Replacement SIM-maps on Xiaomi: instructions with photos and tips for setting up

Replacement SIM-Xiaomi smartphones seem like a simple procedure, but even here there are pitfalls: Error in extracting the tray can lead to damage to contacts, and the wrong choice of format SIM — In this article, we'll look at the process from A to Z, from tool preparation to mobile Internet setup on a new map.

We will pay special attention to the differences between models - for example, the Xiaomi 13 Pro and Redmi Note 12 have different types of trays, and the flagship devices of recent years support eSIM, which changes the approach to replacement. IMEI post-card.

If you are planning to change the operator or just upgraded SIM more modern (for example, with a 3G on 5G), This is a manual that will help you get it right the first time (SIM + microSD, we have prepared separate recommendations.

Preparation for replacement: what to do before extraction SIM

Before you take out the tray, follow a few critical steps to avoid data loss and network problems after you replace it.

1. keep contact and SMS. Even if you are using the Mi Cloud, local backup will not be superfluous. → Settings → Import/export and export data to a memory card or file VCF. For SMS Apps like this are suitable SMS Backup & Restore.

2. Remember or take a picture of the settings APN. After replacement SIM They can reset, especially if you go to another operator's card. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [choose SIM] → Access points (APN).

3. Check compatibility SIM. Make sure the new card supports your region’s networks and Xiaomi frequencies. F5 supportive 5G need USIM, not ordinary SIM.

• 📱 Check your smartphone model: dial ##4636## and select Phone Information. IMEI Support for networks will be indicated (LTE, 5G).
• 🔧 Prepare tools: paperclip (or special key from the kit), tweezers (to extract the tray in some models), flashlight.
• 📡 Check with the operator: whether you need to activate a new SIM (For example, MTS or Beeline may need a call or SMS).

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi is tied to the operator (for example, bought in the salon MegaFon), the replacement SIM If you have a card from another provider, you can block the network. IMEI at imei.info.

Types. SIM-Xiaomi maps: how to determine the desired format

Xiaomi smartphones support three types of smartphones SIM-cards: nano-SIM (most common), eSIM (built-in) and hybrid slots (SIM + A mistake in choosing the format will result in the card simply not being inserted or recognized.

Nano-SIM (12.3 × 8.8 mm) – standard for most devices, starting with Redmi 4 (2016 If you have an older model (e.g. Mi). 3 or Redmi 2), You may need a micro-SIM (15 × 12 MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR. MR.

eSIM is available in flagships: Xiaomi 13/14 series, Mix Fold 2/3, Poco F5 It allows you to activate the tariff without a physical card, but not all operators in Russia support this format. 2026 year eSIM offer MTS, Beeline and Television2, but with limitations).

Hybrid slots (e.g. Redmi Note 11 or Poco) X5) allow you to choose between the two SIM, Or a memory card, if you need both. SIM, You have to sacrifice the microSD.

⚠️ Attention: If you cut micro-SIM to nano-SIM yourself, there is a risk of chip damage. It is better to request nano-SIM from the operator, it is free.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove and insert SIM-map

Replacement SIM It consists of 5 steps, follow them strictly in order to avoid damage to the tray or contacts.

Step 1. Turn off your smartphone. This is a must, even if your model supports hot replacement. SIM. The device on can damage contacts when the card is removed.

Step 2. Find a tray for SIM. In most models, it is located on the upper or side edge (for example, in Xiaomi 13 Lite on the right, in Redmi Note 12 on the top). Exception: Xiaomi Mix Fold and other foldable devices - they can have a tray on the lower edge.

Step 3. Remove the tray:

1. Insert the paperclip (or key from the kit) in the hole next to the tray.
2. Press until you click - the tray will be pushed out by 1-2 mm.
3. Carefully pull it with your fingers or tweezers.

Step 4. Install a new one. SIM:

1. Put the tray on a flat surface (preferably on white paper, so as not to lose details).
2. Remove the old one. SIM And insert the new chip down, combined with the notch on the tray.
3. Make sure the card sits tightly in the slots - it should not hang around.

Step 5: Put the tray back in place.

1. Insert the tray into the smartphone to the point (should be heard clicking).
2. Turn on the device and wait for network recognition (can take up to 2 minutes).

Is the smartphone off?|Is there a key or a key at hand?|Does the format of the new SIM tray-clad?|Contacts and settings are saved APN?|Compatibility with the operator is checked?-->

If, after the replacement, SIM The smartphone can't see the network, so restart it and check if the card is installed correctly. 90 percent of the time, the problem is solved by re-shuffling the tray.

Set-up of a new one SIM-map: APN, roaming, 5G

After replacement SIM The smartphone must automatically connect to the network, but sometimes manual configuration is required, especially when changing the operator or using eSIM.

Activation SIM:

• 📞 For physical cards: it is usually enough to turn on the phone. If the network does not appear, call the activation number (check with the operator).
• 📱 For eSIM: Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile tariff and scan QR-operator.

