How to switch correctly SIM-Map on the phone Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Shift. SIM-Xiaomi cards seem like a simple procedure, but in practice users face nuances: from incompatibility of nano-SIM formats to problems with eSIM activation, from errors in setting up a dual SIM to losing the network after switching. In this article, we will analyze all ways of switching - from physical tray replacement to software activation of virtual cards, taking into account the features of firmware. MIUI 14/15 and hardware limitations of different series (Redmi, POCO, Mi).

We will focus on common mistakes: why the phone does not see a new SIM after installation, how to avoid conflicts when using two carriers at the same time, and what to do if the mobile network disappears after switching.

Preparation for switching SIM-Maps: What to Know Before Starting

Before you extract the tray or try to activate the eSIM, check three key points:

• 📱 Format SIM-Modern Xiaomi (starting with the 2019 Redmi Note 8) only supports nano-SIM. If you have an old-style card (micro-SIM or mini-SIM), it will have to be cropped or replaced from the operator.
• 🔄 Type of tray: Most models have a hybrid slot (or 2 SIM, either 1 SIM + MicroSD: The exception is the Mi flagships. 11/12/13 and POCO F4/F5, where there are separate slots for two nano-SIMs + memory-card.
• 📶 Operator support: Some Chinese versions of Xiaomi (e.g. Redmi) K50i India: Blocking the Russian SIM-Check the compatibility on the manufacturer's website.

If you are switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM, note that not all Xiaomi models support virtual cards.The current list for 2026 is:

⚠️ Note: If you use Chinese firmware (e.g., Xiaomi 13 Ultra for the domestic market), eSIM can be blocked even with hardware support, in which case you will need to unlock the bootloader and firmware global version. MIUI.

2. Physical replacement SIM-maps: step-by-step instructions

To replace the physical SIM-If you're missing a card, you'll need a paper clip or a special key (complete with your phone), and if you lose the key, you'll need a flat-end, straight-up paper clip or needle.

Algorithm of action:

1. Turn off your phone (required!) to avoid damaging the slot contacts.
2. Find a tray for SIM-It's usually on the top or side of the device (POCO X3 Pro, Redmi 10C) The slot is hidden under the cover that needs to be removed.
3. Insert the key into a small hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend 2-3 mm - gently pull it out.
4. Place it. SIM-card to tray with gold contacts down. For double slot, consider order: SIM1 commonly used 4G/5G default.
5. Insert the tray back before the click and turn on the phone.

If you turn on the phone, you can’t see SIM-map:

• 🔄 Reset the device.
• 📶 Check if Flight mode is on in the notification curtain.
• 🔧 Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks and select the operator’s network manually.

Make sure the phone is off |

Use the original key or paper clip |

Check the SIM (nano-SIM) format |

Clean the contact cards from dust (if necessary)-->

⚠️ Note: On models with a hybrid slot (Redmi Note 11, POCO M4 Pro) when microSD is installed second SIM-The card is automatically disabled. To return it, remove the memory card.

3. Double setup SIM-maps: priorities and features MIUI

If your Xiaomi supports two of your SIM-maps, the system will suggest setting priorities for calls, SMS And the mobile Internet, unlike pure Android, MIUI These settings are hidden deeper and have additional options.

How to set up:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Select Control. SIM-map.
3. Set up: 📞 Calls: Choose SIM For outgoing calls by default (can be changed with each call). 💬 SMS: Indicate. SIM message-post. 🌐 Mobile Data: Select the Main Data SIM Internet (the second will be used only for calls). 🔄 Auto-switch: Turn on the option to switch data automatically if you want your phone to use the same one. SIM, better-covered.

Features of MIUI 14/15:

• 🔹 With two active SIM-maps in the status bar display two network indicators (e.g., "MTS" 4G | Tele2. 3G").
• 🔹 The function of double waiting (DSDS) Allows you to take calls to both SIM It does not work with all operators at the same time (check compatibility with the provider).
• 🔹 In some regions (for example, India) Xiaomi has a Jio option. 4G Voice for specific networks – it is better to turn it off if you use Russian SIM.

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If one of the cards is periodically disabled after setting up the dual SIM, try turning off the Battery Savings feature in the battery settings. MIUI can force the second SIM to deactivate to save energy.

