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If your Samsung Galaxy or Google Pixel has no service, start with the reversible checks: turn off airplane mode, make sure the intended SIM is enabled, turn on mobile data, and test in a location with better reception. Then determine whether the problem follows the SIM or the phone, verify the network mode and carrier compatibility, update the software, and reset mobile-network settings if necessary. If service still does not return, the carrier must check activation, your account and plan, outages, provisioning, SIM or eSIM status, unlock status, and model compatibility.
First identify what is failing
“Won’t connect to my carrier” can describe several different faults. Look at the status bar and try both a call and a web page with Wi‑Fi turned off. The distinction determines which branch to follow.
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| What you see | Most useful first checks |
|---|---|
| “No SIM,” “SIM not detected,” or a SIM error | Confirm the SIM is enabled and activated, then inspect and reseat a physical card. An eSIM problem requires the carrier’s activation process. |
| “No service,” “Emergency calls only,” or no signal bars | Test another location, check the selected network mode and operator, and ask the carrier about coverage or an outage. |
| Calls and texts fail, but mobile data also fails | Check airplane mode, the selected SIM, mobile data, account activation, and compatibility. |
| Calls work but mobile data does not | Turn on mobile data, select the correct data SIM on a dual-SIM phone, and review mobile-network and access-point settings. |
| Data works but calls fail | Check the carrier account, voice support for the device and network, preferred network mode, and whether the phone is properly provisioned. |
Settings names and available options vary by Galaxy model, One UI version, Pixel model, Android version, country, and carrier. Treat the paths below as guides and use the closest label shown on your phone.
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- Turn off airplane mode. Open Quick Settings and confirm that Airplane mode is off. If it is already off, turn it on briefly, wait a few seconds, and turn it off again to force a fresh radio connection.
- Turn on mobile data. On a Pixel, open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs and check Mobile data. On a Galaxy, open Settings > Connections > Data usage and check the mobile-data control; wording varies by One UI version.
- Enable the intended SIM. In the Pixel SIMs screen, confirm Use SIM is on. On a dual-SIM Galaxy, check that the desired line is active and assigned for calls, texts, and data. Google documents these SIM and data controls in its Pixel network settings guide: Connect to mobile networks on a Pixel phone.
- Turn off Wi‑Fi for the test. Google’s help page states: “To check for a mobile network connection, turn off Wi-Fi.” Load a simple web page or place a call only after Wi‑Fi is disconnected, otherwise a working Wi‑Fi connection can hide a cellular failure. See Google’s Pixel mobile-connectivity steps.
- Move outside or to another location. A basement, elevator, remote road, or building with heavy shielding can produce weak or absent service. Test somewhere you normally receive coverage before changing settings.
- Restart the phone. Use the normal power-menu restart, wait for the phone to finish booting, and check the status bar again. A restart is safer than deleting data or changing account settings.
If both calls and data remain unavailable after these checks, continue in the branch that matches the message on screen rather than repeatedly toggling the same control.
#1 Best Overall
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- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
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When the phone says “No SIM” or shows a SIM error
Check activation and the selected line
A Pixel needs an active nano-SIM or eSIM for mobile service. Without one, it displays “No SIM card.” Google also notes that some older SIM cards are not supported on Pixel 8 and later, and that SIM form and eSIM availability vary by model and region. Review the SIMs page and confirm the intended line is present, enabled, and selected for the service you are testing. The full model and SIM caveats are in Google’s SIM and eSIM guide.
For an eSIM, do not try to force a physical-card repair. Follow the carrier’s eSIM download or activation instructions. If the profile is missing, inactive, or cannot be downloaded, the carrier needs to reprovision it.
Inspect and reseat a physical SIM
Power the phone down if your model’s instructions call for it, then open the SIM tray with the supplied ejector tool or a small paperclip. Remove the card, check for bending, cracks, heavy scratches, or contamination, and make sure its notched corner matches the tray outline. Reinsert it flat and fully, close the tray, and restart. Samsung lists temporary software errors, incorrect insertion, physical damage, mobile-network settings, and carrier settings among possible causes; its instructions are model- and software-dependent: Samsung’s SIM-not-detected guidance (updated August 27, 2026).
