eSIM technology (embedded) SIM) It is rapidly gaining popularity, offering users the convenience of digitally activating mobile tariffs without the need for physical activity. SIM-Xiaomi, as one of the leaders of the smartphone market, is gradually introducing support for virtual SIM cards in its devices, but not all models of the company are equipped with this feature – its availability depends on the region of sales, firmware version and hardware platform.
In this article, we will analyze in detail which Xiaomi phones have eSIM in 2026, what is the difference in the implementation of the technology in different series (from the budget Redmi to the flagship Xiaomi 14), as well as give step-by-step instructions for checking compatibility and activation.
If you are planning to buy a new smartphone or want to switch to eSIM on your current device, this guide will help you avoid mistakes and save time.
What is eSIM and why it is needed in Xiaomi smartphones
eSIM technology (built-in) SIM-The card is a programmable chip integrated into the smartphone motherboard. Unlike traditional nano-SIM, eSIM does not require physical installation - the tariff is activated remotely via a smartphone. QR-This is a solution that's particularly relevant to the operator:
- 🌍 Travelers: the ability to quickly connect local fares without buying physical SIM-map.
- 📱 Owners of two sims: using eSIM + physical SIM Separation of work and personal numbers.
- 🔒 Enterprise Users: Simplified Mobile Device Management MDM-system.
- 🛠️ Minimalist lovers: no tray for the SIM-Cards simplify design and increase water protection.
In smartphones, Xiaomi eSIM is implemented on the basis of the GSMA SGP.02 standard, which guarantees compatibility with most global operators. However, there is an important nuance: in Russia and some CIS countries, many operators (for example, MTS, Beeline) do not officially support eSIM for individuals, limited to corporate customers. Before buying a device with eSIM, check the capabilities of your provider!
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro)+ 5G) have hardware support for eSIM, but the function is locked at the firmware level for certain regions.
Official list of Xiaomi smartphones with eSIM support (2026)
As of June 2026, eSIM technology is available in the following Xiaomi and Redmi models.Please note: support may vary by region and firmware version (Global, EEA, China).
| Series/Model | Regions with eSIM | Number of eSIMs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 14 / 14 Pro / 14 Ultra | Global, EEA, India | 2 (dual eSIM) | Support for 5G SA/NSA. In China, only physical SIMs. |
| Xiaomi 13T / 13T Pro | Global, EEA | 1 | In Russia, eSIM only works with operators that support GSMA RSP. |
| Xiaomi 12T / 12T Pro | Global (except Russia) | 1 | It needs to be upgraded to MIUI 14+. |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G | India, EEA | 1 | In Russia, eSIM is disabled at the software level. |
| POCO F5 / F5 Pro | Global, India | 1 | ESIM support is added to MIUI 14.0.4+. |
To check for eSIM support on your device, go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network. If you don't have an option, your model or firmware doesn't support the technology.
How to activate eSIM on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
The process of setting up the eSIM on Xiaomi smartphones takes no more than 5 minutes, but requires preliminary preparation.
- 📱 Smartphone from the official list with current firmware.
- 📄 QR-code or data to activate from your operator.
- 🌐 Stable Internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
Follow the instructions:
- Step 1. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Step 2. Click Add Mobile Network → Use eSIM.
- Step 3: Select the activation method: 📷 Scan. QR-code (provided by the operator). 📝 Manually enter data (SM-DP+ Address, activation code).
Step 4.
Make sure the model supports eSIM|Get it. QR-code|Connect to Wi-Fi|Update MIUI last-minute|Make a backup copy of the data-->
⚠️ Note: Some operators (e.g, Tele2 Russia issuing QR-eSIM codes only through official communication salons. Online activation may not be available.
After activation, the eSIM will appear in the list. SIM-cards with the ability to assign them 4G/5G, call-up SMS For profile management, use the eSIM Management section in the settings.
