Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro remains one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment even years after the release. SIM-But the hybrid design of the slot often raises questions about how to properly install the second card. SIM, So, what if you don't damage the microSD slot? Can you use both cards plus a memory card? And what if the phone doesn't see the new card? SIM?
In this article, we’ll take a look at all the nuances of working with the Redmi Note 8 Pro hybrid slot, from physical installation to network priority settings. You’ll learn which SIM formats are supported (spoiler: nano-SIM only), how to avoid tray extraction errors, and why sometimes the second SIM doesn’t catch the network. And for those who are planning to use a microSD, we’ve prepared a configuration compatibility table.
Important: The instruction is valid for all Redmi Note 8 Pro versions (including the global and Chinese versions), but does not apply to 5G models – they have a different slot architecture. If your device is released after 2021, check the markings on the box or in the settings (Settings → Phone → Model).
1 Where is the slot for SIM-Maps in Redmi Note 8 Pro
In Redmi Note 8 Pro slot for the SIM-The card is located on the left end of the case, next to the volume buttons, and it is easy to identify by the small hole for the extraction tool (trey key). There are no inscriptions above the slot, but the flashlight will help you to see the contour of the tray.
Structurally, the slot is made in the format of a hybrid tray (tray), which supports:
- 📱 Two nano-SIMs (without memory card)
- 📱 One nano-SIM. + one microSD up to 256 GB)
This means that you can’t use two SIMs and a microSD at the same time, you have to choose between a second SIM or a memory extension, except for models with MIUI Global firmware version 12.5 and higher, which implements the Dynamic Distribution feature, which allows you to flexibly switch between configurations (for more details in the section on settings).
⚠️ Note: Do not try to insert micro-SIM or mini-SIM into the Redmi Note slot 8 Pro is going to jam the tray. The smartphone only supports nano-SIM (12.3×8.8 If your card is larger, you can cut it with a special stapler or order a replacement from the operator.
2 What tools will be needed for installation
For the removal and installation of the tray from SIM-You'll need maps:
- 🔧 Tray key (complete with phone) If you lose, a paper clip will fit, straight line (no more than 0.8 mm thick).
- 📏 Tweezers (optional, for neat placement of nano-SIM in the tray).
- 🔦 Lantern (to illuminate the slot in low light).
- 🧴 Alcohol wipes (for cleaning contacts) SIM, If the phone doesn't see the card).
If you use a microSD, make sure it's formatted in FAT32 or exFAT. NTFS filesystem cards are not supported! You can check the format via your computer: plug the card, right-click on its icon in the explorer, and select Properties.
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Before removing the tray, turn off the phone or put it into flight mode (Settings → Flight Mode) to prevent accidental damage to the SIM contacts during hot replacement.
3. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert a second SIM
Follow the algorithm below to avoid errors:
- Turn off your smartphone (required!) Press and hold the power button, then select Turn off.
- Insert the tray key into the hole on the left end before clicking. The tray should extend 2-3 mm - gently pull it with your fingers.
- Place the tray on a flat surface. Pay attention to the markings: 📱 SIM 1 - basic SIM (near-tray). 📱 SIM 2 / SD — Hybrid Slot (supports the second one) SIM microSD).
Install nano-SIM in the SIM 2 slot with the contacts down (the golden side to the phone).
Carefully insert the tray back before the click. Make sure it sits flat - skews can damage the contacts.
Turn on the phone. Wait for the "New Discovered" notification to appear. SIM-map".
The tray is inserted to the point and does not stagger |
SIM-maps are set to contacts down|
No foreign objects in the slot (dust, debris)|
Phone is off or in flight mode-->
If the second SIM is not determined after activation, follow the following steps:
- Reboot the phone.
- Check if the card is correctly installed (sometimes it shifts when the tray is inserted).
- Clean the SIM contacts with a dry napkin or alcohol.
- Try inserting the SIM into the SIM 1 slot – if it works, the problem is in the hybrid slot.
4. Set up the second SIM in MIUI
After the physical installation, you need to configure the settings of the second SIM in the system.
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Select SIM 2 and activate the switch to turn on.
- Set priorities: 📞 Calls: Choose which one SIM default. 🌐 Mobile data: indicate which SIM The Internet will work (you can choose to request each time). 📶 4G/3G/2G: set up a preferred network type (e.g., only 4G speed).
Dual SIM is always active (if available) so that both cards can receive calls at the same time.
MIUI 12.5+ has a Dynamic Distribution feature that allows you to flexibly switch between the second SIM and microSD without physically removing the tray.
- Go to Settings → Memory → Dynamic Distribution.
- Select SIM 2 Priority or MicroSD Priority depending on your current needs.
- Confirm the phone reboot.
🔴 Problem Two: SIM catcherless 4G
In the Redmi Note 8 Pro, only one slot supports 4G at a time (usually SIM 1).If you want the second SIM to work in 4G:
- Go to Settings → SIM-cards → Mobile network settings.
- Select SIM 2 and set Network Priority: 4G.
- Reboot the phone.
Note that the SIM 1 will automatically switch to 3G/2G.
Why is the second SIM slower than the first?
🔴 Problem: The phone asks PUK-code
That means that SIM-The card is blocked after three incorrect attempts to enter PIN. To unlock:
- Find it. PUK-plastic-code SIM or in the operator's personal office.
- Enter it in the query field on the phone screen.
- Install a new one. PIN-code (or disable the request) PIN customized SIM).
If you have lost your PUK, contact the operator – recovery is possible only through support.
7 Can you use two SIMs and a microSD at the same time?
No, the Redmi Note 8 Pro doesn't have that because of the hybrid design of the slot, but there are workarounds.
- 🔄 Dynamic distribution (MIUI 12.5+): temporarily shut down the second SIM, When you need a memory card.
If you need to use two SIMs at the same time and expand memory, the best option is to purchase the Redmi Note 8 Pro with a maximum internal storage capacity (128 GB), which will do without microSD in most scenarios.
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A hybrid slot is a compromise between functionality and compactness. If you are critically interested in two SIMs and microSDs, choose models with three separate slots (for example, the POCO X3 Pro or the Redmi Note 10 Pro).
8. Alternative ways to use the second SIM
If physical installation of a second SIM is not possible for some reason, consider alternatives:
📱 eSIM (virtual) SIM)
The Redmi Note 8 Pro does not support eSIM, but you can:
- Use the second number through messengers (WhatsApp Business, Telegram with multiple accounts).
- Activate a virtual SIM from an operator (such as MTS Connect or Beeline Business) and call through the app.
📞 Annexes to the second number
Services like Dingtone, TextNow or Google Voice allow you to get a second virtual number for calls and SMS.
- 📞 The number is not tied to the physical SIM (It can be blocked by banks).
- 🌐 It requires a constant internet.
- 💰 Pay for outgoing calls to city numbers.
🔄 Dual Apps in the MIUI
Dual Apps (Settings → Apps → Dual Apps) allows you to clone messengers (for example, have two WhatsApp or Viber on the same phone), which is convenient for separating personal and work correspondence, but does not replace a full-fledged second SIM.