What happens when you switch SIM cards?

People switch SIM cards when upgrading to eSIM, buying the new phone, or shifting carriers. SIM cards store your phone number and connect your device to the carrier network. Users don’t know what happens when they switch the SIM cards, which leads to many insecurities. 

In this article, I will describe what changes you can expect after SIM switching. I will confirm whether it affects your phone number and data. Let's get deep into the details. 

What Happens When You Switch SIM Cards?

When you change the SIM card in your phone, the photos, files, and apps remain the same. The following changes happen after the switch. 

• When you remove the old SIM and add a new one, you get the new carrier network access.
• The phone number and carrier settings also change.

The messages and contacts info are stored in the phone memory or the cloud, so it remains in the phone. Therefore, switching the SIM card doesn’t affect your personal apps and files. 

Do You Lose Your Phone Number When You Switch SIM Cards?

Phone numbers are stored on the SIM cards. When you change your SIM or switch to eSIM, the number also changes. The number remains the same when you switch the mobile phone to your current SIM.  

On the other hand, when you insert the new carrier SM in your device, the SIM number will work to make calls and texts. 

Quick Breakdown — What Changes vs. What Stays the Same

Changes When You Switch SIM Cards

• If you change the SIM, the carrier number will change.
• Carrier plans and network access will be updated.
• Alter the network coverage and SIM-based services.

Doesn’t Change

• Mobile phone data, like photos, videos, and apps, remains stored.
• Cloud-synced contacts and phone settings.
• SIM switch will not affect the device's operating system. 

Switching from Physical SIM to eSIM: Does It Affect Anything?

While switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM, users are concerned about the number. It didn’t change the phone number or the carrier plan of your device. But when the embedded SIM is active in your phone, the SIM card becomes deactivated. 

If you have a dual SIM device with eSIM and a physical SIM, it is a bonus for you to keep your primary SIM number and digital SIM active simultaneously. Comparing eSIM vs SIM card, eSIM cards ensure to provide a flexible and secure connection. 

Benefits of Switching to eSIM

eSIM is a digital chip integrated into compatible devices. It is a travel-friendly SIM that ensures to provides an affordable connection. After switching the eSIM, you can get the following benefits. 

• Remote eSIM activation: Compared to a SIM card, eSIM offers remote QR code activation. With a simple QR code scan, you can activate the eSIM in a few minutes. 
• Enhanced security: Embedded SIM is integrated into the devices, thus it's harder for thieves to steal or lose during travel.
• Convenience: You can manage the data plans remotely without physical SIM card swapping. You can set up eSIM in your phone within a few clicks. 
• No data roaming charges: During travel, international roaming adds to your travel expenses. Multiple carrier offers eSIM data plans without any data roaming charges. 

Note: Before switching to the embedded SIM, ensure that your device is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked.  

Reasons Why You Might Switch SIM Cards

Multiple scenarios lead you to switch the SIM card. Some of the common ones are given here. 

Bought a new SIM for your current phone

After using the same wireless service for years, you need to change the SIM after the limit. Your carrier let you know to change the SIM and sent the new SIM via mail. It also includes the instructions to shift your wireless account from the old to the new SIM. 

You can manually insert the SIM in the phone, and it will activate in a few minutes. 

When you switch to the new carrier

If you are hoping to move to the new wireless provider, you need to buy the new SIM card. Before switching to the carrier, ensure that your device is unlocked to the new carrier. 

If you are considering keeping your number, you can successfully transfer your number to a new SIM. The whole procedure is called porting. 

Get the temporary SIM for travelling

People switch to eSIM for international travel. Multiple carriers offer eSIM plans for frequent travelers. If you are specifically looking for travel to the USA, Phonico data plans are an ideal choice to stay connected. 

Before buying the eSIM, ensure that your device supports eSIM technology. In a dual SIM device, you can use the eSIM and Sthe IM card number simultaneously. 

Conclusion

Switching the SIM card is a simple procedure. After the switch, your phone number, carrier, and network will change. Your devices' internal data, like apps, photos, and videos, remains save. In the guide, I have dicussed the changes that may happen when you switch from a SIM card to eSIM. 

FAQs

Can I use one SIM card on two phones?

No, you can’t activate one SIM in two devices. SIM can only be active on a single phone. However, you can use the feature to link the same number with multiple devices. 

What if my new SIM card isn’t working?

Check your device eSIM carrier; if it's lock, the new SIM will not work in your phone. You can check the APN settings. If you find any issues, contact your carrier for assistance. 

Will my apps and messages transfer when I switch SIM cards?

No, the internal data, like apps, photos, and chats, remains stored in the phone.