How to open SIM card on iPhone without tool?

How to open SIM card on iPhone without tool?
I’ve been trying to figure out how to open the SIM card on my iPhone without a tool. Unfortunately, I don’t have the SIM ejector tool that usually comes with the phone, and I’m not sure what else I could use to get it done. There’s some anxiety over trying to use random objects, as I don’t want to damage the phone or the SIM card tray. I’ve seen suggestions to use paper clips, but I’m not confident in how to properly use them without causing any harm. Is there an easy and safe way to open the SIM card slot without the specific tool designed for it? I’m hoping to find a method that’s not only effective but also doesn’t risk my iPhone’s integrity.
7 Answers

In my experience, a sewing needle proved handy when I needed to open my iPhone’s SIM card slot. Here’s my approach:
- Selected a slim, sturdy needle from my sewing kit.
- Carefully inserted the needle into the SIM card tray’s release hole.
- Applied slight pressure until the tray popped out.
Using a needle felt precise, thanks to its thinness, but it’s important to handle it carefully to avoid pricking oneself or applying too much force.

One day, I realized an earring could serve the same purpose. Here’s how it went:
- Found a small stud earring with a thin post.
- Inserted the post into the SIM tray hole.
- Pushed firmly and steadily until the tray came out.
Earrings can be quite convenient if no other tools are at hand, and they often fit perfectly without bending or breaking.

I once tried using a mechanical pencil, and to my surprise, it worked perfectly:
- Extended the pencil’s lead slightly.
- Inserted the tip into the hole beside the SIM tray.
- Applied slight pressure until the tray released.
Mechanical pencils offer precision, but be cautious not to break the lead inside the hole. It worked well for me with a gentle touch.

Interestingly, I utilized a safety pin. This is how it worked for me:
- Opted for a small safety pin.
- Opened the pin and used the sharp end.
- Inserted the sharp end into the hole beside the SIM tray.
- Applied controlled pressure until the tray popped open.
While the sharp end needs careful handling, the method was effective for me.

When I found myself without a SIM ejector tool, I improvised with a paperclip — it worked exceptionally well. Here’s what I did:
- Grabbed a small paperclip.
- Unfolded one end of the paperclip to create a straight section.
- Located the tiny hole beside the SIM card tray.
- Inserted the straightened part of the paperclip into the hole.
- Applied gentle pressure until the SIM tray popped out.
The key was to be gentle and steady to avoid damaging the tray. A paperclip is an excellent go-to item since it’s small and sturdy.

Once, in a pinch, I used a toothpick. It worked but did require a gentle touch. Here’s what I did:
- Took a toothpick and checked that its tip was slim enough for the hole.
- Inserted the tip into the SIM tray hole carefully.
- Applied light pressure until the tray released.
Though it’s a bit risky if the toothpick breaks, it’s a readily available and non-metallic option that can avoid internal damage to the phone.