How to Fix "No SIM Card Installed" Error for iPhone

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

The "No SIM Card Installed" error message on your iPhone can be frustrating, as it disrupts your ability to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data. This error typically occurs due to issues with the SIM card, the SIM card tray, or software glitches. 

Solving Issues Related to the 'No SIM Card Installed' Error on iPhone

Check the Physical SIM Card

Before attempting any software-related fixes, it's crucial to ensure that the physical SIM card is properly inserted and in good condition:

Eject the SIM Card Tray: Use a SIM card ejector tool, a paperclip, or the SIM ejector tool that came with your iPhone to gently eject the SIM card tray.

Inspect the SIM Card: Check the SIM card for any visible damage, such as scratches, bends, or cracks. If you notice any damage, contact your carrier for a replacement SIM card.

Reinsert the SIM Card: Carefully reinsert the SIM card into the tray, making sure it's properly seated and aligning it with the notch in the tray.

Insert the SIM Card Tray: Slide the SIM card tray back into your iPhone.

Restart Your iPhone: After reinserting the SIM card, restart your iPhone to see if the error is resolved.

Toggle Airplane Mode

Sometimes, toggling Airplane Mode on and off can help re-establish the connection between your iPhone and the SIM card:

Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen (or up from the bottom, depending on your iPhone model).

Tap the airplane icon to enable Airplane Mode. Wait for a few seconds, and then tap it again to disable Airplane Mode.

Check if the 'No SIM Card Installed' error persists.

Check Carrier Settings

Ensure that your iPhone has the correct carrier settings:

Go to "Settings."

Scroll down and select "General."

Tap "About."

If an update is available, a prompt will appear to update your carrier settings. Follow the on-screen instructions to update.

Restart your iPhone after updating the carrier settings.

Reset Network Settings

Resetting your network settings can help resolve issues related to SIM card recognition:

Go to "Settings."

Scroll down and select "General."

Scroll to the bottom and tap on "Reset."

Tap on "Reset Network Settings."

Enter your device passcode if prompted.

Confirm the reset. Your iPhone will restart.

Check for iOS Updates

Outdated iOS versions can sometimes cause SIM card recognition problems. Make sure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version:

Go to "Settings."

Scroll down and select "General."

Tap "Software Update" and follow the on-screen instructions to install any available updates.

After updating, restart your iPhone.

Contact Your Carrier

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it's possible that there may be an issue with your carrier's network or your account. Contact your carrier's customer support to check the status of your SIM card and account.

Visit an Apple Store

If the 'No SIM Card Installed' error persists despite trying all the troubleshooting steps, it's advisable to visit an Apple Store or an authorized service provider. The issue may be related to hardware, such as the SIM card reader, which may require professional inspection and repair.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve the 'No SIM Card Installed' error on your iPhone. In most cases, the issue is related to the physical SIM card or software settings and can be resolved with simple fixes. 

Contact Support.Com:

If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below or consider seeking personalized assistance from Support.Com.

1. Introduction

If your iOS device displays a "Invalid SIM" or "No SIM Card Installed" message, or can't connect to your cellular network or cellular data, the following steps may help resolve these issues for you.

This guide will cover:

• Restarting your iOS device
• Checking for a Carrier settings update
• Updating your iOS device
• Resetting your SIM card

2. Restart

To restart your device:

Restart your iPhone X

1. Press and hold the Side button and either volume button until the slider appears.
2. Drag the slider to turn your iPhone X completely off.
3. After your iPhone X turns off, press and hold the Side button again until you see the Apple logo.

Restart your iPhone 8 or earlier, iPad, or iPod touch

1. Press and hold the Top (or Side) button until the slider appears.
2. Drag the slider to turn your device completely off.
3. After the device turns off, press and hold the Top (or Side) button again until you see the Apple logo.

With iOS 11 or later, you can also turn off your device by going to Settings, then General, then Shut Down.

3. Check for a Carrier Settings update

To ensure that your device is able to check for and perform this update, make sure your iOS device is connected to Wi-Fi before proceeding.

1. Tap Settings.
   

1. Tap General.
   

1. Tap About.
   

1. If a carrier settings update is available, you'll be prompted to update. Select Update to perform the update.
   

4. Check for Updates

To check and see if updates are available for your iOS device:

1. Open Settings on your phone or tablet.
   

1. Select General.
   

1. Select Software Update.
   

1. Your iOS device will perform a search for available iOS updates.
   
2. If no update is available, it will display your current version of iOS and inform you that your software is up to date.
   

1. If an update is available, it will be displayed.
   

1. Select Download and Install to begin the update process.
2. If prompted, enter your passcode to proceed.

5. Sim Card

1. To open the SIM card tray, insert a paper clip or your device's SIM-eject tool into the hole beside the tray.
   

1. Push the paperclip or eject tool in firmly towards the device, but do not force it. The SIM tray should pop out and away from the body of the device.
   

1. Pull out the SIM card tray and remove the SIM card. Inspect the SIM card and ensure there is no damage to it.
   

1. Insert the SIM card back into the tray and re-seat the tray into the device completely. Ensure the SIM card and tray are inserted using the same orientation it had when it was removed.
   

6. What's next?