The ejector tool is optional; a small paperclip can open a compatible tray. Never push a thick or sharp object into a microphone hole, and stop if the tray will not release normally.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Use a swap test to isolate the fault
- Put the suspect SIM in another compatible, unlocked phone. If it also shows no service, the card, account, or carrier provisioning is the likely side of the problem.
- Put a known-working SIM from the same carrier into the Galaxy or Pixel. If that SIM works, ask the carrier to replace or reprovision the original SIM or eSIM.
- If no compatible SIM works in the phone, check the handset’s unlock status, supported networks, software, and possible hardware damage before requesting another card.
Do not keep using a visibly damaged physical SIM. Google directs users to the carrier for a replacement when the card is bent or damaged; see Fix mobile connectivity issues.
When there is no signal or service
Separate a coverage problem from a phone problem
Check the same location with another phone on the same carrier, or test your phone in a place where that carrier normally works. If several phones lose service, ask the carrier about a local outage, maintenance, or coverage limitation. If only your handset fails while another phone on the same network connects, continue with the device and SIM checks.
Samsung’s guidance identifies network conditions, device settings, and mobile-network configuration as causes of no signal or dropped calls. It specifically notes that a network mode may not connect properly in a particular location or carrier environment: Samsung’s no-signal and call-disconnection troubleshooting page.
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On a Pixel, open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, choose the line, and review Preferred network type, Network or operator selection, roaming, and access-point names where your software exposes them. Leave operator selection on automatic unless your carrier gives you a specific manual choice. A temporarily unsuitable network mode can prevent registration even when coverage exists.
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Galaxy labels differ by model, but the controls are usually under Settings > Connections > Mobile networks. If a mode that worked previously was changed, return to the carrier-recommended automatic or broadly compatible option. Do not assume that choosing the newest available generation is always best: a carrier may not offer that generation at your location or for your model.
Verify dual-SIM and data choices
Dual-SIM phones can show signal for one line while using another line for data or calls. On Pixel, the SIMs screen lets you choose the SIM for calls, texts, and mobile data; only one SIM can normally be the default for mobile data at a time. On Galaxy, open the SIM manager or the equivalent Connections setting and verify that the intended line is enabled and assigned to the service that fails.
- If calls fail but data works, check the default calling SIM and whether the line is enabled.
- If calls work but data fails, check the default data SIM and the Mobile data switch.
- If one line is roaming or has no coverage, temporarily select the other active line for the test.
These choices are separate from whether a SIM is physically present, so seeing two cards in the tray does not prove that the correct one is being used for data.
Check carrier, model, and unlock compatibility
A phone can operate normally on Wi‑Fi and still be unable to register on a particular carrier. Compatibility depends on the exact model variant, supported network bands and technologies, country, carrier, and account provisioning. Google cautions that not every Pixel 4a (5G) and later model works with every carrier’s 5G network. Confirm eligibility with the carrier for your exact model number and region rather than relying on the phone’s general product name.
Rank #4
- Charger NOT Included, 6.7" Super AMOLED FHD+, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 385 ppi, 800 nits (HBM), 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 4GB RAM, microSDXC, Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 5MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.0, Android 14, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
- 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/25/41/66/71/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM + eSIM
- US Model – Global Connectivity – Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
If you changed carriers, verify that the Pixel or Galaxy is SIM-unlocked. Google says a Pixel must be SIM-unlocked to use a carrier other than the one that sold it. An unlock is different from turning on a setting: the original seller or carrier may have to authorize it. Review Use your Pixel phone with any mobile carrier for Google’s unlock and compatibility guidance; Galaxy unlock rules likewise depend on the selling carrier and region.
- Give the carrier the exact model number, not just “Galaxy” or “Pixel.”
- Ask whether the model is approved for voice, text, LTE, and 5G on that carrier in your country.
- Ask whether the account and plan include the service you are testing and whether the line is fully activated.
