SIM card often has high durability and is not required to replace unless it is damaged or has to be upgraded. Generally, replacing your SIM card when new technology is launched and introduced or when your SIM card is no longer in use is good. How often should a sim card be replaced? Sim cards can last for many years according to manufacturing conditions and unless they are damaged. And it is good to replace your SIM card more often to stay updated with the latest networks and software. Let’s talk about how often a SIM card should be replaced.
What is a SIM Card and How Does It Work?
A SIM card is a tiny chip that can slip into your smart device and links it to the network of your mobile operator. This has a circuit-embedded chip that holds identity data on a mobile device. Mobile service providers can use this data to link certain client accounts to specific devices. It allows you to use your phone’s communication features so you’re able to send and receive text messages, make calls, and access internet services.
Also, SIM cards have a small memory. So, it can store some messages, about 250 contacts, and other default information.
SIM cards are available in various sizes. The first SIM card’s size and shape were similar to a credit card. And now, manufacturing companies have introduced smaller sizes to insert and install SIM cards into the devices in a correct manner. Given below are the dimensions of the SIM cards.
- Full SIM – 8.5cm x 5.3cm
- Mini-SIM – 2.5cm x 1.5cm
- Micro-SIM – 1.5cm x 1.2cm
- Nano-SIM – 1.23cm x 0.88cm
- Embedded SIM – 0.6cm x 0.5cm
How Long Do SIM Cards Typically Last?
SIM cards are designed to be durable and can last for ten to fifteen years under normal usage conditions. But it is necessary to update your SIM card with new network coverages to ensure the stability of your connection.
Since a SIM card’s lifespan is not infinite, these SIM cards eventually malfunction. It will be beneficial if you replace your SIM cards as frequently as possible, perhaps every five to seven years, to reduce network issues by using an outdated SIM. The durability of your SIM is subject to some limitations, such as flaws in manufacturing that are only apparent under certain conditions.
Corrosion, high humidity, and strong magnetic radiation are a few conditions that threaten the life span of the SIM card. The absence of activity linked to the SIM card, which shortens its life, is the main risk to a SIM’s life after deactivation.
The SIM card may be disabled by cellular providers if you are not using or paying for the service. It often lasts between six months and two years.
Signs That a SIM Card May Need Replacement
You must replace your SIM card if one of the below signs occurs to your SIM. That will ensure the performance and network stability of the SIM card.
Damaged SIM card: If your SIM card is damaged, you should buy a new SIM. Otherwise, it will not work and will show “No Service” or “SIM card isn’t available” messages on the device’s display. Careless handling, scratches on the circuit (gold surface), and substances like water and oil can harm the SIM card.
Updates in the Cellular Network Technology: If your service provider has introduced and launched a new network (4G, 5G…), you better consider replacing your SIM card with a new one to ensure the best service, speed, and high performance. You can keep the same mobile number, but you have to replace the SIM.
Change the Network: You might want to replace your current SIM with a new SIM card if the service provider you are using is no longer meeting your convenience. Be wise when choosing your new service provider, and don’t get caught in marketing tricks.
Inconsistency of your device and the SIM card: Sometimes, when you buy a new phone, your old SIM card will not function properly or will be unsupported. Therefore, you need to replace your old SIM card with a new one to be compatible with your latest device.
How often should a sim card be replaced?
Most of the time, there are no specific service conditions that specify how frequently your SIM card needs to be updated or replaced. But it is advised to replace the SIM cards between 5 to 10 years because of the reasons such as updates in the network technology, buying new phones, and changes in the service providers.
SIM cards also have a lifespan like every other technology product. Your SIM card might live anywhere for many years, depending on how frequently and how properly you care for your SIM card along with the device.
You might want to replace the SIM card more frequently if you are using your phone often or for data-intensive activities. You might manage for many years with the same SIM card if you look after your phone well and just use it occasionally.
Factors to Consider When Replacing a SIM
When replacing the SIM, you need to consider the condition and the age of the SIM card importantly. Suppose you find any errors in the SIM card when in operation. You should examine for any damages or scratches to the SIM card. Thoroughly check whether the SIM card has been in contact with water, oil, or other chemical substance or if the circuit part (gold part) has been damaged.
Also, if you have purchased a new smart device, the size and the technology of your current SIM will be incompatible with the device. Therefore, when replacing the SIM, you should consider the model of your phone or any other smart device.
If you are changing your service provider, before buying a new SIM card, look for advantages, additional services provided, and prices you are going to have to pay for the services by the new Network you are going to choose compared to your current Network.
Finally, as previously mentioned, you should consider the Network Technology currently in use to ensure the best performance and good security features.
How to Replace a SIM Card?
Given below is the step-by-step guide on how to replace a SIM card.
- Find the SIM tray where you should place your SIM card.
- Open it by using a pin or SIM-eject tool you are provided with when buying your phone. You have to insert it into the hole beside the tray.
- The tray will come out. Take the old SIM out and place the new SIM correctly according to the given marks and signs on the tray. Otherwise, your SIM will not work.
- Insert the tray back into the device completely until it fits.
Your new SIM card will be auto-activated if it is done from the outlet or shop where you bought it. If not, contact the customer support of your service provider and tell them to activate the SIM card.
VIDEO CREDITS: Apple Support YouTube Channel
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