How to enable LTE on Xiaomi smartphones: all ways (Redmi, POCO, Mi)

Did you buy a new Xiaomi smartphone, but mobile internet is slower than expected? MIUI missing 4G/LTE The problem is often not the operator, but the phone settings. 13 Pro+ Xiaomi 14 Ultra network settings can be configured to 3G or 2G β€” especially SIM-The card is not inserted into the main slot.

In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to include LTE on smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO β€” From basic settings to hidden options in the engineering menu, you’ll also learn why a phone can β€œunplug” to connect to a phone. 4G, Even if the option is activated, and how to fix it without contacting the service center. MIUI 14/15 and all versions of Android 11–14.

1. Check the baseline conditions before setting up LTE

Before you dig into the settings, make sure that the problem is not at all in the phone. Here are 4 key points to check:

  • πŸ“Ά Operator network coverage: Go to the website of your mobile operator (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon, Tele2) and check the coverage map 4G In your region, for example, in some parts of the Far East or rural areas. LTE It can only work in the 800 MHz (Band 20) band, which not all smartphones support.
  • πŸ’³ Rate Plan: Make sure your fare includes 4G-Some budget packages (for example, Tele2’s β€œTalk” limit speed to the Internet). 3G.
  • πŸ”„ Phone reboot: Banal but often helps.Switch off your smartphone for 30 seconds, then turn it on again - this will reset the temporary errors of the communication module.
  • πŸ“± Slot for SIM-Maps: On two-symbol Xiaomi (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro) only the first slot (usually) SIM (1) supports 4G. If SIM inserted, LTE may not work.

If all points are in order, but LTE is still missing – move on to the phone settings.

πŸ“Š What kind of Xiaomi smartphone do you have?
Redmi (Note, K-series)
POCO (F, X-series)
Mi (11/12/13/14)
Black Shark
Other

2. Enable LTE through standard MIUI settings

The easiest way to activate 4G is to use the built-in Mobile Network menu, which is suitable for all Xiaomi smartphones on MIUI 12-15:

  1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
  2. Go to section. SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  3. Choose yours. SIM-card (if two of them).
  4. Tap on the network type (or preferred network type).
  5. Set the value of 4G (LTE) or 4G/3G/2G (auto).

When you change the settings, the phone will start searching for the network, and if after 1-2 minutes the 4G icon does not appear, try manually selecting the operator:

  • Same menu. SIM-Maps and mobile networks click Network Operators.
  • Turn off the option Automatically and wait until the phone finds the available networks.
  • Select your operator manually (e.g. MTS-RU or Beeline RU).

Check 4G coverage in your area |

Make sure that the SIM is in the first slot |

Reboot the phone |

Select the 4G (LTE) network type in the settings |

Update the firmware to the latest version MIUI-->

Important! On some models (e.g. POCO F5), after manual operator selection, a reboot may be required to take effect.

3. Network reset (if LTE is lost after the update)

A common problem for Xiaomi users is the disappearance of 4G after updating MIUI or resetting to factory settings, in which case resetting mobile network settings helps:

  1. Open the Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  2. Slip on the three dots in the top right corner and select Network Settings Reset.
  3. Confirm the action (a password or pattern lock may be required).

Once reset, the phone will reboot and the network settings will return to factory settings. Warning: this method will also delete all stored Wi-Fi passwords!

⚠️ Note: If you are using eSIM (virtual) SIM-map, resetting network settings may deactivate it. Before the procedure, make sure you have a backup of your eSIM profile or access to your carrier account to reactivate it.

4. Activation of LTE through the engineering menu (for experienced)

If standard methods didn’t work, you can try enabling 4G through an engineering menu (also known as the MTK Engineering Mode or Qualcomm Service Mode).This method is suitable for Xiaomi on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro, POCO X5 Pro) and MediaTek (e.g. Redmi 10C, POCO M5s).

Instructions for Snapdragon:

  1. Open the phone app and enter the combination: ##4636##
  2. In the menu that opens, select Phone Information.
  3. Scroll down to the Set your preferred network type.
  4. Select LTE only or LTE/UMTS auto.

Instructions for MediaTek:

  1. Enter the phone app: ##36446337##
  2. Go to Connectivity β†’ BandMode.
  3. Choose yours. SIM-map and install LTE as a priority treatment.

On some models (such as the Xiaomi 12T), the engineering menu may be blocked by the manufacturer, in which case the attempt to enter the code will not work.

What to do if the engineering menu is not opened?
If nothing happens after you enter the code, it means that the manufacturer has disabled access to the engineering menu in your firmware. Alternative options: 1. Use applications like MTK Engineering Mode (for MediaTek) or Shortcut Master (for finding hidden menus). 2. Try entering code through the Secret Codes app from Google Play. 3. Some firmware runs an alternative code: ##2263# (displays the frequency bandwid version).

