How to insert a SIM card into a Xiaomi phone: instructions for all models

Why the right SIM card installation in Xiaomi is so important

A SIM card is not just a plastic chip, but a key to mobile connectivity, the internet, and many smartphone features. At Xiaomi (including the Redmi, POCO, and Black Shark sub-brands), the installation process can vary depending on the model, with a classic tray being used somewhere, and a hybrid slot for two nano-SIMs or a SIM + memory card. Installation errors often lead to network loss, contact damage, or even tray breakdown.

In this article, we’ll look at all possible scenarios, from inserting a single SIM card to configuring two SIM + eSIMs in the flagships of 2023-2026, how to avoid typical errors (such as confusing the sides of the tray), what tools you will need, and what to do if the phone does not see the SIM after installation, and also unique slot layouts for popular models that are not in the official instructions.

If you just bought a new Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro+ or POCO F6, or just want to transfer the SIM from your old phone, this guide will help you do everything quickly and without the risk of damaging the device.

What SIM cards support Xiaomi smartphones

Since 2018, almost all Xiaomi models use the nano-SIM format (4FF).

• 📱 Budget models (Redmi) A2, POCO C55): Usually 2 nano-SIM slots or 1 SIM slot + microSD.
• 💎 Flagships (Xiaomi) 13T, 14 Ultra: eSIM support + physical nano-SIM.
• 🔄 Hybrid slots (e.g. Redmi Note 12): You can choose either a second SIM or a memory card.

Important: Xiaomi does not officially support micro-SIM (3FF) or mini-SIM (2FF). If you have an old SIM, it needs to be cropped or replaced in the carrier cabin. Using adapters (such as nano-to-micro) can lead to poor contact and network loss.

To check which slot in your model, check the specifications on the official website or use the table below:

⚠️ Note: In some regions (e.g. China), Xiaomi smartphones may not support eSIM even in models where it is claimed for the global version!

Preparation for installation: what will be needed

Before inserting the SIM card, prepare everything you need:

• 🔧 A paper clip or tool to remove the tray (combined with the phone) will also work.
• 📶 Active SIM in nano-SIM format. If you have an eSIM, check if your model supports it.
• 🔍 Good lighting – the tray and slot are small, it’s easy to drop the SIM or damage contacts.
• 📱 Phone charge at least 20%. If the battery runs out during setup, network settings may be lost.

If you are transferring a SIM from another phone, turn off the old device before removing the card, which will prevent conflicts in the operator’s network, and it is also recommended to back up contacts if they are saved on a SIM (in modern Xiaomi contacts are usually tied to a Mi Account or Google account).

Turn off the phone (if the SIM has already been inserted)

Check the SIM card format (nano-SIM)

Prepare a paper clip or key for the tray

Make sure the slot is clean (no dust, no debris)

Charge your phone at least 20 times%-->

If you install two SIM cards, note that in hybrid slots (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5), the second SIM or memory card can block each other.

Step-by-step: how to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi

The installation process is the same for most models, but there are differences in the slot location.

1. Turn off your phone (optional, but recommended for safety).
2. Find a SIM card tray. In most Xiaomi, it is on the top or side edge (see the diagrams below).
3. Insert the paperclip into the hole next to the slot and press until the tray is pushed out.
4. Place the SIM card in the tray with the contacts down, combining the cutout with the shape of the slot. For two SIMs, use both slots (usually numbered SIM1 and SIM2).
5. Carefully insert the tray back before the click. Don't make any effort!
6. Turn on your phone and wait for the network to appear (it can take up to 2 minutes).

If the phone does not see the SIM card, check:

• 🔄 Is the SIM correctly inserted (contacts should be addressed to the back of the phone).
• 🧹 Is there any dust or debris in the slot (you can gently blow or wipe with an alcohol napkin).
• 📶 Does your model support your operator frequency (e.g. Redmi) 10C not working 5G Russia).

For eSIM models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Lite global version), the process is different:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile fare.
2. Choose Use eSIM and scan it. QR-operator.
3. Confirm activation (reboot may be required).

