When you activate an eSIM along with your physical SIM for dual SIM capability, you may see the “No service” issue on your physical SIM. Learn how to fix “No Service” issue on physical SIM after eSIM activation in this guide.
In this article
The “No service” issue on your physical SIM after eSIM activation occurs due to how your phone manages dual SIM operations. This issue can happen on both iPhones and Android phones that support eSIM technology.
For iPhones, this is commonly related to iOS’s dual SIM management system, while for Androids, it often depends on the manufacturer’s implementation of dual SIM technology.
The common causes are:
Remember that only one SIM can use data at a time and the SIM not in use will show No Service. The wrong data settings may cause no service.
Phones may incorrectly prioritize eSIM over physical SIM. Or, sometimes, outdated carrier settings can affect connectivity. That is when network settings might need updating.
Physical SIM improperly inserted, expired, or damaged can be a reason for “No service” issue. Or, there may be compatibility issues with the device.
Now you can apply these solutions to fix “No service” issues on physical SIM after activating eSIM on your phone:
Remember that while both SIMs can receive calls and texts, only one SIM can use cellular data at a time and the SIM not in use will show No Service.
To change which number uses cellular data, you follow these steps:
There, ensure both SIMs are enabled and check their individual settings. Some Android phones let you set preferred SIMs for data, calls, and SMS separately.
A basic restart can resolve many network-related issues, including the “No service”.
It is essential to ensure that your iPhone is updated to the latest operating system version to warrant proper functioning.
Go to Settings > General > About. If an update is available, you will see a prompt to update your carrier settings. After installing updates, check if the physical SIM is recognized
To determine if the problem lies with your physical SIM or phone, you can try using the SIM in another device. Alternatively, test another physical SIM on your phone. This troubleshooting step will help identify whether the issue is hardware or software-related.
if the problem still persists, try removing and reinstalling your eSIM. Go to Settings > Cellular, select your eSIM plan, and remove it. Then, contact your carrier for a new QR code or follow the process to reinstall the eSIM.
Sometimes, only a fresh eSIM installation can resolve conflicts with the physical SIM.
This is a more comprehensive solution.
Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings
Be aware that this will erase all saved WiFi passwords and network preferences, so make sure that you have this information backed up.
If none of these solutions work, you need to contact your physical SIM’s carrier for support. They will verify your SIM card’s status, check for account-related issues, and provide specific guidance based on their network requirements. They may also need to replace your physical SIM if it is damaged or outdated.
Planning a trip to China, Japan and South Korea? The right eSIM can keep you connected effortlessly across all three countries. It is ideal for travelers because it is easy to install, work across multiple countries and eliminate the hassle of swapping SIM cards. For trips spanning these destinations, choosing the right eSIM plan is […]
Imagine that you land in a foreign country and find that your phone is not connecting to any network. You cannot make calls, texts or use Internet. International roaming is essential for staying connected while traveling internationally, but when it does not work, it can cause irritation and disrupt your plans. This guide will give […]
Installing an eSIM online before travelling is now the smartest way to stay connected abroad. This digital alternative to physical SIM cards lets you set up everything from home, avoiding finding local mobile shops at your destination. This guide covers all essential information – from checking your phone’s compatibility to choosing the right plan for […]
Before traveling internationally, checking the eSIM coverage map for your travel destination is a crucial step to ensure reliable connectivity. Having accurate information about network coverage helps you choose the right eSIM provider and plan for your needs. This guide covers essential steps to verify coverage, understand network compatibility, and make informed decisions about your […]
As eSIM adoption grows, users frequently encounter ‘invalid’ or ‘expired’ errors during installation. Understanding how to troubleshoot invalid or expired eSIM installation issues is essential for maintaining your mobile connectivity. This guide offers straightforward solutions to get your eSIM working properly. I. What is the ‘Invalid’ or ‘Expired’ Error message? When you scan an eSIM […]
Many travelers wonder if a travel eSIM will change their WhatsApp phone number when used abroad. The simple answer is no – your WhatsApp account remains linked to your original phone number even when using an eSIM for data. This common concern often arises when planning international trips, but understanding how eSIM works with WhatsApp […]
