How to turn on the second SIM-Map on Xiaomi: all ways and hidden settings

Double. SIM-A map in Xiaomi smartphones is not just a convenience, but often a necessity: one line for work, another for personal calls, or a separate number for trips abroad. The phone doesn't see the map, doesn't let you choose the network, or constantly switches between operators. In this article, we'll look at all the ways you can turn on the second one. SIM on Redmi devices, POCO and Mi, including hidden settings MIUI, which the manufacturer does not advertise.

It's important to understand that the algorithm of actions depends on the model of the smartphone and the firmware version. For example, in Xiaomi 12T Pro and Redmi Note 11, the setup process is different from older devices like the Mi A2, where the second slot is combined with a memory card. We took these nuances into account and prepared universal instructions that will suit most current models (2020-2026 release). If your phone is released earlier, check compatibility at the end of the article.

Verification of two support SIM-Maps in your Xiaomi model

Before you try to activate the second line, make sure your smartphone physically supports two nano-SIMs or a combination of SIM + microSD. Even if the specs say "Dual SIM", this does not always mean that two carriers are working simultaneously.

  • πŸ” Official website: Find your model at mi.com β†’ section β€œSpecifications" β†’ point "SIM Search for the phrases Dual Nano-SIM or Hybrid SIM slot.
  • πŸ“¦ Box and tray: The package usually has a sticker with slot information. SIM-The card can have: Two separate slots under Nano-SIM (full support for two operators). + one-up Nano-SIM/microSD (hybrid).
  • πŸ› οΈ Visual inspection: Take out the tray and count the contacts. Two separate sets of metal plates = two-slot.

Pay special attention to hybrid slots (for example, in Redmi). 9A or POCO M3). They cannot be used simultaneously by two SIM-If you're critical to extending your memory, consider cloud storage or OTG-flash-drive.

πŸ“Š What type of slot in your Xiaomi?
Two Nano-SIMs (without microSD)
Hybrid (SIM + microSD)
One Nano-SIM
I don't know.

Preparation SIM-pre-installed

Problems with the second SIM recognition are often not related to the phone, but to the card itself.

  1. Check the size: Make sure you have Nano-SIM (the smallest format). If an old-style card (Mini-SIM or Micro-SIM), trim it with a special stapler or contact the operator for a replacement.
  2. Activate the card: Insert the SIM into another phone and make sure it works (there is a network, you can call).Inactive or blocked cards Xiaomi does not recognize.
  3. Clean contacts: Wipe the metal part of the card with an alcohol napkin - oxidation or dirt can interfere with communication with the phone.

The critical nuance for hybrid slots is that if you use a memory card, you need to remove it before installing a second SIM. Otherwise, the phone will not see the new slot, this applies to the Redmi Note 8 Pro, POCO X3 NFC and others with a split tray.

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If you travel often, order a multi-format communication salon SIM-map (with logging for all sizes) This will save you from cropping problems when changing your phone.

Step-by-step: how to turn on the second SIM on Xiaomi

Now, the basic process. The instructions are suitable for most smartphones on MIUI 12-14 (including global and Chinese firmware versions). If you have an older version, update the system in Settings β†’ About Phone β†’ System Update.

β˜‘οΈ Preparation for activation of the second SIM

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  1. Installation SIM-Maps: Turn off the phone (required!) Remove the tray with a paper clip (the hole is usually on the right end of the case). Place the first one. SIM slot SIM 1, second-in SIM 2 (or SIM/microSD Note the position of the bevelled angle, which should match the mark on the tray. Put the tray back before the click and turn on the phone.
  2. Activation in Settings: Go to Settings β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks. Tap the name of the second operator (for example, "SIM 2: MTS. ". Turn on the switch on at the top of the screen. PIN-Enter the code (by default, 0000 or 1234).
  3. Network Priority Setting: By default, Xiaomi can only use one SIM To change that: Same menu SIM-Maps and mobile networks select Preferred SIM-Please indicate which one SIM exploit: πŸ“ž Calls (you can choose "Always ask"). 🌐 Mobile data (only one data) SIM!). πŸ“Ά SMS (It's also selected separately).

If the second SIM is not identified after these steps, move to the next problem-solving section.

What to do if your phone asks for β€œUnlock Network”?
This error occurs when SIM-The card is linked to another device (e.g., under contract with the operator). Solutions: 1. SIM to your "native" phone and request unlock from the operator. 2 If the card is new, activate it via the phone. USSD-command (e.g. *111# for Beeline). 3. For foreign SIM You may need to manually adjust APN (see section below).