Comparison of eSIM and physical SIM in Xiaomi: pros and cons
Switching to eSIM has a number of advantages, but also limitations, that you should be aware of before buying a Xiaomi smartphone with support for technology.
| Criteria | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience of changing operator | ✅ Remote activation in 2 minutes | ❌ Requires a visit to the salon or waiting for delivery |
| Two-room support | ✅ eSIM + physical SIM (duality) | ✅ Two physical SIM (but takes up the tray) |
| Compatibility with operators | ⚠️ Limited in Russia and CIS | ✅ Works with all operators |
| Waterproofing | ✅ No holes for SIM-tray | ❌ The tray can let moisture through. |
| Post-discharge recovery | ⚠️ Requires backup of profile | ✅ It's kept in the tray. |
The main disadvantage of eSIM in Xiaomi is the dependence on the policy of operators, for example, in Europe or India, the technology is supported by most providers, while in Russia the list is limited to MegaFon (for individuals) and corporate tariffs of other operators.
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Before buying a smartphone with eSIM, check the list of supported operators on the GSMA website. eSIM in Turkey, for example, work with Turkcell and Vodafone TR, and in the UAE, with Etisalat and Du.
Regional restrictions: where eSIM works in Xiaomi and where it doesn’t
Support for eSIM in Xiaomi smartphones is highly dependent on the region of sales and firmware version, such as models for the Chinese market (China). ROM) They almost never support virtualization. SIM-maps, even if the hardware is capable of doing so:
- 🌎 Global/EEA (Europe: Full eSIM support in all flagship models (Xiaomi) 13/14, POCO F5).
- 🇮🇳 India: eSIM is available in Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G Xiaomi 11T Pro, but requires manual activation through operator.
- 🇷🇺 Russia and CIS: Officially supported only in Xiaomi 13T/14 Operators are imposing additional restrictions.
- 🇨🇳 China: eSIM not even in flagships due to local legislation.
To circumvent regional restrictions, some users may switch to Global ROM or EEA ROM, but this may lead to:
- ❌ Loss of warranty.
- ❌ Problems with OTA-update.
- ❌ Unstable operation of the communication module.
How do I check the firmware version?
For owners of devices with locked eSIM (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G in Russia), there is an alternative – the use of eSIM-to-SIM adapters (for example, Airalo or Nomad), these devices allow you to connect virtual tariffs through a physical slot, but at additional cost.
Frequent eSIM issues on Xiaomi and how to solve them
Despite the convenience, eSIM users on Xiaomi smartphones face typical errors.
1. The error "Can't add a mobile network"
Reasons:
- 🔄 An outdated version MIUI (required MIUI 13+).
- 📵 Wrong. QR-activation.
- 🚫 The operator does not support eSIM for your device.
Solution: Update the firmware through Settings → Update the system or request a new one QR-operator.
2. eSIM does not catch the network after a reboot
This is a known problem on some models (POCO F4 GT, Xiaomi 12 Lite).
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Turn off and turn on the eSIM again.
- Manually select the operator in the Network Search section.
3.It is impossible to delete the eSIM profile
If the Remove option is inactive:
- Try resetting your network settings (Settings → Memory → Reset → Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile network, and Bluetooth settings).
- Contact the operator to deactivate the profile on the server.
⚠️ Note: On some devices (Xiaomi) 11T Pro) factory reset results in the loss of all eSIM profiles. Before reset, back up via Settings → Google → Backup (if the operator supports the recovery).
To diagnose problems, use the hidden menu of engineering settings: enter the phone application the combination ##4636##, then select Phone Information. Here you can check the status of eSIM registration on the network.
Xiaomi’s eSIM Alternatives: What to Do If Your Model Doesn’t Support Technology
If your Xiaomi smartphone doesn’t have an eSIM, you need the flexibility of a virtual phone. SIM-maps, consider the following options:
- 📶 Mobile routers with eSIM: Devices like GlocalMe U3X Skyroam Solis X allows you to connect eSIM-tariffs and distribute the Internet to your smartphone over Wi-Fi.
- 🔄 ESIM-to-SIM Adapters: Airalo or Nomad Cards Convert Virtual Profiles to Physical Profiles SIM (requires the purchase of an adapter ~$30).
- 📱 Second smartphone: Budget models with eSIM (e.g. iPhone) SE 2022 or Samsung Galaxy A54) It can be used as a "modem" for the main phone.
- 🌐 Local. SIM-Maps: Services like SimOptions or OneSimCard offer physical SIM travel-fare.
For corporate users, Xiaomi offers the solution Xiaomi Enterprise eSIM – a cloud platform for managing virtual devices. SIM-But the service is only available for companies with 50 or more devices.
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Before buying an eSIM-to-SIM adapter, check if your carrier supports SIM Swap technology – not all providers allow the transfer of the profile to physical media.