How to set up the SIM- card number on Xiaomi smartphones: from installation to error elimination

Setting up a SIM- card on Xiaomi smartphones only seems like a simple task – in practice, users face a lot of nuances, from incorrect operator identification to problems with 4G/5G- networks. This is especially true for owners of new models on HyperOS or dual SIM devices that require manual configuration of network priorities. In this article, we will discuss not only the basic installation, but also hidden settings that will help optimize mobile communication, avoid registration errors in the network and even save battery power.

It’s important to understand that the customization algorithm can vary depending on the firmware version (MIUI 14 vs HyperOS), the smartphone model (Redmi Note 12 vs Xiaomi 14), and even the region of purchase of the device. For example, European versions often lack the dual 4G- activation features available in Chinese firmware. We took all these features into account and prepared a universal guide that will suit both the budget POCO and flagship Xiaomi.

1 Preparation for installation of SIM- card: slot selection and card type

Before you insert the SIM- card into Xiaomi, decide on the type of slot your device.

• 📱 Nano-SIM (standard for all smartphones after 2016)
• 🔄 Hybrid slot (a combined slot for the second SIM or microSD card – requires prioritization)
• 🌐 eSIM (virtual SIM, available in Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi K60 and later)

If your smartphone is equipped with a hybrid slot, remember: you can use either SIM2 + microSD or SIM1 + SIM2 at the same time. For most users, the option with two physical SIM- cards is optimal, since microSD cards on Xiaomi often run slower than the internal memory UFS. The exception is a model that supports microSDXC UHS-I (e.g. POCO X5 Pro).

To check the type of slot:

1. Turn your smartphone over and find the tray for the SIM- card (usually on the right).
2. Use a paper clip or a special key from the kit to remove the tray.
3. Inspect the tray: If there is a microSD hole, it is a hybrid slot.

⚠️ Warning: Don't try to insert a microSD into a Nano-SIM slot - this can damage the contacts. On some models (Xiaomi 12T), the tray has protection against improper installation, but don't take the risk.

2 Installation of physical SIM- card: step-by-step instruction

The process of installing the SIM- card on Xiaomi is standard for most models, but there are important details:

Follow the algorithm further:

1. Insert tray: Carefully place the SIM- card in the tray (chip down, beveled angle to the corresponding tray corner). For dual SIM, use the SIM1 and SIM2 tags.
2. Lock the tray: Insert the tray back before clicking. On models with IP53/IP68 (such as the Xiaomi 13 Pro), make sure the sealing gum doesn't shift.
3. Turn on your smartphone: After booting the system, a notification will appear “New SIM- card is discovered”.

If the notification does not appear:

• 🔄 Reset the device.
• 📶 Check if your Xiaomi supports your carrier frequencies (relevant to imported models).
• 🛠️ Clean the contacts SIM- cards and tray with alcohol (at least 90%).

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If the smartphone doesn’t see the SIM- card after installing it, try inserting it into another slot (if any). Sometimes the SIM1 works more stable than the SIM2 due to hardware features.

3. SIM-card setting in the smartphone menu

After the physical installation, software settings are required. Go to Settings → SIM- Maps and mobile networks. Here are the key options:

Pay special attention to setting up APN (Access Point Name) if the Internet is not working:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [choose SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. Click Add and enter your operator's settings, for example, for MTS:
3. Save and restart your smartphone.

4 Optimization of two SIM- cards

If you use two SIM- cards, Xiaomi offers flexible priority settings:

• 📞 Voice calls: Select the main SIM for outgoing Settings → SIM-maps → Calls.
• 🌐 Mobile Internet: Activate Mobile Network Data for only one SIM to avoid conflict.
• 🔄 Auto-switch: Enable Data Switching if one of the SIM frequently loses the network.

HyperOS models (e.g. Xiaomi 14) have a "Dual 4G" feature that allows both SIM- cards to run on the 4G network simultaneously, to activate it:

1. Go to Settings → SIM- Cards and Mobile Networks → Additional → Double 4G.
2. Turn on the option and restart the device.

⚠️ Warning: Double 4G increases battery consumption by 10 to 15 percent. Turn it off if you notice a quick discharge.

To save charge:

• 🔋 Disable Network Search for Unused SIM in roaming.
• 📶 Use 3G Only mode for the second SIM if you only need it for calls.

5. Set up eSIM on supported models

Virtual SIM- cards (eSIM) are available on the flagship models Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi K60 and POCO F5.

• 🔄 Quickly switch between fares without physically replacing the card.
• 🌍 Travel convenience – you can activate the local operator remotely.
• 🔒 Protection against physical loss/theft SIM.

To add eSIM:

1. Get QR- code or activation data from the operator (supports eSIM MTS, Beeline, Megaphone, Tele2).
2. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
3. Select Download. SIM-map and scan QR-code or enter data manually.
4. Confirm the activation - the smartphone will restart.

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The eSIM on Xiaomi supports up to 5 profiles at a time, but only one can be active.

If the eSIM is not activated:

• 🔄 Make sure your carrier supports eSIM for your tariff.
• 📱 Check the model compatibility on the official Xiaomi website.
• 🔧 Update your firmware to the latest version (HyperOS 1.0+).

6 Solving common problems with SIM- card

Even after setting up correctly, Xiaomi users are faced with errors. Consider typical cases and ways to fix them:

To diagnose hardware problems:

1. Enter the code #4636##.
2. Select Phone Information and check the status of the Service Cell Info.
3. If Out of Service status, the problem may be in the SIM- card or communication module.

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If your smartphone stops seeing the SIM- card after updating the firmware, reset the network settings: Settings → Memory → Resetting → Resetting the mobile network settings. This will not delete your data, but will return the network settings to the factory settings.

7. Additional settings to improve communication

In addition to basic parameters, Xiaomi offers hidden features to optimize communication:

• 📶 Forced network selection: In the engineering menu (#4636##) you can manually select a communication standard (e.g. LTE only) if the automatic mode is unstable.
• 🔋 Charge savings: Turn off Network Search in roaming and Improved 4G (in Settings → SIM- Cards → Additional) if the battery is running out too quickly.
• 🛡️ Security: Activate the PIN-code request for the SIM-card (protection against unauthorized use in theft).

For users who travel frequently:

• 🌍 Set up Automatic Network Selection in Roaming, but turn off Data Transfer in Roaming to avoid large costs.
• 📱 Use apps like Airalo to buy virtual eSIMs with local rates.

8. Network Resetting: When and How to Do

If all methods have been tried, but problems with the SIM- card remain, reset the network settings.

• Saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
• Mobile network settings (APN, SIM priorities)
• Bluetooth parameters.

Instructions:

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → Resetting → Resetting Network Settings.
2. Confirm the action (you may need to enter a pattern lock or PIN-code).
3. After restarting, reset the SIM- card (see 3 section).

⚠️ Warning: On some models (Redmi Note 11 and older), resetting network settings also resets VPN and Modem Modem Mode. Save data in advance for reconfiguration.

If the reset didn't work, the problem could be hardware.

• 🔧 Contact Xiaomi Service Center for a Communication Module Diagnostic.
• 📱 Check the SIM- card on another device — the problem may be with the card itself.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up SIM- cards on Xiaomi