Introduction: why SIM-Xiaomi card may not work immediately
You just bought a new Xiaomi smartphone β whether itβs the flagship Mi 14 Ultra model or the budget Redmi Note 13 β inserted. SIM-A card, but the phone doesn't see it? Or a SIM is detected but there's no network, no calls, no mobile Internet? This problem is familiar to many users, and the reasons can range from incorrect installation of the card to software failures in the firmware. MIUI.
Unlike iPhones or Samsung, where SIM activation is often automatic, Xiaomi smartphones sometimes require additional actions β especially if we are talking about two SIMs, eSIMs or operators with registration features (for example, Tele2 or virtual operators like Tinkoff Mobile).
Important: If you switched from another phone, check if your previous phone is blocking. SIM-map (for example, due to the link to the IMEI). Also note that some Xiaomi models (e.g., the same as the one in the case of the, POCO F5 or Redmi K60) support 5G, But this may require a firmware update.
Preparation: what SIM-The card is suitable for Xiaomi
Before you insert the SIM, make sure it is compatible with your smartphone.Most modern Xiaomi models support:
- π± Nano-SIM (the most common format, used in all models since 2016).
- π Dual-SIM (Two Physical SIMs) SIM-maps β available in most devices, except for some flagships for the global market (for example, Xiaomi) 13T The Pro may have a hybrid slot).
- π² eSIM β supported in separate models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Lite, POCO F4 GT). Check the specifications of your device on the official website.
If you have an old Micro-SIM or Mini-SIM, you can trim it to Nano-SIM with a special stapler (sold in the salons) or order a replacement from the operator. Carefully check the location of the contact platform - if you cut it incorrectly, the SIM will stop working.
| Xiaomi model | Slot type | Support for eSIM | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/13 | Dual Nano-SIM | β No. | β Yes. |
| POCO X5 Pro | Dual Nano-SIM | β No. | β Yes. |
| Xiaomi 13 Lite | Nano-SIM + eSIM | β Yes. | β Yes. |
| Redmi A2 | Dual Nano-SIM | β No. | β No. |
β οΈ Note: If you use a hybrid slot (for example, in the Redmi Note 11), then when installing a second slot, you can use the same slot. SIM-You can't use a microSD card at the same time.
Step 1: Proper installation SIM-slot-card
What would seem to go wrong? However, many users manage to insert the SIM upside down or not to the end.
- Turn off your smartphone (not necessarily, but it is recommended for safety).
- Find a slot for SIM-maps -- usually on the top or side of the map. POCO The slot can be on the right as in POCO F5.
- Take a paperclip (or a special key from the kit) and gently press the hole to push the tray out.
- Put it down. SIM-card in the tray contacts down, combining the cutout with the shape of the slot. For Dual-SIM, the second card is set similarly (usually marking Β«SIM2Β» eat).
- Carefully push the tray back before the click.
βοΈ Check before turning on the phone
If the SIM is not determined after turning on the phone, try:
- π Reset the device.
- πΆ Manually select the operator in the settings (Settings) β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Choice of network).
- π§ Check if the SIM or slot contacts are contaminated (wipe with alcohol if necessary).
Step 2: Activation SIM-maps through settings MIUI
If the SIM is detected but there is no network, you need to activate it manually.
- Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
- Go to section. SIM-Maps and mobile networks (in some firmwares may be called Mobile Network or Dual Network) SIM).
- Choose yours. SIM-If you have two cards, then you should take them).
- Activate the switches: π Calls (voice). π Mobile data (Internet). πΆ Roaming (if you are abroad).
Type of network
4G (LTE)
5G
π‘
If you have two. SIM-You can set the priority for calls and the Internet, for example, to let basic calls through the Internet. SIM1, a) mobile traffic through SIM2.
If after these actions the SIM still does not work, check:
- π Signal level (top status bar) If there are no sticks, the problem may be the operator's coverage.
- π΅ Aircraft mode (Settings) β Connections β Plane mode. It has to be turned off.
- π Automatic network selection. Sometimes manual search (Settings) β Mobile network β Choice of network β Manually helps to find the operator.
What to do if SIM-card PUK-code?
Step 3: Solving the problems with online registration
If the SIM is inserted correctly, but the phone says βNot registered onlineβ or βEmergency Calls Onlyβ, the reasons may be as follows:
| Mistake. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Not registered online | IMEI or modem failure | Reboot your phone, reset your network settings |
| Emergency calls only. | Not activated by the operator SIM | Call the operator from another phone |
| No Service (No Service) | Problems with firmware or antenna | Update MIUI or check the slot |
What do I do?
- Restart your phone β sometimes it helps to reset modem errors.
- Reset network settings: Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Resetting network settings β οΈ Note: This will delete all stored Wi-Fi passwords and associated Bluetooth devices.
- Check IMEI. Type in the dialer: *#06# If the 15-digit code shows zeros or "Invalid" instead of a code, the IMEI has been taken off and needs to be restored through an engineering menu or service center.
- Update your firmware. Go to Settings β About Phone β Update your system and install the latest version of MIUI.
π‘
If the problem has occurred after the MIUI update, try rolling back to the previous firmware version or wait for a patch from Xiaomi.
Step 4: Set up eSIM in supported Xiaomi models
If your Xiaomi supports eSIM (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Lite or POCO F4 GT), activation is different:
- Get it from the operator. QR-code or data to activate eSIM (usually via personal account or communication salon).
- Open the Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Add a mobile network.
- Select Download. SIM-map and scan QR-code (or enter data manually).
- Confirm activation β the phone will restart and the eSIM will become active.
Limitations of eSIM in Xiaomi:
- β Not all operators support eSIM (e.g. Tele2 only tests the technology).
- β You can't move the physical. SIM eSIM without changing the number (new contract required).
- β It can be used simultaneously physically. SIM eSIM (if the model supports dual-SIM).
π‘
Before activating eSIM, make sure that your tariff supports this technology. For example, at MegaFon, eSIM is only available at certain rates.
Step 5: What to do if SIM-map is not defined at all
If the phone doesn't see the SIM even after the reboot, the reasons may be hardware or software.
- π Contact contamination β wipe the SIM and slot with alcohol or eraser (carefully!).
- π§ Slot damage β if the tray is dangling or not fixed, the connector may be broken (repair required).
- π± Firmware failure β try resetting your phone to factory settings (Settings) β The phone. β Resetting settings).
- π οΈ Modem problem β in rare cases, flashing through Fastboot (for power users only) helps!).
β οΈ Warning: If you suspect a hardware malfunction (for example, a phone fell into the water or was hit), do not try to disassemble it yourself - contact the Xiaomi service center.
If the SIM doesnβt work only in your Xiaomi, but itβs normal on another phone, the problem is definitely in the smartphone. If the SIM doesnβt work anywhere, itβs inactive or damaged (see the operator).