User profile for user: intothisspace
intothisspace Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Can't add eSIM because physical SIM is not recognised

My iPhone 12 has stopped recognising my physical SIM. It's a phone error, because my SIM works in a different phone and a different SIM doesn't work in my phone.


I've got an eSIM from my carrier but I can't add it because Settings > Mobile Service (Cellular in US) is greyed out with the message "No SIM".


I've tried completely resetting the iPhone and expected to get the option to add an eSIM as part of the setup, but I just get the same "No SIM" error. (I removed the physical SIM when I reset the phone).


Is there any way to add an eSIM when the iPhone cannot read the physical SIM card?

iPhone 12

Posted on Jan 7, 2026 6:15 AM

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User profile for user: KiltedTim
KiltedTim
User level: Level 10
225,672 points

Posted on Jan 7, 2026 8:14 AM

Then take it to your local authorized service provider or contact apple and arrange for mail in service.

This certainly sounds like a hardware problem.

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User profile for user: intothisspace
intothisspace Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Jan 7, 2026 10:47 AM in response to LD150

LD150 wrote:
Are you in UK? You could try a postal repair https://support.apple.com
If they find the modem has failed it will be a full "Other damage" repair at ~£475 so you will probably opt to upgrade.

Yes I'm in the UK and I'm aware that the issue is related to the SIM card reader.


My original question was to confirm if there is a way to add an eSIM when the physical SIM cannot be read? Even after a complete reset, there doesn't seem to be.


I'm just going to order a new handset.

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Can't add eSIM because physical SIM is not recognised

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