Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards: instructions for all models (2012–2026)

Why the Right Replacement SIM-Maps are important for Xiaomi

Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards seem like a simple procedure, but there are nuances that can affect the quality of communication, the operation of two sims or even the physical integrity of the slot. For example, improperly installing nano-SIM in a hybrid slot (where the second connector is used for a memory card) often causes the phone to stop seeing one of the SIMs or microSDs.+) Errors when activating a virtual card can block the slot for a day.

Another common problem is that the slot contacts are damaged. Many users try to insert. SIM-The card is "by eye" without checking the alignment with the guides, and as a result, the contacts bend, and the phone either does not see the network or shows an error. SIM-This is especially true for budget models (Redmi). 9A, Poco M3), where the slot is made of softer metal.

In this article, we will discuss:

• 🔍 How to determine the type of slot in your Xiaomi model (hybrid, double, eSIM).
• 📱 Step-by-step replacement instructions with photos and videos for popular series (Redmi, Poco, Mi).
• ⚠️ Typical errors that lead to slot breakage or loss of communication.
• 📶 What to do if you replace it after replacement SIM-The card has no network or the phone can't see it.

Step 1: Identify the type SIM-Cards and slots in your Xiaomi

Before the replacement SIM-You need to make sure that the format and size of the card is suitable for your smartphone. 2016 All Xiaomi models use nano-SIM (size) 12.3 × 8.8 mm), but in older devices (e.g., Redmi) 3S 2016 It is also important to know how many physical slots there are in the phone and whether it supports eSIM.

You can check this in three ways:

• 📄 Official documentation: Find a phone model on Xiaomi's website under "Specifications." SIM Card or Network Bands.
• 🔍 Visual inspection: Get the tray out for SIM-maps (how to do this, read the next section) and look at the markings. If there's one slot, but there's two slots on the tray, it's a hybrid slot (SIM + microSD).
• 📱 Through phone settings: Go to Settings → The phone. → General information → Status SIM-This will show the number of slots available.

Below is a table with slot types for popular Xiaomi series (relevant for 2018-2026 models):

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi supports eSIM but you never activated it, don’t rush to remove the physical. SIM-Some operators (e.g. MegaFon or Tele2) require a physical card to transfer the number to eSIM.

Step 2: Prepare for a replacement – what you need

Before you get the old one out. SIM-map, prepare everything you need:

• 📌 A paper clip or tool to remove the tray (company with the phone) If you lose it, an unbended stationery clip or a thin needle will do.
• 📱 New SIM-Nano-SIM card (if you have another card, cut it or contact the operator for a replacement).
• 🔍 Flashlight (will help to inspect the slot for damage or debris).
• 🧴 Alcohol wipes (to clean contacts if the phone can’t see) SIM-map).
• 📡 PIN-new-code SIM-card (usually indicated on the plastic holder or in the SMS operator).

If you are switching from micro-SIM or standard SIM to nano-SIM, do not try to trim it yourself, it is fraught with chip damage. Better contact the operator's salon (MTS, Beeline, Tele2 or MegaFon), where you will be replaced for free in 5-10 minutes. If you are confident in your abilities, use a clipping template and act extremely carefully.

In Xiaomi models with a hybrid slot (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro), when installing two nano-SIMs, the second slot automatically blocks the use of microSD. If you need a memory card, you will have to choose between two SIMs or one SIM + microSD.

Make sure your phone is turned off (not necessarily, but recommended)

Check the new format SIM-maps (must be nano-SIM)

Find it. PIN-New card code (may be required upon activation)

Check the tray for damage

Prepare a paper clip or a special key for extraction-->

Step 3: Removing the Old SIM-maps - step-by-step instructions

The process of extracting the tray for SIM-The cards are the same for most Xiaomi models, but there are nuances for side-slot phones (e.g. Xiaomi). 11T Pro) and for devices with a retractable mechanism (as in the Mi Mix 3.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Find a slot for SIM-It's usually located on the right end (most Redmi and Poco models); on the top end (Xiaomi Mi 10, Mi 11); on the left end (Black Shark).

