Modern Xiaomi smartphones support dual SIM-cards, which allows you to distinguish between personal and work numbers or use advantageous tariffs of different operators. However, not all users know how to properly install a second SIM, especially if we are talking about hybrid slots or new models with eSIM. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances from determining the type of slot to setting the priority of networks.
It’s important to understand that the process can vary depending on the model. For example, the flagship Xiaomi 13 Pro and the budget Redmi Note 12 have different types of trays, and in some devices (for example, the POCO F5), the second SIM takes up a memory card slot. We will take a detailed look at each case so that you can avoid errors during installation.
Types of SIM-slots in Xiaomi smartphones
Before you insert a second SIM, you need to determine what type of slot is used in your model. Xiaomi releases devices with three main options:
- 🔄 Double. SIM-slot SIM) — Two physical slots under nano-SIM, without memory card support. found in most flagships (for example, Xiaomi) 12T, 13 Lite).
- 🔀 Hybrid slot (Hybrid) SIM) — One slot for nano-SIM, the second – combined (SIM + MicroSD: popular in budget and mid-budget models (Redmi Note 11, POCO X5).
- 📱 eSIM + physical SIM — One physical nano-SIM and support for virtual SIM. Rarely found, but available in some global versions (Xiaomi 13 Pro for the European market).
To find out the type of slot of your device, check the specifications on the official Xiaomi website or look at the tray for the SIM: if it has a hole for microSD, then it is a hybrid slot.
Preparation for the installation of the second SIM
Before you remove the tray, follow a few important steps:
- 🔌 Turn off your smartphone. This will prevent damage to the SIM or slot contacts during installation. In some models (for example, Black Shark 5), the tray is locked software if the device is turned on.
- 🔍 Check the size of the sim. All modern Xiaomi uses the nano-SIM format (12.3 × 8.8 If you have a different sized SIM, cut it with an adapter or contact the operator.
- 📱 Find a tool to remove the tray. There's a special paper clip in the package with your smartphone. If you don't have one, use an unbended paper clip or needle (but carefully so you don't damage the slot).
💡 If you use a hybrid slot and plan to insert a microSD, note that the second SIM will not be available. + memory-card.
Turn off smartphone | Check the format of the SIM (nano-SIM) | Prepare a tool for extracting the tray | Make sure there is no dust / debris in the slot-->
Step-by-step instructions for installing the second SIM
Now, to the process itself, the instructions are universal for most models, but we'll give you some nuances for specific devices.
- 📍 Slot localization: In most Xiaomi, the SIM tray is on the top or side edge (for example, in Redmi Note 10 - left, in Xiaomi). 11T — In Black Shark models, the slot can be hidden under the lid.
- 🔧 Remove the tray. Put the paper clip in a small hole next to the slot and press a little until the tray is pushed out. Don't put too much effort into it, it can break the mechanism.
- 📇 Install the SIM. Put the SIM on the tray with the contacts down, matching with the notch. If the slot is hybrid, select the side for the second SIM (usually signed). SIM2).
- 🔙 Put the tray back in the smartphone carefully before the click. Make sure it sits straight - skewedness can lead to poor contact.
In the POCO F4 GT and Black Shark 4 Pro models, the tray is fixed by a magnet - don't be afraid if it sticks when extracted.
| Xiaomi model | Slot type | Support for microSD support | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13/13 Pro | Dual SIM | No. | 5G support on both SIMs |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Hybrid SIM | Yes (up to 1TB) | SIM2 only works with 4G |
| POCO X5 Pro | Hybrid SIM | Yes (up to 512GB) | SIM1 Priority for Voice Calls |
| Black Shark 5 | Dual SIM | No. | Magnetic-fixed tray |
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If the tray is not inserted to the end, check if the SIM is installed correctly. Often users confuse the sides and insert the card with contacts upwards, which leads to a lack of network.
Set up the second SIM after installation
Once the smartphone is turned on, MIUI will automatically detect a new SIM, but some settings will have to be adjusted manually.
- 📶 Activate the SIM. Go to Settings. → SIM-If the second SIM doesn't show up, restart the device.
- 🔄 Setting priorities. In the same menu, select which SIM to use for the: 📞 Calls (by default or "always ask") 📶 Mobile data (you can select an automatic switch) 💬 SMS (text-sym)
Internet setting
Settings → Mobile Network → Access Points (APN)
⚠️ Note: In some models (e.g. Redmi) 10A) When activated, the second sim may disappear. 4G This is due to hardware limitations, check that your model is compatible with two. 4G-sim.
How to reset network settings if the SIM is not determined?
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even with the right installation, users face difficulties.
- 🚫 "No network on the second sim. Check if the operator's SIM is activated (sometimes it takes time to log in). 4G (In budget devices, the second SIM can only work in 2G/3G). Are there any restrictions on regional pegs (for example, some Xiaomi for China does not support European operators).
- 🔋 Fast battery discharge. Two active SIMs increase power consumption. Turn off background data transfer for the second SIM in Settings → SIM-map → [simpic] → Background data transmission.
- 📵 The switching connection is lost. Hybrid slots can cause conflict if the memory card is not tightly inserted.
⚠️ Note: In models with MediaTek Helio G (e.g. Redmi) 9A) You can have a network hanging up while you're using two sims at the same time, and that's the hardware feature of the chipset, and there's no solution but to use one sim.
Features for models with eSIM
Some Xiaomi smartphones (such as the global versions of Xiaomi 13 Lite) support eSIM, a virtual SIM that is activated through software. If your device is one of these, here’s what you need to know:
- 📲 Check support. Make sure your model is eSIM compatible (the list is available on the official Xiaomi website).
- 🔐 Activation. Contact the operator for QR-code or activation code. Then go to Settings. → SIM-map → Add eSIM and scan the code.
- 🔄 Switching: In the settings, you can choose which SIM (physical or virtual) will be the main one for calls and data.
💡 Useful tip: eSIM is convenient for travel - you can quickly connect a local operator without buying a physical SIM. However, not all Russian operators support this technology (for 2026, eSIM is available from MTS, Beeline and Tele2).
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If your smartphone supports eSIM, but the carrier does not, a physical SIM is the only option.
Compatibility with operators and 5G networks
When using two sims, it is important to consider the generational constraints of networks.
- 📶 5G. In most Xiaomi (except flagships) only one SIM can work in the same way. 5G. The second automatically switches to 4G. The exception is the Xiaomi 13 Pro and POCO F5 Pro, where both SIMs support 5G (not simultaneously!).
- 🌍 Roaming. When traveling abroad, the second SIM may not connect to local networks. → Mobile network → Roaming) choose which SIM will be active in roaming.
- 🔄 Dual VoLTE: Technology allows both SIMs to take calls at the same time 4G. Supported by Xiaomi 12T, 13 and new models on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
📌 Example: In Redmi Note 12 Pro+ activated 5G The second one will only work in the first one. 3G. If you care about speed on both SIMs, consider Snapdragon 8 models.+ Gen 1 or newer.