How to open and activate SIM-Map on Xiaomi: a complete guide with a photo

You just purchased a new Xiaomi smartphone and faced the need to install it. SIM-Or your Redmi Note 12 stopped catching the network after the update, and in the settings there was a warning about inactive SIM? In this article, we will examine all the nuances – from the physical installation of the chip to software activation, including solutions to typical connection problems.

The process may seem trivial, but Xiaomi devices (especially models with hybrid slots) have their own peculiarities. For example, in the POCO X5 Pro, the second slot is combined with a microSD connector, and in the Mi 11 Ultra, electronic SIM (eSIM) is used in parallel with the physical one. We will explain in detail how to make sure you choose the slot, which settings to check first and what to do if the operator is not determined.

Important: the instructions in the article are relevant for all modern smartphones of the brand, including the line of Redmi, POCO, Mi and Black Shark. If your model is released before 2018, some points (for example, working with eSIM) may not apply – specify the specifications on the official website.

Preparation: which SIM-The card is suitable for Xiaomi

Before opening the tray, make sure your SIM-The card is compatible with the device. Most modern Xiaomi smartphones support the Nano-SIM format (4FF), but there are nuances:

• 📱 Redmi 9/10/Note 11/12: Nano-SIM only (3FF) The second slot is often hybrid (SIM + microSD).
• 📱 POCO F4/F5/X5: Nano-SIM in both slots, without microSD support in some versions.
• 📱 Mi 11/12/13 series: Nano-SIM + eSIM (depending on the region). e.g. Mi 11 Lite 5G NE It has only one physical slot.
• 📱 Black Shark 5/6: Two Nano-SIMs without memory card support.

If you have an old Micro-SIM (2FF) or Mini-SIM (1FF), you will have to trim or replace it from the operator. Using adapters (for example, to install Micro-SIM in a Nano-SIM slot) is highly discouraged - this can damage contacts or lead to a bad signal.

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Before pruning. SIM-Check if it has an eSIM chip. Some operators (such as Tele2 or MTS) issue combined cards where the physical chip duplicates the electronic profile.

Also note the support for your model’s networks. For example, the Redmi Note 10 5G only works with 5G/4G networks, and the POCO M4 Pro does not support the n78 (3500 MHz) bands used by some Russian carriers.

2 Where is the slot for SIM-maps in Xiaomi

The layout of the tray depends on the model, but in 90% of cases it is on the right end of the case.

• 🔄 Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S/3: slot on the lower end (near the USB-C).
• 🔄 Black Shark 4/5: tray on the upper end (near the switch button).
• 🔄 POCO F3 GT: slot hidden under the sliding panel (click on the recess next to the USB-C).

To remove the tray, you'll need a paper clip or a special key (complete with your phone) if you don't have the key, an unbended paper clip or a blunt-ended needle will do. Never use sharp objects (knives, pins) - this can damage the locking mechanism of the tray.

Recovery process:

1. Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Find a small hole next to the slot and insert the clip before clicking.
3. The tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm - carefully pull it out with your fingers.

Installation SIM-maps: step-by-step instructions

Now let’s move on to the most important thing – installation. SIM-The process seems simple, but errors here can lead to a lack of network or chip damage.

Make sure your smartphone is off (optional, but safer)

Check the SIM format (should be Nano-SIM)

Prepare a paper clip or key to remove the tray

Clear the contacts SIM-cards with a dry wipe (if there is contamination)

Check if there are any remnants of old SIM (plastic burrs) on the tray

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Step 1: Place the tray on a flat surface with the contacts upwards. Notice the notches, they should match the shape of the map.

Step 2. Set it up. SIM-slot-card:

- If the tray is two. SIM-cards, use the slot SIM1 for the main card (usually marked).

If the tray is hybrid (SIM + microSD), decide which is more important: the second SIM or memory card. For example, in Redmi Note 11 Pro+, when installing a microSD, the second SIM slot is blocked.

Step 3: Carefully insert the tray back into the smartphone before the click. Make sure it sits flat - skewedness can lead to poor contact.

Step 4: Turn on your phone and wait for the network to be initialized, and the operator name or icon will appear on the lock screen. SIM-map.

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After installation SIM-The smartphone can't see the network, so first check if the tray is inserted correctly.

Activation SIM-maps in Xiaomi settings

Physical installation is only half the job. SIM-The card is working, you need to activate it in the system settings. The path may vary slightly depending on the version. MIUI, But the general scheme is:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose yours. SIM-If you have two cards, then you should take them).
3. Activate the switch to turn on (if it is grey).
4. In the Network Type section, select your preferred standard: 📶 4G (preferably for the balance of speed and power consumption. 📶 5G — if your plan and smartphone model are supported (e.g. Redmi) K50). 📶 Only 3G — to save charge in areas with poor 4G-covering.

