Why Xiaomi eSIM and who needs it
eSIM technology (embedded) SIM) It is rapidly gaining popularity, offering users the opportunity to use virtual SIM-For Xiaomi smartphone owners, this means making it easier to switch operators, having two numbers on the same device, and saving space in the phone case. But not all models of the brand support this feature โ and this is a key point when choosing a new gadget.
In 2026, Xiaomi is actively expanding its line of devices with eSIM, but still many users face confusion: which models are compatible, how to activate a virtual card and are there pitfalls? In this article, we will analyze the full current list of Xiaomi smartphones with eSIM support, compare them with competitors (for example, Samsung or Apple), and give a step-by-step instruction on setting up.
If you are planning to buy a new smartphone or just want to switch to eSIM, this information will help avoid mistakes. For example, models for the Chinese market (with the CN suffix) often do not support eSIM even in the top series, whereas global versions of the same devices may have it.
Official list of Xiaomi smartphones with eSIM (2026)
Letโs start with the most important, the current list of models that currently support eSIM technology. It is important to understand that the list may differ depending on the region of sale: for example, the Xiaomi 13 Pro in the global version has an eSIM, and in the Chinese version it does not. We collected data on the official global versions (with Global, EEA or without regional reference).
Also, consider that some models only support one eSIM (instead of a physical SIM) and others support a hybrid slot (eSIM + nano-SIM).
- ๐ฑ Xiaomi 14 / Xiaomi 14 Pro / Xiaomi 14 Ultra (all global versions)
- ๐ฑ Xiaomi 13 / Xiaomi 13 Pro (Global only, without suffix) CN)
- ๐ฑ Xiaomi 12T / Xiaomi 12T Pro (the first models of the brand with eSIM)
- ๐ฑ Xiaomi 12 / Xiaomi 12 Pro (Europe and Asia versions only, except China)
- ๐ฑ POCO F5 Pro (Global version based on Redmi) K60)
- ๐ฑ Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G (only the Indian and European versions)
Note: Xiaomi 13 Lite and Xiaomi 12 Lite, despite belonging to the flagship series, do not support eSIM in either version, this is due to the hardware limitations of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, platform on which these models are built.
How to check for eSIM support on your Xiaomi
If you already own a Xiaomi smartphone and you're not sure if it supports eSIM, there are a few ways to find out, and the first and most reliable way is to check the model in the settings.
- Open the Settings. โ The phone.
- Find the Model line (e.g. 2210132G for Xiaomi 13).
- Check the last letter or suffix: ๐ G (Global) or EEA (Europe โ most likely, there is an eSIM. ๐จ๐ณ CN (China - no eSIM available. ๐ฎ๐ณ IN (India โ need to be specified by a specific model.
The second way is to search the menu. SIM-map:
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- If there is a option Add mobile tariff or Download eSIM โ your device supports the technology.
The third method is IMEI testing.
- Type *#06# and the IMEI number will appear.
- Check it out on sites like IMEI.info (eSIM Support section).
๐ก
If you donโt have an eSIM option in your settings, but the model is on the official list, try updating your firmware to the latest version of MIUI. Sometimes support is added in updates.
Step-by-step: how to activate eSIM on Xiaomi
The process of activating eSIM on Xiaomi smartphones depends on your mobile operator. Most providers (for example, MTS, Beeline, MegaFon in Russia) offer two ways: QR-code or manual data entry. Let's look at both.
Method 1: Activation through QR-code
This is the simplest method, which takes no more than 2-3 minutes.
- ๐ QR-code from the operator (can be obtained in the personal account or sales office).
- ๐ถ Stable Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
Instructions:
- Open the Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ Add a mobile fare.
- Choose Use. QR-code.
- Put the camera on QR-code (it should be clear and well-lit).
- Confirm the download of the eSIM profile.
- Restart your phone (recommended for stable operation).
Method 2: Manual data entry
If QR-No code, the operator can provide the data for manual input:
- ๐ข SMDP+ Address (e.g. sm-ds.example.com).
- ๐ข Activation code (usually 10โ16 characters).
Instructions:
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ Add a mobile fare โ Manually enter.
- Enter SMDP+ Address and activation code.
- Confirm the addition of a profile.
- Wait until activation is complete (it can take up to 5 minutes).
