If you're not sure whether this is the right fix or you're seeing a different SIM error, start with the complete SIM error guide.
"No SIM Card Detected" Causes
Getting a “No SIM Card Detected” or “No SIM Card Inserted” on your Android? That usually means your phone can’t detect the SIM, even if it’s sitting in the tray. This is usually a physical detection issue, not a software bug.
Here's how to troubleshoot it.
Step 1: Power Down and Check the SIM
- Turn off your Android device.
- Gently remove the SIM tray using a SIM ejector tool or alcohol swabs.
- Clean the SIM and tray with a dry, lint-free cloth.
- Reseat the SIM carefully and make sure it sits flush.
Need help with SIM ejector alternatives? Here’s a list of safe tools you can use.
Step 2: Restart in Normal Mode
- Power the phone back on normally.
- Give it a few seconds to search for the SIM.
- If the error disappears, you’re good.
Still seeing the error? Keep going.
Step 3: Boot into Safe Mode
Sometimes third-party apps can interfere with SIM detection.
- Press and hold the power button.
- Tap and hold "Power off" until the Safe Mode option appears.
- Tap "OK" to reboot in Safe Mode.
If the SIM works in Safe Mode, an app is likely the problem. Uninstall recently added apps that could be causing interference.
Step 4: Check SIM Status in Settings
- Go to Settings > About Phone > SIM Status.
- Look for signal strength and network info.
- If it says "No SIM," the device still isn’t reading the card.
Step 5: Reset Network Settings
This clears all saved Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and carrier settings.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth
Step 6: Try Another SIM or Device
- Insert a known working SIM card.
- Or test your SIM in a different phone.
- This will help isolate whether the issue is with the SIM or your device.
If nothing has worked so far, it could be a hardware issue. This is where a digital eSIM might save you the trip to a repair shop.
Still Having Trouble? Consider eSIM
If your SIM tray is damaged or unreliable, switching to eSIM might be the fix.
- No physical card needed
- Activate directly from your device
- Try Eskimo Global eSIM for free—it works in 80+ countries and installs instantly on compatible devices.