The physical compatibility of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards between Android and iPhone devices is generally assured. SIM cards, regardless of the phone’s operating system, adhere to standardized sizes (Nano-SIM being the most common). Thus, a SIM card from an Android phone can physically fit into an iPhone, provided both devices utilize the same SIM card size.
While the physical dimensions are standardized, the practical usage extends beyond simple insertion. The primary function of a SIM card is to identify and authenticate the subscriber to the mobile network. This allows the user access to cellular services like calls, text messages, and mobile data. The historical benefit of SIM cards lies in their portability, enabling users to switch devices without altering their mobile service subscription. It is important to note that unlocking a phone from a specific carrier is essential for such transfers to work smoothly across different devices and networks.