Why Xiaomi doesn’t send SMS and how to fix it: the full guide

Your Xiaomi has suddenly stopped sending SMS and incoming messages come in without problems? Or messages leave but do not reach the destination? This problem occurs on devices from Redmi Note 12 to flagship Xiaomi 14 Ultra, and there can be a dozen reasons, from trivial errors in settings to hardware malfunctions of the communication module. In this article, we will analyze all possible scenarios why SMS are not sent, and give step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting.

The problem is that it often manifests itself selectively, like not only sending messages to carrier numbers or roaming, sometimes with a "failed to send SMS" notification, and sometimes the message just hangs in the "Sends" status indefinitely, and we've put together solutions that work on MIUI 14 and later, and universal methods for any firmware version.

1. Check the basic SMS settings

Start with the obvious: maybe the problem lies in the wrong message settings. Open the Messages app and go to Settings. → Additionally. → Settings SMS (The path may differ depending on the version MIUI). Pay attention to three key parameters:

• 📶 Centre SMS — The number must correspond to your operator (for example, for MTS it is the same number). +79160,000,000 for Beeline — +79030,000,000) If the field is empty or the number is incorrect, SMS will not leave.
• 📤 The format of the messages should stand «GSM» (not «CDMA», if you're not in the U.S).
• 🔄 Delivery Reports – Enable this option to see if messages have reached the destination.

If the SMS center is empty, you can find it from the operator or search the Internet for “SMS center [operator name] 2026.” Type the number manually and save the settings. On some Xiaomi models (for example, POCO X5 Pro), the SMS center is reset after updating the firmware – this is a known bug that can only be fixed by manual input.

2.Reboot the phone and reset network settings

The simple reboot of the device solves up to 30% of problems with sending SMS. The fact is that the communication module (modem) can “hang” due to a conflict of processes or an error in the operation of MIUI. Turn off the phone for 1-2 minutes, then turn on and try to send the message again.

If the reboot doesn't work, reset the network settings, which deletes all stored Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth settings, and mobile network settings, but doesn't affect personal data.

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Choose yours. SIM-card (if there are several).
3. Tap “Reset Network Settings” and confirm the action.

Once reset, the phone will automatically connect to the carrier's network, but the SMS center may reset - check it again, as described in the first section. If the problem persists, move on to the next step.

3.Verification APN-settings and network modes

Wrong. APN-Settings (access points) can block not only the Internet, but also the Internet. SMS. Although messages are usually sent via an alarm channel (do not depend on the information provided by the APN), Some operators require the correct parameters for all services to work. APN:

1. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → [yours SIM] → Access points (APN).
2. If the list is empty or there are multiple profiles, choose the one that matches your operator (for example, “internet.mts.ru” for MTS).
3. If the profile is missing, create a new one by entering data from the operator’s website.

Also make sure that the phone is running in the correct network mode. For stable SMS sending, it is recommended:

• 📡 4G (LTE) — The best option for modern smartphones.
• 📞 3G — if 4G unstable in your area.
• ❌ 2G (GSM) — can block SMS on certain tariffs (for example, Tele2).

To change the network mode, go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Preferred type of network and select «4G/3G/2G (Automobile” if, after that, SMS Do not leave, try to manually install "Only" 3G» — This sometimes helps in conflicts with the operator.

4.Problems with SIM-map: diagnosis and solutions

If SMS Don't just go with one. SIM-cards (on dual-symbol Xiaomi), the problem is most likely in the card itself or its slot:

• 🔄 Replace it. SIM In a different slot (if the phone supports Dual) SIM). If the messages went - the first slot malfunctioned.
• 📱 Check it out. SIM I'm on another phone, if there is. SMS Do not leave – the card is blocked or damaged.
• 🔍 Check the contacts. SIM-cards for scratches or contaminants, wipe them with a soft cloth moistened with alcohol.

