How to put the second in the right way SIM-Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite is one of the most popular mid-range smartphones, which is still actively used due to the balanced characteristics and support of the two. SIM-However, many owners have difficulty in trying to install a second SIM: the tray does not open, the network does not catch, the phone asks you to choose a priority slot. SIM-Mi 9 Lite cards, including hybrid slots, network setup and typical problem solving.

The model features a hybrid slot that supports either a second nano-SIM or a microSD card, which means that you can’t use two SIMs and a memory extension at the same time without an adapter. We will explain in detail how to insert the tray, what network priority settings to choose and what to do if the phone does not see the SIM, and you will find tips on choosing the operator for the second line and comparing the speed of operation in Dual mode. SIM.

This article will be useful for both beginners who have just purchased the Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite, and experienced users who have encountered problems after updating the firmware or changing the operator. All instructions are illustrated with screenshots and accompanied by step-by-step recommendations.

Characteristics of the slot for SIM-maps in Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite

Before you start installing the second SIM, it is important to understand the design of the slot in your device. Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite is equipped with a hybrid tray, which has the following features:

  • πŸ“± Supports two nano-SIMs (3FF) or one nano-SIM + microSD memory card (up to 256 GB).
  • πŸ”„ Slot SIM 1 is the primary, always active. SIM 2 can work with both SIM and flash drive.
  • πŸ“Ά Both slots support networks 4G LTE, simultaneously 4G Only one SIM can work (the second one automatically switches to the SIM). 3G/2G).
  • ⚑ Internet speed on the second SIM may be lower due to hardware limitations (depending on firmware and region).

Importantly, if you're using a microSD, the second SIM won't fit in the tray, you'll have to choose between a memory extension and a second link, and there are adapters for combined use, but they don't always work well and can damage the slot.

ParameterSIM 1 (main slot)SIM 2 (hybrid slot)
Type of cardnano-SIM (3FF)nano-SIM or microSD
Max, 4G speed.Up to 600 MbpsUp to 150 Mbps (Firmware Limitation)
Support for VoLTEYes.Yes (starting with MIUI 12)
Hot replacement.No.No (reboot required)

⚠️ Note: If you are using a firmware MIUI Global is older than version 11.0.3, the second SIM may not support VoLTE. β†’ The phone. β†’ Updating the system.

What you will need to install the second SIM

Before you take out the tray, prepare everything you need. Here's the full list:

  • πŸ“² Second nano-SIM (if you have a conventional or micro-SIM, you need to trim or replace it with an operator).
  • πŸ”§ Paperclip or tray extraction tool (goes bundled with phone but is often lost).
  • πŸ” Good lighting – the slot is located on the side, and in the dark it is easy to drop the SIM.
  • 🧲 Magnet or tweezers (in case the sim or tray falls inside the case).
  • πŸ“± Spare phone to check the performance of the second SIM (if the first does not catch the network).

If you don't have the original paper clip, you can use an unbended paper clip or a needle with a blunt end, and the main thing is not to damage the seal ring of the tray, otherwise dust or moisture can get inside the case.

πŸ“Š What type of SIM you use in the second slot?
nano-SIM
microSD
Until I decide.
Other

Also check if your second SIM card is activated from the operator, if the card is new, it may need to be registered through the company's website or office, for example, MTS and Beeline SIM card is activated automatically on the first call, and Tele2 sometimes requires sending a SIM card. USSD-team#.

Step-by-step: how to insert a second sim

Now, let's get to the process. Follow the instructions carefully so you don't damage the slot or the SIM.

