Content

• Steps

The SIM card is the thing that connects the phone to the GSM network (fully written as Global System for Mobile Communications: the global system for mobile communication). Once you've inserted your SIM card into an unlocked (network unlocked) phone, you'll be able to use the carrier's services on the phone. Likewise, if your phone is unlocked, you can use the SIMs of many different carriers and this is extremely useful when traveling. In the process of swapping SIM cards between multiple phones, you need to make sure that the new phone can use the SIM card from the carrier you use.

Steps

Part 1 of 4: Backup contacts

1. 

   Open the contacts in the phone you are currently using. You can back up contacts to the SIM card before you swap, however, this is not the most convenient way. This method should only apply to regular phones, but if you are using a smartphone, your contacts are usually synced with your Google account or Apple ID.

2. 

   
   
   Open up the menu and choose "Export" or something similar.

3. 

   Set up the SIM card as a destination for the phone numbers to export. advertisement

Part 2 of 4: Prepare for the swap

1. 

   
   
   Check the SIM card size on each phone. SIM cards usually come in three main sizes, however your phone can use a SIM in a different size. This is especially true if the devices are manufactured a few years apart. Some carriers offer a free SIM card exchange service with the right size for customers.
   • You can use a special SIM cutter to cut the SIM smaller, or ask your carrier to swap out another SIM card with a more suitable size.
   • For the SIM cards smaller than the slot, we can insert them into the SIM adapter bracket and use normally.

2. 

   
   
   Get a new SIM card if you change carriers. Every time you change cellular networks, you need to purchase a new SIM card. After you register for the service and provide information to your carrier, you will receive a new SIM card.If you change mobile network and need a SIM card with a different size, contact customer service (there may be no charge, depending on carrier policy).
   • Today, some carriers implement CDMA standard (fully written as Code Division Multiple Access, this technology does not use SIM card) to replace the GSM standard. However, most 4G networks require the use of a SIM card. A good example is Verizon Wireless - a wireless network provider in the US. Their products use CDMA standard, but 4G LTE service is GSM network, so users still have to use SIM card to access 4G network. In Vietnam, CDMA technology is not preferred by GSM.
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Part 3 of 4: Swap SIM card to another phone

1. 

   Open the back cover of the old phone. If your phone has a protective cover, you need to open the cover to get the SIM card.

2. 

   Search for a SIM card. Depending on the phone model, the SIM card is in different locations:
   • Check the SIM tray. Many smartphones today have a SIM tray installed on the side of the phone. We need to use the SIM tray opener or a straightened paper clip to poke the small hole next to the SIM tray to open.
   • Check the back of the battery. You need to remove the battery as the SIM card is usually located behind the phone battery.

3. 

   Remove the SIM from the phone. After locating the SIM card, take it out of the phone.
   • For phones that use SIM slots, use a SIM pusher or a paperclip to pop the slot out. Then pull it out and take the SIM card out of the slot.
   • If the SIM card is behind the phone battery, you can slide or push the SIM card down so it pops out, depending on the structure of your phone.

4. 

   Put the SIM card in the new phone. To insert the SIM card, reverse the process of removing the SIM card. advertisement

Part 4 of 4: Activate new phone

1. 

   Start the activation process for new phone (if available). If you are going through the activation process for a smartphone that has just hit the box, you will have to go through the initial setup. During this process, the SIM card is usually activated automatically on the new phone.
   • Learn how to use your Android phone for activation.
   • Read the article Activate iPhone for instructions on how to activate your iPhone during the initial setup.

2. 

   Insert the SIM card and power on the phone. After the phone is powered on, especially if you have inserted another SIM, you usually have to wait a while before the service is activated. Just insert the SIM card, activate the phone if it is powered off and wait for the connection. You will see the signal bar (usually with the name of the carrier) appear in the notification area on the screen.

3. 

   Contact your carrier if you cannot connect. If your SIM card still can't work on your new phone, you need to contact your service provider. Since your phone cannot connect, you may need to borrow someone else's phone to call the switchboard or bring your new phone to your carrier's support center to be activated. advertisement