โ๏ธ Preparation for activation of eSIM
โ ๏ธ Note: Some operators (e.g, Tele2 In Russia, you may require a prior physical binding SIM-Cards to account before switching to eSIM!
Xiaomi Comparison with Competitors: Who is the Best Supporter of eSIM?
When you compare Xiaomi with other brands, it becomes obvious that the Chinese manufacturer lags behind in eSIM coverage. For example, Apple equips all iPhone models since the iPhone XS (2018), and Samsung โ the flagship series of Galaxy S and Galaxy Z from 2020. At the same time, Xiaomi began to implement eSIM only in 2022, and still many popular models (for example, Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 Pro) do not support it.
Let's give you a comparative table:
| Brand | The first model with eSIM | Percentage of supported devices (2026) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone XS (2018) | 100% flagships and mid-segment | Support for two eSIMs at once (starting with iOS 13) |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 (2020) | ~80% flagships, 30% of the mid-segment | In some regions, eSIM is disabled software |
| Pixel 2 (2017) | 100% Pixel models | Best integration with Google Fi (virtual operator) | |
| Xiaomi | Xiaomi 12T (2022) | ~40% flagships, 10% of the mid-segment | Not available in the Chinese version or budget series |
Xiaomiโs main advantage is price. For example, the Xiaomi 13 with eSIM costs 1.5-2 times cheaper than the iPhone 14 or the Samsung Galaxy S23 with similar functionality. However, if the eSIM is critical for you, it is worth considering alternatives: for example, the Google Pixel 7a supports technology and is comparable to the top models of Xiaomi.
Why is Xiaomi slowly rolling out eSIM?
Regional restrictions: eSIM in Russia and other countries
One of the main problems for Xiaomi users is regional binding. Even if the model supports eSIM in the global version, in some countries this feature may be disabled.
- ๐ท๐บ Russia: Officially, eSIM supports MTS, Beeline and MegaFon, but only for postpaid tariffs. SIM-Cards (e.g., Tele2's "Tariff") are incompatible.
- ๐ช๐บ Europe: Most operators (e.g. Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone) actively promote eSIM, but may charge a switch fee (~5โ10โฌ).
- ๐บ๐ธ Here eSIM is the most developed โ even low-cost carriers like Mint Mobile or Visible work only with virtual cards.
- ๐จ๐ณ China: eSIM is almost unused due to government restrictions.Even flagship models are sold without this feature.
โ ๏ธ Note: If you buy Xiaomi in Russian stores, check with the seller whether the device is a โgrayโ version (brought from China), such phones often lack eSIM support, even if they are externally identical to global models. EEA.
Another important point is roaming: not all operators support eSIM roaming, for example, if you activate a virtual MTS card in Russia, it may not work in Turkey or the UAE, check with the operator before traveling or check with the consider to purchase a local eSIM (for example, through Airalo or Holafly services).
Frequent eSIM issues on Xiaomi and how to fix them
Despite the convenience, eSIM users on Xiaomi sometimes face technical challenges, and letโs look at the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
Problem 1: eSIM is not activated ("Can't upload profile" error)
Causes and solutions:
- ๐ Unstable Internet connection: Connect to Wi-Fi or reboot your phone.
- โณ Operator server overloaded: Try activating eSIM at other times (e.g. at night).
- ๐ฑ Outdated firmware: Update MIUI Up to the latest version in Settings โ Updating the system.
- ๐ง Incompatible Profile: Contact the operator for a new one QR-code.
Problem 2: eSIM disappears after MIUI update
This is a well-known error in some versions of MIUI 14, to restore the eSIM:
- Go to Settings โ Applications โ Application Management.
- Find it. SIM-manager and clear the cache.
- Reboot the phone.
- If it does not help, delete and add eSIM again (the data will be saved).
Problem 3: Mobile Internet on eSIM is not working
This is most often due to the wrong APN settings.
- Open the Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks โ [your eSIM] โ Access points (APN).
- Delete all existing APN profiles.
- Add a new profile with your operatorโs options (you can find them on the official website).
- Save and restart the phone.
โ ๏ธ Note: If you use two of these SIM-maps (physical) + eSIM), make sure that the settings are the correct network for mobile data. MIUI Physical activity may be active by default. SIM, Even if you want to use the eSIM.
๐ก
Before resetting your phone to factory settings, be sure to remove the eSIM through the menu SIM-Otherwise, the profile may be lost and must be restored through the operator.