- Tell support whether the handset was purchased unlocked, financed, imported, or previously tied to another carrier.
Update software before resetting network settings
Install any pending Android or One UI update using Wi‑Fi, then restart and test cellular service again. Google includes Android updates in its unlocked-phone troubleshooting sequence. Samsung likewise directs users to software and diagnostic checks when configuration or temporary errors may be involved. The exact update screen varies, but it is generally under Settings > System > Software update on Pixel and Settings > Software update on Galaxy.
After updating, use a mobile-network reset if the problem remains and you have already checked the SIM, coverage, and compatibility. On supported Pixel software, the path is Settings > System > Reset options > Reset mobile network settings. Google notes that available settings differ by device and Android version; consult the Pixel network-settings guide. Galaxy reset wording and placement vary by One UI version, commonly under Settings > General management > Reset; select the option specifically for mobile or network settings, not a full device reset.
Read the confirmation screen before accepting. A network reset changes cellular configuration, so you may need to review the carrier’s recommended network and access-point settings afterward. It does not replace an inactive SIM, an account block, an outage, or an incompatible handset.
Best Value
- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Use built-in diagnostics
Samsung Galaxy: Samsung Members
Samsung recommends the Samsung Members phone-diagnostics tools when signal or call-disconnection problems persist. Open Samsung Members, choose the support or diagnostics area available on your model, and run the phone or network tests shown. Availability and test names can vary by device and region. Save any error result or reference number for Samsung or carrier support.
Google Pixel: follow the connectivity checks
Pixel’s official connectivity guide walks through mobile data, signal strength, SIM activation, coverage, network settings, updates, and escalation. Some diagnostics are limited by device and region. Follow the prompts at Fix mobile connectivity issues and note whether the failure occurs with Wi‑Fi off, after a restart, and with another SIM.
When to contact the carrier
Carrier support is the correct next step once the basic settings, SIM inspection, location test, compatibility check, update, and appropriate network reset have not restored service. Ask the representative to check each item explicitly:
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- Whether the line is active and the account and plan are paid and provisioned for voice, text, and data.
- Whether there is an outage, maintenance event, or coverage limitation at your current location.
- Whether the physical SIM is damaged, expired, incorrectly associated with the account, or due for replacement.
- Whether the eSIM profile was downloaded and activated correctly, and whether it needs to be reissued.
- Whether the phone’s IMEI and exact model are accepted on the carrier’s network and eligible for the required LTE or 5G service.
- Whether the handset is SIM-locked and, if so, what the carrier’s unlock requirements are.
- Whether the line needs a network-side refresh or reprovision after a SIM, eSIM, plan, or device change.
Have the exact model number, Android or One UI version, SIM type, approximate location, time the problem began, and results of the SIM-swap test ready. Google’s guidance sends users to the carrier for unresolved connection problems, activation, replacement, and unlock matters: Google’s carrier-use and troubleshooting instructions.
Do not factory-reset too early
A factory reset is an advanced last resort, not a first response to “No service.” It erases personal data and does not repair a carrier outage, damaged SIM, missing eSIM activation, SIM lock, or unsupported model. Back up the phone and complete carrier checks first. Google places factory reset after basic troubleshooting in its unlocked-phone guidance; if you eventually use it, follow the exact instructions for your Pixel or Galaxy and test service during setup before restoring every app and setting.
Quick Recap
A compact decision path
- No SIM or SIM error: enable the intended line, reseat and inspect a physical card, or follow the carrier’s eSIM activation process. Replace a damaged card through the carrier.
- No signal: test another location, compare with another phone on the same carrier, and review network mode and operator selection.
- Only data fails: turn on mobile data, select the correct data SIM, and review mobile-network and access-point settings.
- Only calls or texts fail: check the default calling SIM, account provisioning, voice compatibility, and network mode.
- After a carrier change: confirm SIM-unlock status and exact model compatibility, including the carrier’s 5G requirements.
- Still offline: update software, reset mobile-network settings, run the platform’s diagnostics, and escalate with the evidence you collected.
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