4. activate eSIM on supported Xiaomi models

Virtual SIM (eSIM) is convenient because it does not require a physical card, but its setting to Xiaomi has nuances. First, the operator must support eSIM (in Russia it is MTS, Beeline, MegaFon and Tele2). Second, the phone firmware should be global – on Chinese versions of MIUI, the option may not be available.

Step-by-step:

1. Get it from the operator. QR-activation code or manual input data (usually sent to the SMS email).
2. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
3. Select Scan. QR-Operator code or manually enter data.
4. Follow the instructions on the screen. Once activated, the eSIM will appear in the list of available SIM-map.
5. Set priorities (as for physical ones) SIM) in the section Management SIM-map.

If the option to add eSIM is not available:

• 🔄 Update. MIUI Up to the latest version (check in Settings) → The phone. → Updating the system).
• 📱 Make sure the phone model supports eSIM (see table in Section 1).
• 🔧 Check the firmware region: Chinese versions (e.g. Xiaomi 13) CN) They do not support eSIM even when hardware is compatible.

5. Typical problems after SIM switching and their solutions

Even with the right installation SIM-Xiaomi users are faced with errors. Let's analyze the most common:

If none of the solutions worked, reset your network settings:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings.
2. Confirm action. The phone will reboot and the APN settings will reset to factory.
3. After restarting manually select the operator in Settings → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Network operator.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi) 9A, POCO M3) VoLTE may be missing after a network reset, so update your firmware or manually activate the mode in the engineering menu to return it (code ##4636##, Phone Information section).

6. Features of SIM switching on popular Xiaomi models

Despite the general principles, different Xiaomi series have unique nuances when working with the company. SIM-Let's take a look at the most popular models:

• 📱 Xiaomi 13/13 Pro/13 Ultra: Supported 2 physical nano-SIM + eSIM simultaneously. To activate 5G second SIM required MIUI 14.0.10+. In the Chinese version (CN) eSIM is disabled software.
• 📱 Redmi Note 12 Pro+/12T Pro: Hybrid slot: either 2 SIM, either 1 SIM + microSD, using two different SIM There is no microSD support. VoLTE problems on the second SIM Update the radio module (via Settings) → The phone. → Updating the system → Updating modems).

For models with Indian firmware (IN) before using Russian SIM, it is recommended:

1. Check the list of supported 4G/5G bands (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G IN does not support the n78 band used in Russia).
2. Update the firmware to a global version via Fastboot or Recovery.
3. Disable regional features (such as Jio Services) that may conflict with local operators.

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Before buying Xiaomi from AliExpress or other foreign sites, always check the firmware version (CN/IN/Global). Chinese and Indian versions often have restrictions on working with Russian versions. SIM-cards that are not solved programmatically.

7. How to move contacts and settings when changing SIM-map

When switching to a new one SIM-Many users experience loss of contacts or network settings. To avoid this, follow the following steps:

Transfer of contacts:

• 📱 If the contacts are kept on the old SIM-map: Insert the old one SIM Go to the phone. → Settings → Imports/Exports → Import with SIM-Select contacts and save them to your Google Account or Device.
• 🔄 If contacts are already in Google account: Make sure sync is enabled (Settings) → Accounts. → Google → Contact synchronization after installation of a new one SIM Contacts will be automatically connected.

Transfer of APN settings:

Access Point settings (APNs) are not saved when you change the SIM, so as not to manually configure them:

1. Before we get the old one out. SIM write down the current settings APN (Path: Settings → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Access points (APN)).
2. After installing a new SIM, create a new APN with the same settings (name, APN, username, password).
3. For most Russian operators, it is enough to choose Reset to factory in the APN settings - the phone will automatically tighten the correct parameters.

SMS portability:

Messages saved on SIM-They don't automatically carry the maps, so they're saved:

• Use apps like SMS Backup & Restore (available on Google Play).
• Export SMS to the file and import after changing the SIM.

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If you change often SIM-maps (for example, when traveling abroad), set up network profiles in the MIUI. To do this, go to the Settings. → SIM-map → Network profiles and save settings for each operator. SIM The phone will automatically use the saved profile.

FAQ: Frequent questions about switching SIM to Xiaomi