2.Tune in. APN:

If the mobile internet is not working, check the access points:

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. Click Add APN and enter your operator’s options (see table below).
3. Save and select a new profile.

3. Inclusion 5G (if maintained):

Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Network type and select 5G/4G/3G/2G (If no option is available, your model or SIM supportive 5G.

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If, after the replacement, SIM lost sound when calling, check the call settings: → Sound. → Sound and vibration → Call sound. Sometimes reset network settings (Settings) → System system → Reset → Resetting network settings solves the problem.

Frequent problems after SIM replacement and their solution

Even with the right replacement. SIM There are some problems that can happen. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them.

1.The smartphone doesn't see SIM-map:

• 🔄 Reset the device.
• 🔧 Check if the card is installed correctly (chip down, before clicking).
• 🛠️ Clean the contacts of the tray with an alcohol napkin (do not use water!).
• 📱 Update: Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.

No mobile Internet:

• 🌐 Check the settings. APN (see previous section).
• 📶 Make sure mobile traffic is enabled: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Mobile traffic.
• 🔄 Switch the network type to Only 4G (sometimes 5G runaway).

3. the calls are not working or SMS:

• 📞 Check if the “In the plane” mode is activated: Settings → Connections → Airplane mode.
• 🔕 Make sure that SIM Selected by default for calls: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Calls.
• 📵 If the problem is only with SMS, Try sending a message to a short operator number (for example, 111 for MTS).

4. The smartphone asks PUK-code:

That means that SIM-The card is blocked after 3 incorrect attempts to enter PIN. Find out. PUK possible:

• 📄 In the documents to SIM (usually goes in an envelope with a card).
• 📞 Calling in support of the operator (passport required).
• 🌐 Through a personal account on the operator's website.

⚠️ Note: If after replacement SIM The smartphone shows “Emergency Calls Only”, which may mean that the card is not activated, locked by the operator or not supported by the device (for example, the card is not activated, 5G-SIM cellphone 5G). Check the status of the card through USSD-command: *111# (for MTS), *100# (for Beeline).

Features of replacement SIM in hybrid slots and eSIM

If your Xiaomi is equipped with a hybrid slot (SIM + microSD) or supports eSIM, the replacement process has nuances.

Hybrid slot:

• 🔄 You can use either of these two. SIM-card SIM + microSD: Both are impossible at the same time.
• 📱 Redmi Note 12 and similar models SIM2 It's microSD-based, if you need both. SIM, I'll have to give up the memory card.
• 🔧 To switch between modes, remove the tray and change configuration (e.g., insert a microSD instead of a second one). SIM).

eSIM:

• 📲 Supported only in flagship models: Xiaomi 13/14, Mix Fold 2/3, Poco F5 Pro.
• 🔗 Activation will require QR-It's a code from the operator, and you can get it from the phone or from your personal account.
• 🔄 To remove eSIM, go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [your eSIM] → Delete.

Important limitations:

• 🚫 In one device, you can use either a physical SIM + eSIM or two physical SIM (Not two eSIMs).
• 🌍 Not all operators support eSIM in Russia: for 2026, it is MTS, Beeline and Tele2 (MegaFon only for corporate customers).
• ⚠️ When settings are reset, the eSIM may deactivate. QR-re-activation.

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If your Xiaomi supports eSIM but the carrier doesn’t provide it, you can use a physical nano-SIM in the slot. SIM1 leave the slot SIM2 Free for microSD (if it is a hybrid model).

How to avoid damage SIM-tray and contacts

A careless replacement SIM This can cause the tray latch to break or the contacts to oxidize. Follow these rules to prolong the life of your Xiaomi.

1.Do not use sharp objects:

• ❌ Prohibited: needles, toothpicks, knives.
• ✅ Allowed: paper clip, key from the set, special tool for SIM.

2. Avoid moisture and dust:

• 💧 Don't change. SIM in wet conditions (for example, in the bathroom).
• 🌬️ Before removing the tray, blow the hole with compressed air (you can use a canister to clean the equipment).

3. Check the contacts:

• 🔍 Examine the contacts of the tray for oxidation (green plaque).
• 🧴 Clean them with alcohol (at least 70%) and a cotton swab. Do not use abrasives!

4.Do not make excessive efforts:

• 🔧 The tray should be easy to remove. If it doesn't come out, don't push harder -- check if the tongue of the latch is bent.
• 🔄 If the tray is jammed, gently swing it left-right, do not pull on yourself.

Signs of damage to the tray or contacts:

• 📵 The smartphone stops seeing SIM post-boot.
• 🔌 The tray is not fixed in the nest (falls out with a light press).
• 🔋 Battery goes down quickly due to constant network search.

⚠️ Note: If after replacement SIM The smartphone has started to overheat or discharge quickly, this may indicate a short circuit in the slot. Immediately remove the card and contact the service center.

FAQ: answers to frequent questions about replacing the SIM in Xiaomi