How to properly insert and configure SIM-MTS card in the Xiaomi Redmi phone: from tariff selection to network problems

Connection SIM-MTS cards to Xiaomi Redmi seem like a simple task β€” but only as long as you don't face unexpected problems. Why doesn't the phone see the network after you install the card? How to activate the card? 4G/5G New models of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ or Redmi 12? Should I tune in? APN manually or quite automatically configured? In this article, we will discuss not only the basic steps of installation. SIM-maps, but also hidden nuances of working with the operator MTS on Xiaomi devices, which the manufacturer is silent in the official instructions.

Feature of Xiaomi Redmi smartphones - hybrid slots under SIM-eSIM support (starting with Redmi Note 11 Pro) 5G), and branded" MIUI, For example, dual applications sometimes conflict with MTS services, and energy saving mode disables background data transfer. We tested the connection on 7 Redmi models (from the budget Redmi). A2 to the flagship Redmi K60 Ultra) and found common user errors, and if you just bought a phone or decided to change operator, this guide will help you avoid hours of useless manipulation of the settings.

1. Choice. SIM-MTS cards: nano-SIM, eSIM or combo variant?

Before you insert a card into Xiaomi Redmi, you need to decide on its type.

  • πŸ“± Nano-SIM is the standard for all modern smartphones, and it's good for all Redmi models released after 2016. The important thing is, if you have an old micro-SIM, don't try to trim it yourself, you'd better get a new one in the MTS salon for free.
  • 🌐 eSIM - virtual SIM-A card that only individual Redmi models support (list below) activated via the My MTS app or on the operator's website, suitable for using two numbers at the same time (e.g. personal number). + labourer).
  • πŸ”„ Combo card (nano) + eSIM is a hybrid variant that allows you to use a physical card in one device and eSIM in another (for example, in the Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro smartwatch).

List of Xiaomi Redmi models that support eSIM (as of 2026):

ModelSupport for eSIMNotes
Redmi Note 11 Pro 5GYes.Requires an update MIUI before version 13.0.5+
Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5GYes.Supports up to 2 eSIMs at the same time
Redmi K50 ProYes.eSIM only works with Chinese firmware
Redmi 10 2022No.Only physical nano-SIMs
Redmi A2/A2+No.Budget models without eSIM support

⚠️ Note: If you are planning to use two SIM-maps (e.g. MTS) + Tele2, note that in most Redmi models, the second slot is hybrid – it can work either as a slot for the second. SIM, Or as a microSD card connector, and the second one is the same. SIM, And the flash drive is unsupported!

πŸ“Š What? SIM-You are using the card in Xiaomi Redmi?
Physical nano-SIM
eSIM
Combo (nano) + eSIM)
Not yet decided.

2. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map

The process of installing the card is intuitive, but many users make mistakes during the tray extraction or placement stage. SIM. Follow this instruction to avoid damage to the slot or card:

  1. Turn off the phone. It's a must-do step -- hot replacement. SIM-The cards may cause the communication module to crash. Press and hold the power button, then select Turn off.
  2. Find a slot for SIM-In most Redmi models, it is located on the left side (for example, in the Redmi Note 12) or on the upper end (as in the Redmi). 10C). The exception is Redmi K60, where the slot is moved to the right side.
  3. Remove the tray. Use a clip or a special key (complete with your phone) insert it into a small hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend to the slot. 2-3 mm - carefully pull it out with your fingers.
  4. Install. SIM-Place the nano-SIM in the appropriate groove with the contacts down. SIM or microSD is installed in the bottom slot (see diagram below).
  5. Put the tray back in. Make sure the card doesn't protrude beyond the edges of the tray. Put it all the way up, and it's got to be a little click.
  6. Turn on the phone. Wait for the system to load (1-2 if SIM-the card is recognized, the network indicator will appear in the status bar (for example, MTS) 4G).

