How to put the second in the right way SIM-Map in Xiaomi Redmi 11: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi Redmi 11 supports the work with two SIM-It is difficult to install the second SIM for the first time, but unlike flagship models with dedicated slots, it uses a hybrid slot, which requires careful choice between the second. SIM In this article we will discuss not only the mechanical installation, but also the setting of network priorities, the solution of typical errors (for example, when the phone does not see the SIM), as well as the nuances of working with operators MTS, Beeline and Tele2.

It is important to understand that Redmi 11 (model 2201116TI) It has a specific design of the tray: it combines nano-SIM And microSD in one slot, which means that you have to sacrifice the memory expansion to use two SIM cards, or vice versa, and we'll explain in detail how to avoid configuration errors and what to do if you don't get a second SIM after you install it.

This article will be useful for both beginners and experienced users who want to optimize their dual-number experience, such as how to set up automatic network selection to save battery life or how to turn on VoLTE for clearer calls, and we will also discuss compatibility with virtual carriers (such as Yota or Tinkoff Mobile) and give recommendations for choosing tariffs for the second SIM.

Technical characteristics of the slot SIM Xiaomi Redmi 11

Before we start the installation, we will deal with the hardware features. Xiaomi Redmi 11 It is equipped with a hybrid slot type Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM/microSD. It means:

• 📱 The tray has two nests: the first is for nano only.-SIM (slot 1), second, for nano-SIM or microSD memory cards (slot) 2).
• 🔄 Simultaneous operation of two SIM MicroSD is not possible, you have to choose between a second SIM or a memory extension.
• ⚡ Networks are maintained 2G/3G/4G (including VoLTE and ViLTE, but 5G Not available – this is a budget model.
• 📡 Maximum Internet speed: up to 150 Mbps (LTE Cat.4) main-sim.

If you are using a microSD, then the second one is SIM-The card won't physically fit in the tray. 1 (The primary one is always available for nano-SIM. Also note that with two active SIMs, a hot replacement (removing the card without turning off the phone) can cause the network to crash.

⚠️ Note: If you are using an exFAT microSD format, format it in the exFAT format before installing it. FAT32 Redmi 11 may not recognize exFAT cards without additional drivers.

Step-by-step: how to insert the second SIM-map

Now, let's get to the practice. You're going to need to:

• 📌 Paperclip or special key to remove the tray (goes with the phone).
• 📱 Two nanos-SIM-Cards (if you plan to use two SIM cards).
• 🔍 Good lighting - nests in the tray are small, easy to make a mistake.

Step 1. Turn off the phone.

This is not necessary, but it is recommended to avoid failures in the communication module. If the phone is turned on, wait until all network operations (downloads, calls) are completed before removing the tray.

Step 2. Remove the tray for SIM-map.

Push the paperclip into the hole on the top of the phone (near the power button). Push until you click, the tray will extend 1-2 mm, after which it can be pulled out with your fingers. Don't put too much effort - the mechanism is fragile!

Turn off the phone (recommended)

Prepare two nanos.-SIM or SIM + microSD

Check the integrity of contacts on maps

Wear an antistatic bracelet (optional)-->

Step 3. Place it. SIM-cardboard.

Pay attention to the marking of nests:

• 🔢 Slot 1 (top one -- just nano-SIM. Contacts should be directed downwards, the beveled angle - to the outer edge of the tray.
• 🔢 Slot 2 (bottom) - nano-SIM Or microSD. If you set the SIM, the orientation is the same as the slot. 1.

Step 4. Set the tray back.

Carefully insert the tray to the point, then press your finger to make it snap. Make sure the tray sits flat -- if it protrudes, pull it out and try again.

Step 5: Turn on your phone and wait for the SIM card recognition.

After booting the system, the two networks should display indicators in the status bar. If one of the sims is not identified, go to Settings. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and check statuses.

Setting up two SIM-card MIUI

Successful SIM card installation is only half the battle, so you have to set them up properly. MIUI (Version 13 or 14 for Redmi 11. Open Settings → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and pay attention to the following points:

• 📞 Names SIM-Cards: Assign clear names (for example, "Worker" and "Personal"), so as not to get confused when calling.
• 🌐 Default Network for Data: Select the SIM to be used for mobile internet.
• 🔄 Automatic Network Selection: Turn on this option if you want your phone to switch between the two 2G/3G/4G depending on the coverage.
• 📶 Roaming: Turn off automatic roaming if you don’t plan to travel abroad – it will save battery.

