Use the correct tray, align the notched corner and stop at the first sign of resistance. A SIM should sit flat and the tray should close without force.
Before opening the phone
- Confirm the device actually has a physical SIM tray.
- Check the required SIM size and whether the tray also holds a second SIM or memory card.
- Back up important data and note which number is being removed.
- Power off the phone when the manufacturer recommends it.
Open the correct tray
- Remove the case if it blocks the tray.
- Find the tray diagram in the official device instructions.
- Insert the supplied eject tool straight into the small release hole.
- Press gently towards the phone until the tray releases.
- Stop if the tool does not move normally; do not probe microphone or speaker openings.
If the tray will not release, obtain support rather than increasing force. Apple explicitly advises taking a stuck tray to the network provider or Apple Store.
Place or remove the SIM
Hold the card by its edges. Match the cut corner with the tray and make sure the SIM lies completely flat. On double-sided or hybrid trays, check the diagram carefully. Keep the card steady as the tray returns to the phone.
Reinsert the tray
Slide the tray back in using the same orientation in which it was removed. It should sit flush with the edge of the phone. Do not substitute a tray from another model; even visually similar trays may have different dimensions or seals.
Verify service
- Turn the phone on and wait for network registration.
- Confirm the expected network and number are shown.
- Make an ordinary call and send a normal text.
- Turn Wi-Fi off and check mobile data.
- If the phone reports No SIM or Invalid SIM, power it off and reseat the card once.
When to stop troubleshooting
Stop if the card is cracked, the tray is bent, the contacts are damaged or the phone repeatedly fails to detect a known-working SIM. Contact the network for a replacement card or the manufacturer for tray or reader damage. Do not insert foil, paper or adhesive to increase pressure.
How to tell whether the change actually worked
Before applying force, confirm that the hole belongs to the SIM tray and that the tray matches the exact phone. Photograph the card orientation before removal, keep the phone powered down if the manufacturer recommends it and stop if the tray bends or catches. After reinsertion, verify that the correct number and network return.
- Inspect the tray and card for damage without using liquid or abrasive cleaning.
- Do not substitute a tray from another model.
- Escalate a jammed tray rather than prying it open.
Sources checked
These sources were checked on 25 July 2026. Always use the instructions for the exact device model, because tray positions and supported SIM types vary.
