There is no SIM card in the phone you are attempting to activate message??

Question

I got a replacemnt 4S from Apple and when I plug it into iTunes I keep getting There is no SIM card in the phone you are trying to activate message. Why is this happening? This didn't happen with my first phone that I got from Verizon.

Answer 1

actually, there should be a sim card in the slot.  It will not have been activated, but it should be there.  just open it up and check.  also...be careful about where you are traveling internationally, especially if you are using data.  A few countries (not most, about 40...many in Asia and South America) use both CDMA and GSM.  on your 4s you do not have an option to choose what Network System you want to use (GSM, CDMA, AUTO etc).  On my recent trip to Venezuela, my 4s only grabbed CDMA which left me without email, web and texting...not good for a business trip.  After several hours on the phone with Verizon, I discovered that they are pushing an update to all Verizon 4s phones (not sure if it is ALL 4s phones or just those that have had their sims activated).  Was told the PRL version number for this is 52638 (a number which is outside the range of the November PRL listings).  what happened to me was either 1) my phone was never pushed this PRL (the push happens on Mondays and Tuesdays), or my phone may have been pushed the update but if *228 is pressed, that will overwrite the PRL so you are out of luck!  in any event, if you are traveling to one of these countries and you want data, be sure you not only activate your sim, but that you have the proper PRL in your phone.  Remember, until they come up with a permanent fix, don't do another *228 once you have this update!!