Where to find the SIM card slot and what you need
The SIM card slot on an iPhone is a small tray on the side of the phone. On newer models (iPhone XS and later), it is on the right edge. On older models, it is on the right side but the exact position varies slightly. You will need a SIM ejector tool — a thin metal pin that comes in the box with your iPhone, or a straightened paperclip works just as well.
Before you start, power off your iPhone completely. This is not required by Apple, but it prevents any interruption to the phone's connection while the tray is open. You do not need to remove the SIM card from your old phone first; you can do that after the new one is in place.
Key Takeaways
- The SIM tray is on the right edge of your iPhone; locate the small hole next to it and insert the ejector tool straight in until the tray pops out.
- Remove the old SIM card by lifting it gently out of the tray, then place the new SIM card in the same position with the gold contacts facing down.
- Push the tray back into the phone until it clicks, then power the phone back on and wait for the carrier signal to appear.
- If your new SIM card does not register after 10 minutes, restart the phone again or contact your carrier to confirm the SIM is active.
How to eject the SIM tray
Locate the small hole on the edge of your iPhone next to the SIM card slot. Insert the SIM ejector tool (or paperclip) straight into the hole and explore gentle, steady pressure. You will feel a slight resistance, then the tray will pop out slightly. Do not force it; if it does not move, you are either in the wrong spot or pressing at an angle.
Once the tray begins to emerge, use your fingernail or the tool to pull it the rest of the way out. The tray is a small rectangular piece of plastic with a single slot in the center. Set it on a clean surface where you will not lose it.
Removing the old SIM and inserting the new one
The old SIM card sits in the center of the tray. Lift it gently with your fingernail or the edge of the ejector tool. It will come out easily; there is no latch holding it in place. Set the old SIM aside if you need to keep it, or discard it if you are switching carriers.
Take your new SIM card and orient it so the gold contacts face downward. The card is cut to fit the tray, so there is only one way it will sit correctly. Place it in the tray and press gently until you hear or feel a small click. The card should lie flat and not stick up at any angle.
Reinserting the tray and powering on
Align the tray with the slot on the side of your iPhone. The tray will only fit one way, so if it does not slide in smoothly, rotate it 180 degrees and try again. Push the tray in slowly until it is flush with the edge of the phone and you hear a click. Do not force it; the click means it is seated correctly.
Power your iPhone back on by holding the side button until the Apple logo appears. Wait for the phone to fully boot up, which usually takes 30 seconds to a minute. You should see your carrier's name appear in the status bar at the top of the screen within a few seconds.
What to do if the SIM card does not register
If the carrier name does not appear after 10 minutes, restart the phone again. Hold the side button and either volume button until the power-off slider appears, then slide to power off. Wait 10 seconds, then power back on. This resolves most connection delays.
If the SIM still does not register, the card may not be active yet. Contact your carrier to confirm the SIM has been activated on their network. Some carriers set up SIM cards when ready; others take a few hours. You can also try removing and reinserting the tray to make sure it is seated all the way in.
Differences between iPhone models
All iPhones from the iPhone 6 onward use the same SIM ejector method and tray design. The location of the slot varies slightly: on iPhone 6 through iPhone 8, it is on the right side but slightly lower. On iPhone X and newer, it is on the right edge near the top. The process itself is identical regardless of model.
If you have an iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or any newer model, the slot is on the right edge. If you have an older iPhone (5, 5S, 5C), the slot is on the right side but the tray is slightly different in shape. The ejection method is the same: find the hole, insert the tool, and push until the tray pops out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my SIM card without turning off my iPhone?
Yes, you can change the SIM while the phone is on. Apple does not require you to power off first. However, powering off prevents any network interruption while the tray is open and is a safer practice if you are not in a hurry.
What if I lose the SIM ejector tool?
A straightened paperclip, a sewing needle, or a small safety pin will work just as well. The tool only needs to be thin enough to fit in the hole and sturdy enough not to bend. You can also order a replacement ejector tool from Apple or find multi-packs online for a few dollars.
Will changing my SIM card erase my data?
No. Your photos, messages, apps, and settings are stored on the phone itself, not on the SIM card. Changing the SIM only changes which carrier network your phone connects to. Your data remains untouched.
How long does it take for the new SIM to work?
The carrier signal usually appears within 30 seconds to a few minutes after you power the phone back on. If it takes longer than 10 minutes, restart the phone. If it still does not appear, contact your carrier to confirm the SIM is active on their network.
What if the SIM tray gets stuck?
Do not force it. If the tray will not pop out, you may be pressing in the wrong spot or at an angle. Try a different angle or a different tool. If it remains stuck, visit an Apple Store or your carrier's store; they can open it without damaging the phone.