Choice SIM-Xiaomi Redmi cards seem like a simple task — until you run into problems: messages do not come, contacts are not determined, and the slot for the second SIM refuses to work. SMS-Banking, two-factor authentication, or number-based messengers, and in this article, we'll look at all the nuances of choosing the format. SIM up to the intricacies of operator settings so that your Redmi works with messages without crashes.
Xiaomi Redmi smartphones (whether Redmi Note 12, Redmi 10 or flagship models) support different standards. SIM-cards, but not all of them are equally good at SMS. For example, virtual eSIMs may not support short-number messaging, and physical nano-SIMs sometimes conflict with network settings. We analyzed real-world user reviews and technical specifications to make a checklist of criteria to consider when choosing a new set of criteria.
It is important to understand that the problem is not always SIM-It's often the phone settings, the firmware, that's the fault. MIUI or even the region of purchase of the device (Chinese versions of Redmi can block the device). SMS In this article, you will find not only selection recommendations, but also step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting.
1. What format SIM-The cards are suitable for Xiaomi Redmi: nano, micro or eSIM?
All modern Xiaomi Redmi smartphones (starting with the Redmi 9 2020) support exclusively nano-SIM (4FF) - cards with a size of 12.3 × 8.8 mm.
- 📱 Physically SIM: Even if you have an old micro-SIM (3FF), You can cut it to nano-format with a special stapler, but we don't recommend doing it yourself, because the wrong pruning will damage the chip.
- 🌐 eSIM: only flagship models (Redmi) K60 Pro, Redmi Note 13 Pro+) Support virtualization SIM. For budget devices (Redmi) 12C, Redmi A2) eSIM is not available.
- ⚠️ Two-Sim slots: in hybrid slots (SIM + microSD second SIM often only works in the mode 2G, blockage SMS active 4G first-sim.
If you are planning to use two physical SIM-For example, the Redmi Note 11 Pro has dedicated slots for two nano-SIMs. + microSD, and Redmi. 10A — hybrid slot (or second slot) SIM, memory card).
Advice: Before buying a new one SIM-Check the supported bandwidths of your Redmi, for example, if the phone does not support the Band 20 (800 MHz), SMS They may be delayed in weak signal areas.
Which operator is better for SMS on Xiaomi Redmi: comparison of Tele2, MTS, Beeline, MegaFon
Not all operators work equally well with SMS on Xiaomi devices.
| Operator. | SMS delivery speed | Support for short numbers | Problems with MIUI | Tariff price (from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (momentarily) | Yes (including 900, 9000) | Rarely blocks SMS when roaming | 300 ₽/moss |
| Beeline | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (delays of 30 seconds) | Yeah, but 900 problems. | Conflicts with APN settings | 250 ₽/moss |
| MegaFon | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (stably) | Yes. | Requires manual SMSC setup | 350 ₽/moss |
| Tele2. | ⭐⭐⭐ (delay) | No (issues with 900, 9000) | Frequent failures in dual-SIM | 200 ₽/moss |
According to the user, the best compatibility with MIUI MTS and MegaFon, but if you want short numbers (for example, for the SMS-Avoid Tele2 – this operator has frequent problems with the delivery of messages from services such as Sberbank or Tinkoff.
⚠️ Note: If you use Xiaomi Redmi with Chinese firmware (for example, purchased on AliExpress), SMS Russian operators may not come because of the blocking of regional numbers. MIUI.
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Before the purchase SIM-Check if your card supports shipping SMS For example, Beeline's cheap rates often limit this function.
3. APN and SMSC settings: why SMS isn't sent to Xiaomi Redmi
If SIM-map inserted, but SMS They don’t send, in 90% of cases the problem is incorrect settings. APN (access point or message service centre (SMSC). Here's how to check them out:
Make sure that SIM-Card activated (call number 112)
Check the balance (type *100# or *102#)
Update your APN settings manually (see instructions below)
Check the SMSC number (must match the operator)
Reboot the phone.-->
To set up the APN:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [Yours. SIM] → Access points (APN).
