How to Check eSIM Compatibility for Your Device

 

The fast-evolving mobile technology has accelerated the adoption of eSIM (embedded SIM), which is now progressively replacing static physical SIM cards because eSIMs enable users to seamlessly swap carriers while handling numerous phone numbers and activating remote mobile plans without using traditional SIM cards.

The technology of eSIM operates on devices equipped with eSIM support, but these devices may not gain access to all eSIM network providers. Your ability to transition to eSIM depends on your device's eSIM compatibility. So, here’s a guide to learn how to check eSIM compatibility.

Devices That Support eSIM

The majority of modern smartphone producers have built eSIM functionality into their newest product lines. The following list provides detailed information about esim compatible phones according to brand.

 

1. Apple iPhone Models with eSIM Support

Apple introduced eSIM capabilities on the iPhone XS, resulting in removing physical SIM trays from all its U.S. model releases. Users find iPhone eSIM capability in these models:

  • iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 14 Series (U.S. models only support eSIM)
  • iPhone 13 Series
  • iPhone 12 Series
  • iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd Generation)
  • iPhone XS, XS Max, XR

Important Note: The eSIM technology does not operate with Chinese, Macao, or Hong Kong iPhone models because these devices contain two physical slots for SIM integration.

 

 

 

2. Samsung Galaxy Series with eSIM Support

The top Samsung mobile phones now integrate eSIM technology in their design. Below are Samsung’s eSIM-compatible phones:

 

  • Samsung Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 5
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra

Tip: Some areas may not allow eSIM functionality on all Samsung models. Some US carriers prevent customers from using eSIM capabilities on their older Samsung device models.

 

 

3. Google Pixel (eSIM-Compatible Models)

The Pixel 2 became the first Google smartphone to include eSIM technology when it debuted. Google Pixel devices which support eSIM functionality include the following models:

  • Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro
  • Google Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
  • Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
  • Google Pixel 5, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a

Good to Know: Google Pixel smartphone users can avail of the dual-SIM capability where users can use eSIM and physical SIM simultaneously.

 

 

4. Other Brands Supporting eSIM

Different mobile brands nowadays provide eSIM support for their products. The following list includes additional eSIM-enabled mobile phones:

  • Motorola Razr (2019, 2022)
  • Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
  • Oppo Find X3, Find X5
  • Sony Xperia 1 IV, Xperia 5 IV
  • Microsoft Surface Duo 2
 

Carrier support is Key: The success of eSIM usage requires confirming that your mobile carrier enables eSIM network support activation within your country.

 

How Do I Know If My Phone Supports eSIM?

Below are four ways to check if your phone supports eSIM:

Step 1: Check Your Phone Settings

The phone settings provide direct access to eSIM support verification for most devices.

   1. iPhone: How to Check eSIM Compatibility
       1. Step 1: Open Settings > Cellular
       2. Step 2: Look for “Add Cellular Plan”

 

If this option is available, your iPhone supports eSIM.

 

   2. Android (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.):
       1. Step 1: Go to Settings > Network & Internet
       2. Step 2: Tap SIM Manager > Add eSIM

 

If the option appears, your phone supports eSIM.

 

 

Step 2: Dial a Code to Check eSIM Support

 

You can quickly determine if your phone is eSIM compatible by dialing:

 

    - Dial #06# and check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number.

    - If an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM.

 

Step 3: Visit the Manufacturer’s Website

All mobile phone manufacturers show which models have eSIM functionality through their website pages. Refer to website listings from Apple, Samsung, or Google to view your phone specifications.

 

 

Step 4: Contact Your Mobile Carrier

Checking their website or calling customer service to see whether your device supports eSIM network connection is recommended.

 

 

How to Activate eSIM on iPhone

   1. Step 1: Go to Settings > Cellular
   2. Step 2: Tap Add Cellular Plan
   3. Step 3: Use the QR Code from your carrier to activate the eSIM

Follow on-screen prompts and restart your phone if necessary

How to Activate eSIM on Android

   1. Step 1: Go to Settings > Network & Internet
   2. Step 2: Tap Mobile Network > Add eSIM
   3. Step 3: Scan your carrier’s QR code or enter the eSIM details manually

Follow the activation steps and restart your device

 

Check out our guide on How to Buy eSIM Online for a seamless experience!

Benefits of Using eSIM for Travel

  1. Travelers can activate immediately without needing to purchase a physical SIM card at airports.
  2. If you purchase local eSIM plans instead of roaming fees you will get lower costs.
  3. The system allows you to add several eSIMs for quick network switching through easy profile management.

 

FAQs

Q1. Which Phones Are Compatible with eSIM?
Ans. Most modern smartphones from Apple, Samsung, and Google Pixel support eSIM. You can find the complete listing in the previous section or verify compatibility through your device settings.

Q2. Are international eSIMs compatible with all mobile devices?
Ans. Certain mobile phones restrict receiving global eSIM function activation. Check if your current device model supports the eSIM function because it is mandatory to buy an international eSIM.

Q3. How Secure is eSIM Compared to a Physical SIM Card?
Ans. The security of eSIMs remains high because their physical removal and swapping are impossible which blocks SIM-swapping fraud.

Q4. Can I Transfer My eSIM to a New Phone?
Ans. The ability to switch your eSIM card depends on your mobile service provider. Transfer capabilities of eSIM exist in certain carriers but activate or reactivation demands exist in different carriers.