  1. Turn off the phone. It's a must-do step -- hot SIM replacement can cause the communications module to crash.
  2. Find the SIM card tray. In the Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite, it is located on the left side of the tray (if you look at the screen).
  3. Insert the paperclip into the hole next to the slot and press before clicking. The tray should extend 1-2 mm.
  4. Carefully remove the tray with tweezers or fingers. Don't pull it by force, there are fixtures inside.
  5. Put a second nano-SIM in the slot SIM 2 (usually signed or marked in a different color) Contacts should be directed downwards and the beveled corner should be directed towards the outer edge of the phone.
  6. Make sure that the simka lies tightly in the grooves and does not protrude beyond the edge of the tray.
  7. Insert the tray back before the click. It should enter without effort - if the resistance is too large, check if the SIM is installed correctly.
  8. Turn on the phone and wait for the load.

β˜‘οΈ Check before turning on the phone

Done: 0 / 5

If the phone doesn’t see the second SIM after turning on, try:

  • πŸ”„ Reset the device.
  • πŸ“Ά Manually select the operator network in the settings (Settings) β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Choice of network).
  • πŸ”§ Check if the slot is not contaminated (blow it carefully or wipe it with an alcohol napkin).

⚠️ Warning: If the tray is not fixed after installation, do not turn on the phone - this can damage the contacts.

Setup of the second SIM: priorities of the network and the Internet

Once the SIM is installed successfully, you need to set it up correctly. By default, the Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite can use the second line only for calls, and the Internet will work through the first SIM. To change this, follow the following steps:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  2. Select the second SIM in the list.
  3. Activate the Mobile Internet option if you want to use it for data transfer.
  4. In the priority section SIM-Call cards select which SIM will be used by default.
  5. In Access Point Settings (APN) Check that the settings match your operator’s requirements (usually automatically set up).

Pay attention to the mode of operation of networks:

  • πŸ“Ά 4G/3G/2G (Auto) – recommended mode, but the second SIM can switch to 3G, if the first use is 4G.
  • πŸ“Ά Only 4G β€” If you turn on this option for the second SIM, the first one will automatically go to the 3G.
  • πŸ“ž Only 2G β€” It is suitable for saving charge, but the speed of the Internet will be minimal.

πŸ’‘

If the second SIM is only used for calls, turn off the mobile Internet for it in the settings, this will save battery power and prevent accidental traffic consumption.

The Mi 9 Lite also has a dual function. 4G, But it doesn't work on all firmware:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Additionally. β†’ Dual 4G.
  2. Turn on the option and restart the phone.

If this option is not available, then your version MIUI It doesn't support it. 4G There will only be one SIM.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even after the second SIM is installed correctly, there can be difficulties.

1.The phone doesn't see the second SIM

Causes and solutions:

  • πŸ”Œ Bad contact: Remove the tray and check if the SIM is tight, sometimes it helps to put a piece of paper under the SIM for better pressing.
  • πŸ“± Software failure – restart your phone or reset your network settings (Settings) β†’ System system β†’ Reset β†’ Resetting network settings).
  • πŸ› οΈ Slot damaged – if contacts are bent or oxidized, contact the service center.
  • πŸ“Ά Inactive SIM – check the balance and status of the card with the operator.

2.No net on the second SIM

Possible causes:

  • πŸ“‘ Incorrect settings APN β€” Compare them with the official parameters of the operator.
  • πŸ”„ Conflict with the first SIM – try to turn off the first SIM and check the second.
  • πŸ“΅ Poor coverage – manually select the network in the settings.

3.The internet is not working on the second SIM

Decisions:

  • 🌐 Make sure that mobile data is enabled for the second SIM (Settings) β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Mobile Internet).
  • πŸ”§ Check the traffic limit or service blocking with the operator.
  • πŸ“± Update the firmware - in older versions MIUI There were bugs with the distribution of the Internet between the SIMs.
What to do if the SIM is stuck in the slot?
If the tray is not pushed out by a paper clip, don't try to pull it out by force. Put the phone down on the soft surface with the screen and gently tap on the area of the slot (like a pen). If that doesn't help, contact the service center - self-extracting attempts can damage the motherboard.

