This wikiHow teaches you how to remove the SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card from any iPhone model. This SIM card sits in a special drawer that can be pulled out of the iPhone using a special SIM eject tool or the pointed end of a paper clip. Once this drawer is removed, you can easily remove the SIM card from it, and replace it with a new one.
Step
Method 1 of 2: iPhone 4 and Later (Including All X Models)
Step 1. Hold iPhone upright, with the screen facing you
- Use this method to remove the SIM card from iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 8 (all models), iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone SE, iPhone 5, iPhone 5c and 5s, iPhone 4s, and iPhone 4.
- This method also works for all iPad models, unless you have a fourth generation, third generation, and iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G, the SIM drawer will be on the left side instead of the right.
Step 2. Find the SIM drawer on the right side of the iPhone
This drawer is centered on the right side of the iPhone 8 and earlier, as well as on the iPhone XS Max, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max. If you have an iPhone XR or iPhone 11, this drawer is further down the right side.
Step 3. Insert the straightened clip or SIM eject tool into the hole in the drawer
This hole should be fairly easy to find at the bottom of the SIM drawer. Gently push the tool to release the drawer.
Step 4. Pull the drawer out and remove the SIM card
You should be able to lift the SIM card easily from the drawer. If you are inserting a new SIM, check the orientation of the old card before removing it. That way, you can insert the new SIM in the right direction.
Some X and 11 models have room for two NANO SIM cards instead of just one. If you see two SIM cards in the drawer, make sure to remove the ones you don't need. You will be able to see the name of the cellular service provider company on the card
Step 5. Insert a new SIM card (optional) and re-insert the drawer
Not only can the SIM card fit into the drawer in one direction/orientation due to the notch; if you feel the card should be forced in, it's likely to be upside down vertically or horizontally. The drawer itself should be easy to fit back into the slot.
Method 2 of 2: iPhone 3GS and Earlier
Step 1. Hold the iPhone perpendicular to the screen facing you
Use this method to remove the SIM card from iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, and original iPhone
Step 2. Find the SIM drawer on the top side of the iPhone
The SIM drawer is centered on the top side of the phone, right next to the Power button.
Step 3. Insert the straightened paper clip or SIM eject tool into the hole in the drawer
This hole is on the left side of the drawer. Gently press the tool to release the SIM drawer.
Step 4. Pull the drawer out and remove the SIM card
You should be able to lift the card easily from the drawer. If you are inserting a new SIM card, check the orientation of the old card before removing it. That way, you don't enter the wrong direction for the new SIM card.
Step 5. Insert the SIM card (optional) and re-insert the drawer
The SIM card will only slide into the drawer in one direction due to the notch; if it looks like the card has to be forced in order to be able to enter, chances are the SIM is upside down vertically or horizontally. The drawer itself should be able to fit back into the slot easily.
