How to remove or change the SIM card on your Android device
A SIM card, or Subscriber Identity Module, connects your Android™ phone to your mobile carrier so you can make calls, send texts, and use cellular data. If you ever need to switch phones, change carriers, or send your device in for repair, you may need to remove or replace it. We'll show you how.
At Asurion, we help people get the most from their tech every day. Whether you're trying to maximize your Android™ battery life or learn how to fix a water-damaged phone, we're here to help. Here's how to safely remove and replace the SIM card in your Android phone
What is a SIM card?
A SIM card enables your phone to connect to the mobile network, and lets you make calls and send texts. Your SIM card also stores information related to your cellular service, such as your phone number and carrier profile (Verizon®, T-Mobile®, etc.). SIM cards come in different sizes—mini-, micro-, and nano-SIMs.
Many newer Android phones also support eSIM, which is built into the device instead of being a removable card. Some phones support both a physical SIM card and an eSIM, while others use eSIM only.
Why remove a SIM card?
There are several reasons you might remove your SIM card, including:
- Setting up a new phone
- Switching carriers
- Troubleshooting cellular connectivity issues
- Traveling internationally (if your carrier supports physical SIM cards)
- Sending your phone in for repair
Many repair providers ask you to remove your SIM card before service so your cellular account stays with you while your phone is being repaired.
What you'll need
A SIM-eject tool. It's a thin metal tool that probably came with your phone when you first got it. If you have one from a previous model, that should work too. If you don't have a SIM-eject tool, you can use a small paperclip.
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Where is the SIM card located on a Samsung Galaxy phone?
On most recent Samsung Galaxy® phones, the SIM tray is located along the bottom edge of the device. Some older models place it on the side or top edge instead.
If you're unsure where the SIM tray is on your phone, check your device's user guide or Samsung's support website.
How to remove and replace a SIM card on a Samsung Galaxy phone
- Turn off your phone.
- Insert the SIM-eject tool (or a straightened paper clip) into the small hole next to the SIM tray.
- Press gently but firmly until the tray pops out.
- Carefully pull out the tray and remove the SIM card.
- Place the SIM card into the tray with the notched corner aligned correctly.
- Slide the tray back into the phone until it clicks into place.
What if my Samsung phone has a removable battery?
Some older Galaxy phones with removable batteries require you to remove the back cover before accessing the SIM card.
- Remove the back cover and battery.
- Slide the SIM card out of its slot.
- Insert the replacement SIM card with the gold contacts facing down.
- Reinstall the battery and back cover.
Where is the SIM card located on a Google Pixel phone?
Most Google Pixel™ phones with a physical SIM card have the SIM tray on the left edge of the device.
If your Pixel doesn't have a SIM tray, it likely uses eSIM instead.
How to remove and replace a SIM card on a Google Pixel phone
- Turn off your phone.
- Insert the SIM-eject tool (or a straightened paper clip) into the SIM tray's eject hole.
- Press gently until the tray pops out.
- Remove the SIM card from the tray.
- Place the new SIM card into the tray with the notched corner aligned correctly.
- Reinsert the tray until it clicks into place.
How to remove a microSD card from a Samsung phone
A SIM card and a microSD card may look similar, but they serve different purposes. A SIM card connects your phone to your mobile carrier, while a microSD card provides additional storage for photos, videos, music, and other files. Keep in mind that not all Samsung phones include a microSD card slot, especially many recent flagship models.
If your phone supports a microSD card:
- Turn off your device.
- Insert the SIM-eject tool into the tray's eject hole.
- Remove the tray.
- Lift out the microSD card if needed.
- To reinstall it, align the notched corner with the tray and press the tray back into the phone until it clicks.
What is an eSIM?
An embedded SIM (eSIM) is a digital SIM that's built into your phone, so there's no physical card to remove or replace. Instead, your carrier activates your service electronically.
Many recent Android phones—including Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Motorola®, OnePlus®, and other models—support eSIM. Some support both a physical SIM card and eSIM, while others may rely entirely on eSIM.
If your phone uses eSIM, your carrier can usually help you transfer your service to a new device without moving a physical SIM card.
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