e-SIM Made Easy - What It Is and How to Get Started
What is an e-SIM?
An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile plan from your network provider without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more e-SIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.
How do you activate an eSIM?
To be able to activate an eSIM you need the iPhone XS range, the iPhone XR or later, as this feature is not available on earlier models.
You can activate your eSIM while you're setting up your iPhone if your network provider supports eSIM Carrier Activation or eSIM Quick Transfer.
With eSIM Carrier Activation, your network provider assigns an eSIM to your iPhone when you purchase it. With eSIM Quick Transfer, you transfer the SIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting your network provider. With either method, to activate your eSIM during setup, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.
Another way you can activate an eSIM is via a QR code that is given to you via the network that you are using. You can receive the QR code in an email or with a physical copy. This is done by scanning the QR code via your camera app and following the instructions. As long as you're using an iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later then you can activate an eSIM via a QR code.
Why use an e-SIM?
Security - eSIMs are built into your device and can't be lost or physically damaged, making them more secure than traditional SIM cards. If your phone is stolen, eSIMs are easier to trace and manage remotely. They're also harder to clone, which makes your data safer.
Storage - eSIMs can store multiple cellular profiles, such as a travel SIM, so you don't need to carry a physical SIM when you travel. You can also have two phone numbers on one device.
Switching networks - You can switch networks online or with a phone call, and you don't need to visit a physical store. Most carriers offer apps that can quickly install network information onto an eSIM.
Space - eSIMs are smaller than physical SIM cards, which can free up space for other components or a larger battery.
Location - Network providers can remotely control eSIMs, making them easier to locate.