Unsophisticated experience of communication with modern technology of a person cannot be dragged by force into the settings section of your smartphone. This approach sometimes leads to embarrassment, and the gadget, which was not told exactly how to behave, begins to live its own life. One notable example is a smartphone with two SIM cards that people use together to optimize their mobile phone costs. However, there will be zero sense of such optimization if the smartphone does not receive precise instructions from you on when and which SIM card to use.
It is easier with calls and SMS: most smartphones, when trying to make a call or send a message, ask each time which SIM card you need to use. The main thing here is to initially know your SIM-cards "by sight" and understand which of them is the first, which is the second. In extreme cases, this point can be clarified in the settings, in the section "SIM-cards management".
It shows which operator each card is serviced by.
If the operator is the same, as in our example, you will have to deal with the numbers. Each operator has its own options for specifying the number corresponding to the SIM card. In MTS, you can call the short number 0887 from the desired SIM card: the number will be dictated by the answering machine. This call is free.
We go online
The situation with the mobile Internet is more complicated on your smartphone with two SIM cards. If you open an application for a social network or a browser, your gadget, without asking you anything, simply connects to the Internet using the specified settings, and, possibly, through the wrong SIM card. That is why it is important to be able to change the settings.
In the screenshot above, find the Default Data Transfer option. You can see that data transmission (i.e. mobile internet) is set to the second SIM card. At the very top of the screenshot, you can see that for each of the SIM cards the types of cellular networks that can be used are listed. In particular, any networks are available to the first SIM-card, including the fastest 4G. The second card is only "capable" of 2G, and therefore is only suitable for calls and extremely slow mobile Internet. Obviously, you should change the settings by switching the Internet to the first SIM card, like this:
We climb under the hood
There is an important nuance: the availability of modern cellular networks often depends not on the SIM card and the completeness of the coverage of operators' networks, but on how you placed the SIM cards in your gadget. The fact is that in many phone models only one of the two slots for SIM cards can provide a connection to 3G and 4G networks. At the same time, the second slot has limited functionality and is "friendly" only with 2G and calls. It was with such a smartphone that we took our screenshots.
If you have mixed up the slots, and the SIM card for the mobile Internet is in the wrong place, you will have to swap the cards. In some smartphone models, during this procedure, you will encounter another problem: sometimes the slots are designed for SIM cards of different sizes. To resolve this attack, the SIM card can be replaced while maintaining the number in the operator's office, telling his employee what size card you need. As a rule, the procedure for replacing the SIM card will cost you nothing.
There are also adapters that allow you to install small cards in larger slots, and large cards can be cut using a special tool. You can almost always find it in a store that sells cell phones. Cutting a SIM card, as a rule, is a paid service.
As you can see, a smartphone with two SIM-cards gives you great convenience, but there can be pitfalls in them. Now you know how to bypass them.
Samsung decided to listen to its fans and returned support for memory cards to the new flagship devices Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge. However, she did it with the help of a hybrid slot, as it has become fashionable lately. This means that the user has to choose whether to use 2 SIM-cards in the smartphone or one "SIM" and a microSD-card. Fortunately, there were craftsmen who discovered that the contacts of the second SIM and the contacts of the memory card are in different places and managed to combine business with pleasure to organize the simultaneous operation of two SIM and microSD cards. And if you decide to become the owner of a new device (or have already become), despite all its minor disadvantages, then this article is for you. We publish a translation of the instructions with detailed comments on how to install two SIM cards and a memory card in the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge.
Denial of responsibility: all the manipulations listed below you do only at your own peril and risk. Neither the author nor anyone else is responsible for your actions and for any possible damage caused. It is highly likely to damage the microchip of the SIM card, to a lesser extent - the microSD memory card. Also, when the smartphone heats up, there is a danger of this structure peeling off and in which case problems may arise when removing the tray. It is quite possible that you will have to contact the service center to get it. In this case, the device will be removed from the warranty.
So, if you have realized all the listed risks, then in order to continue you will need the following devices:
- Nano SIM (because it's easier to cut and disassemble)
- MicroSD memory card
- Lighter
- Scissors, blade, or any other sharp object
- Thin double-sided tape (preferred) or super glue
- Some free time, patience, head on shoulders and straight arms
To install two SIM cards and a memory card at the same time in a Samsung Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 Edge, you must:
- Determine the correct position of the SIM card
First, you need to determine the correct position of the SIM card in the tray. Cards of different operators may have different contact configurations. The author of the original instructions carried out operations with SIM-cards of the operators U Mobile and Maxis (Malaysia). Usually all SIM cards have a special key on one side (cut corner).
