Will a cell phone work without a SIM card?
Yes, a cell phone will work without a SIM card, but only partially. Your phone won’t be able to make regular cellular calls, send SMS text messages, or have access to mobile data without a SIM.
That being said, your phone can still function using Wi-Fi, meaning you’ll be able to use the internet and web-based apps, including WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom.
Without a SIM card, you can consider your phone a mini Wi-Fi device. This setup can be helpful if you’re using an app-based phone service or in between carriers. If you need on-the-go connectivity (calling, texting, and data), an eSIM is a great workaround to keep your phone fully functional wherever you are without a SIM card.