What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a type of SIM card that is embedded directly into your mobile device, instead of being a removable card like traditional SIMs. "eSIM" stands for "Embedded Subscriber Identity Module."
Why use an eSIM?
eSIM technology offers several benefits, particularly for travelers, making it a preferred choice over traditional SIM cards. Here are the key advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Activating an eSIM usually costs much less than standard roaming fees, helping you save money while traveling.
- Seamless Experience: You can switch to a local carrier's tourist plan without the hassle of physically swapping out SIM cards. This provides a convenient and smooth transition.
- Dual SIM Capability: With a compatible phone, you can use the eSIM for data services while keeping your original SIM active. This allows you to access local data rates and avoid high roaming charges, while still using your home number for calls and texts.
These benefits make eSIM an attractive option for travelers seeking both convenience and cost savings.
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How Does eSIM Work?
An eSIM works much like a traditional SIM card, but in a 100% digital format. Here's how it works:
- Activation: To activate an eSIM, you will usually receive a QR code from your operator. By scanning this code with your phone's camera, you can download the eSIM profile directly to your device.
- Setup: The setup process involves entering any required verification codes and following on-screen instructions to complete activation. Once activated, the eSIM can be used just like a physical SIM to access mobile data, make calls and send texts.
- Multiple Profiles: One of the key benefits of eSIMs is the ability to store multiple profiles on a single device. This is particularly useful for frequent travellers who need different plans in different countries, or for people who want to keep separate personal and business numbers on the same phone.
- Compatibility: Most modern smartphones, including the latest iPhone models and Android devices, support eSIM technology. This means you can use eSIMs worldwide, provided your operator supports the feature.
eSIM-Compatible Phones
Here is a detailed table showing the brands and models that support eSIM:
| Brand | Model | Notes |
| Apple | iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | Not Dual SIM |
| iPhone 14, Plus, Pro, Pro Max | Not Dual SIM | |
| iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 mini | 13 Pro not Dual SIM | |
| iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini | 12 Pro not Dual SIM | |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | 11 Pro not Dual SIM | |
| iPhone SE (2020), SE (2022) | ||
| iPhone XS, XS Max | Not Dual SIM | |
| iPhone XR | Not Dual SIM | |
| iPad Air (2014, 2019, 2020, 2022) | ||
| iPad Pro 11" (2018, 2020) | ||
| iPad Pro 12.9" (2015, 2017) | ||
| iPad Pro 10.5" (2017) | ||
| iPad Pro 9.7" (2016) | ||
| iPad 10.2" (2019, 2020, 2021) | ||
| iPad 9.7" (2016, 2017, 2018) | ||
| iPad mini 4 (2015), mini 3, mini (2019, 2021) | ||
| Samsung | Galaxy A55, A54, A35 | |
| Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra | ||
| Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE | ||
| Galaxy S22 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G | ||
| Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G | US versions not compatible with eSIM | |
| Galaxy S20, S20 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra, S20 Ultra 5G | US versions of S20 and S20 FE 4G/5G not compatible with eSIM | |
| Galaxy Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra 5G | US and Hong Kong versions of Note 20 Ultra not compatible with eSIM | |
| Galaxy Xcover7 | ||
| Galaxy Fold, Z Fold4, Z Fold3 5G, Z Fold2 5G | ||
| Galaxy Z Flip4, Z Flip3 5G, Z Flip, Z Flip 5G | US versions of Z Flip 5G not compatible with eSIM | |
| Pixel 7, 7 Pro | ||
| Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro | ||
| Pixel 5, 5a 5G | ||
| Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL, 4a 5G | ||
| Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL, 3a XL | ||
| Xiaomi | Xiaomi 13, 13 Lite, 13 Pro | |
| Xiaomi 12T Pro | ||
| Huawei | Huawei P40, P40 Pro | Not including P40 Pro + |
| Huawei Mate40 Pro | ||
| Sony | Sony Xperia 10 III Lite | |
| Sony Xperia 10 IV | ||
| Sony Xperia 5 IV | ||
| Sony Xperia 1 IV |
Models Not Supporting eSIM
- Apple: Mainland China versions; Hong Kong and Macao versions (except iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS).
- Samsung: China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan versions; All S20 FE and S21 FE Series; USA versions (specific models including S20/S21 series, Z Flip 5G, Note 20 Ultra, Z Fold 2, etc.); Most Samsung Galaxy devices purchased in South Korea (except Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, Z Flip 4, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 5, Fold 5, A54 5G, and S23 FE).
- Google Pixel: China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan versions; Pixel 3 phones manufactured in Australia and Japan; Pixel 3 phones purchased with service from US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi; Pixel 3a phones purchased in Japan, South East Asia, and with Verizon service.
How to activate eSIM
Activating an eSIM is a quick process, usually taking about five minutes. When you purchase an eSIM package, you'll receive a QR code from the vendor within an hour. The activation steps differ slightly depending on whether you're using an iPhone or an Android device. Below are the instructions for each:
For iOS Devices:
- QR Code Installation:
- Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
- Select Use QR Code and scan the QR code.
- Tap Activate eSIM and then Continue.
- Choose the default network for Cellular Data. Ensure Allow Cellular Data Switching is off, Turn On This Line is enabled, and Data Roaming is on.
- If the network is incorrect, go to Network Selection and select the correct one.
For Android Devices:
- QR Code Installation:
- Navigate to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
- Tap + to add a SIM, then select Download a SIM and tap Next.
- Scan the QR code, then tap Download.
- After "Download Complete" appears, return to Settings.
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FAQ
Can I set up eSIM by myself?
Yes, you can set up an eSIM by yourself. Most modern smartphones, including the latest iPhones and Android devices, support eSIM and offer user-friendly setup processes. You typically need to connect your device to a Wi-Fi network, scan a QR code provided by your carrier, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.How do I activate my SIM to eSIM?
To activate your SIM to eSIM, first contact your carrier to ensure they support eSIM activation. If they do, they will provide you with a QR code. Scan this QR code using your phone’s camera, follow the on-screen prompts, and the eSIM profile will download to your device. Ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi during this process, and once the eSIM is activated, you can remove your physical SIM card if necessary.How can I install an eSIM?
To install an eSIM, start by obtaining a QR code from your carrier. Open the Settings app on your phone, navigate to the Cellular or Mobile Data section, and select Add Cellular Plan or Add eSIM. Use your phone’s camera to scan the provided QR code, then follow the on-screen instructions to download and activate the eSIM profile. Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi during the installation process.