How to remove SIM card from iPhone

There are several reasons to remove the SIM card from the iPhone, from setting up a new device, to changing the telephone operator, to international travel. You should also remove the SIM card if you need to send the phone in for repairs. This way you can keep your personal data with you.

SIM cards store phone data, including number, billing information, address book, and carrier. They fit into a small slot on the side of the device, and without it, you can’t make or receive calls, use mobile Internet, or send or receive SMS text messages.

Removing the SIM card from iPhone is simple. You’ll need a SIM eject tool, a thin metal tool that probably came in your iPhone’s box. If you have one from an older model, that should be fine too. And if you don’t have an eject tool, you can use a small paper clip.

Find the SIM tray on your iPhone

Before learning how to take out the SIM card from your iPhone, you need to locate the SIM tray. It looks like a long, narrow oval with a tiny hole in the side. On most iPhone models, it is located on the right side of the device when viewed from the front. See the lists below to understand where the tray is on your model.

The SIM tray is located on the left side for these iPhone models:

• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max

The SIM tray is located on the right side for these iPhone models:

• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone X
• iPhone SE® (2nd generation)
• iPhone 8Plus
• iPhone 8
• iPhone 7Plus
• iPhone 7
• iPhone 6s Plus
• iPhone 6s
• iPhone 6Plus
• iPhone 6
• iPhone SE (1st generation)
• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 5c
• iPhone 5
• iPhone 4s
• iPhone 4 (modello GSM)

The SIM tray is located above for these iPhone models:

• iPhone 3GS
• iPhone 3G
• Original iPhone

Also Read: How To Turn Off Automatic Updates On iPhone

How to remove SIM card from iPhone

Ready to open the SIM card tray on your iPhone? Just follow these simple steps.

1. Remove the iPhone case if you are using one.
2. Turn off your iPhone.
3. If you’re using a SIM eject tool, insert it into the pinhole next to the tray, gently pushing it towards the iPhone until the tray pops out. You may need to use some force, but don’t push too hard. If you’re using a paper clip, straighten the long end so it sticks out, then insert and push gently in the same way.
4. Pull out the tray and remove the SIM card inside by tilting it in your hand.

If there is debris stuck in the tray slot, if your phone is dented from a fall, or if you are concerned about damaging your device, fix an appointment with an Apple expert for help.

Read also: iPhone won’t connect to a Bluetooth speaker

How to put the SIM in the iPhone

To insert the SIM card into your iPhone, simply insert a new card into the empty slot inside the tray. You will know that the paper is in the correct orientation when the notched corner aligns correctly – paper can only enter the tray one way. Then push the SIM card tray back into the slot until it clicks.

How to open the iPhone SIM tray without a key

If you don’t have a SIM eject tool, no problem. As mentioned above, a bent paper clip is fine too. You can also try an earring, safety pin, or toothpick. Avoid using too sharp objects, as they may damage the tray slot.