How To Install a SIM Card In Your Nexus 5

The Nexus 5 uses a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card to connect to the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network. In order to send and receive phone calls on your new device, you must first install this card. This card contains all of your personal information and essentially connects your device to your cell carrier. For a step-by-step walkthrough on how install one, keep reading.

SIM card: photo by Jonathan Ah Kit.

Information Contained on a SIM Card

• Name
• Phone number
• Text messages
• Phone contacts
• Account information
• and more…

If you attempt to use the Nexus 5 without a SIM card, the screen will display the message “No SIM card.” In the event that a SIM card is currently in your phone and you are still receiving this message, you may need to reset it. Cards misaligned or installed improperly may also trigger this message, rendering your device temporarily useless.

Find and Release The SIM Tray

With your Nexus 5 screen facing towards you, locate the SIM tray on the right-hand side. It’s a small pin-sized hole that’s easy to overlook if you aren’t careful.

Once you’ve identified the tray, press the SIM ejection tool (packaged with your Nexus 5 device) directly into it. When done correctly, the SIM tray should pop out, revealing a small tray. Go ahead and place the SIM ejection tool off to the side, as it’s no longer needed for installation.

Install The SIM Card

Installing a SIM card on the Nexus 5 device is pretty straightforward. Assuming you followed the steps mentioned above, you should now have access to the SIM tray. The micro SIM cards used in the Nexus 5 are shaped like a rectangle with one angled corner. Align your SIM card up with the tray and firmly press it down inside. The corner with the angle should be at the top left — if your device is still facing you.

Press the SIM tray back into your Nexus 5 in the same direction it was removed.

Last But Not Least…

You’re not out of the woods just yet. Perform a hard restart on your Nexus 5 to acquire the cell carrier’s network signal. Once the device has restarted, it should automatically pick up the nearest tower, at which point you’ll have service. With that said, some carriers require additional information, such as the IMEI number, before activation.

Need help installing a new SIM card in your Nexus 5? Let us know in the comments section below!