- Click Add APN and enter your operator's settings. For example, for MTS: Name: MTS INTERNET APN: internet.mts.ru Proxy: not specified Port: not specified Username: mts Password: mts Authentication Type: PAP
- Save and select a new APN.
To check the SMSC:
- Open the Phone app and dial ##4636##.
- Select Phone Information → scroll to SMSC.
- If the field is empty, enter the SMS center number of your operator (for example, for Beeline it is +79030009000).
What to do if the APN settings are reset after the reboot?
Dual-SIM and SMS problems: why the second SIM doesn’t receive messages
If you have a Xiaomi Redmi with two SIM-You probably have a problem with the cards when SMS They only come to the first SIM, and the reason is because the network is a priority:
- 📶 Regime. 4G/5G: first SIM work 4G, The second can automatically switch to the 2G, where SMS delayed.
- 🔄 Switching slots: in hybrid models (e.g. Redmi) 9A) second-second SIM Disabled when connecting microSD.
- 🚫 Operator lock: some tariffs (for example, "For laptop" from MegaFon) do not support SMS second SIM.
How to set up:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose. SIM-map to be drawn SMS, Set Network Priority for it: 3G (This will improve the stability of delivery).
- Turn off the Auto Network Select option and select the operator manually.
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If it's critical SMS both SIM-cards (for example, for work), use models with dedicated slots (non-hybrid) and tariffs with Dual-SIM support from one operator (for example, MTS MultiSIM").
5. Virtual operators (Tinkoff Mobile, SberMobail) and SMS on Xiaomi Redmi
Virtual operators (MVNOs) like Tinkoff Mobile or SberMobail often offer lucrative rates, but with SMS on Xiaomi Redmi, there may be problems:
- 💳 Tinkoff Mobile: does not support sending SMS Short numbers (for example, 900 for Sberbank).
- 🏦 SberMobail: SMS They are delayed up to 5 minutes due to Tele2 network usage.
- 📡 Yota: Requires manual adjustment APN, otherwise SMS not working.
If you want to use MVNO, you should:
- Check the operator’s website for a list of supported devices (some block Xiaomi with Chinese firmware).
- Set up your APN manually (the options are usually specified in the contract).
- Use the main SIM from a major operator (MTS/MegaFon) for mission-critical SMS.
Example: if you need SMS to confirm payments, it is better to choose the tariff of MTS Smart or MegaFon All for communication, where delivery to short numbers is guaranteed.
6. Frequent errors and their solutions: from "SMS not sent" to "unidentified number"
Let’s look at the typical problems and ways to solve them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| SMS is not sent | Incorrect SMSC or operator lock | Check the SMSC number (see Section 3) or change operator |
| "No message sent" | Insufficient funds or the SMS limit is exhausted | Refill the balance or check the rate |
| SMS is coming with a delay | Weak signal or network congestion | Turn on flight mode for 30 seconds, then turn off |
| Unidentified sender number | Conflict with MIUI firmware | Update the software or reset the network settings |
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If SMS not only from a specific sender (e.g. a bank), try sending a message to a short number of this service from another SIM-If the answer comes, the problem is yours. SIM, Not on the phone.
⚠️ Note: If after the update MIUI stopped coming SMS, Check the Settings section → Annexes → Application management → Sometimes the system resets permissions to send. SMS.
7. SMS alternatives: messengers and services for Xiaomi Redmi
If the SMS problems are systemic (for example, due to regional firmware limitations), consider alternatives:
- 💬 Telegram/WhatsApp: Most banks and services support notifications through messengers.
- 📧 Email notifications: set up forwarding SMS Postal (available from MTS and MegaFon).
- 🔄 SMS-Gateways: services such as SMS.ru or TurboSMS allow you to send messages over the Internet.
For business purposes (e.g., sending customers), it is better to use specialized services, for example, SMS.Aero integrates with CRM and guarantees delivery even in case of problems with the operator.
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If you travel frequently, consider SMS roaming rates (such as MegaFon Travel) or virtual numbers (OnlineSIM service).