How to change the right way SIM-Map on Xiaomi: instructions for all models

Replacement SIM-Xiaomi’s smartphone cards seem like a simple procedure, but even here there are nuances that can cause problems, from the wrong format of the card to damage to the tray when sloppy extraction, errors lead to network absence, damage to contacts or even breakage of the device. In this article, we will analyze all the stages: from tool preparation to mobile Internet configuration after installing a new one. SIM.

Particular attention will be paid to models with hybrid slots (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ or POCO X5 Pro), where the second slot is combined with a memory card connector, as well as devices with eSIM support (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Mix Fold 3). If you have never faced a SIM replacement or switch from a regular card to a nano-SIM, our step-by-step instructions and warnings will help avoid typical errors.

Preparation for replacement SIM-Maps: What to Know Before Starting

Before you extract an old SIM, check out three key points:

• 📱 Format SIM-Modern Xiaomi supports only nano-SIM (12.3 × 8.8 If you have a different size card (micro-SIM or standard), you will have to cut it or replace it in the operator’s cabin. Using adapters or homemade crops often leads to loss of contact with the network due to the card being displaced in the tray.
• 🔧 A tray extraction tool. It comes with a special paper clip (key-needle) that you don't have, and if you don't have one, you'll get a straight paper clip or a thin needle, but don't use pins or toothpicks, because they can damage the mechanism.
• 📶 Network compatibility. Make sure the new SIM It supports your carrier's frequencies, like Xiaomi. 12T Pro does not work with networks CDMA (As with some US carriers, and older models (e.g. Redmi) 5A) may not support 5G.

If you are switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM, note that not all Xiaomi models support it. At the time of 2026, eSIM is available only in flagships: Xiaomi 13/14 series, Mix Fold 2/3 and some POCO models. Check compatibility on the manufacturer's website or from the operator.

⚠️ Note: Do not remove the tray for SIM-cards when the smartphone is on, if it supports hot swap. Despite the stated possibility, in rare cases, this can cause the communication module to fail.

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

The process of extracting the tray is the same for most Xiaomi models, but there are exceptions: for example, in the Xiaomi Civi 3 slot is located on the upper end, and in the POCO M6 Pro - on the lower.

1. Turn off your smartphone or activate flight mode, which will prevent any failures when you retrieve the card.
2. Find a tray for SIM-It's usually on the top or side end, on some models (e.g. Xiaomi). 12S Ultra) slot is hidden under a protective cover - it must be gently tucked with a nail or plastic card.
3. Insert the paperclip into a small hole next to the slot and press until you click. The tray will extend a few millimeters - pull it with your fingers.
4. Remove the old one. SIM-If the tray is hybrid (for example, in Redmi Note 11 Pro)+), Remember which slot the card was in, so as not to confuse with the microSD connector.

If the tray is not extended, do not make excessive efforts.

• 🔹 The paperclip is not thin enough or bent.
• 🔹 Dust or dirt got into the tray (relevant for devices that have been in repairs).
• 🔹 The mechanism jammed after the fall of the smartphone.

⚠️ Warning: If the tray is not removed after three attempts, do not use pliers or other tools. Contact the service center - self-intervention can damage the connector, and its replacement will cost 1,500-3,000 rubles.

Installation of a new SIM-Maps: nuances for different Xiaomi models

Before installing a new card, inspect the tray for damage. The contacts should be free of scratches, oxidation or contamination. If any, gently clean them with a blow wipe or an alcohol wipe.

For models with a conventional tray (one or two nano-SIMs)

Examples: Xiaomi 11T, Redmi 10, POCO X4 Pro.

1. Put it down. SIM-card in the tray chip down, combining the beveled corner of the card with a similar cutout on the tray.
2. Carefully insert the tray back before the click. Don't push too hard - if it doesn't come in, check if the card is correctly installed.
3. Turn on your smartphone and wait for the network to be determined (usually takes 1-2 minutes).

For models with hybrid tray (SIM + microSD)

Examples: Redmi Note 12 Pro, POCO F5.

In hybrid slots, the second connector can be used either under the second SIM-If you have a card or a memory card, please note that if you have two SIM-The card, the microSD slot will be locked. SIM-map.

For models with eSIM support

Examples: Xiaomi 14, Mix Fold 3.

If your smartphone supports eSIM, you can use it instead of a physical card or with it.

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile fare.
2. Select “Use eSIM” and scan. QR-code provided by the operator.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen. It takes up to 5 minutes.

