Can I Use An iPhone Without A SIM Card? Answered!

Can I use an iPhone without a SIM card?

Yes! You can completely use an iPhone without a SIM card for Wi-Fi-based tasks like streaming, gaming, and text messaging. However, you can't use iPhone calls and texts unless you use Wi-Fi calling or VoIP apps. This guide covers 4 working methods to activate and use an iPhone without a SIM card, as well as common problems and limitations.

How to use an iPhone without a SIM card

Here you can follow the guidance below to activate your iPhone and use it without a SIM card.

Method 1. Activate iPhone with another SIM Card

If you don't have a SIM card, you can choose to use another person's SIM card to activate your device. 

This method is compatible with all iOS devices, regardless of the operating system version (whether iOS 11.4 or earlier/later). Simply borrow a SIM card from a friend or family member, insert it into your device, and use it to complete the setup process. After activation, you can remove the SIM card and return it to its owner.

This approach works if your iPhone is not locked to a specific carrier. If it is carrier-locked, you'll need to borrow a SIM card from someone using the same network to activate your device without a SIM card.

Method 2. Dismiss “No SIM Card” pop-up

Typically, when setting up a new iPhone without a SIM card, you’ll encounter a pop-up message saying “No SIM Card” or “SIM Card Required.” If your device is running iOS 11.4 or later, you can easily bypass this message.

Step 1. Power on your iPhone by pressing the appropriate button, then swipe right to begin the setup process.

Step 2. Choose your preferred language and country, then select Set Up Manually. Connect to a nearby Wi-Fi network, and dismiss the No SIM Card error message.

Step 3. Review the Data & Privacy screen and tap Continue to proceed.

Step 4. Set up Touch ID or Face ID, depending on your device model. If preferred, choose Set Up Later to configure this feature later.

Step 5. Create a lock screen passcode to continue. On the Apps & Data page, select Set Up as New iPhone, or restore from a backup if you have one.

Step 6. Follow the on-screen prompts and agree to the terms and conditions to finalize the setup process.

Once complete, your iPhone will be ready to use, even without a SIM card.

Method 3. Activate iPhone with iTunes

iTunes offers an alternative method to activate your iPhone without a SIM card. Here's how you can do it based on your device type:

👉️ For iPhones without a Home Button:

Step 1. Download and install the latest version of iTunes > Open iTunes and connect your iPhone to the computer using a compatible USB cable.

Step 2. Once iTunes detects your device, a dialog box will appear. Select Set Up as New iPhone and click Continue.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the Sync with iTunes page. Click Get Started and then Sync. Wait for the synchronization process to complete. Once done, disconnect your iPhone and finish the setup manually.

👉️ For iPhones with a Home Button:

Step 1. Open the iTunes app on your computer and connect your iPhone using a lightning cable. 

Step 2. Hold the Power and Home buttons simultaneously > After 10 seconds, release the Power button but continue holding the Home button for another 5 seconds. Now your iPhone should enter DFU mode, indicated by a blank screen.

Step 3. iTunes will detect the iPhone in DFU mode and prompt you to restore it. Click OK to proceed > Allow iTunes to download and install the appropriate firmware package for your device.

Once the process is complete, your iPhone will be updated to the latest operating system. After following these steps, your iPhone will be ready for use, even without a SIM card.

Method 4. Activate iPhone with Emergency Call feature

Here’s another effective way to activate your iPhone without a SIM card, specifically for iOS models with a Home button.

Step 1. Turn on your device. When the No SIM Card Installed message appears, press the Home button.

Step 2. The emergency call interface will open automatically.

Step 3. Dial 999 or 112, then immediately press and hold the Power button to end the call.

Step 4. A message will appear asking if you want to cancel the call. Tap Cancel, and your iPhone will be activated without requiring a SIM card.

This method is a quick and reliable way to activate older iPhone models without inserting a SIM card.

FAQs on using an iPhone without a SIM card

Conclusion

Can I use an iPhone without a SIM card? This passage gives you detailed information about the question. You can know what will happen when you use your iPhone without a SIM card and how to activate the device efficiently. If this guide helps you a lot, share it with more people!