- Disconnect the SIM card chip from the base
Any SIM-card consists of a plastic base and a microchip glued to it with a contact pad. Gently heat the SIM card on the opposite side (where the plastic is). This can take from 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then carefully separate the chip with the contact pad from the base. It is recommended to use a sharp object (scissors, knife, blade, etc.) as an auxiliary tool. After that, the chip needs to be cleaned from the remnants of glue or plastic.
If everything went smoothly and you did not have to change the SIM card, then you can consider half the way covered.
- Trim the microchip of the SIM card
Now you need to carefully cut the contact pad of the SIM card to fit on the memory card. Usually it is required to shorten it by 1-2 mm on each side (as in the photo).
- Mount SIM to microSD
This can be done using double-sided tape (in which case the memory card can be easily (more or less) “released”) or super-glue (this option is less preferable, since if you damaged the SIM card chip, then separate it from the memory card will be quite difficult or even impossible). For the correct placement, the first step was provided. Also, make sure the corner of the microchip of the SIM card is aligned as shown in the image (circled in red).
- Place the finished structure in the tray
Now it remains to place the geno modified microSD card in the tray, and the tray itself into the smartphone.
Finally, you need to check the correctness of all actions. If everything is done correctly, the Galaxy S7 will "see" two SIM cards and a microSD memory card. It will look something like this:
It is also worth noting that the method described above is suitable for all smartphones with the same hybrid SIM card tray. In particular, the owners of Meizu Pro 5 have a similar experience.
How to use a universal slot to the fullest? Make a combo SIM card with built-in memory card!
Hybrid slot allowing you to install or 2 SIM, or SIM and USB stick- the scourge of our time. Split slots are steadily appearing in smartphones in the lower price segment. Most of the popular, noteworthy models are forced to get out with flash drives connected via OTG.
Or buy a device with a lot of memory. The policy of the manufacturers is clear - to make the most of it by offering a smartphone with an increased amount of internal memory, which is much more expensive than the memory itself.
Why is this needed?
Smartphones with minimal internal storage usually cost significantly less than counterparts with large storage. Apps and content are perfectly placed on the map, so almost all brands retain the ability to install it (with the exception of some overly “principled” Chinese brands).
Usually, in the "paired" tray, the contacts of the microSD memory card and the second SIM card are in different places. If you wish, you can combine- and nothing prevents them from working at the same time. There are no software restrictions.
For which smartphones can you make a hybrid SIM + microSD?
For almost any smartphones with a slot design similar to that shown in the picture above. Yes, the contacts of the flash drive and SIM card are directed in the same direction. However, for their work, different sets of contacts with different heights are used.
Some companies deliberately reduce the thickness of the slot, or change the direction of elements in the tray. In such cases, you first need to contact the specialized communities dedicated to discussing the appropriate smartphone.
In addition, it should be borne in mind that the tray and its slot are not designed for the increased thickness of the elements. Therefore, in certain models with hybrid "microSD + SIM" problems are observed. Only the thematic forum can provide accurate information.
ATTENTION!
All the manipulations described below you carry out at your own peril and risk. We do not accept any responsibility for possible damage that you may cause to your device.
The chances of ruining your SIM are greatest. To a lesser extent - a microSD memory card.
Manufacturing instruction
Determining the correct position of the elements
First, you need to determine the correct position of the SIM card in the tray. Cards of different operators may have different contact configurations.
Has the meaning trace the outline, which goes into the slot, so it will be easier to cut it. It is also necessary to estimate the maximum allowable thickness of a SIM card.
SIM manufacturing
After we have decided on the size, it is necessary detach the actual SIM card (chip) from the plastic base. There are two methods for this:
1. Heating the SIM card from the plastic side at a temperature of about 200 degrees for 30-60 seconds up to 1 minute. In this case, the plastic is separated from the chip using a knife or blade.
2. Chemical dissolution of the plastic substrate with dichloroethane (POISON! Use only in a ventilated area!), Acetone or a similar solvent - for example, 646.
The separated chip will require additional processing. First you need to get rid of the remnants of the glue on the back with a knife or solvent - carefully so as not to damage the contacts.
