Check the SIM card when call and data are not available

When changing to a new phone, the SIM card used in the previous phone is often reused. However, the SIM card may get worn out and have defects if used for a long time.

First of all, take out the SIM card tray from the phone and check whether the metal socket of the SIM card is worn out or corroded. If your SIM card is damaged, replace it with a new SIM card.

If the SIM card is not correctly installed in the tray and inserted into your phone, the SIM card may not be recognized. If the SIM card is not recognized, remove the tray and check if the card is properly installed. It is particularly important to ensure that the corners of the SIM card are well aligned.

When you insert the SIM card tray, notice the mounting direction of the SIM card as it may be different for each model. For example, in case of the S21 series, they are designed with the metal socket facing up, and the S20 series are designed with the metal socket facing down. Refer the image examples below.

If you have previously used a micro SIM card and then cut it to the size of a nano SIM card to use for a new phone, you need to make sure that the corner cuts are well aligned. It is recommended that you purchase and use a new nano SIM card because a cut SIM card may not be recognized well, and errors may occur in phone calls, message sending and receiving, and cellular data.

• Micro SIM: A medium sized SIM card, popular in previous models. 
• Nano SIM: The smallest SIM size and used by most new phones.

If you are experiencing difficulties with your Samsung phones, tablets, or wearables, you can send us a question in the Samsung Members app.

This allows us to take a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymised and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about sending an error report through the 'How to use the Samsung Members app'.