Search results
You can find below two different methods to Activate and Setup iPhone without SIM Card. When you start setting up iPhone, it will come up with “No SIM Card” or “SIM Required” pop-up, as soon as it gets connected to your WiFi Network.
Got a new SIM? Get texting, calling and browsing in a flash. This article presents how to get the new SIM up and running on your mobile device.
- Overview
- Set up an eSIM
- Install a physical SIM
- Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM
Your iPhone needs a physical SIM or an eSIM to connect to a cellular network. (Not all options are available on all models or in all countries and regions. On iPhone 14 and later models purchased in the U.S., you can only use eSIM.) Contact your carrier to get a SIM and set up cellular service.
Supported iPhone models can digitally store an eSIM provided by your carrier. If your carrier supports either eSIM Carrier Activation or eSIM Quick Transfer, you can turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions to activate your eSIM during setup.
If you already completed setup, you can do any of the following:
•eSIM Carrier Activation: Some carriers can assign a new eSIM directly to your iPhone; contact your carrier to initiate this process. When you receive the “Finish Setting Up Cellular” notification, tap it. Or go to Settings > Cellular, then tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM.
•eSIM Quick Transfer: Some carriers support transferring a phone number from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them (requires iOS 16 or later on both devices).
On your new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular, tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, then tap Transfer From Nearby iPhone or choose a phone number. On your previous iPhone, follow the instructions to confirm the transfer.
Note: After your phone number is transferred to your new iPhone, it stops working on your previous iPhone.
You can get a nano-SIM card from a carrier or move it from your previous iPhone.
Note: Physical SIM isn’t compatible with iPhone 14 and later models purchased in the U.S.
1.Insert a paper clip or SIM eject tool into the small hole of the SIM tray, then push in toward iPhone to eject the tray.
Note: The shape and orientation of the SIM tray depend on the iPhone model and your country or region.
2.Remove the tray from iPhone.
3.Place the SIM in the tray. The angled corner determines the correct orientation.
If your carrier supports it, you can convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on a supported iPhone model.
1.Go to Settings > Cellular, tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, then choose the phone number with a physical SIM.
2.Tap Convert to eSIM, then follow the onscreen instructions.
Important: The availability of cellular capabilities depends on the wireless network, your iPhone model, and your location.
Consider applicable data, voice, and roaming charges when managing your cellular plans, especially when you travel with iPhone. See View or change cellular data settings on iPhone.
Some carriers let you unlock iPhone for use with another carrier (additional fees may apply). Contact your carrier for authorization and setup information. See the Apple Support article How to unlock your iPhone for use with a different carrier.
We'll show you how to set up, activate, and transfer data to your new iPhone.
- Sareena Dayaram
- Senior Editor
- Contact your carrier: Your iPhone needs a physical SIM or an eSIM to connect to a cellular network. Contact your carrier to get a SIM and set up cellular service.
- Insert the SIM card: If you have a physical SIM card, insert it into your iPhone. To do this, use a SIM eject tool or even a paperclip to open the SIM tray on the side of your device.
- Turn on your iPhone: Press and hold the side button to turn on your iPhone (or the top button on an iPhone SE). Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your iPhone.
- Activate your SIM card: If you have an eSIM, you can activate it during setup. If you have a physical SIM card, you may need to activate it by following the instructions provided by your carrier.
Nov 23, 2021 · Activating your iPhone will involve inserting a SIM card into it and connecting to your cellular service provider. If you have activation problems, there are a number of steps you can take to...
People also ask
How to activate iPhone without SIM card?
How do I Activate My sim card on my iPhone?
How do I Activate my iPhone eSIM?
How do I Activate my iPhone?
Jun 21, 2024 · With eSIM Quick Transfer, you transfer the SIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting your carrier. With either method, to activate your eSIM during setup, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.
