Apple has had support for eSIM since the iPhone Xs/XR, but has gone all-out by removing the physical SIM card slot for iPhones from version 14 and later sold in the US, while models sold in other countries will have support for both for both physical and virtual SIM, Apple could eventually remove the SIM slot in more countries depending on availability. Exact guidelines vary from region to region. For this guide, we’ve focused primarily on the US market.
What is eSIM?
An eSIM is a replacement for a physical SIM that is built into the phone’s circuitry so that users can easily switch between SIMs. It also allows users to host more than two SIMs. An iPhone will be able to host up to eight SIMs at once.
So, how easy is it to load a new eSIM on the iPhone? It should only take a few steps.
How to activate eSIM on iPhone
- I’m going to you Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. Alternatively, this setting could be down Settings > Mobile data > Add eSIM.
- You will see a bunch of numbers on the screen to transfer the design. Otherwise, you can manually select the “Transfer from nearby iPhone” option. Both iPhones must be on iOS 16 or later for this to work.
- The instructions for the old model will help you with this process. Enter the verification code — which will appear on the new iPhone — on the older iPhone.
- Once you transfer the plan to the newer iPhone, your carrier will send you a notification to complete the setup.
Image Credits: apple
QR code support
- If your carrier has issued a QR code, you can simply select “Use QR Code” when setting up your new iPhone or use the camera.
- In some regions, you can find the “Use QR Code” option below Settings > Mobile data > Add eSIM.
Physical SIM conversion
Some mobile operators may support quick physical SIM to eSIM conversion without having to visit a store. For that, you can go to Settings > Mobile and select Convert to eSIM and then press Mobile plan conversion. After you confirm the mobile plan, you want to press secretly Convert to eSIM and wait for it to activate.
Image Credits: apple
Some US-based carriers may have their own their own applications and locations to easily set up eSIM. Specifically, most iPhone models will need to be connected to the internet via Wi-Fi when switching to eSIM, but eSIM-only iPhones sold in the US can be activated without a Wi-Fi enabled internet connection.
