Replacement SIM-Maps in the phone Xiaomi: full instructions with photos and tips

Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards seem like a simple procedure, but in practice, users face unexpected difficulties, from jammed trays to activation errors of the mobile network. In this article, we will analyze the process of replacing the card on all current models of Xiaomi, Redmi and the Internet. POCO — From the budget Redmi Note 12 to the flagships Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Particular attention will be paid to the nuances that are not written in the official instructions: how to properly remove the tray without a clip, what to do if you make an error "SIM-The card is not supported and why a new card may not be identified immediately after installation.

Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards depend on the type of slot your device has. Modern models support three options: a hybrid slot (nanoSIM). + microSD or second nanoSIM, dual slot (two nanoSIMs without memory card support) and eSIM (virtual card).We will analyze each case in detail, and give recommendations on choosing the right tariff for the new one. SIM-cards if you plan to change operators. Important: in some models (for example, Xiaomi) 13T Pro) when two physical SIM-Cards are out of support 5G One of them is that moment often overlooked.

If you've never changed SIM-Do not worry about the card yourself: in 90% of cases, the procedure takes no more than 5 minutes, the main thing is to follow our recommendations and not to make excessive efforts when removing the tray. To illustrate this, we added a comparison table of slot types in popular Xiaomi models and a checklist for preparing for a replacement. And if after installing a new card, the phone does not catch the network, at the end of the article you will find a section with a solution to this problem.

Preparation for replacement SIM-Maps: What to do in advance

Before you get the old stuff out. SIM-This will help you avoid losing important data and problems with activating a new card.

First, save contacts from your phone. Even if you use the Mi Cloud cloud service, some numbers can only be stored in memory. SIM-To move them:

1. Open the Contacts app
2. Click on three dots in the upper right corner → Contact management → Imports/Exports
3. Select Export to your device (the file will be saved in.vcf format)

Secondly, check the balance and the rate with your carrier. SIM-card, but also operator, make sure that the new tariff supports all the necessary features (for example, VoLTE for calls on the phone). 4G or 5G, Some operators (e.g. Tele2) automatically connect the basic package when you activate a new service. SIM-Cards that may lead to unexpected write-offs.

Also prepare the tools:

• 🔧 Paperclip or special key to extract the tray (comprised with the phone)
• 📱 New SIM-NanoSIM card (if you have eSIM, you will need it) QR-operator)
• 🔦 Lights (in handy if the slot is located in an uncomfortable place)
• 🧲 Magnet (optional, for models with magnetic mounting of the cover)

Keep contact with your phone and SIM-map|Checking the balance and tariff of the operator|Preparation of a paper clip or key for the tray|Shutting down the phone (recommended)|Checking the compatibility of the new SIM-phone-card-->

If you use two of them SIM-Remember which one was the main one (for calls and calls). SMS In some models of Xiaomi, for example, POCO X5 Pro slot SIM1 priority for mobile data, even if the settings indicate otherwise, this can lead to problems with the Internet after replacement.

2. Types SIM-Slots in Xiaomi smartphones: how to determine your option

Xiaomi smartphones are equipped with three main types of slots for SIM-The type of slot depends on whether you can use two physical cards at the same time or whether you have to choose between the second. SIM-I'll take a look at each option in detail.

1. Hybrid slot (nanoSIM) + microSD or second nanoSIM)

This is the most common type in budget and mid-budget models: Redmi Note 11/12/13, POCO X4/X5, Xiaomi 11 Lite. You can install it in this slot:

• 📱 One nanoSIM. + microSD card (up to 1 TB)
• 📱 Two nanoSIMs without memory card)

Please note that if you use two SIM-Maps in most Xiaomi models 5G It will only work on the main SIM-map (SIM1). The second card is automatically switched to 4G, even if it supports 5G.

Double slot (two nanoSIMs without microSD support)

This slot is found in flagship models: Xiaomi 12/13/14, Xiaomi 12S Ultra, Black Shark 5. You can only install two nanoSIM cards here, and the memory card is not supported, and the advantage of this is that both of them are very different. SIM-The cards can work simultaneously on networks. 5G (If the operator supports this function).

3. eSIM (virtual) SIM-map)

Support for eSIM appeared in the latest flagships: Xiaomi 13/14, Xiaomi 13T Pro, POCO F5 Pro: These models can be used in:

• 📱 One physical nanoSIM + one-off
• 📱 Two eSIMs without a physical card)

Importantly, not all Russian operators support eSIM. At the time of 2026, MTS, Beeline and MegaFon officially offer this feature, but only for certain tariffs.

To determine exactly the type of slot in your phone, you can:

1. View the characteristics of the model on the official website of Xiaomi
2. Use the application CPU-Z (section)
3. Visually inspect the tray - hybrid slots usually have markup for microSD

Hybrid (nanoSIM) + microSD)|Double nanoSIM|eSIM|I don't know.-->

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to extract and install SIM-map

Now, the replacement process itself. The manual is suitable for most Xiaomi models, but there are nuances for phones with non-standard slot layouts (for example, Xiaomi Mix Fold or Black Shark with game design). If your phone has a removable back cover (which is extremely rare for modern models), the process will be different — we will talk about this separately.