Then you need to carefully prune contact pad of the SIM-card for placement on microSD in accordance with the first paragraph. On each side, 1-2 mm will go away.
Connecting SIM and microSD
After preparing the SIM card, you need to check if there is any interference with the installation on the side of the flash drive itself. In some cases, it is required to cut the bump on the back with a fine (jewelry) file.
Make sure that the combination will be flush or barely protruding in the slot;
- we glue the elements to each other using super glue based on cyanoacrylate("Moment Superglue Gel"), carefully gluing the SIM card around the edges. 
If necessary, cyanoacrylate can be easily destroyed with specialized formulations from the store or with an acetone-free nail polish remover (isopropyl alcohol).
Checking the work
Finally, you need to check the correctness of all actions. If everything is done correctly, then the simultaneous work will look like this: 
If the memory card is not visible, you need to tin the contacts of the memory card with a soldering iron, or stick a strip of electrical tape on the back side so that the contacts become slightly higher.
Precautionary measures
The thickness of the elements should be kept to a minimum. Any gaps between the SIM card and the USB flash drive should be excluded. Sizing along the edge is mandatory - if the SIM card sticks out at least a little, there is a chance when you pull out the slot to leave it in it.
It is recommended not to pull out the tray after manufacturing and installation. So it's worth taking care microSD card capacity- and do not spare cards with a large volume. As practice shows, the chance to spoil the SIM card is much greater - it is she who gets stuck.
In addition, before manufacturing, it is worth contacting the profile community for information: are there any problems with using hybrid microSD + SIM. Especially in the first production.
Many brands have problematic models of smartphones: for example, Meizu M2 Note... "Sandwich" has every chance to break the universal slot.
The now popular Chinese company Xiaomi has released several lines of phones, including such popular models as Xiaomi Redmi 4A, Xiaomi Redmi 3s, Xiaomi Redmi 4 Pro, and many others.
What these models have in common is that the SIM card can be inserted in a completely identical way. How to insert a SIM card in Xiaomi Redmi 4 (and in many other models, for example, in Xiaomi Redmi 4A) - this is our article today.
To perform this operation, you will need the Xiaomi smartphone itself, plus a paper clip for opening the tray, which already comes with the kit in the box with the phone. The tray itself is located on the left side of the device, and you can also insert a microSD flash drive there instead of a second SIM card.
Sequencing
- Insert a paper clip into the small hole in the tray;
- Press until it clicks, take out the inserted paper clip;
- We take out the tray from the phone.
Here you will see two places at once - for nano and micro SIM cards (in Redmi 3), and a hybrid tray in Redmi 3 Pro, 3X and 3S (instead of a second SIM card, you can insert a memory card there).
It is necessary to install cards in the required connectors, then carefully insert the tray back into the smartphone. If done correctly, you will hear a click and feel that the tray is level with the body of the phone.
How to insert a memory card
Anyone who has repeatedly inserted SIM cards into his Xiaomi knows that not only they are inserted there. The card in Xiaomi Redmi 4, as always, can be placed in another - micro SD, which serves as an internal storage. It can store pictures, photos, music, videos, install applications and much more. You can do without a flash drive, but the built-in memory is not always enough, so users have to choose - either two mobile numbers or additional space for files.
To install a memory card, you need to perform almost the same actions as in the previous paragraph - insert a paperclip into the hole on the SIM tray, press until it clicks, pull out the tray and insert the SIM card into the first slot, and the SD memory card in the second.
Simultaneous placement of two cards and an SD drive
Yes, yes, there is such a method, but we consider it our duty to warn you: any actions are performed at your own peril and risk, they can harm your smartphone. If you want your Xiaomi smartphone to simultaneously serve for two phone numbers, and for a large number of personal files and programs, follow the instructions below.
To do this, you need to warm up the SIM card under the lighter for 15-20 seconds, and then carefully remove the electronic chip from the plastic shell and insert it, as well as the SD memory card into a special slot in the tray. But do this in such a way that the golden contacts do not overlap with each other, but can be recognized and separated by the smartphone as separate. After that, insert the tray into the Xiaomi Redmi 4 Pro, as usual, and check the functionality of this method by turning on the gadget. With a high degree of probability, the phone will see both SIM cards and the memory card at the same time, however, we do not guarantee that the device will not malfunction.