Insert a paper clip or key into a small hole next to the slot and press before clicking. The tray should extend 2 to 3 mm.

Carefully pull the tray over yourself and get it out completely.

Remove the old one. SIM-map (if it has been installed).

If the tray is not extended:

• 🔧 Check if the paper clip hole is contaminated (can be blown or cleaned with a toothpick).
• 💡 Try to press harder - sometimes the mechanism sticks".
• ⚠️ Do not use sharp objects (knife, fork) to avoid damaging the slot.

In retractable models (such as the Mi Mix 3), the tray is removed by shifting the slider downwards. Be careful, the mechanism is fragile and can break with excessive force.

Step 4: Installation of a new SIM-Cards - How not to damage the slot

Now we move on to the most important stage - the installation of a new SIM-The key here is to properly orient the map in the tray and carefully insert it back in.

How to insert it correctly SIM-map:

1. Put the tray on a flat surface (better on a table, not on a weight).
2. Examine the tray - it should have a diagram showing which side to insert SIM-Usually the chip should be downward, and the bevelled angle should match the angle on the tray.
3. Install. SIM-If you have a hybrid slot and you use two SIMs, the second card is placed in the bottom slot (usually marked as SIM2).
4. Carefully insert the tray back into the slot before the click. Don't put too much effort - if the tray doesn't come in, check if the cards are correctly installed.

General rules:

• 🚫 Don't put it in. SIM-A card without a tray is almost guaranteed to damage your contacts.
• 🔄 If the card doesn't come in, don't push it. Turn it over or check if the slots are mixed (in hybrid slots, it's easy to put the memory card in the connector for the device to be used for the card). SIM).
• 🧹 Before installation, wipe the contacts. SIM-cards and tray with a dry napkin (without pile).

For eSIM models:

If you activate the eSIM, the physical SIM-The card can be left or deleted (depending on the operator's tariff) to activate the eSIM:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Add an Operator.
2. Select Download eSIM and scan. QR-code provided by the operator.
3. Confirm activation and restart the phone.

⚠️ Note: In some Xiaomi models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Pro) when activating eSIM, the physical SIM-The card in the first slot automatically turns off. If you need both cards (physical) + eSIM, set the physical SIM second-place.

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If, after installing a new SIM-The phone can't see the card, so try to take the tray out and put it back in. Sometimes the contacts don't touch because they're not fully logged in.

Step 5: Set up the network after replacement SIM-map

After installing a new one SIM-The phone must automatically connect to the operator's network, but sometimes manual adjustment is required, especially if the phone is not connected to the operator's network:

• 📵 The phone does not catch the network (no signal icon).
• 🔄 Constantly switching between 2G/3G/4G.
• ❓ A message appears. SIM-card not registered online.

What to do:

1. Reboot your phone, which helps 70% of the time.
2. Check network mode: Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Access Point Name (APN). Select operator manually (if the automatic search didn't work). Make sure 4G (preferably) or 3G/4G/5G (auto) mode is enabled.
3. Update APN settings: Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Access Points (APN). Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Reset to default values. If that doesn't help, add APN manually (options can be found on your carrier's website).
4. Check it out. IMEI: Enter the code *#06# in the phone application. IMEI It is displayed as Null or Unknown, which means that the slot is damaged or the phone does not recognize the device. SIM-map.

If after all the manipulations the network does not appear, try inserting SIM-If it works, it's a problem in your Xiaomi slot. If it doesn't work, ask the operator to change the card.

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If the phone can't see SIM-Check it first on another device, which will help you determine if there is a problem in the card or in the slot of the smartphone.

Step 6: Solving problems after replacement SIM-map

Even if you've done everything right, sometimes you have problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

If none of these things worked, there might be a problem with the hardware of the phone.

• 🛠️ Contact Xiaomi Service Center (Slot Warranty Repairs are usually free of charge).
• 🔧 Check your phone for fluids or mechanical damage (for example, after a fall).

⚠️ Note: If you use custom firmware (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience), problems with the SIM-The card may be associated with the incorrect operation of the modem, in which case the flashing on the official will help. MIUI Update the modem part through Fastboot.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacement SIM-maps in Xiaomi