Replacement SIM-Xiaomi cards: full instructions for all models

Replacement SIM-If you have purchased a new device, lost an old card or just want to change the operator, the correct installation of the SIM ensures stable mobile communication. However, even in this simple operation, there are nuances: from the type of slot (hybrid or standard) to support for eSIM in new models.

In this article, we will look at all the steps from tool preparation to network setup after installation, focus on hybrid slots where the SIM shares space with a microSD card, and also look at how to avoid the typical errors when you first activate. If you have never opened a tray for a SIM or are afraid of damaging the device, do not worry: our step-by-step instructions with photos and videos will help you cope in 2 minutes.

Xiaomi smartphones support up to two physical devices SIM-And the flagships of recent years are also virtual eSIMs. 3-4 And the key is to take your time and follow our recommendations so you don't have to face problems like no network or bugs "SIM-map not recognized".

1.Preparation: What to Know Before Replacing SIM-map

Before you retrieve an old SIM, make sure you have everything you need. First, check the type of slot in your Xiaomi model.Most modern devices (like the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13 is equipped with a hybrid slot, where the second slot is combined with a microSD connector. This means that you can not use two simultaneously. SIM-memory-card.

Second, prepare a new one. SIM-Since 2018, all operators have issued nano-SIM (the smallest format), but if you have an old micro-SIM or mini-SIM, it will have to be trimmed or replaced in the communication cabin. Using the wrong format can lead to jamming of the tray or damage to contacts.

📱 Check the model of the smartphone: check in the characteristics on the site Mi.com, how much SIM-The card supports your device.
🔧 Removal tool: the phone comes with a key clip, and if it's not there, a paper clip or a thin needle will do.
📶 Save Contacts: Before replacing your SIM, export your phone book to your Google Account or memory card.
🔋 Battery Charging: Make sure your phone doesn’t run out while setting up a new one SIM (at least 20% charge).

If you are switching to eSIM (available in Xiaomi) 12T, 13 Pro, Mix Fold 3 and later, the process will be different – you will need to download the operator profile through the application or QR-We will discuss this option separately at the end of the article.

📊 What kind of guy. SIM-You use the cards?

Physical nano-SIM

eSIM

Two physical SIMs

I don't know.

2. Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the old SIM-map

The process of extracting the SIM is the same for all Xiaomi models, except in rare cases (for example, Xiaomi Mi Max 3, where the slot is located on the side).

Turn off your smartphone (optional, but recommended for safety) Find a tray for your phone. SIM-maps – usually located on the top or side of the device (see photo for your model).
Insert a key clip into a small hole next to the tray. Press with force until the tray is pushed 1-2 mm. Do not use sharp objects (knife, pin) - this can scratch the body or break the mechanism.
Carefully stretch the tray to the end. If it jammed, don't pull -- sway left and right slightly.
Remove the old one. SIM-Note the position of the bevelled corner - the new SIM should lie the same.

If the tray is not moving, check:

🔹 Do you press into the right hole (sometimes users confuse it with a microphone).
🔹 Is there any physical damage to the body (after falling trays can deform).
🔹 Did not get dirt into the mechanism (you can gently blow or brush with a toothpick).

Turn off the phone (optional)

Find a tray for the SIM

Prepare a key clip

Check the new SIM for compatibility

Take a picture of the old SIM (if any)-->

Installation of a new SIM-maps: nuances for different models

Now, put the new nano-SIM in the tray. Notice two key points:

Position of the card: contacts (the golden part) should be directed downwards, and the beveled angle should coincide with the shape of the tray.
Hybrid slot: If you have a microSD-enabled model (like the Redmi 10 or the POCO M4 Pro), decide whether a second SIM or a memory card is more important.

Once installed, gently insert the tray back into the smartphone before clicking. Turn on the device (if it was turned off) and wait for the network icon to appear. If the network does not appear within 1-2 minutes, follow the steps from the next section.

⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (such as the Black Shark) have custom trays. If the SIM doesn't come in tight, don't push - check if you've mixed the sides.

Xiaomi model	Slot type	Support for eSIM	Max. SIM number.
Xiaomi 13 Ultra	Hybrid (SIM + SIM/microSD)	Yes.	2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + eSIM
Redmi Note 12 Pro+	Hybrid	No.	2 nano-SIM
POCO F5	Standard (2 SIM)	No.	2 nano-SIM
Xiaomi Mix Fold 3	Hybrid	Yes.	2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + eSIM
Redmi A2	Standard (2 SIM + microSD)	No.	2 nano-SIM + microSD

4.Setting up a mobile network after replacing the SIM

After installing a new SIM, the Xiaomi smartphone usually automatically connects to the operator’s network. However, in some cases, manual configuration is required.

Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
Choose a new one. SIM-map and set the parameters: 📶 Mobile data (if SIM for the Internet). 📞 Calls (if SIM for voice communication). 💬 SMS (if you need to receive messages).

If the network is still missing, click Network Search manually or restart the phone.

