Shift. SIM-Xiaomi Redmi cards are only a trivial task at first glance, and users face a range of nuances in practice, from physically removing the tray to setting the priority of networks in firmware. MIUI. The problem is particularly acute for owners of hybrid slot devices, where you have to choose between a second SIM and a memory card. In this article, we will analyze all possible scenarios - from a basic nano replacement to a new one.-SIM To the subtleties of working with eSIM in new models.
It's important to understand that the process can vary depending on the MIUI version and the specific Redmi model. For example, in the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, the algorithm for setting the dual sims has changed dramatically compared to the Redmi 9A. We took all these features into account and prepared a universal guide that covers 90% of the current devices of the brand, and for rare cases, we added a section with solving non-standard problems.
Preparation for SIM-card replacement: what you need to know in advance
Before you extract the tray, check three key points:
- 📱 Slot Type: Your Redmi supports 2 physical slots SIM (dual-SIM) or hybrid slot (SIM + microSD? That determines whether you have to sacrifice a memory card.
- 🔧 Size SIM: Modern models require nano-SIM (12.3×8.8 If you have an old micro-SIM, you'll have to trim it or replace it.
- 📶 Network support: the new SIM should work in the ranges supported by your phone. e.g. Redmi 10C supportive 5G, So, the sim with 5G-The tariff will only work in the mode 4G.
Pay special attention to hybrid slots. In the Redmi Note models 11 Pro and newer are given priority to the second SIM-This means that when you use two Sims and a microSD at the same time, the speed of reading the memory card can decrease by a few seconds. 15-20% Because of the limitations of the controller. K50 Pro this problem is solved by hardware channel separation, but in budget models it persists.
Remember IMEI, your device's unique identifier. When you replace your SIM, the operator can request it to activate services. You can find out IMEI by command *#06# or in the Settings menu → About the phone → General information. Dual models will have two IMEIs - one for each slot.
Physical replacement SIM-maps: step-by-step instructions
To extract the tray, you'll need a paper clip or a special key that comes with the phone, and if the key is lost, you'll need an unbended paper clip or a blunt-ended needle, and the key is not to use sharp objects so as not to damage the slot's O-ring.
Make sure your phone is turned off (recommended, but not required)
Find a hole to extract the tray (usually on the upper or lateral face)
Prepare a new one. SIM-map (nano-SIM without adapter)
Check the integrity of the sealing ring on the tray-->
- Put the paper clip in the hole on the tray before you click. Don't put too much effort into it, it should work with a little press.
- Carefully remove the tray. Some models (Redmi 9T, Redmi Note 10) do not extend it completely - you will have to nail it.
- Put a new one in. SIM-The card is in the appropriate slot. Pay attention to the notch - it must match the shape of the slot.
- Insert the tray back before you click. Make sure it sits flat - skewings can lead to poor contact.
Turn on your phone after installation. If the new SIM is not automatically determined, go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Name. SIM-maps and select the operator manually. In some regions (for example, in Russia) additional settings may be required. APN — Read about it in the next section.
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If the tray is jammed and you can't get it out, don't try to do it by force. Put the phone on a flat surface, press the tray slightly on the side, and try to press the paperclip again, 80 percent of the time it helps.
Setting up two SIM-maps: priorities and features MIUI
MIUI offers flexible settings for working with two SIMs, but not all users are aware of the hidden features, for example, you can assign separate SIMs for calls, SMS and mobile Internet, as well as set up automatic roaming switching.
To set priorities:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose a Name. SIM-cards and give each a unique name (e.g., "Worker" and "Personal").
- In the Default section, you can set up: 📞 Calls: Select a SIM for outgoing calls 💬 SMS: Specify a SIM for sending messages 🌐 Mobile data: assign a SIM for the Internet
Activate the option Enable 4G both SIM-If you want both SIMs to work online 4G At the same time (not available on all models).
In models with MIUI 13 and later, we have a feature called Intelligent Switch, which automatically selects the SIM with the best signal for calls, and then turns it on.
→ SIM-maps and mobile networks → Additional → Intelligent switching SIM-mapsNote that if you use two SIMs of the same operator (for example, two MTS), there may be problems with incoming calls to the second SIM, this is due to the limitations of the operators, not the phone, the solution is to use SIMs of different operators or activate the Multisim service (where available).
Setting up APN new SIM-map
If the mobile Internet is not working after installing the SIM, the APN (Access Point Name) settings are most likely not configured, this is especially true for virtual operators (Tinkoff Mobile, Yota, Tele2) and regional providers.
