Most phones released since about 2018 support eSIM — including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The other requirement is that your phone is carrier-unlocked. Here is a 30-second way to check yours, plus the model list.
How do you check if your phone is eSIM compatible?
You can confirm it in about 30 seconds, two ways:
- In settings: open Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular) → Add eSIM / Add mobile plan. If that option exists, your phone supports eSIM.
- Dial a code: type *#06# on your keypad. If an EID number appears alongside the IMEI, your phone has an eSIM.
Prefer we check for you? Use our compatibility checker.
Which iPhones support eSIM?
Every iPhone from the iPhone XS, XR and newer supports eSIM — that covers the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 lines, plus the second-generation SE and later. One note: iPhone 14 and newer sold in the United States are eSIM-only (no SIM tray at all), which makes a travel eSIM the natural choice. For the definitive, always-current list, see Apple’s official eSIM support page.
Which Android phones support eSIM?
Support is wide across recent Android flagships and many mid-range models:
- Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and newer (a handful of early carrier variants aside) — see Google’s Pixel eSIM guide.
- Samsung Galaxy: Galaxy S20 and newer, recent Z Fold and Z Flip, and Note 20 — see Samsung’s eSIM support.
- Others: many recent Motorola, Oppo, Huawei and Sony models — check with the settings method above.
Because Android is so varied, the 30-second settings check is the reliable test for any specific model.
Does my phone need to be unlocked?
Yes. Even an eSIM-capable phone needs to be carrier-unlocked to use a different network abroad. If you bought it outright, it is almost certainly unlocked. If it came on a carrier contract, ask that carrier to unlock it — usually free once the contract or device is paid off.
Can I use an eSIM and my normal SIM at the same time?
Yes — nearly every eSIM-capable phone supports Dual SIM, so a travel eSIM can carry your data while your physical SIM keeps your home number live for calls and texts. You stay reachable on your usual number and skip roaming charges on data. Here’s how to run an eSIM alongside your main SIM.
What if my phone is not compatible?
If your phone is older or locked, you have options: use a compatible spare or a family member’s phone for the eSIM, unlock your current phone with your carrier, or fall back to a physical travel SIM. When you next upgrade, almost every new phone supports eSIM out of the box.
Related: installed it but stuck on “No Service”? See why your eSIM isn’t working and how to fix it.
Ready to go?
If your phone passed the check, you are one QR code away from data abroad. Choose your destination eSIM and install it before you fly.
Frequently asked questions
Does eSIM work on tablets and smartwatches?
Many do — cellular iPads, recent Apple Watches and some Samsung tablets support eSIM. Check the same Add eSIM setting on the device itself.
Can a phone have more than one eSIM?
Yes. Most eSIM phones store several eSIM profiles and let you switch between them in settings, though usually only one or two are active at a time.
Is my phone eSIM-ready if it was bought abroad?
The hardware is the same worldwide, but locking varies. Confirm with the settings check and make sure the carrier it was bought from has unlocked it.
How do I install the eSIM once I know I am compatible?
Scan the QR code from your confirmation email on Wi-Fi. Our step-by-step guide takes about two minutes.
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