Step 1. Turn off the phone.

While many users skip this step, we recommend turning the device off completely before retrieving it. SIM-This will prevent possible modem malfunctions, especially if you use two. SIM-To turn off the phone:

• Press the power button on 2-3 seconds
• Select Turn Off (or Power Off)
• Wait for the full shutdown (the screen should go out).

Step 2. Find a slot for SIM-map

In most Xiaomi models, the slot is located on the upper or lateral end.

• Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 — bottom-end
• Black Shark 4/5 — slot hidden under the removable panel
• POCO F4 GT — magnet-mount

If you can’t find a slot, flash a flashlight around the perimeter of the phone – there’s usually a small hole next to the slot for a paperclip.

Step 3. Remove the tray for SIM-map

Here's where a lot of users make mistakes. To get the tray out of the box properly:

1. Take a paper clip (or a special key from the set) and insert it into the hole next to the slot. Press until you click, the tray should move out onto the slot. 1-2 mm.
2. Carefully pull the tray with your fingers. Do not use tweezers or other metal objects - this can damage the contacts.
3. If the tray is not extended, do not make excessive efforts. Try to sway the paperclip slightly left-right or use a thicker object (for example, an unbended stationery brace).

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If the tray is jammed, try to slightly heat the phone body with a hairdryer (no more than 40).°C) – this will help expand plastic and facilitate extraction.

Step 4. Install a new one. SIM-map

Before installation, check:

• 🔍 The map format should be nanoSIM (12.3 × 8.8 If you have a card of a different size, it should be cut or replaced by the operator.
• 🔍 Chip position - on the tray there is usually a diagram where the contact platform should "look.
• 🔍 No contamination – wipe the card contacts and tray with a dry napkin.

Place the card in the tray and gently push it back into the phone before the click. Make sure the tray sits flat - if it protrudes or staggers, remove it and repeat the installation.

Step 5: Turn on the phone and set up SIM-map

After the phone is turned on:

1. Wait for the notification of a new SIM-map.
2. If the phone asks for it PIN-code, enter it (usually indicated on the plastic holder to which the attachment was attached) SIM-map).
3. Go to Settings. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and check that the new card is active.

4. Features of replacement SIM-Maps in popular Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi models have unique design features that are important to consider when replacing. SIM-Let's look at the most common cases.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 11/12/13 and POCO X4/X5

These models use a hybrid slot, but there is an important caveat: if you install two physical slots, you can use a hybrid slot. SIM-The card slot is locked, and the memory card slot is locked:

• 📶 Basic SIM-map (SIM1) supportive 5G, second-second (SIM2) — only 4G.
• 🔄 When hot replacement (without turning off the phone) may disappear network on the phone. 1-2 minute.

If you use a memory card and then decide to install a second one SIM-card, remember to back up data with microSD – when you remove the memory card, some files may get damaged.

Xiaomi 13/14 and POCO F5 Pro (with eSIM support)

In these models, a combination of physical SIM-Cards and eSIMs to activate eSIM:

1. Get it. QR-code from the operator (usually sent to email or given in the salon).
2. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
3. Scan it. QR-code or enter data manually.

Importantly, the same model may have different versions — for example, Xiaomi 13 for the Chinese market does not support eSIM, whereas the global version supports.

Xiaomi Black Shark 4/5 (gaming-smartphone)

These phones have a slot for SIM-The map is hidden under a removable panel to get to it:

1. Find the latch on the back cover (usually at the top).
2. Carefully slap the cover with a plastic card or mediator.
3. Remove the panel - under it you will see a slot for SIM-map.

Be careful: Black Shark has a lid that's not just on the latches, but on small magnets, so don't put too much effort into it to keep the mounts intact.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 2/3 (folding-phone)

In folding models, a slot for SIM-The map is located on the lower end, but due to the non-standard shape of the case, it is more difficult to extract:

• 🔧 Use not a paper clip, but a special key from the kit - it is thinner and will not damage the sealer.
• 🔄 Remove the tray with the phone unfolded - it is more convenient to control the process.
• 🚫 Do not use metal objects (knives, forks) – this can damage the hinge mechanism.

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In foldable smartphones Xiaomi when replacing SIM-avoid dust entering the hinge mechanism - this can lead to creaking when opened.

5. Common problems after replacement SIM-maps and their solutions

Even if you have installed a new one correctly SIM-If you have a map, you might have problems connecting to the network.

Problem 1: The phone can't see SIM-map

If the phone does not recognize the card after installing the new card:

• 🔄 Restart your phone – sometimes the modem doesn’t initialize right away.
• 🔧 Check if the card is installed correctly (the chip must be on top of the card).
• 🧹 Clear the contacts. SIM-dust-tray with a dry napkin.
• 📶 Try inserting the card into another phone – if it doesn’t work, the operator has a problem.