πŸ“Œ Accommodation scheme SIM-card-tray:

β”Œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”




β”‚ [1] nano-SIM β”‚ ← Home SIM (slot 1)




β”œβ”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€




β”‚ [2] nano-SIM β”‚ ← Second SIM or microSD




β””β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”€β”˜

⚠️ Note: If a notification "No Service" appears after the phone is turned on, or "SIM-card not detected, do not try to reboot the device repeatedly:

  • πŸ” Is the card correctly installed (contacts should fit tightly to the connector).
  • πŸ“Ά Does your Redmi model support MTS frequencies (for example, for the 5G support n78).
  • πŸ”„ Is the β€œOn the Plane” mode activated in the notification curtain.

β˜‘οΈ Pre-installing check SIM-map

Done: 0 / 4

3. Setting up the MTS network on Xiaomi Redmi: APN, 4G/5G roaming

80% of cases after installation SIM-The Xiaomi Redmi phone automatically loads network settings, but sometimes you need a manual configuration β€” especially if you’re a user:

  • 🌍 Use your phone abroad (roaming).
  • πŸ“Ά Connected to the corporate tariff MTS.
  • πŸ”„ Reflash the phone to custom firmware (for example, Pixel Experience).

To set up an access point APN for MTS:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ [Choose. SIM MTS] β†’ Access points (APN).
  2. Click Add and fill in the fields according to the table below:
ParameterImportance to MTS
Name.MTS Internet
APNinternet.mts.ru
User namemts
Password.mts
Type of authenticationPAP
Type APNdefault,supl

For activation 4G/5G:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ [Choose. SIM MTS] β†’ Type of network.
  2. Choose. 4G (preferably 5G/4G/3G/2G (for models with support) 5G, For example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+).
  3. Activate VoLTE and VoWiFi options (if available) to improve call quality.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI (especially global) VoLTE is hidden:

  1. Enter the phone code in the app: ##86583##
  2. In the menu that opens, activate the VoLTE Provisioned switch.

πŸ’‘

If, after setting up, APN Internet is not working, restart your phone and wait. SMS from MTS with activation confirmation. Sometimes the settings are only applied after rebooting.

Typical problems and their solutions

Even after the correct installation SIM-Xiaomi Redmi users are experiencing network errors. We have collected the most common problems and ways to fix them:

πŸ”΄ Problem: "No service" or"SIM-map not found"

  • πŸ”Ή Reason 1: Bad contact. Take out the tray and check if the contacts are bent on the ground. SIM-If necessary, bend them carefully with the blunt side of the needle.
  • πŸ”Ή Reason 2: Frequency incompatibility. Make sure your Redmi supports MTS frequencies. 5G ranges required n1, n3, n7, n28, n78. Check the model specifications on Xiaomi’s website.
  • πŸ”Ή Reason 3: Software failure. Reset network settings: Settings β†’ System and device β†’ Resetting settings β†’ Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth.

🟑 Problem: No Internet ("H" badge)+" or "E" instead 4G/5G)

  • πŸ”Ή Check the balance and activity of the Internet package in the My MTS application.
  • πŸ”Ή Make sure that in the settings APN correct protocol IPv4/IPv6 (for MTS β€” IPv4/IPv6).
  • πŸ”Ή Turn it off. VPN (If used, some services block mobile traffic.

🟒 Problem: Calls are not working (reset or fail to reach)

  • πŸ”Ή Activate VoLTE (see instructions above).
  • πŸ”Ή Check if Do Not Disturb or number lock is enabled.
  • πŸ”Ή Update the firmware MIUI Up to the latest version – in the old versions there were bugs with call processing.

πŸ“Š Problem statistics on Redmi models (according to service centers):

Redmi Note 11: 35% of calls – β€œNo Service” (solved by network reset)




Redmi 10: 20% – 4G issues (manual APN setup required)




Redmi K50: 15% – VoLTE does not work (solved by firmware update)
What do you do if nothing helps?
If after all the manipulations SIM-The card is not determined, the communication module (modem) may be defective, in this case, diagnostics are required in the service center, the cost of repairing the module for Xiaomi Redmi is from 2500 to 5000 rubles (depending on the model).

