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[Step-by-Step Guide] How to Remove SIM Card from iPhone?

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The SIM card is an essential component of a mobile phone, allowing users to connect to their carrier's network for making calls, sending texts, and using mobile data. You might need to remove or replace the SIM card in your iPhone when switching carriers, changing phones, or dealing with signal issues. This article will provide detailed instructions on how to remove SIM card from iPhone safely and offer solutions to common related problems.

how to remove sim card from iphone

 

Part 1. What Happens When You Remove the SIM Card?

When you remove the SIM card from an iPhone, several things happen:

  • Loss of Cellular Connectivity: The iPhone will no longer be able to make or receive phone calls, send or receive text messages, or use mobile data. It will only be able to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi.
  • No Network Signal: Without a SIM card, the iPhone will display "No Service" or "Searching" ,where network signal strength indicators usually appear.
  • Carrier Services Unavailable: Features tied to your carrier, like voicemail and SMS/MMS messaging, will not be accessible.
  • Potential Impact on Apps: Some apps that rely on cellular data for functionality may not work until a new SIM card is inserted or the phone is connected to Wi-Fi.
  • Personal Data: Removing the SIM card does not affect the personal data stored on the iPhone itself, such as contacts, photos, and apps. However, if you rely on the SIM card for storing contacts or other information, you might need to transfer or back up that data separately. (How to back up iPhone contacts?)
  • Emergency Calls: Most iPhones can still make emergency calls even without a SIM card, as long as they are connected to a network.

Part 2. How to Remove SIM Card from iPhone?

Removing the SIM card from an iPhone is actually very simple. Here is how to take SIM card out of iPhone:

Step 1. Power Off the iPhone

While you can remove the SIM card while the iPhone is on, it is recommended to turn off the iPhone first to prevent any potential data loss or damage.

1. To turn off your iPhone, follow these steps:

  • For iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, or later: Press and hold both the "volume" button and the "side" button until the power-off slider appears.
  • For iPhone 6, 7, 8, or SE (2nd or 3rd generation): Press and hold the "side" button until the power-off slider appears.
  • For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier: Press and hold the "top" button until the power-off slider appears.

buttons on different models

2. Slide the slider, then wait 30 seconds for your device to power off.

turn off your iphone

Step 2. Determine the location of the SIM card slot on your iPhone.

The position of the SIM card slot varies slightly depending on the iPhone model.

SIM card tray located on the left side:

  • iPhone 15 Pro/iPhone 15 Pro Max/iPhone 15/iPhone 15 Plus
  • iPhone 14 Pro/iPhone 14 Pro Max/iPhone 14/iPhone 14 Plus
  • iPhone 13 Pro/iPhone 13 Pro Max/iPhone 13/iPhone 13 mini
  • iPhone 12/iPhone 12 mini/iPhone 12 Pro/iPhone 12 Pro Max

sim ard tray located on the left side

SIM card tray located on the right side:

  • iPhone 11 Pro/iPhone 11 Pro Max/iPhone 11
  • iPhone XS/iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XR/iPhone X
  • iPhone SE (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation)
  • iPhone 8 Plus/iPhone 8
  • iPhone 7 Plus/iPhone 7
  • iPhone 6s Plus/iPhone 6s/iPhone 6 Plus/iPhone 6
  • iPhone 5s/iPhone 5c/iPhone 5
  • iPhone 4s/iPhone 4 (GSM model)

sim card tray located on the right side

SIM card tray located on the top:

  • iPhone 3GS/iPhone 3G
  • Original iPhone

sim card tray located on the top

Note: If you purchased an iPhone 14 or a newer model in the U.S., your iPhone may not have a traditional SIM card tray. These models use eSIM technology, which is an embedded SIM card. This technology allows you to activate and manage your mobile network service digitally, without the need for a physical SIM card tray. You can add or change eSIM configurations through the settings menu without inserting a physical SIM card.

Step 3. Eject the SIM Card Tray Using a Tool

Once you have located the SIM card slot, the next step is to use a SIM card ejector tool or a paperclip. Insert the tool into the small hole next to the SIM card slot and apply gentle pressure until the SIM card tray pops out. Avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the SIM card slot or the internal components of the phone.