If nothing helps, the slot itself may be faulty. In this case, contact the service center.For Xiaomi models with a warranty of up to 12 months, repairing the slot is usually free.

Problem 2: No network or weak signal

If the phone sees SIM-map, but not netting:

1. Check if mobile data is enabled in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Make sure you select the correct network mode (for example, 4G/5G instead of 3G).
3. Update the operator settings: go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Update settings.
4. If you use two SIM-maps, check network priority in Settings → Double. SIM access point.

Problem 3: Mistake "SIM-card not supported"

This message usually appears in three cases:

• 🔐 SIM-card blocked PIN-code (enter it).
• 📡 The operator does not support the frequencies of your phone (relevant for the Chinese versions of Xiaomi in Russia).
• 🔧 The phone has firmware for another region (for example, Chinese firmware on the global model).

To check for frequency compatibility, use FrequencyCheck, where if the problem is firmware, you can fix it by flashing it to a global version (but that removes the warranty).

Problem 4: It's not working. 5G new SIM-map

If you support Xiaomi 5G, new SIM-The card only works in 4G:

• 📶 Make sure your tariff supports 5G (check with the operator).
• 🔧 Check the network settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Type of network → 5G.
• 🔄 If you use two SIM-cards, remember that 5G It only works on the main (SIM1).
• 📱 Update your phone in older versions MIUI There could be support errors 5G.

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If, after the replacement, SIM-The card has lost access to the mobile Internet, check APN-These are usually set up automatically, but sometimes manual input is required (optimizations can be obtained from the operator's website).

6 How to transfer data from the old SIM-new-card

Many users forget that they SIM-The card can be stored not only contacts, but also SMS, And we'll also have operator settings, and let's look at how to transfer that data to a new map.

Deferral of contacts

If your contacts are kept in the old SIM-map:

1. Put the old one in. SIM-phone-card.
2. Open Contacts → Settings → Import / Export.
3. Select Import with SIM-maps and specify where to save contacts (for example, in a Google account or Mi Account).
4. Install a new one. SIM-Repeat the process in reverse order (export to the SIM-map).

Note that a limited number of contacts (usually up to 250) can be placed on a nanoSIM. If you have more, transfer them in parts.

SMS portability

SMS-message SIM-It's harder to move the map because Xiaomi's standard tools don't support it:

• 📱 Use third-party applications, for example SMS Backup & Restore (Saves) SMS a file that can then be restored).
• 🔧 Manually forward important messages to another number or email.
• 🖥️ Connect your phone to your PC and copy it. SMS through programs like Mi PC Suite (requires root rights).

Transfer of operator settings

Settings APN (access points and other network settings are usually set automatically when first activated SIM-However, if you use non-standard settings (for example, for the purpose of MMS or corporate network, you will have to enter them manually:

1. Write down the current settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. Install a new one. SIM-map and enter the settings manually (or ask the operator to send them to the SMS).

Transferring data from eSIM to physical SIM-map

If you go from eSIM to a physical card, the process depends on the operator.

1. Contact the salon or call in support.
2. Request the transfer of the number from eSIM to physical SIM-Card (Passport may be required).
3. After activating the new card, delete the old eSIM profile in the phone settings.

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Don't remove the old one. SIM-card or eSIM profile until you make sure the new card is fully operational.In some cases, transferring the number can take up to 24 hours.

7. Tips for choosing a new one SIM-maps for Xiaomi

If you don't just change SIM-map, and switch to a new operator or tariff, take into account the features of your Xiaomi.

1. Support 5G

Not all operators in Russia provide access to the 5G, Not all Xiaomi models support it:

• 📶 Does your phone support you? 5G (Model list: Xiaomi 11/12/13/14, Redmi K50, POCO F4/F5 newer).
• 🔗 Does your operator provide 5G in your region (coverage can be checked on the sites of MTS, Beeline, MegaFon).
• 💰 Whether it's on 5G Your rate (sometimes you need an option).

If you use two of them SIM-Note that in most of the Xiaomi models 5G It only works on the main map (SIM1).

2. Compatible with VoLTE and VoWiFi

VoLTE technologies (calls by phone) 4G) And VoWiFi (wire-fi calling) improves the quality of communication, but not all carriers and tariffs support them:

1. Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Calls on 4G (VoLTE)
2. Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Calls over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi)

If the options are grey and inactive, your carrier or tariff does not support these features. SIM-map.

3.The choice between the physical SIM eSIM

If your Xiaomi supports eSIM, weigh the pros and cons:

eSIM is convenient if you change phones or travel frequently (you can quickly connect a local operator), however, in Russia, the choice of tariffs with eSIM is still limited, and not all communication salons are able to configure them.

4. Fees with unlimited internet

If you choose a tariff with unlimited Internet, pay attention to:

• 📶 Speed limit after high-speed traffic is exhausted (for example, after 30 GB, the speed can drop to 128 Kbps).
• 🔄 The possibility of using traffic in roaming (in some tariffs, unlimited is valid only in the home region).
• 📱 Compatibility with