5. Optimization of the MTS network on Xiaomi Redmi

To maximize internet speed and connectivity stability, use these tips:

  • πŸ“Ά Turn off automatic network selection. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ [Choose. SIM] β†’ Select a network and manually select MTS (not Automatically) to prevent switching to weak networks of other operators.
  • πŸ”‹ Set up energy saving. Ultra-saving mode (in) MIUI 14+) To avoid this, add applications (such as Telegram or Yandex.Maps) to the list No restrictions (Settings) β†’ Battery β†’ Energy consumption of applications).
  • πŸ”„ Use Dual. SIM Smart Switch. If you have two SIM-Maps, activate this function in Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Double. SIM It automatically switches the Internet to the mobile network. SIM, which has the best signal.
  • πŸ“Š Monitor coverage. Install Network Cell Info Lite (available on Google Play) to track signal strength and choose the best place to call.

⚠️ Note: On Redmi models with MediaTek processor (e.g. Redmi) 12C or Redmi Note 11T Pro) may be a weaker signal than the devices on the Snapdragon, due to the features of the communication module, the solution is to update the firmware or use an external antenna (for example, Xiaomi Mi WiFi Antenna).

πŸ’‘

For maximum speed 5G Xiaomi Redmi to turn off support 2G It's a forced mode that forces the phone to use only modern standards (4G/5G).

6. Features of working with eSIM on Xiaomi Redmi

If your Redmi model supports eSIM, the activation process for the MTS card will be different from the physical one. SIM. Here's the step-by-step instruction:

  1. Get your eSIM data. Order eSIM via:

Scan it. QR-code.

Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Add a mobile network

Set up a profile.

MTS Working

Voice and data

Only data.

Activate the eSIM.

πŸ”Ή Important nuances of working with eSIM on Xiaomi Redmi:

  • πŸ”„ One physical can be used simultaneously. SIM + One eSIM or two eSIMs (on supported models).
  • πŸ“± Switching between eSIM profiles takes place in Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  • 🚫 Some banking applications (e.g. SberBank or Tinkoff) may block access when using eSIM. In this case, temporarily disable eSIM or use physical. SIM.

⚠️ Warning: When you reset your phone to factory settings, all eSIM data is saved, but the profile may be deactivated. To restore access, rescan. QR-code or enter an activation code.

7. Verification of compatibility of the MTS tariff with Xiaomi Redmi

Not all MTS rates work equally well with Xiaomi Redmi, for example, unlimited Internet tariffs (Tariff All! or Ultra) may have speed limits on devices with MediaTek.

Tariff of MTSCompatibility with RedmiFeatures
"All for our own."βœ… Complete.No restrictions on all models
"Ultra."⚠️ PartialOn the Redmi. 9A/10A speed may be limited to 50 Mbit/s
"Smart"βœ… Complete.Ideal for budget models (Redmi) A2)
"Travel fare"❌ ProblemsVoLTE may not work on Redmi Note 11 Pro+
MTS Connect.βœ… Complete.Optimized for eSIM

To check the real speed of the Internet on your tariff:

  1. Install the Speedtest by Ookla app.
  2. Connect to the MTS network (turn off Wi-Fi).
  3. If the speed is lower than the rate stated by more than 30%, contact MTS support (*111#) and ask to check the restrictions on your line.

πŸ“Œ Tip: If you travel frequently, activate the option "MTS Roaming" through USSD-team

*111*777#

Xiaomi Redmi

8. Alternative ways of connecting: Wi-Fi Calling and SMS via the Internet

Modern Xiaomi Redmi smartphones support technologies that allow you to call and send SMS It's not a traditional mobile network, and it's particularly useful in low-cost areas:

πŸ“ž Wi-Fi Calling (VoWiFi)

The feature allows you to call over Wi-Fi if the signal of the MTS network is weak.