Pay special attention to setting up VoLTE (voice through) LTE). For that:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Enable VoLTE.
2. If the option is inactive, check whether your operator supports this technology (MTS and Beeline it works, Tele2 - partially).
3. After activation, restart the phone.

Priorities for calls: in MIUI You can choose which SIM to call from by default:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Click on three dots in the upper right corner → Call settings → SIM-default-card.
3. Select the SIM you want or leave the "Ask Always" option.

Common Problems and Their Solutions

Even when installed correctly, Redmi 11 users face typical problems.

1.The phone doesn't see the second SIM-map

Causes and solutions:

• 🔌 Bad contact: Remove the tray and check if the cards are even, sometimes it helps to put a piece of paper under the sim for a better fit.
• 🔄 Software failure: Restart your phone or reset your network settings in Settings → SIM-map → Resetting mobile network settings.
• 📱 Incompatible SIM: Some virtual operators (e.g. Tinkoff Mobile) require manual activation via the app.
• 🔧 Hardware malfunction: If nothing helps, check the tray on another phone or contact the service.

2. mobile internet on the second SIM is not working.

The most common problem lies in the settings APN:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Choose. SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. If the list is empty, click Add and enter your operator’s options (they can be found on the official website).
3. Save the settings and restart the phone.

3.The battery quickly goes down with two active SIM

Two SIM cards increase power consumption as the phone scans the network all the time, to save power:

• ⚡ Turn it off. 4G on the second SIM, if it is used only for calls: Settings → SIM-map → [SIM2] → Preferred type of network → 3G.
• 🔄 Enable Power Saving Mode for Background (Settings) → Battery).
• 📵 Turn off automatic network search: Settings → SIM-map → Searching the net → Manually.

⚠️ Note: If after installation of the second SIM-The phone is starting to overheat, check if roaming on one of the sims is activated.

Compatibility with operators: what you need to know

Xiaomi Redmi 11 officially supports all Russian operators, but there are nuances:

If you use a virtual carrier SIM card (e.g., SberMobile or Leroy Mobile), consider:

• 📲 You will have to install their official application to activate the services.
• 🔄 Not all virtual operators support simultaneous work with two SIMs – check with support.
• 📡 Internet speed may be limited (for example, Tinkoff Mobile has a maximum speed of 50 Mbps).

Tariff tip: if the second SIM is only for calls, choose a rate with a minimum subscription fee (for example, Beeline "All for 4" or Tele2 "My Talk"). For the Internet, it is better to use the main SIM with unlimited rates.

MTS

Beeline

MegaFon

Tele2.

Yota/Tinkoff Mobile

Other-->

Alternatives: What to do if you need two SIM, microSD

The hybrid slot in Redmi 11 makes you choose between a second SIM card and a memory card.

1. Use of cloud storage

If you need a little extra space (up to 10-20 GB), you can do without microSD:

• 🖥️ Google Drive – 15 GB free (automatic photo sync via Google Photos).
• ☁️ Yandex.Disk - 10 GB free + activity bonuses.
• 📁 Mi Cloud – 5 GB from Xiaomi, integrated with MIUI.

2. USB-OTG + flash-drive

Through USB-OTG (On-The-Go can be connected to a flash drive or external drive:

• 🔌 We need an adapter. USB-C → USB-A (worth ~200-300 rubles).
• 📁 The flash drive is formatted into FAT32 or exFAT (max. volume - 2 TB).
• ⚡ Cons: the flash drive sticks out of the phone and consumes the battery when used actively.

3. Replacement of SIM card with eSIM

Redmi 11 doesn’t support eSIM, but if you have another phone with this feature (like an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy), you can:

1. Activate the main SIM as an eSIM on another device.
2. Redmi 11 only has a second physical SIM + microSD.

This solution is suitable if you do not need to use two SIMs on the same phone at the same time.

💡

If you need two of them critically. SIM, and extra memory, consider buying a phone with dedicated slots (like the Redmi Note 12 Pro).+).

Comparison with other Xiaomi models

If you choose between Redmi 11 and other Xiaomi smartphones, the criterion of working with the new smartphone SIM-maps, pay attention to the table:

As you can see, Redmi 11 loses to flagships in flexibility, but wins over them in price. If you are critical to work with two SIMs and a memory card at the same time, look at models with dedicated slots (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro).+ or POCO F5).

In some regions (for example, in India) Redmi 11 is sold with a dedicated slot for microSD and two. SIM. This is due to local market requirements, and unfortunately, only the hybrid version is available in Russia.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions