Modern smartphones Xiaomi and Redmi have long switched to the format of two physical SIM-The card system allows users to manage rates flexibly, separate work and personal calls, or save on roaming, but the process of installing cards can raise questions for those who are first faced with combined trays or a specific case design. Incorrect installation often results in a device not seeing the network or only one card running.
In this article, we will discuss how to properly remove the tray, determine the type of slot and prioritize mobile data for stable operation of both communication lines. It is important to understand that depending on the model of your Redmi, the design of the tray may differ, and ignoring these nuances can lead to mechanical damage.
Before you start physical intervention, make sure the smartphone is turned off or in flight mode to avoid software conflicts when identifying new media, especially for older versions of MIUI firmware that may not respond properly to hot SIM replacements.
Definition of tray type and preparation of tools
The first step is always to visually inspect the end of the case. In most Xiaomi models, the SIM card tray is located on the bottom or top end and has a small round hole. Removal will require a special metal clip (company) or a thin needle. Do not use knives or sharpened objects, as they can easily damage the latch mechanism or get hurt.
There are two main types of trays that occur in Redmi smartphones: the first type is the classic double slot, where both cards are installed next to each other on the same plate. The second type is the combined (hybrid) slot, where one place is for the SIM, and the second can be used for either a second SIM or a microSD memory card. Carefully examine the extracted tray: if you see two sites of the same size, then you have a full double slot.
It is important to note that in some budget models, the tray can be one-sided, and trying to insert a card from the back will lead to a jamming mechanism.
Step-by-step installation instructions SIM-map
The installation process requires precision and consistency. First, find a hole to remove the tray. Insert the paper clip perpendicular to the case and press before you click, after which the tray will slightly extend. Pull it out completely, holding the phone tightly.
☑️ Pre-installing check
Take the first SIM card. The tray usually has a schematic image or angle bevel indicating the correct orientation. Place the card in the appropriate recess. If you have a combined slot and you use two SIMs, make sure you don't try to insert the memory card into the same space at the same time -- that's physically impossible without damaging the contacts.
Carefully insert the tray back into the case. It should enter smoothly, without strong pressure. If you feel resistance, do not press, check the orientation of the tray. After installation, turn on the device. Android with the shell MIUI automatically detects new maps and suggests adjusting them.
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Use the original paperclip from the box, as its shape perfectly matches the mechanism of the smartphone. Stationery clips can be too thick and damage the inner spring of the tray.
Setup of two SIM cards in MIUI
After the physical installation, you need to programmatically configure the network. Go to the Settings menu. → SIM-You can see both cards installed here, and you can give each one a name (e.g., "Working", "Personal") and select the color of the indicator for easy identification during calls.
The key is to choose the default card for different activities: you can assign one card for voice calls and another card for SMS or mobile Internet. The flexibility of settings allows you to optimize costs using a cheaper data rate and a card with a large pack of minutes for calls.
- 📞 Calls: Select “Always Ask” or fix the main SIM.
- 🌐 Internet: Assign a card with unlimited traffic or better coverage 4G your neighborhood.
- 💬 SMS: It is convenient to install the main SIM so as not to switch constantly.
Also available in this menu is the option to switch cards directly from the lock screen or from the notification curtain, which greatly speeds up the process of changing the active operator, if one of the cards is rarely used, it can be temporarily disabled software without being physically removed from the device.
Problems with the definition of the second SIM card
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the phone sees only one card, although both are installed, this can be due to a software failure or contamination of contacts. Try to wipe the golden contacts of the SIM card with a soft eraser or dry cloth without touching them with your fingers.
⚠️ Warning: If the second SIM card has lost the signal on the first one, you may have inserted the tray incorrectly or one of the cards is damaged.
Another common reason is frequency incompatibility or carrier locking. Make sure both cards are activated and have a positive balance (or active tariff). In rare cases, resetting network settings through the Settings menu → Connection and Sharing → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth helps.
What to do if SIM-map?
Use of a memory card and two SIM cards
Owners of hybrid slot models often wonder if it is possible to use two SIMs and a memory card at the same time.The answer depends on the particular smartphone model. In most modern Redmi hybrid slots, this is not possible: either two SIMs or one SIM plus a microSD.
However, there are models with a separate third slot or support for eSIM technology, which allows you to bypass this limitation. Check the specifications of your device on the official website or in the documentation. OTG-flash drive.
| Slot type | SIM card 1 | SIM card 2 | MicroSD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double (Dual) | Yes. | Yes. | No (no separate slot) |
| Hybrid (Hybrid) | Yes. | Yes. | No (instead of the 2nd SIM) |
| Triple (Triple) | Yes. | Yes. | Yeah (separate slot) |
| eSIM + Physical | Yeah. | Yes (eSIM) | Depends on the model. |
Features of working in mode 4G/LTE
Xiaomi smartphones support Dual mode SIM Dual Standby (DSDS), So that means that you can find both cards online at the same time. 4G/LTE Usually only works on one card (main card), while the second one goes into mode. 2G/3G for receiving calls and SMS.
To activate high-speed internet on the second card, you will have to manually switch the settings in the menu, since simultaneous operation of two cards in 4G mode (VoLTE) is not supported by all operators and not in all regions.
If you notice that when you actively use the Internet on one card, the second becomes unavailable ("unavailable subscriber"), check the settings in the Settings section. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Network type of preference: sometimes manually switching the network standard helps stabilize the connection.
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In hybrid slots, installing a memory card often blocks the second one. SIM-card, so before buying a microSD carefully weigh the need for two numbers.