To add APNs manually:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Access points (APN).
- Click on the + icon or Add APN.
- Fill in the fields according to your operator. Basic parameters: MTS Beeline MegaFon Tele2 Name MTS Beeline Megafon Tele2 APN internet.mts.ru internet.beeline.ru internet.tele2.ru Username mts beeline gdata (leave empty) Password mts beeline gdata (leave empty)
- Save the settings and restart the phone.
If the Internet still does not work after setting up the APN, check:
- 🔄 Is the switch switched mobile data for the desired SIM-map
- 📶 Whether the network signal is available (check the indicator in the status bar)
- 🔒 Is not activated mode Save traffic in Settings → Connections and sharing
What to do if the APN is not saved?
Working with eSIM in new Redmi models
Starting with the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G Xiaomi 12T, Some models support eSIM, a virtual model. SIM-It's convenient for traveling or using the second number without losing the microSD slot.
To activate the eSIM:
- Get it from the operator. QR-Most Russian operators (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) support eSIM, but activation may require a visit to the salon.
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile fare.
- Select Download. SIM-map and scan QR-code or enter data manually.
- Confirm activation. The process can take up to 5 minutes.
Features of working with eSIM on Xiaomi:
- 🔄 Up to 5 eSIM profiles can be stored, but only one (plus one physical) can be active. SIM).
- 🌍 In roaming, eSIM can work more stable than a physical SIM, since it does not depend on the quality of contacts in the slot.
- ⚠️ When you reset your phone to factory settings, the eSIM is not deleted, but may require re-activation.
Important: not all carrier rates support eSIM. For example, MTS corporate rates or some regional offers may not be available for virtual sims.
Solving common problems when replacing the SIM
Even after the SIM is installed correctly, there can be problems. Here are the most common scenarios and their solutions:
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If the phone can't see SIM-In 90 percent of cases, the problem is a bad contact, a bad network setting, or a damaged SIM, and only 10 percent of the time is a hardware defect.
⚠️ Note: if after replacing the SIM phone stopped determining IMEI (You can see zeros in the settings, and you can't go over the device in any way. NV-partition, and self-intervention can lead to complete loss of communication.
Problem 1: The phone can't see SIM-map
- 🔹 Check if the simplifier is properly installed in the tray (contacts should be directed downwards).
- 🔹 Wipe the contacts of the SIM and slot with a dry napkin (without alcohol!).
- 🔹 Try inserting the SIM into another slot (if there are two of them).
- 🔹 Update the firmware: in some versions MIUI There were some bugs with the SIM definition.
Problem 2: No network or permanent communication breakdowns
- 🔹 Switch the network mode from 4G/3G/2G (car only 4G or 3G customized SIM-map.
- 🔹 Turn off VoLTE and VoWiFi in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Additionally.
- 🔹 Check if In-plane mode or Battery Saving is activated (it can limit background SIM activity).
Problem 3: Calls to the second one are not working SIM-map
- 🔹 Make sure that incoming calls are included in the settings for the second SIM.
- 🔹 Check if the service "Call forwarding" is activated from the operator.
- 🔹 In some regions, operators block the second SIM card if it is not the “main” tariff.
Advice on optimizing the two SIM-map
Using two Sims at the same time requires a competent setup to avoid battery and performance issues. Here are some proven recommendations:
1. Battery charge savings
- 🔋 Turn it off. 4G second SIM-If you use it only for calls, it will reduce battery consumption. 5-7%.
- 🔄 Set up automatic mobile data shutdown for second SIM at night via Settings → Battery and productivity → Timetable for disabling mobile data.
2. Notification management
- 🔔 B Settings → Notifications → SIM-cards can be customized to individual melodies and vibrations for each SIM.
- 📵 Turn off roaming notifications for second SIM if it is rarely used.
3. Optimizing Internet Speed
- 🌐 If both SIMs support 4G, but Internet speed is low, try disabling carrier aggregation in the engineering menu (#4636## → Phone information).
- 🔀 In models with Qualcomm Snapdragon (for example, Redmi Note 11 Pro) you can manually select your preferred network in Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Type of network.
4. Security.
- 🔒 Set up. PIN-code SIM-maps in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Lockdown SIM-map.
- 🛡️ Enable the Request option PIN each time you turn on to protect the SIMS from unauthorized use.
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If you travel frequently, create a separate profile in Settings → Special features → Profiles with roaming settings. This will allow you to quickly switch between local and foreign SIMs.