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We’ve all been there. Trying to install a SIM card and wondering where a teen or tween is when you need one. We’ve probably all also wondered what a SIM card is, what it does, where it goes, and why it’s called a SIM card. In this post, we’re going to take all the mystery out of all of this for you!

What are the functions of a SIM card?

Your SIM card stores the information that enables your wireless provider to recognize it. Otherwise you couldn’t text anyone or post anything. Your phone number is stored on your SIM card along with what are called “authorization keys.” These give your phone authorization to access the data, texting, and other services provided by your cell phone plan. Without a SIM card, your phone could not access and utilize your wireless provider’s network. That would not be a good thing!

What does SIM mean?

SIM stands for subscriber identification module. The data contained on a SIM card is what allows you to access H2O’s wireless network and utilize the features of your phone plan. It’s a small smart card that is shipped to you once your order is complete. Upon receipt, you insert the SIM card into your phone by popping out the SIM tray.

Where is the SIM tray located?

On iPhone, the SIM tray is located on either the right or left side of your phone. On an Android phone, it is located on the top, bottom, or side. It depends upon the model of your phone.

Installing a SIM card: Android phones

First, turn off your smartphone.

Now, take your phone out of its case if it’s in one, and then locate the SIM tray. It’ll be located on the top, bottom, or side, depending upon the model of your phone. Look for what appears to be a tiny hole or indentation. Once you’ve located the hole, you can use what’s called a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip or pin to pop out the tray.

Press the SIM tool or paperclip into the small hole and the SIM tray panel will pop open. You don’t need to apply too much force; the tray will pop out easily.

Pull the SIM tray out of the smartphone and set it down.

Place the SIM card into the tray with the logo facing you. You really can’t insert it incorrectly as it only fits in one way.

Now, slide the SIM card into your phone. If it sticks or feels stuck, you probably don’t have the SIM card inserted properly. Pull the tray back out and place the SIM card in it again. Be sure it’s lying flat on the tray.

Once the SIM tray is reinserted into your phone, turn the power back on. You should see the power bars and your carrier information appear, and that’s it. You’re good to start making calls, sending texts, and   posting to social media!

Installing a SIM card: iPhone

First, you need to turn off your smartphone. Press the Volume Up button and the top button on the right side of the phone until the words “Side to power off” appear on the screen. Slide the button to the right to shut down the phone.

Now, take your phone out of its case if it’s in one, and then locate the SIM tray. It’ll be located on the right or left side, depending upon the model of your phone. Look for what appears to be a tiny hole or indentation. Once you’ve located the hole, you can use what’s called a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip or pin to pop out the tray.

Press the SIM tool or paperclip into the small hole and the SIM tray panel will pop open. You don’t need to apply too much force; the tray will pop out easily.

Pull the SIM tray out of the smartphone and set it down.

Place the SIM card into the tray with the bronze side facing you. You really can’t insert it incorrectly as it only fits in one way.

Now, slide the SIM card into your phone. If it sticks or feels stuck, you probably don’t have the SIM card inserted properly. Pull the tray back out and place the SIM card in it again. Be sure it’s lying flat on the tray.

Once the SIM tray is reinserted into your phone, turn the power back on. When you see the Apple logo on your screen, you’re good to go!

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So, we’ve covered the logistics of getting your SIM card into the SIM tray of your Android or iPhone, and getting the SIM tray reinserted so you can use your phone. See? It’s easy.

Now we want to introduce you to another kind of SIM, not to confuse you but because you might find it helpful. And don’t worry; it’s not confusing at all!

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Introducing the dual SIM phone

A dual SIM phone means you can put two SIM cards into one phone. This lets you manage two phone numbers, each with their own SIM card, on the same device. This is a neat feature if you want or need to have two phone numbers say, one for business use and one for personal use, and really don’t want to lug around two devices. You can make calls from either number, and receive calls to either number. When making calls, your device will ask you which SIM card you want to use.

Let’s get Geeky. Fun facts about SIM cards, unlocked phones, and international calling!