Also make sure that SIM-For example, MegaFon and Beeline can temporarily suspend services with zero balance or suspected fraud:

1. Call a short operator number (e.g. *100# for MTS).
2. Or send it. USSD-balance check request (e.g. *105# for Tele2).

⚠️ Attention: If SIM-higher 5 It could have worn out its chip in years. Modern Xiaomi smartphones (like the Redmi Note) 13 Pro+) require standard maps 4G/5G (USIM). Old ones. SIM (Mini-SIM or Micro-SIM may not support all features.

5. Conflicts with applications and firmware

Sometimes, third-party applications (especially those that work with a phone book or network) or firmware errors interfere with SMS sending.

• 🛡️ Launch your phone in Safe Mode (press the power button) → «Safe regime). If SMS They leave, one of the installed applications is to blame.
• 🔄 Update your firmware. Go to Settings. → The phone. → Update the system and install the latest version MIUI.
• 📦 Clear the Messages app cache in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Communications → Warehouse → Clear the cache.

If the problem has occurred after the MIUI update, try rolling back to the previous version (if there is a backup) or wait for a patch. For example, MIUI 14.0.5 for Xiaomi 13T had a bug sending SMS in roaming — it is fixed in version 14.0.7.

Also check if your phone has spam-blocking apps (like Truecaller or Sber Spam Blocker) installed. They may be filtering outbound SMS incorrectly. Go to the settings of these apps and turn off message filtering.

Hardware malfunctions and service center

If none of the software methods worked, the problem could be the phone's hardware, and here are signs that it's time to bring Xiaomi into service:

• 📡 No network at all – the phone does not catch any operator, even after a reboot.
• 🔌 SIM-The card is not defined - in the settings displayed "No" SIM» or “Unidentified map».
• 🔧 The connector is damaged. SIM-maps - bent contacts or traces of oxidation are visible.
• 📞 Calls are not working, along with SMS And the voice signal's gone.

The most common hardware reasons:

1. A faulty modem (chip that handles communication) in which case the phone can see the network but not send SMS/calls.
2. A damaged antenna, for example, after falling or getting moisture.
3. Oxidation of contacts SIM-Cards – a common problem after getting liquid.

⚠️ Note: If your Xiaomi has been in water (even briefly), do not try to dry it with a hairdryer or rice. Contact oxidation occurs within 24-48 hours, and only professional cleaning in the service can save the modem. Self-manipulation often leads to complete loss of communication.

The cost of repairing the communication module in Xiaomi varies from 3,000 to 10,000 rubles depending on the model. For example, replacing the modem with the Redmi Note 11 Pro will cost ~ 4,500 rubles, and Xiaomi 13 - up to 8,000 rubles. Before visiting the service, make a backup copy of the data - sometimes a full phone reset is required for diagnosis.

💡

If the phone is warranty, don’t open it yourself! Xiaomi service centers have special equipment for diagnosing modems (such as Rohde & Schwarz testers) that will show the exact cause of the malfunction.

7. Alternative ways to send SMS

While you are looking for a solution, you can use workarounds to send messages:

• 💬 Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) – if the addressee has the same application installed.
• 📧 Email-to-SMS – some operators allow you to send SMS via email (for example, a number)@sms.mts.ru).
• 🌐 Online services of the operator (for example, “Personal Account” of MegaFon or “My MTS»).
• 📱 Second device, insert SIM to another phone and send it SMS from.

For business purposes (e.g., sending notifications) you can use SMS-Gateways like SMS.ru or TurboSMS, which allow you to send messages through the Internet. API, However, please note that these services are usually paid (from 1 ruble per phone). SMS).

If you need to send it urgently SMS Xiaomi, but the phone stubbornly doesn’t want to do it, try sending a message through USSD-That's what the team did:

1. Open the phone app.
2. Enter the command in the format: *111* phone number* text message# (for example, *111*79123456789*Hello!#).
3. Press the call button.

This method does not work for all operators, but it can help in a critical situation. USSD from your provider.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the problem with SMS on Xiaomi