SIM card is not recognized: How to solve the problem-If your SIM card is not recognized, you need help quickly because you can no longer be reached while on the move. We explain how to get network coverage again.
Without a SIM card, your smartphone cannot connect to the mobile network. It is a kind of key for communication with the radio cells of your network operator.
If your SIM card is not recognized by your mobile phone, you will not be able to make regular phone calls, send SMS messages, or use mobile data connections. Here you can find out what to do if your mobile phone does not accept the card.
Everything you need to know about SIM cards
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Almost everyone has fiddled with a SIM card in a mobile phone at some point. Over the years, the cards have become smaller and smaller – and are now partly built into devices as eSIMs.
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Most modern smartphones have a so-called Nano-SIM. Measuring 1.23 by 0.88 centimeters, this card is about the size of the nail of your little finger.
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Mobile phone calls are unthinkable without a SIM card.
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SIM cards have become smaller and smaller over time. The standard in modern smartphones is the Nano-SIM, and the built-in eSIM is the next stage of development.
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Dual SIM devices offer space for two SIM cards and thus the option of being reachable under two phone numbers.
These measures help step by step:
If your smartphone does not recognize your SIM card, there are several solutions you can use to identify the cause and resolve the problem:
Step 1: Restart your smartphone
Modern smartphones are highly complex systems. Due to the large number of components built into them, they often outshine even ordinary desktop computers in this respect. The software running on them therefore sometimes causes problems if it is used for several days without a break. A simple restart will help to recognize your SIM card.
Step 2: Check if you are using the correct SIM card and insert it correctly
There are different types of SIM cards. The regular version was later replaced by smaller variants due to space constraints: mini, micro and nano SIM. Therefore, make sure that the type of card you have fits exactly into your smartphone and is inserted correctly. Information about which SIM variant you need and how to insert it correctly into the device can be found in the user manual for your mobile phone or on the support website of the respective manufacturer.
Step 3: Clean the contact points of your SIM card and the slot in the smartphone
Contamination of the respective contact points impairs their electrical conductivity, meaning that data transfer cannot take place smoothly. Never use liquids for cleaning, as these can damage the electronics. Instead, rub the contact points with a dry microfiber cloth. If necessary, use a cotton swab or a small amount of compressed air to clean the card slot in your mobile phone.
Step 4: Test the card in another device
If the above measures do not solve the problem, check that the SIM card works correctly in another phone. If this does not happen, the card is probably defective. Contact your mobile operator and request a replacement card if necessary.
Step 5: Install all updates and reset your smartphone to factory settings.
If your SIM card works perfectly in another device, the reason it is not recognized is probably due to your smartphone. To rule out any software problems, first install all available updates.
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If necessary, contact the device manufacturer’s support team through their website to get help with this process. A support representative can also help you request a replacement device if your smartphone is defective.