How to properly insert 2 SIM-cards in the smartphone Xiaomi: tray, settings and nuances

Use of the two SIM-The cards in Xiaomi smartphones are a standard feature on most modern models, but even experienced users sometimes face difficulties. Installation errors can lead to loss of communication, damage to cards or even break the slot. In this article, we will analyze not only the mechanical part (how to physically insert cards), but also the software configuration: the choice of the main part. SIM, Distribution of traffic, resolution of conflicts between operators.

Xiaomi has hybrid slots in some models (like the Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 Pro), where the second slot is combined with a microSD connector. This means you have to choose between a second SIM or additional memory. We will explain in detail how to determine the type of slot in your model, which cards are supported (nano-SIM, eSIM), and what to do if the phone does not see one of the SIMs after installation.

Important: The instructions in this article are relevant for MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS (2026), and if you have older firmware, some menu items may differ, as we’ll mention.

1. How to determine the type SIM- slot in your Xiaomi

Before you insert cards, you need to understand which slot is installed in your smartphone. Xiaomi releases devices with three types of slots:

• 🔄 Double independent slot (Dual) SIM Dual Standby, DSDS) — Two nano-SIMs without microSD support. 13T, Redmi K60.
• 🔀 Hybrid Dual Slot (Hybrid Dual) SIM) — The second slot is combined with a microSD: POCO M6 Pro, Redmi Note 13.
• 📱 One physical. + eSIM – rare, but found in flagships (e.g. Xiaomi 14 Ultra for the European market).

To find out the type of slot:

1. Look at the tray for SIM-maps (usually listed on it: "SIM1 + SIM2" or "SIM + microSD").
2. Or check the characteristics of the model on the official Xiaomi website in the "Network" section.
3. In the phone menu: Settings → About the phone → General information → SIM-card status.

If you have a hybrid slot, you have to choose between a second SIM or a memory card. Note that the microSD in Xiaomi often runs slower than the internal memory (UHS-I vs UFS 3.1 class), so it is better to use an internal drive for games and heavy applications.

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

The installation process seems simple, but many users damage cards or trays due to careless actions.

Step 1. Remove the tray.

• 📍 Find the hole to extract on the side of the phone (usually on the right).
• 🔧 Insert a paper clip (or a special key from the set) before clicking - the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm.
• ⚠️ Do not use needles or sharp objects – they can damage the mechanism.

Step 2. Set it up. SIM-map.

• 📱 Place the nano-SIM in the tray chip down, paired with notches (the tray usually has a diagram).
• 🔄 If the slot is hybrid, select the priority: SIM Or microSD, you can't put both of them in at the same time!
• 🚫 Don't force it, the card should come in easily. If it resists, check your orientation.

Step 3. Put the tray back in.

• 🔙 Carefully push the tray to the click. Make sure it sits straight - skewings can lead to poor contact.
• 🔋 Turn on your phone and wait for network definition (may take up to 2 minutes).

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If the tray is not inserted to the end, check if the dust has entered the grooves. Clean them with compressed air (a canister for technique) or a soft brush.

3. Setting up two SIM-card MIUI/HyperOS

After the physical installation, you need to configure the software part. Xiaomi offers flexible options to manage two SIMs:

Basic settings:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Select Control. SIM-map.
3. Assign names to the cards (such as "Worker" and "Personal") for convenience.
4. Set a priority SIM for calls (it will be used by default).

Traffic distribution:

• 🌐 In the same menu, select Mobile Traffic.
• 📶 Set up a primary. SIM for mobile internet (or leave "Request when connected").
• ⚠️ Attention: if both SIM support 4G/5G, But one of them often loses the network, give priority to a more stable operator.

Additional options:

• 📞 Calls. → Choice SIM For outgoings – you can set rules for contacts (for example, all calls to the Internet) +7 - through SIM1, on +375 - through SIM2).
• 💬 Communications → Settings SIM — map-selection SMS default.
• ⚡ Plane mode - here you can turn off communication for each SIM separately.

Table 4: Compatibility of Xiaomi models with two SIM-map

Not all Xiaomi devices support two physical devices. SIM-Below are current data for popular models 2022-2026:

Note that even if the model supports two SIMs, 5G is not always possible at the same time. For example, in Redmi Note 12, with two active SIMs, one of them will work in 4G, even if both support 5G. This is a hardware limitation.

5. Common Problems and Their Solutions

After installation SIM-Something went wrong, use this guide:

Problem 1: The phone doesn't see one of the SIM-map.

• 🔍 Check if the card is inserted correctly (chip down, before clicking).
• 🧹 Clear the contacts. SIM and a tray of alcohol napkin (without pile!).
• 🔄 Restart your phone or turn on/off mode on the plane.
• 📱 Check the card on another phone – it may be damaged.

Problem 2: The network on one of the SIMs is permanently lost.

• 📡 Settings menu → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Network type only set up 3G or 4G (Sometimes automatic mode is glitchy).
• 🔋 Check the signal level in Settings → The phone. → Status SIM. If it's lower. -110 dBm, the problem may be in the operator.
• 📍 Try to manually select the network: Settings → Mobile network → Network operators → Search.

Problem 3: You can’t call with a second SIM.

⚠️ Note: In some regions (e.g. China, India) Xiaomi blocks the possibility of calling from the second one SIM Because of local laws, see if this lock is activated in your firmware, and the solution is firmware on the global version. MIUI.

• 📞 Make sure that in Call Settings → SIM For the outgoings, the correct map is selected.
• 🔒 Check if it's blocked. SIM PUK-code (there will be a request when included).

6. eSIM in Xiaomi: How to set up a second SIM without a physical card

Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T pro POCO F5 Pro for the European market) support eSIM - virtual SIM-This is convenient if you travel frequently or want to save space in the tray.

How to activate eSIM:

1. Get it. QR-code or activation data from the operator (for example, MTS, Beeline or Tele2 Support eSIM support).
2. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add eSIM.
3. Scan it. QR-code or enter data manually.
4. Confirm activation – eSIM will appear in the list SIM-map.

Limitations of eSIM in Xiaomi:

• 🌍 Not all operators support eSIM (only large federal ones in Russia).
• 📱 Not all Xiaomi models are compatible (check on the manufacturer’s website).
• 🔄 Switching between eSIM and physical SIM requires rebooting.

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eSIM is easy to travel by connecting a local operator without buying a physical card, but it is not as common in Russia as it is in Europe or the United States.

7. Optimizing the two SIMs: Tips for Saving Battery

Two active SIM-The cards increase battery consumption by 10 to 15 percent, as the phone is constantly scanning the networks of two operators:

• 🔋 B Settings → Battery. → Energy saving mode add an exception to SIM-maps, but limit background activity for unnecessary apps.
• 📶 Disable Network Auto Search for the Second SIM, If it is rarely used: Settings → Mobile network → [choose SIM] → Searching the net → Manually.
• ⚡ B Settings → SIM-map → Turn it off. 4G/5G second SIM, If you only need it for calls.
• 🌙 Use the schedule for the second. SIM: For example, turn it off at night through Settings. → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Shut down.

If autonomy is critical for you, consider a single physical SIM and eSIM (if the model supports it).

8. Frequent Questions (FAQ)