Access Points (APN)

Resetting to default values

If SIM-The card is not activated, try the following steps:

• 🔄 Reboot your smartphone.
• 🔄 On the menu. SIM-Click Update (circle arrow icon).
• 🔄 Check if Flight Mode or Traffic Savings are enabled.
• 🔄 Make sure that SIM-The card is not blocked by the PIN code (by default it is 0000 or 1234).

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If the smartphone asks PUK-code, it can only be found from the operator (for example, through a personal account or a support call), you can not enter the code at random after 10 wrong attempts. SIM-The card will be permanently blocked!

5 Problem Solving: Why Xiaomi Doesn't See SIM-map

Even after installation is correct, errors can occur, and let's look at typical scenarios and how to fix them.

If none of the methods helped, the problem may be a hardware malfunction:

• 🛠️ The slot is damaged. SIM-Cards (for example, after a phone crash).
• 🛠️ Communication module (antenna or modem chip) is defective).
• 🛠️ Software failure after update MIUI.

⚠️ Note: If the smartphone has stopped seeing SIM-card after falling or getting moisture, do not try to disassemble it yourself.The contacts of the slot can be oxidized, and they will require special equipment to clean them.

6. Features of working with two SIM-cards

Many Xiaomi smartphones support Dual SIM (two physical cards) or Hybrid Dual SIM (one physical + eSIM or microSD).

• 📞 Voice calls: By default, it uses SIM1, You can choose another one in the call settings.
• 🌐 Mobile Internet: It only works on one SIM-map (selected to Settings) → SIM-map → Mobile data).
• 📶 4G/5G: If both SIM-card 4G, One of them will be working in the mode. 3G (model).
• 🔄 Roaming: Set up the switching rules in Settings → SIM-map → roaming.

To manage two SIM-map:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Put it on the right foot. SIM-map and set up: Name (e.g., "Worker" and "Personal"), color of indicator in status bar, priority for calls/internet.

Always ask

⚠️ Note: In some models (e.g, POCO X4 Pro) with an active Internet on one SIM-The second card may not be available for calls. It's a hardware platform restriction, not a bug.

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If you travel frequently, set up an automatic switch between SIM-maps depending on the network. → SIM-map → Network selection can be given priority by operators from different countries.

7. Set up eSIM on supported Xiaomi models

From 2021, some flagships Xiaomi (for example, Mi 11, 12T Pro, 13 Lite support eSIM (electronic) SIM-A card that doesn't require a physical chip to activate it:

1. Make sure your operator supports eSIM (in Russia it is MTS, Beeline, Tele2).
2. Get it. QR-code or activation code of the operator (via personal account or office).
3. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
4. Select Download. SIM-map and scan QR-code or enter the code manually.
5. Wait for activation (can take up to 5 minutes).

The advantages of eSIM:

• ✅ No risk of damaging the physical card.
• ✅ You can switch between tariffs (e.g., work and personal) quickly).
• ✅ Freed slot for memory card (in hybrid models).

Limitations:

• ❌ Not all operators support eSIM (for example, MegaFon is only for corporate clients).
• ❌ When resetting the phone to factory settings, the eSIM can be deactivated.
• ❌ You can’t transfer eSIM to another smartphone without re-activating it.

8. Optimization of work SIM-Maps: Tips for a stable connection

To avoid connection problems, follow these guidelines:

• 🔋 Save charge: In settings SIM-Disable Network Search in Manual Mode – This Reduces Battery Consumption.
• 📶 Improve the signal: In Settings → SIM-map → Select the network only LTE, if 5G Not necessary (this reduces switching between networks).
• 🔄 Update the firmware: Modem problems are often fixed in newer versions MIUI. Check for updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🛡️ Protect yourself from fraud: Disable Call Redirection and Operator Services if you don’t use them (this will prevent unauthorized connections).

If you often lose the network in the subway or elevators, try:

1. Enable High Precision Mode in Location Settings (helps you find towers faster).
2. Disable Wi-Fi Assist (automatic switching to mobile data with weak Wi-Fi), as this may interfere with the stability of communication.
3. Use network monitoring apps like NetMonster or CellMapper to find the best operator in your area.

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If your smartphone suddenly stopped seeing the network after the MIUI update, try resetting the network settings: Settings → System → Settings Reset → Reset the settings of Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth. This will not delete your data, but will return the network settings to factory settings.

FAQ: Frequent questions about SIM-maps in Xiaomi