How do I transfer numbers from one SIM to another?

Moving Contacts Between SIM Cards: More Than Just an Import/Export

The idea of transferring numbers by simply exporting them from one SIM and importing them to another sounds appealing. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that straightforward. While some older phones might offer a limited “Export to SIM” function, modern smartphones generally store contacts in phone memory or linked accounts, not directly on the SIM card itself. This means a simple import/export via the contacts app won’t typically work for transferring contacts between SIM cards.

So, how do you actually move your contacts from one SIM to another? The process involves transferring contacts off the old SIM and into the phone’s memory, then copying them to the new SIM (if desired, though this is becoming less common). Here’s a breakdown:

1. Import from Old SIM (If Necessary):

• If your old phone still works: Go to Contacts, then look for options like “Import/Export,” “Manage Contacts,” or “Settings.” You should find an option to “Import from SIM.” This copies contacts stored on the old SIM into your phone’s memory.
• If your old phone is unusable: You may need a SIM card reader that connects to your computer. This allows you to access the SIM’s contents and copy the contacts to your computer. You can then transfer these contacts to your new phone.

2. Export to New Phone:

The most common and reliable method for transferring contacts involves moving them to your new phone, not the new SIM card directly. This offers greater flexibility and ensures compatibility across devices. Here are a few options:

• Using your Google Account (Recommended): Most Android phones sync contacts with your Google account by default. Simply sign in to your Google account on your new phone, and your contacts should automatically sync.
• Using a vCard (.vcf file): Export your contacts as a .vcf file. This can usually be found in the “Import/Export” settings within your Contacts app. Then, transfer this .vcf file to your new phone (via Bluetooth, email, cloud storage, etc.) and import it into your contacts.
• Direct Phone-to-Phone Transfer: Some phone manufacturers offer proprietary software or apps to facilitate transferring data, including contacts, between phones.

3. (Optional) Copy to New SIM:

While not generally recommended due to limited storage and potential compatibility issues, you might be able to copy contacts to your new SIM. Check your phone’s Contacts app for an “Export to SIM” option. Keep in mind that SIM cards have a limited storage capacity, and not all contact details (like long names or multiple numbers) might be transferred.

Why SIM Card Storage is Outdated:

Storing contacts directly on a SIM card is a relic of older phone technology. Modern phones offer much larger storage capacities and cloud-based syncing, making SIM storage unnecessary and limiting. Focusing on transferring contacts to your phone’s memory or a cloud account provides a more reliable and versatile solution for managing your contacts in the long run.