Installing a carrier card is the first and most important step after buying a new smartphone or restoring its functionality. For owners of the popular Xiaomi Redmi 4X model, this process should not be difficult, but the design features of the tray require careful attention. Installation can lead to the device not seeing the network or damaging contacts.
In this article, we will discuss in detail where exactly the SIM slot in Xiaomi Redmi 4X is located, how to safely remove the tray without damaging the case and in what sequence to place the chips. You will learn about the compatibility of nano-SIM and microSD formats, and also get answers to frequent questions on setting up mobile communication in the MIUI shell.
Before you start physically affecting the device, make sure that the smartphone is turned off. Although modern gadgets support hot replacement, it is recommended that the Redmi 4X and the stability of the radio module be manipulated when the power is turned off.
Preparation of the workplace and tools
To successfully install a SIM card, you'll need a minimal set of tools that usually comes with the device. If the original paper clip is lost, it's easy to replace it with a stationery clip or a thin needle. The main requirement for the tool is the strength and sharp tip that can drown the lock mechanism.
The procedure is recommended at a table with good lighting. The sim card tray in the Xiaomi Redmi 4X is very small and easy to drop or lose if acting on weight or in dim light. Cover the surface with a soft cloth to avoid scratching the metal body of the smartphone in case of accidental fall.
Also prepare the nano-SIM SIM card itself. If your old card (mini or micro), it needs to be trimmed or replaced by a telecom operator. Using homemade adapters or cards that do not meet the standard can lead to a tray getting stuck inside the case.
☑️ What to prepare
Slot location and tray extraction
In the Redmi 4X, Xiaomi engineers have placed a combined SIM card slot and memory card on the top end of the device, a standard solution for smartphones with a metal body that keeps the tightness and aesthetic appearance of the side faces, the slot is a narrow slot, next to which you can see a small hole.
To remove the tray, take a paper clip and insert its tip perpendicular to the opening of the mechanism. Press confidently, but without excessive effort, until you feel a slight click and a spring push. The tray should extend out of the body a few millimeters, after which it can be gently tucked with a nail.
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt to remove the tray by inserting the paper clip at an angle or too deep.This can damage the internal fixation mechanisms or scratch the body around the hole.
Note the design of the retrieved tray. In the Xiaomi Redmi 4X, it has a specific shape, where one side is designed for nano-SIM and the reverse side is for microSD or second SIM card depending on the modification.
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If the tray is not removed after pressing the paper clip, try to press it slightly with your finger at the same time as the pressure on the mechanism. Sometimes the spring can stick due to dust.
SIM and microSD card installation scheme
Proper chip orientation is key to installation.Redmi 4X tray
The combined slot allows you to use either two SIM cards, or one SIM card and a microSD memory card. Simultaneous installation of two SIM cards and a memory card in this slot is impossible due to design limitations. If you need memory capacity, you will have to sacrifice a second SIM card.
To install a microSD card, place it in the second compartment of the tray. Memory card contacts should also be directed downward. Make sure the card fits tightly to the plastic base of the tray and does not protrude beyond its edges, otherwise you risk damaging the contacts when closed.
| Position on the tray | Type of card | Orientation of contacts | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slot 1 (external) | Nano-SIM | Down. | 4G/3G/2G |
| Slot 2 (internal) | Nano-SIM / microSD | Down. | Hybrid mode |
| Slot 3 (separate) | microSD | Down. | Up to 128GB |
What to do if the card is not included in the tray?
Smartphone Enablement and Primary Setup
Once the card tray is back in place, you can turn on your smartphone. Press and hold the power button on the side of the side until the Mi logo appears. The system boot process takes about a minute. If the SIM card is correctly defined, signal level indicators will appear at the top of the screen.
When first switched on Xiaomi Redmi 4X may request PIN-If you have a code that you have installed on this SIM card, enter the code that you have provided, and if you don't have a request, the system will automatically go to the desktop, and the status bar will show the name of the carrier.
In some cases, especially when using older SIM cards, the phone may suggest setting up mobile network settings (APN). This is usually done automatically, but if the Internet is not working, you will have to enter the data manually. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
Setup of two SIM cards in MIUI
The MIUI shell installed on the Redmi 4X provides flexible tools for managing two numbers. You can assign one SIM card to default voice calls and use the other exclusively for mobile internet, which helps save money if the plans differ.
To set up, go to the Settings menu and select the item SIM-You can see a list of installed cards here, click on a particular SIM card, you can activate or deactivate it, change the name to display, and select your preferred network type (4G, 3G or 2G).
In the settings, you can choose which card will be the “main” for fast Internet.
⚠️ Note: When activating the second SIM card, it may be necessary to restart the device to correctly register with the operator's network.
Solution: the phone does not see the SIM card
The situation when Xiaomi Redmi 4X does not recognize the SIM card is rare, but it is possible. Most often the reason lies in the oxidation of contacts or improper installation. Remove the tray again and wipe the golden contacts of the SIM card and the tray itself with dry soft cloth or eraser.
Check if the card is sitting tight in the tray. If it's hanging, it's possible that the card is cut incorrectly or the tray is deformed. In such cases, use a thin layer of tape on the back of the SIM card (not on the contacts!) to increase its thickness and ensure a tight press.
If physical methods didn't work, the problem could be software. Try resetting your network to factory settings. Go to Settings → Advanced Settings → Restore and Reset → Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile Internet, and Bluetooth settings. This action will not delete your personal data, but will return network settings to baseline values.
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In most cases, the “No Network” problem is solved by simply cleaning the contacts or re-installing the tray with force until the characteristic click.