To remove the SIM card from an iPhone 13, find the SIM tray on the left side of the phone, below the volume buttons. Insert the SIM eject tool (or a straightened paper clip) into the small hole on the tray and push gently until the tray pops out. Pull the tray out, lift out the nano-SIM card, and push the empty tray (or a new SIM) back in until it clicks flush.
The same steps work for the iPhone 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max. Here’s the full process, plus what to do if you use an eSIM or the tray is stuck.
Before you start
- Turn off your iPhone by pressing and holding the side button and either volume button, then dragging the slider. It’s not required, but it’s the safest way to swap SIMs.
- Get the right tool: The SIM eject tool that came in the box, or a small paper clip. Don’t use a pushpin, toothpick, or earring, which can break inside the hole.
How to remove the SIM card from iPhone 13
- Hold the iPhone with the screen facing you and find the SIM tray on the left edge, below the volume buttons.
- Insert the eject tool straight into the small hole on the tray.
- Push gently and firmly until the tray pops out slightly.
- Pull the tray the rest of the way out with your fingers.
- Lift the nano-SIM card out of the tray. Note which corner is notched so you can put it back the same way.
How to insert a new SIM card
- Place the new nano-SIM in the tray. The notched corner only fits one way.
- Slide the tray back into the phone in the same direction it came out, until it’s flush.
- Turn on your iPhone. If asked, enter your SIM PIN.
If you see “No SIM” or “Invalid SIM,” restart the phone and make sure the card sits flat in the tray.
What if you use an eSIM?
The iPhone 13 supports a physical nano-SIM and an eSIM. An eSIM is digital, so there’s nothing to remove. To manage it, go to Settings > Cellular, tap the line, and choose Delete eSIM or Transfer to iPhone. Contact your carrier before deleting an eSIM, since you may need them to set it up again.
SIM tray stuck? Try this
- Push the tool straight in, not at an angle, and press a little harder.
- Make sure you’re using the tray hole, not a microphone hole. The tray hole is on the tray itself.
- Remove a thick case, which can block the tray.
- If it still won’t come out, visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider rather than forcing it.
Frequently asked questions
What size SIM does the iPhone 13 use?
A nano-SIM, the smallest standard size.
Will removing the SIM delete my data?
No. Your photos, apps, and contacts are stored on the iPhone or in iCloud, not on the SIM card.
Can I use two phone numbers on an iPhone 13?
Yes. Use the nano-SIM for one line and an eSIM for another, or two eSIMs.
Where’s the SIM tray on newer iPhones?
iPhone 14 and later models sold in the US don’t have a SIM tray. They use eSIM only.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.