A SIM unlock chip is one of the popular solutions for unlocking iPhone SIM. So, what is it and how does it work? The most important question is: does it really remove the SIM lock from your iPhone? This guide answers all those questions. In case you want to try this trick to unlock your iPhone carrier, we also share you the best SIM unlock chip brands in the market and tell you where to buy a reliable SIM unlock chip at an affordable price.
And since the software unlockers are now the go-to to remove SIM lock in 2025, we will also introduce you the modern alternative to SIM unlock chip – Passixer iPhone Unlocker.
What Is a SIM Unlock Chip?
A SIM Unlock Chip (also called an Unlock Card) is an ultra-thin interposer that sits on your SIM tray, right under your regular SIM card.
In simple terms, it lets a carrier-locked phone work with a SIM card from a different carrier which the device would normally reject.
Many of you might know them via their brand names: Turbo SIM (the first one, which arrived around 2004), GEVEY, R-SIM, GPS SIM, Magic SIM. Keep in mind that all of them work in the same manner.
What Devices Are SIM Unlock Chips Compatible With?
These chips were originally created for iPhones. In the early 2000s, they became a careful workaround to bypass stubborn carrier locks on Apple devices. Even so, this doesn’t mean that all SIM chips will work with all iPhone models. The type of chip, iPhone model, and iOS version must match perfectly. For instance, some R-SIM 17 versions work fine on iPhone 13 models up to iOS 16, but fail entirely on the same models once updated to iOS 17 or later.
Note: While some sellers advertise Android compatibility, after testing and researching multiple Reddit reports, we found that none worked on Android-locked phones.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Chip Unlock on iPhone?
Like any unlocking method, using a SIM Unlock Chip for iPhone comes with its own benefits and trade-offs. Below is a quick view of pros and cons of using SIM Chip:
Advantages
- Relatively cheap and most cost just a few dollars.
- Simple to use — place it in the tray, add your SIM, and enter the ICCID code.
- Work with many carriers worldwide and can be removed anytime to return to your original SIM.
- No waiting periods — works immediately after setup.
Disadvantages
- Finding a SIM chip that works with your exact iPhone model and iOS version can be difficult.
- Unlock is temporary, as iOS update can remove it and require a new ICCID code.
- Phone’s signal quality and stability will drop because the chip acts as a middle layer.
- Frequent removal can damage the SIM tray over time.
How Does SIM Unlock Chip Work on iPhone Unlocking
Many people have doubts about how these ultra-thin chips actually bypass iPhone carrier restrictions. The answer is simple and as follows.
Every SIM card from network providers like Sprint, Verizon, or AT&T has a unique IMSI or ICCID code. You can’t change or remove the ICCID codes on them.
However, when you insert a SIM chip (like R-SIM), it controls the communication between the SIM and iPhone. And the most important part is: it lets you enter a custom ICCID code, the one that Apple’s system doesn’t mark as locked. So, when you use the small SIM chip with fake ICCID code, it tricks the iPhone into thinking the SIM is approved.
However, Apple can detect and block older ICCID codes. Therefore, keeping it updated is part of using this method.
How to Unlock iPhone with SIM Unlock Chip
To use a SIM unlock chip, the first step is to make sure you’ve ordered the correct one for your iPhone model and iOS version. Then, follow the instructions to place and use SIM unlock chip for unlocking iPhone.
Step 1. Put SIM unlock chip into SIM try.
- If SIM unlock chip is the foldable type, align it with the tray, load the chip and then place your SIM card on top.
- If you’ve got a glue-backed version, stick it carefully to the underside of your SIM card before inserting it.
Step 2. Set up SIM unlock chip on iPhone.
After you slide the tray back into the iPhone, a setup menu will appear on the screen. This is where you select your unlock mode — most people go with ICCID Mode. You’ll then be prompted to enter a 20-digit ICCID code.
Note: You can find the ICCID code via the vendor’s site. Or, even Redditors sometimes share working codes.
Step 3. Start using carrier-unlocked iPhone
Restart the iPhone. Your iPhone will now show the network bars normally and you can use another network.
What Is the Best SIM Unlock Chip for iPhone
Over the years, a handful of SIM Chip brands have stood out. And there isn’t a single “best” choice for everyone. The right one for you depends on your iPhone model and whether the chip brand updates codes for that setup.
Here’s a quick side-by-side look to help you decide when choosing a SIM unlock chip:
| Unlock Chip Brand | Pricing (approx.) | Supported Devices / iOS | Rating & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
R-SIM (Latest versions: R-SIM 16/17/18/19)  |
Around US$15 | Work with most iPhones from iPhone 5/5s to the latest models. New versions are regularly released. |
★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Widely used, very compatible, frequent updates. Still need fresh ICCID codes after major iOS changes. |
Turbo SIM (Original pioneer by Bladox)  |
US$5–US$10 | Originally for early iPhones (2G/3G) and other GSM phones. Modern “Turbo” chips are generic and not reliable for new models. |
★★☆☆☆ (2/5) – Historically important but outdated. Only worth using on very old devices. |
Gevey SIM (Gevey Ultra, Gevey Turbo SIM)  |
US$2–US$10 | Gevey Ultra for iPhone 4/4S and Gevey Turbo for iPhone 5. Some newer “Gevey” branded chips claim support for later models, but R-SIM and GPP dominate now. |
★★★☆☆ (3/5) – Solid for iPhone 4/4S and limited value for newer devices. |
GPP SIM (GPP LTE, “Semi Factory Unlock”)  |
US$5–US$10 | iPhone 5 through iPhone X/XS, especially common on iPhone 6/7/8. Added 4G/LTE support and ICCID editing recently. |
★★★★☆ (4/5) – Cheap, effective, good for slightly older iPhones. Now mostly replaced by modern R-SIM versions. |
Where to Purchase SIM Unlock Chip
As mentioned earlier, you have to be very careful when purchasing SIM unlock chips like R-SIM or GEVEY. Not every seller is genuine.