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ [Choose. SIM MTS] β†’ Wi-Fi calls.
  2. Turn on the call switch over Wi-Fi.
  3. If necessary, provide an address for emergency calls (for example, home).

⚠️ Attention: Wi-Fi Calling only works on MTS tariffs with support for VoLTE. Check compatibility through USSD-team:

*111*595#

πŸ’¬ SMS via the Internet

If you don’t have network coverage but have Wi-Fi, you can send it to the Internet. SMS messenger:

  • πŸ”Ή Google Messages (supported by Google) RCS β€” improved SMS proof-of-read).
  • πŸ”Ή My MTS (Messages section).
  • πŸ”Ή WhatsApp or Telegram (alternative) SMS).

πŸ“Š Technology comparison:

| Technology | Requirements | Pros | Cons |




|------------------|--------------------------------|--------------------------------|---------------------------------|




| VoLTE | Network and phone support | Clear voice, fast calls | Not working in all regions |




| Wi-Fi Calling | Wi-Fi, operator support | Calls without mobile network | Possible delays |




| RCS (Google Messages) | Internet, compatible phone | Free multimedia SMS | Not all operators support |

πŸ’‘

Wi-Fi Calling and VoLTE are not the same thing. VoLTE improves the quality of calls on the mobile network, and Wi-Fi Calling allows you to call over the Internet. On Xiaomi Redmi, both functions can be used simultaneously.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

πŸ”Ή Can I use it? SIM-MTS and Tele2 map simultaneously on Xiaomi Redmi?
Yes, but with reservations: πŸ“± On most Redmi models, the second hybrid slot is available – you can choose either the second one. SIM, microSD card. πŸ”„ For the stable operation of the two SIM At the same time, turn off the option "Double". SIM Data Priority in Network Settings. πŸ“Ά Make sure both of you SIM VoLTE support – otherwise calls on one of them may not work. πŸ“Œ Excluded: Redmi Note 12 Pro models+ 5G redmi K60 Supports two physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously.
πŸ”Ή Why After Updating MIUI stopped working SIM-map?
This is a common problem associated with: πŸ”„ Reset the network settings. After the update, go to Settings β†’ System and device β†’ Resetting settings β†’ Reset network settings and perform reset. πŸ“± Modem incompatibility. Some firmware MIUI (Especially beta versions) contain bugs in the work with the communication modules MediaTek, the solution is to roll back to a stable version or wait for a patch. πŸ” Blocking. IMEI. In rare cases, data is reset after updating. IMEI. Check it out with the code *#06#. IMEI No, no, no repairs required. πŸ“Œ Tip: Before the update MIUI Backup your network settings through Settings β†’ Google β†’ Backup.
πŸ”Ή How to transfer contacts with the old SIM-maps on Xiaomi Redmi?
There are three ways: Through importing into Google Contacts: Insert the old one SIM Go to the phone. β†’ Settings β†’ Imports/Exports β†’ Import with SIM-Select a Google account to save your contacts. Contacts: Open Contacts. Click on three dots in the top right corner β†’ Contact management β†’ Imports/Exports β†’ Import with SIM-Through the file. VCF: Export contacts from the old one SIM To a.vcf file (on an old phone). Move the file to Xiaomi Redmi (e.g. via Bluetooth or Google Drive). Import the file via Contacts β†’ Settings β†’ Imports/Exports. ⚠️ Note: When importing contacts with SIM-Maps may lose profile photos and additional fields (e.g., dates of birth) and we recommend using Google sync to fully transfer data.
πŸ”Ή How to disable notifications from MTS on Xiaomi Redmi?
Promotional SMS Push notifications from MTS can be disabled in several ways: πŸ“΅ Through USSD-Team: Dial *111*082# and follow the instructions. πŸ“± In the application "My MTS": Go to the Profile β†’ Settings β†’ Notifications and disable unnecessary options. πŸ”• <