Switching SIM cards in an iPhone is a simple process once you understand where the SIM tray is located and how the phone reacts to a new card. Whether you’re changing carriers, traveling, or moving your number to a different device, the steps are straightforward. This guide explains what you need to know before you begin, how to handle the SIM tray, and what to expect when the phone recognizes the new card, so you can complete the change without interruptions.

What to Check Before Switching SIM Cards on an iPhone

Before replacing the SIM card in your iPhone, checking a few essential details ensures that the device recognizes the new card correctly and that your mobile service continues without interruption:

• Check whether your iPhone is carrier locked: A locked iPhone functions only with one carrier. Confirming the lock status prevents issues when inserting a SIM from another network.

• Understand where your contacts and data are stored: iPhones do not store contacts or personal data on the SIM card. Information is kept in iCloud or on the device, so removing the SIM does not delete any data.

• Verify the SIM card size your iPhone supports: Most modern iPhones use a nano SIM. Confirming the correct size helps avoid problems when inserting a new card, especially when obtaining a SIM abroad.

• Store the removed SIM card safely: A SIM that is taken out may be needed again. Keeping it in a secure place protects it from loss or damage.

How to Remove a SIM Card From an iPhone

Before taking out the SIM card, it is helpful to know how the SIM tray is positioned on your device and what steps are involved in the removal process. This ensures that you begin from the correct spot and complete the procedure without interruptions.

• The SIM tray location depends on the iPhone model: Depending on the generation, the tray may be placed on the left side, right side, or on the top of the device.

• Turn off the iPhone before removing the SIM: Powering off the device allows it to detect the SIM change properly when restarted.

• Insert the SIM-eject tool into the pinhole: Place the tool into the small opening beside the SIM tray and press inward until the tray releases. A paperclip may be used if needed.

• Pull out the SIM tray and remove the card: Slide the tray out fully and lift the SIM card from its slot. It should come out without resistance.

• Keep the tray in a safe place: Storing the tray securely prevents damage or misplacement before inserting the new SIM.

Where to Find the SIM Tray on Your iPhone

Different iPhone models place the SIM tray in different positions. The table below shows where the tray is located on each generation.

Note: iPhone 14 and later models purchased in the United States use eSIM only and do not include a physical SIM tray. Certain models in Hong Kong and Macao support Dual SIM with two nano SIM cards. [1]

How to Insert a SIM Card Into an iPhone

Inserting a SIM card into an iPhone involves placing the card correctly in the SIM tray and ensuring that the device recognizes it once restarted. The steps below outline the proper way to complete the process.

• Turn off the iPhone before inserting the SIM: Powering off the device helps it detect the new SIM accurately when turned back on.

• Open the SIM tray using the SIM-eject tool: Insert the tool into the pinhole beside the SIM tray and press inward until the tray releases. A paperclip can be used if the tool is not available.

• Check the SIM card’s orientation:A nano SIM has a small clipped corner. Match this corner with the corresponding notch on the tray to ensure correct alignment.

• Place the SIM card flat inside the tray: Set the card in the tray without tilting or applying pressure to the gold contacts.

• Reinsert the SIM tray into the iPhone: Slide the tray back into the device in the same direction it was removed. It should sit flush with the edge of the phone.

• Restart the iPhone: Turning the device back on allows it to read and activate the SIM card.

Troubleshooting if the SIM Card Does Not Work on Your iPhone

If your iPhone does not recognize the SIM card after inserting it, several checks can help identify and resolve the issue.

• Check the SIM card and tray: Make sure the SIM card is seated correctly in the tray and that the tray is inserted fully into the device. Confirm that the SIM card is the correct size and not damaged.

• Restart the iPhone: Restarting refreshes the device’s connection settings and often resolves detection problems.

• Reset network settings: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This clears network configurations that may be preventing the SIM from working.

• Test the SIM card in another device: Insert the SIM card into a compatible phone to confirm whether the issue is with the SIM or the iPhone.

• Contact your carrier: If the SIM card is active but still not working, your carrier can check for account or network issues and provide a replacement SIM if needed.

Roamless eSIM: A Digital Alternative to Physical SIM Cards

A global eSIM like Roamless eSIM provides a digital option for travelers who want to stay connected in the United States without handling physical SIM cards. With eSIM-compatible iPhones, users can activate a plan remotely and access mobile data as soon as they arrive.

• Instant setup: Install a Roamless eSIM plan before departure and connect immediately upon arrival

• Multiple profiles: Keep your main number active while using a Roamless travel data plan

• No physical swapping: Avoid carrying, inserting, or storing traditional SIM cards

• Reduced waste: A fully digital solution that removes the need for plastic SIM packaging

Roamless offers a practical way for supported iPhones to access mobile data without visiting a store or waiting for a physical SIM, making it suitable for travel across different regions.

In addition, You can open the Roamless app and enter a valid promo code at checkout. To get the latest offers and extra data on your first purchase, visit our eSIM promo code page.

Switching SIM cards in an iPhone is a simple process when the correct tray location, SIM size, and carrier requirements are known. By powering off the device, opening the tray, replacing the card, and restarting the phone, you can change carriers, numbers, or plans without difficulty. If issues occur, basic troubleshooting steps usually restore service, and eSIM options like Roamless provide an additional way to stay connected without relying on physical SIM cards.

You can also read our posts on What Does No SIM Restrictions Mean on iPhone? and What Does No SIM Available Mean?.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch SIM cards while my iPhone is turned on?

Switching SIM cards should be done while the iPhone is powered off. Restarting afterward helps the device detect the new SIM correctly.

How do I change from a physical SIM card to an eSIM on my iPhone?

If your carrier supports eSIM, go to Settings > Cellular > Convert to eSIM and follow the on-screen steps. After activation, the physical SIM can be removed.

Will switching SIM cards delete my photos, contacts, or apps?

No. iPhones store data in iCloud or on the device, not on the SIM card. Your photos, contacts, apps, and messages remain unchanged.

Why does my iPhone say “No SIM” after inserting a new SIM card?

The SIM may not be seated properly, the tray may not be fully closed, or the card may be damaged. Restarting the device or resetting network settings often resolves this.

Can I use a SIM card from another carrier?

Yes, but only if the iPhone is unlocked. A locked device works solely with the carrier that provided it.

Do all iPhones have a physical SIM tray?

No. iPhone models purchased in the United States starting with iPhone 14 use eSIM only and do not include a physical SIM tray.

Source:

[1] Apple. (2024). Remove or switch the SIM card in your iPhone. Apple Support. https://support.apple.com/en-us/109357