SIM cards aren’t “attached” to one phone. Except when they are

In general, you can remove your SIM card and put it in a new phone. You can even take someone else’s SIM card and put it in your phone. But sometimes, certain wireless carriers don’t permit this easy switching. And that’s why it’s important that we discuss locked and unlocked phones.

About unlocked and locked phones

An unlocked phone is a phone that’s not associated with a particular wireless carrier. One of the big benefits of this is that you can switch providers anytime you want – like when you find a plan that gives you all the bells and whistles the pricey wireless companies promise at half the price.

On the other hand, a locked phone is a device that’s tied to a carrier like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. These carriers “lock” your device to their network to prevent you from using it on another one. (Like the better, less expensive one we just alluded to.)

How can I tell if my phone is locked or unlocked?

If you bought your phone from, say, AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, and you have a monthly contract with them, your phone is most likely locked to their network. That’s just how they roll. If you bought your phone at Best Buy or at an Apple store or on Amazon, or someplace else entirely, it is most likely unlocked. The key phrase there is “most likely.” You can’t be certain until you check. Here’s how:

1.Check your settings: iPhone

One way to tell if your iPhone is unlocked is to go to Settings, then Cellular, then Cellular Data. If the words “Cellular Data Network” appear, it’s most likely – but not definitely – that your phone is unlocked. The pricey wireless providers really make you jump through hoops.

Check your settings: Android

One way to tell if your Android phone is unlocked is to go to Settings, then Connections, then Mobile Networks, then Network Operators. While in Network Operators, click on “search now.” If a variety of wireless carries names pop up, it’s most likely – but not definitely – that your phone is unlocked. Once again, pricey wireless providers will work your last nerve.

2. Contact your wireless provider

You can call the customer service department for your carrier and ask them to see if your phone is locked. You can also request that they unlock it. If you’d prefer to talk with someone in person, you can always visit one of your carrier’s stores and do the same thing. For those who are more tech savvy, it’s worth checking out your provider’s website to see if it offers information on how to unlock your phone. It’s important to note that, once you’ve requested your phone be unlocked, it can take your carrier 48 to 72 hours to do so. After that time has elapsed, call them to confirm that they have indeed unlocked your phone. You don’t want them conveniently – or inconveniently, for you – forgetting to do so.

Customer Service Numbers: AT&T: 1-800-331-0500; Boost Mobile: 1-833-502-6678; Cricket Wireless: 1-800-274-2538; Mint Mobile: 1-800-683-7392; Straight Talk: 1-877-430-2355; T-Mobile: 1-877-453-1304; and Verizon: 1-800-922-0204.

3. Try switching SIM cards
Another way to determine if your phone is locked or unlocked is by switching out the SIM card. Simply borrow one from a family member or friend whose service is provided by a carrier different from yours.  Then shut down your phone. Remove it from the case, if it’s in one, and then remove your SIM card. Put in the SIM card you borrowed. Close the SIM tray. Turn your phone back on.

If you get a message requesting a code to unlock the SIM card, your phone is locked to your network provider.

If you can use your phone like you always do, make and receive calls, send and receive text messages, your phone is unlocked.

SIM cards and travel

Whether you’re traveling within the continental United States or off on an international adventure, your SIM card functions just the way we described it earlier: it allows your wireless provider to recognize your phone number so you can utilize your wireless provider’s network.

However, before traveling out of the United States, check into the roaming fees your provider charges. They can be pretty high which means you might want to obtain a SIM card once you’ve arrived at your destination. Doing so means you’ll pay the same prices as the local citizens do.

Now that you’re a SIM master, we’ll leave you with these final words of SIM wisdom.

Remember: If you want to switch service providers for any reason at any time, it’s a whole lot easier – not to mention a whole lot less expensive – to unlock your phone than to go buy a new one. Think about it. Spend a few minutes getting your current device unlocked or plunk down $600 on a new one? We think spending a few minutes is the way to go and we think you’ll agree.

Remember: If you would like to sell your device there’s no wondering or hoping that the purchaser’s provider is compatible. When your device is unlocked, anyone can buy it and start using it immediately. No hassles. No down time. An unlocked phone makes that transaction nice and easy.