Step 4. Remove the SIM Card and Perform Replacement or Other Actions

Once the SIM card tray pops out, carefully remove it. You will see the SIM card resting in the tray. At this point, you can gently take out the SIM card. If you need to replace it with a new SIM card, simply place the new card correctly in the tray (ensuring that the orientation of the SIM card matches the design of the tray). Then, push the tray back into the phone.

Part 3. Considerations for Removing the SIM Card from an iPhone

Now that you know how to get out an iPhone SIM card, there are a few important considerations you shouldn't overlook:

  • Backup Data: Before removing the SIM card, make sure you have backed up all important data stored on it, such as contacts and text messages. Once the SIM card is removed, this data will not be directly accessible. Coolmuster iOS Assistant can quickly back up contacts, photos, messages, and other data, allowing users to replace their SIM cards without worrying about data loss.
  • Power Off Before Removal: To avoid potential system issues, it is best to remove the SIM card while the iPhone is powered off.
  • Understand Network Settings: If your iPhone supports multiple network standards (such as GSM and CDMA), make sure you are familiar with the relevant network settings and carrier requirements before removing the SIM card to avoid communication issues.

Part 4. FAQs on How to Get SIM Card Out of iPhone

Q1. Why won't the SIM card tray eject?

If you find that the SIM card tray won't eject, it may be because the tool is not inserted correctly or not applying enough pressure. Ensure that the tool is fully inserted into the small hole and apply moderate pressure. If multiple attempts fail, it's advisable to visit an Apple-authorized service center for professional assistance to avoid damaging the device.

Q2. What should I do if the SIM card tray is stuck or damaged?

In some extreme cases, the SIM card tray may get stuck or be damaged. If the tray is stuck in the device, do not force it out to avoid further damage. You can try using a slightly larger tool or seek professional repair services from Apple. (SIM card stuck in iPhone?)

Q3. Will removing the SIM card delete my data on the iPhone?

No. The SIM card only stores carrier information and a small amount of contact data, so removing it will not affect the other data on your device.

Q4. Will my iPhone's functionality be limited after changing the SIM card?

After changing the SIM card, you will use the new number and carrier services, but the other functionalities of the device, such as applications and Wi-Fi, will still be available.

Bonus: How to Delete Everything from iPhone

If you plan to hand over or sell your iPhone, in addition to removing the SIM card, you also need to completely erase all data from the device. Coolmuster iOS Eraser is a professional iPhone data erasure tool that helps you thoroughly wipe all data to ensure your privacy. It is easy to use and supports all iOS devices; capable of deleting photos, contacts, messages, and all other content to ensure it cannot be recovered.

Here is how to use iOS Eraser to delete everything from your iPhone:

01Install and launch the program, then connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Once the device is connected, the main interface will appear, enabling you to begin the data erasure process.

have your idevice to detected by the program

02On the main interface, click the "Erase" button. Select the desired security level for the erasure—Low, Medium, or High. Then, confirm your choice by clicking "OK".

choose security level for erasing and confirm it

03Enter "delete" in the confirmation field and click the "Erase" button. Confirm your decision to permanently erase the device's data by clicking "OK" when prompted.

start to erase

04After a brief scan, the program will start erasing the data on your device. Once the process is complete, all data will be permanently removed and unrecoverable. You can then proceed to set up your iPhone.

complete the erase progress

Video Tutorial:

The Bottom Line

I believe you now know how to eject iPhone SIM card. Removing the SIM card from an iPhone is actually a very simple process. As long as you have the right tools and follow the steps carefully, you can complete it smoothly. If you encounter any issues during the process, you can refer to the official iPhone support documentation or contact Apple customer service.

When it comes to completely erasing device data, Coolmuster iOS Eraser is a highly recommended tool. It helps you easily and securely delete all content, ensuring that the data cannot be recovered.

Related Articles:

How to Change SIM Card on iPhone Easily? [Step-by-Step]

How to Transfer SIM Card to New iPhone? Solved in 1 Minute!

Switching SIM Cards Between iPhones [Full & Comprehensive Guide]

How to Bypass iPhone SIM Not Supported Issue? (Top 11 Methods)

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