For dual-SIM models (such as Xiaomi 12T), you can set the priority to:

🔄 Basic SIM For data: choose which card to use for mobile internet.
📞 Default calls: specify which SIM will be coming from outgoing calls.
🏷 Tags SIM: Assign names (e.g., "Worker", "Personal") for convenience.

💡

If, after the replacement, SIM The phone doesn't see the network, try manually specifying the operator in the settings. → SIM-map → Select the network and disable automatic search.

5. Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even with the right SIM installation, there can be problems. Let's consider typical situations and ways to fix them:

🔴 Problem: "SIM-map not recognized"

Possible causes and solutions:

🛠 Bad contact: Remove the tray, wipe the sim with a dry cloth and install again.
🔄 Operator Incompatibility: Some virtual operators (e.g. Tinkoff Mobile) require manual configuration APN.
🔋 Software glitch: Restart your phone or reset your network settings in Settings → System system → Resetting settings → Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth.

🟡 Problem: No mobile internet (E or H icon)+")

What to do:

📶 Check the coverage: you may be out of range 4G/5G.
⚙️ Set up. APN: request parameters from the operator or find them on the official website.
🔄 Switch network mode: in settings SIM Select Only. 4G auto.

⚠️ Note: If after replacement SIM The phone stopped seeing both SIMs, check the tray for deformation. In some models (for example, Xiaomi Mi 11) if the installation is not neat, the contact plate may bend.

What if the tray is jammed?

If the tray doesn't extend even after you press a paper clip, don't try to pull it out with pliers! Put the phone on a flat surface, slightly heat the case with a hairdryer (no more than 1 minute) and try again. If that doesn't work, contact the service center - self-attempts can damage the motherboard.

6. Features of SIM replacement on models with eSIM

Xiaomi smartphones of recent years (starting with Xiaomi) 12T and newer) support eSIM technology - virtual SIM-A card that doesn't require a physical medium to activate it:

Get it. QR-code or activation code from the operator (for example, MTS, Beeline or MegaFon support eSIM).
Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
Select Add eSIM and scan. QR-code or enter the code manually.
Wait for activation (can take up to 5 minutes) and set up network settings as for a regular SIM.

The advantages of eSIM:

🔄 Quick switch between operators without replacing a physical card.
🌍 Travel convenience – you can connect a local operator without buying a physical one SIM.
🔒 Protection against loss or theft (virtual card cannot be removed).

Limitations:

❌ Not all operators support eSIM (check on official websites).
❌ You can’t transfer the eSIM to another phone (linked to the device).
❌ In some models, the Xiaomi eSIM works only in pairs with the physical. SIM.

💡

eSIM is a convenient solution for modern smartphones, but before activating, make sure that your carrier supports this technology, otherwise you will have to use a physical nano-SIM.

7. Safety tips for replacement SIM-map

Replacement SIM-The cards are a simple procedure, but there are risks involved:

🔐 Don't lose the old one. SIM: If it is linked to banking services (for example, Sberbank Online or Tinkoff), deactivate it through the bank application before extraction.
📱 Make a backup: export contacts and SMS, if they are kept on SIM-Card (in Android, they are usually stored in the phone’s memory).
🔍 Check it out. IMEI: post-replacement SIM Make sure your phone doesn’t lose connection to the network (type *#06# – should be displayed). IMEI).
🚫 Don't use the damaged ones. SIM: If there are scratches or chips on the card, it can damage the slot contacts.

If you sell or transfer your phone to another person, make sure to remove it. SIM-map and reset settings (Settings) → The phone. → Reset settings. This will protect your data from leakage.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the SIM with Xiaomi

❓ Can I use a microSD and two? SIM-mapping?

No, in most Xiaomi models with a hybrid slot, you can only choose one option: either two or more. SIM-card SIM + Memory card. Exceptions are some budget models (e.g. Redmi). A2), where there is a separate slot for microSD.

❓ What to do if your phone doesn’t see a new one SIM-map?

First, check if the SIM is properly installed (contacts should be directed down). If the problem persists: Reboot your phone. Try another one. SIM-card to rule out slot malfunction. Update your phone to the latest version. Contact the operator - the SIM may not be activated.

❓ How to transfer contacts with the old SIM new?

On Xiaomi smartphones, contacts are usually stored in a Google account or phone memory. SIM: Go to the Contacts app. Press. ⋮ → Contact management → Imports/Exports → Import with SIM-Choose where to save contacts (for example, in Google Account).

❓ Will it be? SIM-card from another operator?

Yes, but you may need to adjust things, like Tele2 or Yota, sometimes you need to manually prescribe APN settings, check them out on the operator's website or in the phone room.

❓ Can micro-SIM be cut to nano-SIM on its own?

Technically, yes, but we don't recommend doing that, because if you prune it in a sloppy way, you risk damaging the SIM chip, making it inoperable, and you'd better go to the operator's salon, where you'll get a free replacement for the card.