In any case, we advise you to be careful and not once again risk the integrity and safety of your gadget - it is better to choose one of two real options than to regret your ingenuity over a broken phone later.
An Android phone with two SIM cards is usually purchased in order to insert two SIM cards there, possibly from different mobile operators, and as a result, instead of two phones, carry one with you. However, in fact, sometimes they still use one SIM card.
For example, I gave up the idea of using a second SIM card in a two-SIM phone. "The old fashioned way" I continue to use two telephones. Refused, in particular, due to problems that may arise when switching from a regular to a mini-SIM, which must be done for a dual-SIM phone. It turns out that it is advisable to first go to the bank to notify about the change in the size of the SIM card (and, accordingly, about the change in its serial number), although the phone number remains the same. But without the code that comes in the SMS message to the phone, it will not be possible to confirm many actions on the Internet.
In addition, it is not always possible to remember what, that is, to the account of which important but rarely used service the phone is attached and, accordingly, where else a problem may arise when changing the SIM card format. True, the existence of such sensitivity on the size of the SIM card still depends on the specific bank and on specific services. Perhaps, as technology advances, this problem will go away.
Why set up SIM cards
An Android phone is essentially a small computer, so many computer approaches are applicable to it. Namely, the setting of the sims is happening (hardware + software).
For example, if you enable only one SIM card on your phone programmatically, that is, make it active, and leave the second SIM card inactive, but at the same time do not disable it in hardware, then you will eventually see a crossed-out circle icon on your phone. This icon means that the phone has two SIM cards, but one of them is empty, or rather, it is missing from the phone.
Screenshots were taken on a Samsung Android phone and the settings are described using this model as an example.
Rice. 1. The crossed out circle icon and "Applications"
Where to find SIM card management
This can be done using the SIM card manager. To do this, tap (open) on the main page of the phone "Applications" (Fig. 1) and go to Android Settings:
Rice. 2. Android settings
In the Android Settings, we are looking for the SIM Card Manager:
Rice. 3. SIM card manager
How to set up two SIM cards on an Android phone
Below in the screenshot (Fig. 4) you can see that SIM 2 has been renamed and called Nadezhda. It is for her that the reception of calls and the Internet is configured, namely:
- Voice call,
- Video call,
- Data transmission network.
Such settings can be made in the SIM-card manager, in the "Preferred SIM-card" section:
Rice. 4. Two SIM cards on an Android smartphone
If, for example, for the 2nd Simka you indicate that it will "catch" the Internet, then everything else will be configured automatically. And there will be no inscription "No network" on the main page of the phone.
In hardware, both SIM cards remain connected for now, as evidenced by two points in the SIM card manager (Fig. 4):
- SIM 1 and Hope are shown as active. If one of them is inactive, then its name will be written in a pale gray color.
- The "Active Mode" option is configured to "Receive calls on both SIM cards even during a call."
How to disable the second sim card
If you do not need a second SIM card (I have it SIM 1) and in fact it is not in the phone, then you can safely turn it off. To do this, tap on the name of SIM 1, a window will open:
Rice. 5. SIM 1 card is included
To disable the SIM card, tap on the green slider (in the red frame in Fig. 5). After that, the engine will turn from active, green, to gray, inactive:
Rice. 6. SIM card disabled
The SIM 1 SIM card is disabled, so now there is no crossed out circle, which was in Fig. 1 with the SIM card turned on.
One SIM card with number 2 is active:
Rice. 7. Only one SIM card with number 2 works
How to enable a second SIM card on Android
- You need to insert a second SIM card into the phone,
- then in Settings open the SIM-card manager (Fig. 3),
- tap on the name of the second sim card (Fig. 4),
- and then switch the slider from the “Off” position (Fig. 6) to the “On” state (Fig. 5).
The "Active mode" option (Fig. 4) must also be enabled, which provides the "Accept calls on both SIM cards even during a call" function.
If the Internet needs to be configured for a second SIM card, then in the SIM card manager, in the "Preferred SIM card" tab (Fig. 4), in the "Data network" option, select the desired SIM card from the two.
About the number of SIM cards in the phone
It seems that there are phones with four SIM cards, so a two-SIM phone is not the limit, although all this, of course, is not for everybody.
And further. The more active SIM-cards in a smartphone, the faster. Energy is spent on maintaining communication with several base stations of mobile operators.
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