.
3. Confirm the action. The profile will be erased without any possibility of recovery.

⚠️ Note: Deleting eSIM is linked to your carrier account. If you plan to re-activate the same number, check with the operator if your tariff and balance will be maintained.

Switching between SIM-map

On Xiaomi with two slots (eSIM) + physical SIM) You can switch between them quickly:

• 📞 For calls: in the phone application click on the icon SIM-card near the keyboard.
• 📶 For mobile internet: Settings → SIM-map → Mobile data → select the right one SIM.
• 📩 For SMS: In the Messages app, hold your finger on the message creation button → choose SIM.

🔹 To avoid confusion, assign each SIM You can use a unique name. → SIM-map → [Choose. SIM] → Name. SIM-Cards (e.g., “Worker” and “Personal»).

The future of eSIM on Xiaomi: what to expect in 2026-2026

According to Counterpoint Research, by 2026, more than 50% of smartphones will support eSIM. Xiaomi is following this trend: starting with the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, The technology is becoming the standard even for budget models.What to expect owners of Xiaomi in the near future?

• 🆕 Support for multiple eSIMs. 2026 flagships (e.g. Xiaomi 14 Ultra) will have the option to use two virtual ones SIM simultaneously (without a physical slot).
• 🔄 Simplified migration: Operators are developing tools to automatically transfer numbers from the physical SIM eSIM without visiting the salon.
• 🌍 Global compatibility. New firmware. MIUI 15 promise eSIM support on all regional versions (including: CN).
• 🛡️ Improved security: ESIM locks when you steal a device (similar to Apple).

🔹 Forecast: By the end of 2026, eSIM will become a standard option for all Xiaomis, costing from 20,000 rubles. SIM-The cards could disappear completely in flagship models, as they have already happened in the iPhone 14 for the US.

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If your Xiaomi 2021-2023 release does not support eSIM, do not rush to change it. In most cases, the restriction can be bypassed by firmware on the global version. MIUI.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions about eSIM on Xiaomi