Solving common problems with the second SIM

Even after the second SIM is installed correctly, we have collected common errors and ways to fix them:

Problem.Possible causeDecision
The phone doesn't see the second SIMCard inactive Bad contact in slot Incompatible format (not Nano-SIM)Check the card on another phone. Remove the tray and clean the contacts with a stripe. Cut the SIM to Nano.
No network on the second SIMNot configured APN Slot disabled in settings Problems with the operatorAsk for APN settings from the carrier (USSD or SMS). Reboot your phone. Check network coverage in your area.
You cannot use the mobile Internet for the second SIM.Settings prioritize the first SIMGo to Settings. β†’ SIM-map β†’ Mobile data and select the second SIM.
Constantly switching between SIMsThe option β€œDual 4G+ communication” is enabledTurn it off in Settings. β†’ SIM-map β†’ Double bond.

If none of these methods worked, try resetting your network settings:

  1. Go to Settings β†’ Memory β†’ Reset settings.
  2. Select Network Settings Reset (does not reset application data!).
  3. After restarting, reconfigure both SIM-map.

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If the second SIM It works only for calls, not for the internet, the problem is almost always in settings. APN. Request them from the operator or set them up manually in Settings β†’ SIM-map β†’ [operator] β†’ Access points (APN).

Hidden MIUI settings for advanced users

In the firmware MIUI There are hidden options that allow you to more accurately configure the work of two SIM-To access the maps:

  1. Engineer Mode Activation: Type in the phone app code: ##4636## Select Phone Information β†’ Scroll down to the Set preferred network type. Here you can manually set the network standard (2G/3G/4G) for each SIM separately.
  2. Setting Call Priority: In the same engineering menu, go to Settings β†’ Additionally. β†’ Settings SIM-You can do this here: πŸ”„ Set up automatic switching between SIM without a network. πŸ“΅ Disable roaming notifications for specific SIM. πŸ”‹ Optimize battery consumption (turn off background activity for second-hand battery) SIM).

Attention! Changing hidden settings can cause the network to be unstable. If you're not sure, don't change settings, mark the current values (picture the screen) before editing.

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If you frequently use two SIMs roaming, turn off automatic network selection in the engineering menu, which will prevent unexpected connections to expensive foreign carriers.

Features of customization for specific Xiaomi models

Some Xiaomi smartphones have unique nuances when working with two SIM-We've collected the most common ones:

  • πŸ“± Xiaomi 13/13 Pro, 12S Ultra: Supports Dual 5G β€” both SIM They can work in networks. 5G Simultaneously (if coverage is available). Go to Settings to activate β†’ SIM-map β†’ Network mode and select 5G/4G/3G/2G slot-wise.
  • πŸ“± Redmi Note 10/11 series, POCO F3/F4: They have a hybrid slot, but support Dual VoLTE (calls on the phone). 4G both SIM). To enable: Activate VoLTE in the settings of each SIM. Make sure that the operator supports the technology (in Russia – MegaFon, Beeline, Tele)2).

Mi 11 Lite, Redmi 9/9A:

In these models, the second SIM does not support 4G if the first one works in this standard. Solution: in the network settings, for the first SIM, select 3G and for the second, 4G.

POCO X3 Pro, Redmi K40:

They can β€œlose” a second SIM after updating the firmware, in which case resetting the network settings (see section above) or flashing through Fastboot will help.

To clarify the characteristics of your model, use the GSMArena service - enter the name of the phone in the search and check the "Network" section.

How to Optimize Two SIMs for Battery Savings

Two active SIM-These cards increase battery consumption by 15 to 25 percent because of the constant search for the network:

  • πŸ”‹ Turn off background activity: Go to Settings β†’ Battery β†’ Optimize the battery and choose the second one. SIM Restrict background activity.
  • πŸ“Ά Set up Network Search: In the Engineering Menu (#4636###) disable Automatic Network Search for the second SIM, if you rarely use it.
  • ⚑ Use the aircraft mode: If the second SIM You only need to make calls, turn on the plane mode in the settings for it. SIM-cards, leaving only calls active.
  • πŸ”„ Turn off the unnecessary. SIM: B Settings β†’ SIM-You can completely deactivate the second card without physically removing it.

How do I get calls to both SIMs at the same time?
V MIUI There is no dual card call feature, but you can configure it: πŸ”„ Redirection: First one SIM Activate redirection to number two. SIM (USSD-The code depends on the operator, for example 21[number]# for Beeline). πŸ“± Apps: Use services like Dialer One that can manage multiple lines.
What if the second SIM stopped working after the MIUI update?
This is a common problem after major updates. Order of action: Reboot your phone. Reset your network settings (Settings β†’ Memory β†’ Reset your settings β†’ Network Reset). If it doesn't work, reset to factory settings (don't forget to backup!). Older models (Mi A1, Redmi 5) may need to roll back to the previous version of MIUI via Fastboot.
Can I use two SIMs from a single operator?
Technically yes, but there are nuances: βœ… Most operators (MTS, Beeline, Tele2) allow the use of two of their own SIM single-phone. ⚠️ MegaFon may block such a scheme for corporate tariffs. πŸ”„ If both SIM on a single number (for example, the main number) + Take, you may have problems identifying the device on the network. SIM different operators.