Here are the most recommended places to buy SIM chip:
- eBay and Amazon are popular spots to find the unlock chips. However, even there, be sure to read customer feedback in detail before purchasing.
- AliExpress and Alibaba are especially good for bulk orders.
- You can also buy one from the local mobile repair stores, which can save shipping time.
Alternatives to SIM Unlock Chip for Unlocking iPhone Carrier
There are also other ways to unlock iPhone without using SIM unlock chip. Many people prefer these alternatives now because modern tools and online services are more stable and easier to manage. Here’s a simple comparison table between software/online ways and hardware solutions.
| Unlock Method | Pricing | Requirements | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passixer iPhone Unlocker (Desktop) | US$29.99 to unlock 6 iOS devices, one time | Windows or Mac computer with internet. USB cable. |
Stable unlock. High success rate(99%). Work quickly at home(30 minutes). No extra hardware. Also remove other security locks. |
More costly than a chip. Need jailbreak. |
| SIM Unlock Chip(Hardware) | Around US$5 to US$15 one-time | Workable SIM unlock chip Effective ICCID code |
Low cost. No software needed. |
Not permanent and can stop working after updates. Need new programming or chip for new iOS. Can cause signal or battery issues. Often find and change ICCID. |
| DirectUnlocks (Online) | Around US$20 to US$50 and sometimes up to US$224 | Device IMEI number and internet connection to order. |
No technical skill needed. Work for iPhone and Android. |
Higher cost. Possible extra fees. Waiting time from hours to weeks. Refunds are not always certain. No reliable names that work all the time. |
Option 1. Passixer iPhone Unlocker – Desktop SIM Unlocker
The fastest and most reliable way to remove a SIM lock from your iPhone today is with a desktop tool like Passixer iPhone Unlocker. You can simply install Passixer on your Mac or Windows computer and follow the on-screen steps to unlock carrier lock on used or new iPhone.
Passixer works with every major carrier in any region, such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and many more. And it completes the entire SIM unlock in just 10 to 30 minutes. Once the lock is gone, you can start use a SIM card from wanted carrier and immediately start making calls, sending messages, and using mobile data.
In all, the combination of speed, ease, and global carrier compatibility is why Passixer is now the go-to choice for iPhone SIM unlocking.
Key Features
- Remove Apple ID from a second-hand iPhone without password and with Find My on.
- Delete Screen Time settings from iPhone without losing any data.
- Bypass iCloud Activation Lock without Apple ID password and screen passcode.
- Turn off screen lock on iPhone when you forgot the passcode.
Steps to Use Passixer for SIM Lock Removal
Step 1. Open Passixer iPhone Unlocker on your Mac or Windows computer. Select Remove SIM Lock on the main interface.
Step 2. Connect your iPhone to the desktop with a certified USB cable. Once the device is recognized, click Start to move forward.
Step 3. Follow the iOS Jailbreak Tutorial shown on the screen.
Step 4. Check the details Passixer displays for your iPhone and click Start SIM Lock Removal button.
Step 5. Remove all saved Wi-Fi networks from your iPhone and turn off Wi-Fi. Once done, return to the Passixer window and click OK to continue.
Step 6. After a short while, you’ll see a SIM Lock Removed Successfully message on screen.
Option 2. DirectUnlocks – IMEI Unlock Software
Another way is to use an online IMEI unlock service. There are many of them and DirectUnlocks is one of the more well-known names in this space.
DirectUnlocks or any similar service, simply takes your iPhone’s IMEI number to remove the SIM lock from the carrier’s side. This is possible because they have certain arrangements with carrier-side personnel. DirectUnlocks also doesn’t deliver 100% results all the time, so you should proceed with caution. A common warning from users is about the pricing. The site often asks for around US$24 upfront, but it would ask you to pay an additional US$150–US$200 later to complete the process.
How it works:
Step 1. Go to the DirectUnlocks website, click iPhone Unlocks and choose your iPhone model in the top menu.
Step 2. Choose the country and carrier.Then, enter your 15-digit IMEI number where you can find by going to iOS Settings > General > About.
Step 3. Complete the payment.
If the unlock is successful, you’ll receive confirmation that your iPhone is now unlocked.
Final Words
SIM unlock chips were the first practical solution to bypass carrier locks on iPhones, and for a long time, they worked well. However, now ICCID codes are not consistently updated. Also online IMEI unlocker fails to deliver most of the time while scams, payment traps and no response from support are common complaints.
The surest way to remove iPhone SIM lock today is to use a modern desktop tool like Passixer iPhone Unlocker. Passixer removes the SIM lock within 30 minutes and works with carriers worldwide. So, you can start using your new SIM without any waiting period.