⚠️ Note: If you use eSIM in Xiaomi, make sure that your operator supports this format (in Russia, eSIM is available from MTS, Beeline, Tele2 and MegaFon, but not in all tariffs).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing a SIM card, and here are the most common:

• 🔀 The SIM card's sides are mixed up, the contacts should be down, and the cut should be the tray shape, and if you put the SIM upside down, the phone won't see it.
• 💥 Too much pressure on the tray, it can bend the contacts or break the locking mechanism, the tray must enter smoothly, effortlessly.
• 📵 Using a non-activated SIM card: the new SIM must be activated by the operator before installing it on the phone.
• 🔧 Dust, fabric fibers or metal shavings can cause a short circuit.

If after installing the SIM card, the phone says "No service" or "SIM-map not found, try it out:

1. Reset the device.
2. Check the SIM card on another phone (it may be damaged).
3. Update your network settings manually: Settings → SIM-map → [yours SIM] → Network settings → Select by hand.
4. Reset network settings: Settings → System → Settings Reset → Reset settings Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth.

💡

If the tray is stuck and doesn't extend, don't try to pull it out with tweezers or a knife! Put the phone on a flat surface, press the tray slightly on the side, and try to press the paperclip again. If it doesn't work, contact the service center.

Another common problem is that two SIMs conflict, so if you have two active SIMs, one of them might turn off when you call the other.

• Check the priority of SIM cards in settings: Settings → SIM-map → Priority SIM call-in.
• Make sure both SIMs support VoLTE (voice over 4G), or one of them will turn off when you talk.

Features of installation in hybrid slots (SIM + microSD)

Many Redmi and POCO models have hybrid slots where you can choose either a second SIM card or a memory card. For example, in the Redmi Note 12 5G, the SIM2 slot is combined with a microSD.

• 📱 If you use two SIM cards, you can’t insert a microSD.
• 💾 If you need a memory card, the second SIM will not be available.

To reconfigure:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Remove the tray and move the SIM cards or microSD to the desired nests.
3. Turn on the phone and wait for initialization.

Important: When using microSD in a hybrid slot, not all models support the exFAT format (required for cards >32 GB). If the card is not defined, format it in FAT32 on your computer.

⚠️ Note: In some models (e.g. Redmi) 10A) When using a microSD in a hybrid slot, the read/write speed can be reduced by up to 50% compared to a dedicated slot.

Network settings after installing the SIM card

Once the SIM card is installed successfully, you need to configure the network settings.

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Select your SIM card and enable the settings: 📞 Calls (if SIM for voice communication). 🌐 Mobile data (if SIM for the Internet). 📶 4G/5G (depending on the support of your model and operator).

Access Points (APN)

For two SIM cards, you can configure:

• 🔄 Automatic selection (the phone will use the SIM with the best signal).
• 📞 Separation of calls and the Internet (for example, one SIM for calls, the other for mobile Internet).

If you have an eSIM, its settings are managed separately, for example, in Xiaomi 13 Lite you can:

• Switch between the physical SIM and the eSIM.
• Assign different profiles (work/personal) for each SIM.
• Disable eSIM without deleting (useful when traveling abroad).

💡

If the Internet works after setting up the network, but no SMS arrives, check if the “Only 4G/5G” mode is activated in the SIM settings. Some operators require switching to “3G/2G” to send SMS.

What to do if your phone doesn’t see your SIM card

If the phone does not recognize the SIM card after installing it, follow this algorithm:

1. Check the physical connection: Remove and re-insert the SIM card. Blow the dust slot (you can use a can of compressed air) Check if there is damage to the SIM card or tray contacts.
2. Diagnose software problems: Restart your phone. Update: Settings → About your phone → System Update. Reset network settings: Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset network settings.
3. Compatibility check: Make sure the SIM card is activated with the carrier. check if your model supports your carrier frequency (e.g., the Redmi Note 11 doesn't work with 5G in some regions).

If nothing helps, the problem may be:

• 🔌 Faulty slot (required repair).
• 📱 Software failure (will help reset to factory settings).
• 📡 Blocking IMEI (If the phone was purchased abroad or blacklisted).

⚠️ Warning: If you suspect that the slot is damaged (for example, after a phone drop or moisture gets in), do not try to insert the SIM card again - this may aggravate the problem.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions