Apple has had support for eSIM since the iPhone Xs/XR, but it has gone all in by ditching the physical SIM card slot for iPhones from version 14 and later sold in the U.S. While models sold in other countries will have support for both physical and virtual SIM, Apple could eventually remove the SIM slot in more countries depending on availability. The precise instructions vary from region to region. For this guide, we’ve focused primarily on the U.S. market.
What is eSIM
eSIM is a substitute for a physical SIM that’s embedded in the phone’s circuitry so users can easily swap between SIMs. It also enables people 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
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. Alternatively, this setting could be under Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
- You will see a bunch of numbers on display to transfer the plan. Otherwise, you can manually select the “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” option. Both iPhones have to be on iOS 16 or later for this to work.
- Instructions on the old model will help you through this process. Enter the verification code — which will be displayed 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 you a QR code, you can simply select “Use QR Code” while setting up the new iPhone or use the camera.
- In some regions, you can find the “Use QR Code” option under Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
Converting physical SIM
Some carriers might support quickly converting the physical SIM to eSIM without having to visit a store. For that, you can go to Settings > Cellular and select Convert to eSIM and then tap on Convert Cellular Plan. After confirming the cellular plan you want to covert tap on Convert to eSIM and wait for it to activate.
Image Credits: Apple
Some U.S.-based carriers might have their own apps and sites to easily set up eSIM. Notably, most iPhone models will need to be connected to the internet through Wi-Fi when switching to eSIM, but eSIM-only iPhones sold in the U.S. can be activated without a Wi-Fi-enabled internet connection.