Remember: When traveling internationally or just making international calls, an unlocked phone allows you to use local SIM cards rather than paying the super high roaming fees many providers charge. If you make a lots of international calls on a regular basis, you can save hundreds of dollars each year.

Say “Yes!” to No Contracts and No Hassles

Now that you’ve learned the ins and outs of SIM cards, you’ve got the freedom to say “Yes” to unlimited talk, text, and 2GB of data for just $20 a month. That’s right. With H2O Wireless’ Unlimited Plans, you’ve got the freedom to pick the plan that works best for your lifestyle. For as little as $20 month – or $18 a month if you enroll in auto pay – you can enjoy America’s most reliable 5G network – the same 5G network as those overpriced wireless companies – at significant savings. Today’s 5G network provides the best cell coverage at far greater speed and is far more flexible, reliable, and secure than any network before it. 

What does the 5G network and its incredible speed mean to you? It means not having to worry about whether or not you’ll miss the next episode of your favorite show (you won’t), or connect with your best friend before he or she leaves for a semester in Tibet (you will).

Plus, with H2O Wireless, you can bring your phone and keep your phone number or choose from a great selection of the latest iPhones and Androids. And, if you’d like to get a 5G phone, H2O Wireless has you covered there, too. The iPhone SE 3rd Gen, iPhone 12 mini, to name just a few, and many new Android devices, like the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G, all support 5G and are available right here.

5G coverage. 5G phones. Unlimited plans, multi-line plans, pay as you go plans, tablet plans, and our brand new 12 month plan (for as little as $8.33 a month!) , PLUS the chance to earn free cell service with Refer a Friend!

Get started now!

Refer a Friend (RAF)

When you join H2O Wireless, you can take advantage of our Refer a Friend (RAF) referral program. It enables you to share the H2O love and lower your bill! Share the H2O love with enough friends, and you might not even have a bill.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Spread the Word

Get your unique referral link, then send it to friends and family.

Step 2: Sign Them Up

Help your friend select an H2O Wireless Plan.

Step 3: Get Rewarded

Once your friend activates their H2O service, you each get rewarded. From now until October 1, each activated referral earns you and your friend $30 in Refer a Friend (RAF) rewards points. Starting October 2, each activated referral earns you and your friend $20 in RAF rewards points.

RAF FAQs

What is the Refer a Friend Program?

Refer a Friend is the H2O® Wireless referral program in which you and a friend get $30 of H2O points for each activated referral. Starting October 2, each activated referral earns you and your friend $20 in RAF rewards points.

When are H2O points applied to my account?

When the person referred activates their H2O Wireless service your rewards points will be applied. Please note: For Port-Ins, points will be received within 1-5 business days.

Do I get referral points if I just tell a friend about H2O?

No. They need to use your referral link.

How many people can I refer?

You can refer up to 10 people per month, which is a total of 120 referrals per year, for thousands of dollars’ worth of reward points. So many rewards points they might pay for your H2O service!

But wait….there’s more!

H2O Wireless Connects You to the World

Each H2O Wireless Monthly Unlimited Plan includes unlimited international talk to 70 Countries (including China and Mexico), unlimited text to any country in the world, and up to $5 international talk credit depending on the plan you select. 

Plus, you can purchase these features whenever you need

International Talk

You can purchase International Talk for your plan for $5 or $10. Simply log into your account to make this purchase.

International Roaming

You can purchase International Roaming for your plan. This can be used for talk minutes, text, or MMS.

5G / 4G Data

You can purchase additional high speed data for your plan. Get 2GB for $10 or 5GB for $20.

Hotspot Data

Share your cellular data via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB using laptops, tablets, and more by purchasing Hotspot Data for your plan. Get 2GB for $10, 5GB for $20, or 10GB for $30.

With H2O Wireless we make it easy and budget friendly to stay connected to your family, friends, work, your favorite shows, podcasts, news outlets – your whole world – for less. That’s what makes us refreshingly. different. wireless.

See for yourself today!