Comparison of two sims: speed, stability, battery consumption

Many users have noted that the second SIM in the Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite is slower than the first, due to the hardware limitations of the model:

  • πŸ“‰ The speed of the Internet on the second SIM card can be reduced by 20-30% due to the use of a single communication module for both cards.
  • πŸ”‹ Battery consumption increases by 10-15% if both SIMs are active in the mode. 4G.
  • πŸ“Ά The stability of the connection depends on the firmware: MIUI 12+ There are fewer failures than on older versions.
ParameterSIM 1 (main)SIM 2 (additional)
Max, 4G speed.600 Mbps150-300 Mbps
Support for VoLTEYeah (stable)Yeah (may be off)
Network connection time1-2 seconds2-5 seconds
Battery consumption (on standby)~1% per hour~1.5% per hour

If you care about Internet speed, use the second SIM only for calls, and transmit data through the first. To save charge, you can turn off background data transfer for the second SIM in the settings:

  1. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
  2. Select the second SIM and turn off the background data transfer.

πŸ’‘

On firmware older MIUI 11.0.5 The second SIM may lose the network after the reboot.

Alternative ways to use two sims

If you need to use two SIMs and a memory card at the same time, there are a few workarounds:

1.Adapter for hybrid slot

There are special adapters that allow you to install both nano-SIM and microSD in a hybrid slot.

  • ⚠️ Unreliable fastening - SIM or flash drive may fall out.
  • ⚑ Risk of damage to slot contacts.
  • πŸ“΅ Possible problems with card recognition.

If you decide on such an adapter, choose models with a metal body and good reviews (for example, Baseus or the Baseus). UGREEN).

2. Cloud storage instead of microSD

If you need a second SIM but lack memory, consider the options:

  • πŸ“ Google Drive or Mi Cloud – 15-100 GB free.
  • πŸ“± OTG-flash drive - connects through the adapter USB-C.
  • πŸ”„ Auto Clean – Xiaomi’s Settings have a feature to delete unnecessary files (Settings) β†’ Memory. β†’ Cleanup).

3. eSIM (Virtual SIM)

Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite doesn’t support eSIM, but if you’re planning to change your phone, look for models with this feature (e.g. Xiaomi). 12T Or the Redmi Note 11 Pro.+). Virtual SIM allows you to use two lines without a physical slot.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I use two SIMs and a memory card at the same time?
No, the Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite has a hybrid slot that supports either a second nano-SIM or a microSD. You can't install both a SIM and a flash drive without an adapter. Adapters exist, but they don't guarantee stable operation.
Why the second SIM only works in the 3G, not 4G?
That's a hardware limitation. 9 Lite one module 4G It's distributed between two SIMs, if the first SIM uses the same. 4G, the second automatically switches to 3G/2G. To make the second SIM work in 4G, Turn off the mobile Internet on the first SIM or activate Dual mode 4G (If it is available in your firmware).
How to change the SIM places (make the second SIM main)?summary> You can’t physically change SIMs, but you can reassign priorities: Go to Settings β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks. Select Priority SIM-For the Internet, turn on mobile data for the second SIM in the same menu. Note that some features (for example, VoLTE) may not work stable on the second SIM.
What if the first one stopped working after the second one was installed?
There's probably a network glitch. Try: Reboot your phone. Manually select the network for the first SIM (Settings) β†’ SIM-map β†’ Network Selection: Reset network settings (Settings) β†’ System system β†’ Reset β†’ Check if both SIMs are correctly installed in the tray (sometimes they can be offset when inserted). If the problem persists, remove the second SIM and check if the first one is working.
Does Xiaomi Mi 9 Lite VoLTE support the second SIM?
Yes, but with reservations: On firmware MIUI 12 and newer VoLTE is stable. MIUI 11 and older may crash - calls will switch to 3G. For some carriers (e.g. Yota), VoLTE is not supported on the second SIM. To enable VoLTE, go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Additionally. β†’ VoLTE and activate the option for the desired SIM.