How to turn on the second SIM-map on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T: full-length instruction

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T — One of the most popular mid-range smartphones that supports two SIM-However, many users have difficulty activating the second slot first: the phone does not see the card, does not let you select the network or automatically disables one of the two slots. SIM. In this article, we will discuss all ways to include the second SIM-maps on the Redmi Note 8T, including hidden settings MIUI, Solving common errors and optimizing the two cards.

It is important to understand that the Redmi Note 8T is equipped with a hybrid slot: this means that the second connector can be used either for nano-SIM or for a microSD card (up to 256 GB). If you have already inserted a microSD, you will have to choose which is more important: additional storage or a second SIM. Also note that when using two SIMs, one of them will not be able to work on 4G networks (this is a hardware limitation, not a software one).

In the article you will find:

• 🔧 Step-by-step instructions for physical installation SIM-cards (from slot photo).
• ⚙️ Set up network settings for both SIM into MIUI 12/13/14.
• ⚡ How to solve problems if the phone does not see the second card.
• 📶 How to set a priority SIM call-in, SMS and mobile Internet.

1.Preparation: Compatibility check and slot selection

Before you put the second in. SIM-Make sure your Redmi Note is on the map. 8T All versions of this smartphone (including the global and Chinese) are equipped with a dual modem, but there are nuances:

• 🌍 Global version (M1908C3XG) — Supports 2 nano-SIMs + microSD (hybrid slot).
• 🇨🇳 Chinese version (M1908C3XC) — You may need to unlock to work with two SIM foreign.
• 📱 Slot 1 – always for nano-SIM (supports) 4G).
• 📱 Slot 2 — Hybrid: either nano-SIM (only) 2G/3G), microSD.

To check the current configuration of the slots:

1. Open Settings → About the phone → General information.
2. Find the MIUI version and the device model.
3. If only one SIM is displayed in the status, then the second slot is either empty or occupied by a memory card.

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If you are using a microSD and want to upgrade to a second SIM, don’t remove the memory card hot – turn off the phone first to avoid damaging the file system.

Physical installation second SIM-map

For the installation of the second SIM-You'll need a paper clip or a special key (complete with your phone:

1. Turn off the Redmi Note 8T (required!) Removing the tray when the phone is on can damage the contacts.
2. Find a slot for SIM-cards on the left side of the device (near the volume button).
3. Insert the paperclip into the hole and gently press the tray to move out.
4. Put the second nano-SIM into the SIM 2 slot (usually marked with a gold frame).
5. Put the tray back in place before you click.

If you've used a microSD before, you'll have to remove it. Note that when you rearrange your cards, your phone may reset your network settings, so save important APN settings in advance.

3. Activation of the second SIM in the MIUI settings

After installing the card, turn on the phone. If the second SIM is not activated automatically, follow the following steps:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Tap the name of the second SIM (for example, SIM 2: Megaphone).
3. Activate the switch Turn on SIM-map.
4. Select Network Type: If you need calls and SMS, leave 3G (4G will not be available for this slot).

If you have the option, turn on SIM-The card is inactive, check it out:

• 🔄 Correctly install the map (turn it over and try again).
• 📶 Support by your operator for roaming (some virtual operators block the second one) SIM).
• 🔧 Update of the firmware: in older versions MIUI There were bugs with the recognition of the second slot.

Second second SIM correctly installed in slot 2|Phone's on and unlocked.|The operator supports the work in your region|No active roaming (can block the second one) SIM)-->

4.Setting priorities: calls, SMS and the Internet

By default, the Redmi Note 8T uses SIM 1 for all operations.

Important: If you choose SIM 2 for mobile internet, the speed will be limited to 3G (maximum 42 Mbps), even if the carrier supports 4G. This is a hardware limitation of the Redmi Note 8T, associated with the architecture of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 modem.

SIM 1 (4G)|SIM 2 (3G)|Both in turn.|I don't use the mobile internet.-->

5 Problem Solving: The phone doesn't see the second SIM

If the second SIM is not determined, try the following methods (from simple to complex):

1. Phone reboot – sometimes the system doesn’t recognize a new card before restarting.
2. Cache Clearing: Go to Settings → Applications → App Management. Find SIM cards and mobile networks (or Phone). Tap Storage → Clear cache.
3. Resetting network settings: Settings → System system → Additionally. → Resetting settings → Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth ⚠️ Warning: This will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords and associated Bluetooth devices.
4. IMEI check: Enter in the dialer *#06#. If Invalid is displayed for SIM 2 or void - a problem in the hardware (contact the service).

If nothing helps, check out:

• 🛠️ Integrity of contacts in the slot (possibly contaminated or bent).
• 📱 Possibility of work SIM-card on another phone.
• 🔄 Update of firmware - in MIUI 12.5 and later, the second slot recognition bugs are fixed.

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In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by restarting or cleaning the cache. If the second SIM does not work after all the manipulations, either the slot (physical breakdown) or the firmware (flashing is required).

Optimizing the two SIMs: Balance between speed and savings

Use of the two SIM-maps on the Redmi Note 8T It has its own characteristics. Here's how to maximize efficiency:

• 📶 Always use the internet for the SIM 1 (4G). Nana SIM 2 The internet will be slower, but you can call and receive SMS parallelly.
• 💰 To save money, set up conditional forwarding: for example, calls to SIM 1 (cheap tariff) redirected to SIM 2 (with unlimited minutes) after 20 seconds.
• 🔋 To save battery, turn off network search on unused SIM: Settings → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Searching the net → Manually.

Also note the "Dual SIM is always active" mode (available in MIUI 13+):

1. Go to Settings → SIM-cards → More.
2. Turn on the option Double SIM is always active.
3. This will allow you to receive calls to both SIMs at the same time (but increases battery consumption).

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If you travel frequently, set up automatic network selection for the second one. SIM: Settings → SIM-map → [choose SIM] → Choice of network → Automatically, this will help avoid manual adjustments when crossing borders.

7. Frequent Questions and Myths About Two SIMs in Redmi Note 8T

Let’s look at common misconceptions and user questions:

8. Alternative solutions: if the second SIM is not needed all the time

If you rarely use a second SIM but want to keep it fast, consider these options:

• 🔄 Portable modem – some operators offer USB-modems with two-pronged SIM. Connect them as needed.
• 📱 The second phone, for example, a budget Redmi 9A You can use it as a "call" for the second. SIM.
• ☁️ Cloud services – if the second SIM only needed SMS, Use virtual numbers (such as Google Voice or your carrier’s services).

Also remember that the Redmi Note 8T supports hot SIM replacement (without turning off the phone), but this can cause network crashes.If you have to change cards often, it's best to turn off the phone before removing the tray.

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If you use the second SIM only for travel, consider a virtual SIM (like Airalo for eSIM) that eliminates the need to physically change cards.