If your iPhone displays a pop-up saying “Invalid SIM,” and you’re unsure why, you’re left unable to make calls, send texts, or use cellular data. In this guide, we’ll explore why your iPhone shows this message and provide solutions to resolve the issue.
1. Restart Your iPhone
At times, an “Invalid SIM” message might occur due to a minor software crash. Restart your iPhone to allow it to shut down all programs naturally. Press and hold the power button (or the side button and either volume button for iPhones with Face ID), then swipe the power icon to turn off. After a few seconds, power it back on.
2. Turn Airplane Mode On and Back Off
When your iPhone indicates “Invalid SIM,” start by toggling Airplane Mode on and off. This action disconnects your device from cellular and wireless networks. Access Settings, switch on Airplane Mode, wait a few seconds, then turn it off.
3. Check For Updates
- IOS: Ensure your iPhone’s software is up to date, as outdated software could trigger the “Invalid SIM” message. Navigate to Settings -> General -> Software Update to check for and install any available updates
- Carrier settings: Ensure your iPhone has the latest carrier settings update, which enhances its ability to connect to cellular towers. Navigate to Settings -> General -> About, and wait for about 15 seconds. If an update is available, a pop-up will appear. Tap “Update” to proceed. If no pop-up appears, a carrier settings update may not be available.
4. Remove and reinsert Your SIM Card
Check if the SIM card is properly seated in its tray, especially if your iPhone has been dropped recently. Eject the SIM card using a SIM card ejector tool or a paper clip, reposition it correctly, and reinsert it into your iPhone.
5. Try A Different SIM Card
Insert a different SIM card into your iPhone to determine whether the issue lies with the device or the SIM card itself. If the problem persists with a different SIM card, it’s likely an iPhone-specific issue. Contact your wireless carrier for further assistance.
6. Try Your SIM Card in Another Device
If your SIM card isn’t working in your device, try it in another device of the same type to identify the issue. If it works in the alternate device but not yours, your device may have hardware problems. If it doesn’t work in any device of the same carrier, the SIM card may be faulty and need replacement. If you get a “SIM Not Supported” error in another device, that device may be locked to another carrier. Test the SIM card in a different device to confirm.
7. Reset Network Settings
If the problem persists, reset your iPhone’s network settings to resolve any software errors affecting cellular connectivity. Note down your Wi-Fi passwords before proceeding. Navigate to Settings -> General -> Transfer or Reset iPhone -> Reset -> Reset Network Settings. Enter your iPhone passcode and confirm the reset.
8. Verify Your Account with Your Carrier
Occasionally, a SIM Invalid error occurs due to issues with your account. Typically, you can review your account status by logging in to your provider’s website or app. Alternatively, you can contact them via phone for assistance.
9. Perform a Factory Reset on Your iPhone
Resetting your iPhone to its factory settings might resolve issues with your SIM card. However, a factory reset entails erasing all data and settings, so it should only be considered as a last resort. Prior to initiating the reset process, ensure to back up your iPhone. Then, follow the steps outlined in our guide on how to perform a factory reset on your iPhone.
10. Reach Out to Apple
If your SIM card functions properly in another device, or if someone else’s SIM card triggers an “Invalid SIM,” “SIM Not Valid,” or “No SIM” error on your iPhone or iPad, there may be an issue with your device. Contact Apple to arrange for a repair. If your device is still under warranty, the repair should be covered at no cost.