5.LTE problems on specific Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique bugs associated with the operation of 4G. In the table below we have collected the most common cases and solutions:

Smartphone modelProblem.Decision
Redmi Note 10 Pro, Note 11 ProAfter upgrading to MIUI 14, LTE disappears on the second SIMMove the SIM to the first slot or roll back the firmware to MIUI 13
POCO X3 Pro, POCO F34G only works in LTE only mode, switches to 3G in the carIn the Engineering Menu, disable NR (5G) support if it is activated
Xiaomi 12/13 LiteLow LTE speed (up to 10 Mbps) with good signalEnable VoLTE in the settings SIM-maps and reboot phone
Redmi 9A/9CThere is no 4G (LTE) option in the network type menuUpdate the firmware to the latest version or use the engineering menu

If your model isn't in the table, but the problem is similar, try solutions for similar devices, such as 3G switching bugs often solved by turning off VoLTE or changing the priority of the network in the engineering menu.

πŸ’‘

On 5G-enabled smartphones (such as the Xiaomi 13T or POCO F5 Pro), LTE sometimes doesn’t work well due to conflict with the NR (New Radio) module. Try disabling 5G in network settings if 4G is more important to you.

6. Additional settings for stable LTE

Even if you manage to turn on 4G, the connection can be unstable, and here are some hidden settings that will help improve the quality of the network:

  • πŸ“‘ Turning off automatic switching to 3G: In the engineering menu (#4636##) find the Disable option. 2G or LTE Only mode and activate it. That'll make the phone use it all the time. 4G, even if the signal is weak.
  • πŸ”„ Band: If you know what bands 4G If you use your operator (e.g. Band 3 or Band 7 for MTS), you can manually set them in the engineering menu.
  • πŸ“Ά AFC (Automatic Frequency Control: Some firmwares have an option AFC Enable – Enable it can improve the sensitivity of the communication module.

To check your current network settings, use applications like NetMonster or CellMapper to show which tower you are connected to, signal strength, and bandwidth you use.

⚠️ Note: Manually changing bandwidth (Band) can cause total network loss if you choose an unsupported range.Before experimenting, write down your current settings or back up through Settings. β†’ System system β†’ Backup.

7.If nothing helps: hardware causes

If you've tried all the ways, but LTE still doesn't work, the problem may be in the hardware of the phone.

  • πŸ“‘ Damaged communication module: Often occurs after falls or moisture. 4G, neither 3G, or the signal is constantly missing.
  • πŸ”Œ Faulty slot SIM-Cards: Contacts may have oxidized or bent. Check if it works SIM op-phone.
  • πŸ”‹ Weak battery: At a discharge below 15%, some Xiaomi smartphones automatically reduce the power of the communication module, which can lead to loss of power LTE.
  • πŸ› οΈ Informal firmware: Castomous ROM (LineageOS or Pixel Experience sometimes have bugs that support LTE for specific regions.

To diagnose hardware problems:

  1. Check your phone for physical damage (cracks, bloated battery).
  2. Put it in. SIM-A card to another smartphone – if there 4G It works, the problem is your Xiaomi.
  3. Make a factory reset (Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ Settings Reset) Warning: This will delete all data!

If you suspect a malfunction of the communication module, it is better to contact the service center. Self-repair (for example, soldering of the antenna) can lead to a complete loss of warranty.

πŸ’‘

Before visiting the service center, make sure to check if your carrier is blocking 4G for your tariff or IMEI phone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is my Xiaomi not having a 4G (LTE) option in its network settings?
This can happen for several reasons: The outdated version MIUI β€” Update the firmware through Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ Updating the system. SIM-The card is inserted into the second slot that does not support 4G (This is true for most two-sim Xiaomis. 4G For your tariff or region, there's a custom firmware on the phone that doesn't have support. LTE If the problem persists, try to turn it on. LTE through the engineering menu.
How do I know if my Xiaomi supports my carrier’s 4G ranges?
Each Xiaomi model supports certain bandwidths (Bands). For example: Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G: Band 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41. POCO X5 Pro: Band 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66. Xiaomi 13 Lite: Band 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 66. You can find out the supported ranges for your model on sites like FrequencyCheck or Kimil. Compare their official form on your website.
Can I include? LTE Xiaomi-free SIM-map?
No, to activate the mobile network is necessary SIM-card with an active tariff supporting 4G. However, you can: Check your network settings and make sure the option is available. LTE Connect to Wi-Fi and use instant messengers or Internet calls (VoIP). Use eSIM (if your model supports virtualization). SIM-map).
Why is LTE working but internet speeds are so low?
Low speed. 4G This can be related to: overloading of the operator's network, especially during peak hours (evening); tariff restriction, check the traffic limit or the speed in your personal account; weak signal, if the phone is connected to a distant tower, the speed will be lower; wrong settings. APN β€” Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Access points (APN) And compare the parameters to the operator's recommendations. VPN β€” some VPN-For diagnostics, use the Speedtest or Okla app, which will show the actual download/return speed.
How to turn off automatic switching from 4G to 3G?
So that the phone doesn't switch to 3G low-signal 4G, Do the following: Enter the code in the phone application: ##4636## Go to Phone Information β†’ Set your preferred network type. LTE only (only) 4G). The disadvantage of this method is that if the signal 4G It will disappear completely, the phone will remain without communication (do not switch to the phone). 3G/2G).