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If, after installing a new SIM-The smartphone does not see the network, try to restart the device or manually select the operator in the settings (Settings) → SIM-map → Choice of network).

Network settings after replacement SIM-map

After installing a new one SIM-The smartphone must automatically connect to the operator's network, but in some cases manual adjustment is required:

• 📶 No Network: Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks and enable the option “Automatic Network Selection”** or select the operator manually.
• 🌐 No mobile internet: Make sure you have the settings APN You can ask for it from the operator or find it on their website.
• 🔄 Constant reconnection: Check if the mode is activated 4G instead 5G (or vice versa in Settings → SIM-map → Preferred type of network.

If you use two of them SIM-maps, in settings you can set priorities:

• 📞 Calls: Choose which one SIM will be used by default.
• 📱 Mobile data: Specify which card the Internet will work through.
• 💬 SMS: Set up sending messages with the right one SIM.

Some models (such as the Xiaomi 13T) have a Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) feature that allows both cards to remain active at the same time, but if one card is running on a 5G network, the other card can temporarily shut down. This is normal behavior, which is how Qualcomm and Mediatek modem architectures work.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when replacing. SIM-Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 📵 Ignoring flight mode: Although many Xiaomi models support hot replacement SIM, It is better to turn off the smartphone or activate the flight mode to avoid failures.

Another common problem is the loss of the network after pruning. SIM-If you have yourself trimmed the micro-SIM to nano-SIM, make sure that:

• 🔹 There are no barbs left on the edges of the map.
• 🔹 Chip not damaged (no scratches or chips).
• 🔹 The card sits tightly in the tray and does not hang out.

⚠️ Note: If after replacement SIM-The smartphone stopped seeing the second card (in models with two slots), check if the settings are lost APN. Sometimes operators tie the configuration to the IMEI specific SIM-cards, and after replacing it, you need to reconfigure them.

Features of replacement SIM-Maps on popular Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique nuances when replacing SIM-Let's look at the most popular models:

Xiaomi 13/14 Series

Flagships support eSIM, but physical slots are dual (nano-SIM + nano-SIM).The tray is located on the lower end. Feature: when using two physical cards, 5G only runs on the main SIM (slot 1).

Redmi Note 12 Pro+

Hybrid slot (SIM + SIM/microSD). If you use two of them SIM-card, microSD slot will be blocked. Note this model supports 5G first-hand SIM-map.

POCO F5

Tray for SIM-It's on the top end of the map, and unlike many models, it doesn't have any protection against dust and moisture (IP-certificate), therefore, when replacing SIM in dusty conditions, it is recommended to blow the slot with compressed air.

Xiaomi Mix Fold 3

Supports three. SIM-cards: two physical nano-SIMs and one eSIM. However, only two cards (any combination) can work at a time. The tray is on the upper end and is non-standardly shaped - do not try to insert cards from other devices into it.

For models with water and dust protection (such as the Xiaomi 13 Pro with IP68) after removing the tray, check the sealing gum. If it is damaged or lost elasticity, the leakage will be broken and the smartphone will lose protection.

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Before the replacement SIM-maps on models with protection IP68 (For example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra) make sure that the sealing gum on the tray is intact. If it is torn, the leakage will be broken, and the device will lose water resistance.

What to do if you replace it after replacement SIM-card?

If the smartphone does not see a new one SIM-map or not catching the network, act on the following algorithm:

1. Reboot the device. Sometimes the communication module is reset after you reboot.
2. Check if the card is correctly installed. Remove the tray and install it. SIM-map.
3. Make sure that SIM-Some operators (e.g. Tele2 or Yota) require activation via USSD-team.
4. Update the operator's settings. Go to Settings. → SIM-map → [operator] → Update.
5. Reset your network settings. To do this, go to Settings → Memory and Reset → Network Reset. This will remove stored Wi-Fi and mobile network settings, but often helps with connection problems.
6. Check IMEI. Enter the phone app *#06#. If zeros or Invalid are displayed instead of IMEI, the communication module is faulty - repair is required.

If none of these methods worked, the problem may be:

• 🔹 Malfunctions SIM-Cards (try inserting them into another phone).
• 🔹 Damage to the tray or contacts (replacement in the service is needed).
• 🔹 Software failure (will help reset to factory settings or flashing).
• 🔹 Hardware breakdown (for example, the dump of the antenna module after falling).

On models with Mediatek (e.g. Redmi 10C), network problems after SIM replacement may be due to firmware errors. Check for updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions