You've probably seen the term "eSIM" while setting up a new phone or researching travel connectivity options. Maybe someone mentioned you don't need to buy a physical SIM card anymore. But what actually is an eSIM, and should you care?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know—in plain English—so you can decide if eSIM technology is right for you.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a tiny chip built directly into your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. It does the same job as the plastic SIM card you're used to—connecting your device to a mobile network—but without the physical card.
Think of it like the difference between buying a CD and streaming music. Both get you the same songs, but one is digital and instant while the other requires a trip to the store.
With an eSIM, you don't insert anything into your phone. Instead, you download a "profile" from your carrier or travel eSIM provider, usually by scanning a QR code. That profile contains all the information your phone needs to connect to a mobile network.
The GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) introduced the eSIM standard in 2016. Since then, it has grown from a niche feature to mainstream technology. Over 500 million eSIM-enabled devices are active worldwide, and that number is climbing fast.
How Does an eSIM Work?
The eSIM chip in your phone is essentially a programmable microchip. When you want to connect to a mobile network, you download a carrier profile onto this chip. The profile contains your phone number (if applicable), network settings, and authentication credentials.
Here's the step-by-step process:
- You purchase an eSIM plan from a carrier or travel eSIM provider
- You receive a QR code via email or in an app
- You scan the QR code with your phone's camera
- Your phone downloads the carrier profile onto the eSIM chip
- You're connected to the network
The entire process takes under 60 seconds. No tools, no tiny cards, no SIM ejector pins.
One major advantage: most eSIM-capable phones can store multiple profiles simultaneously. The latest iPhones can hold up to eight eSIM profiles. You can switch between them in your settings without downloading anything new—perfect for frequent travelers who visit the same countries regularly.
eSIM vs Physical SIM: Key Differences
Both eSIMs and physical SIMs connect your phone to mobile networks. The core technology is the same—only the delivery method differs.
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Built into device | Removable plastic card |
| Activation | Scan QR code (seconds) | Insert card manually |
| Can be lost or damaged | No | Yes |
| Multiple profiles | Up to 8+ stored | One per card |
| Carrier switching | Digital, instant | Requires new card |
| Security | Cannot be physically stolen | Can be removed/cloned |
| Environmental impact | No plastic waste | Billions of cards discarded yearly |
The signal strength and connection speed are identical between eSIM and physical SIM. The advantage of eSIM lies entirely in convenience, security, and flexibility.
Which Devices Support eSIM?
Most smartphones manufactured after 2020 include eSIM capability. Here's a breakdown by brand:
Apple iPhones
Apple has supported eSIM since 2018 and is now leading the push toward eSIM-only devices. All U.S. iPhone 14 and newer models don't even have a physical SIM slot.
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018)
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
- iPhone 12 series (all models)
- iPhone 13 series (all models)
- iPhone 14 series (all models)
- iPhone 15 series (all models)
- iPhone 16 series (all models)
Note: iPhones purchased in mainland China generally don't support eSIM due to local regulations. Hong Kong models have mixed support.
Samsung Galaxy
Samsung introduced eSIM with the Galaxy S20 series in 2020:
- Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra and newer S-series
- Galaxy S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series
- Galaxy Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Galaxy Z Flip 3, 4, 5, 6
- Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra
- Galaxy A54 (select models)
Note: Samsung devices from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macao typically don't support eSIM even if the same model does elsewhere.
Google Pixel
Google was an early eSIM adopter:
- Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL (with limitations)
- Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
- Pixel 5, 5a
- Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro
- Pixel 7, 7a, 7 Pro
- Pixel 8, 8a, 8 Pro
- Pixel 9 series
- Pixel 10 series (eSIM only in U.S.)
Other Brands
eSIM support is expanding rapidly across manufacturers:
- Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
- Xiaomi: 12T Pro, 13, 14 series
- Oppo: Find X3 Pro, Find X5 series
- Motorola: Razr series, Edge+ series
- OnePlus: 11, 12 (select regions)
How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM
Not sure if your device is eSIM-compatible? Here's how to verify:
On iPhone
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Tap About
- Look for EID (a 32-digit number)
If you see an EID number, your iPhone supports eSIM. You can also go to Settings → Cellular and look for an "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan" button.
On Android (Samsung, Pixel, etc.)
- Go to Settings
- Tap Connections or Network & Internet
- Tap SIM Manager or SIM Cards
- Look for "Add eSIM" or "Add Mobile Plan"
Alternatively, dial *#06# on your phone. If an EID number appears alongside your IMEI, your device supports eSIM.
Important: Your Phone Must Be Unlocked
Even if your phone has eSIM hardware, it must be carrier-unlocked to use eSIMs from other providers. If you bought your phone through a carrier on a payment plan, it may be locked to that network until you pay it off or request an unlock.
To check if your phone is unlocked, insert a SIM card from a different carrier. If it works, your phone is unlocked.
How to Install an eSIM
Setting up an eSIM is straightforward. Here's the general process:
Before You Start
- Connect to Wi-Fi (you need internet to download the profile)
- Update your phone's software to the latest version
- Have your QR code ready (from email or the provider's app)
On iPhone
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap Add eSIM
- Choose Use QR Code
- Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete setup
- Label your eSIM (e.g., "Travel" or "Europe")
On Android
- Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Scan QR code
- Point your camera at the QR code
- Confirm the installation
Pro tip: Install your travel eSIM at home before your trip while you still have reliable Wi-Fi. Most travel eSIMs don't activate until you arrive at your destination and connect to a local network, so there's no downside to installing early.
Understanding Data-Only vs. Full-Service eSIMs
Most travel eSIMs are "data-only" plans. This means they provide mobile internet but not a local phone number for traditional calls or SMS.
This isn't as limiting as it sounds. With data, you can:
- Make calls via WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other apps
- Send messages through any messaging app
- Use navigation, translation, and all other apps normally
- Create a Wi-Fi hotspot for other devices
If you need to receive SMS verification codes (like from your bank), keep your home SIM active. Most modern phones let you use an eSIM for data while your physical SIM handles calls and texts—the best of both worlds.
Common eSIM Questions Answered
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?
Yes. Most eSIM-capable phones support "dual SIM" functionality. You can keep your regular SIM for calls and texts while using an eSIM for data. This is the most popular setup for travelers—you stay reachable on your home number while avoiding roaming charges.
What happens when I run out of data?
With Simbye, you can top up your existing eSIM directly from the app. No need to buy a completely new eSIM or start over. We were the first provider to offer this feature, and it saves time and money for travelers who underestimate their data needs.
Will my eSIM work on my next phone?
eSIM profiles are tied to specific devices and generally can't be transferred to a new phone the way you'd move a physical SIM card. However, most carriers allow you to download a new profile onto your new device. For travel eSIMs, you'd simply purchase a new plan when needed.
Is eSIM secure?
eSIMs are actually more secure than physical SIMs. They can't be removed from your device if your phone is stolen, making SIM-swapping fraud much harder. All eSIM data is encrypted, and activation requires verification through the carrier's secure servers.
Why doesn't my phone show the "Add eSIM" option?
Common reasons include: your phone model doesn't support eSIM, your phone is carrier-locked, your software is outdated, or you purchased your phone in a region that disabled eSIM (like mainland China). Try updating your software first, then contact your carrier if the issue persists.
Can I delete and reinstall an eSIM?
You can delete eSIM profiles from your phone at any time. However, some providers limit how many times you can reinstall the same profile. Always check your provider's policy before deleting—with Simbye, your eSIM remains accessible in your account for easy reinstallation.
Why Travelers Are Switching to eSIM
The travel eSIM market hit $1.8 billion in 2025, growing 85% in a single year. Here's why so many travelers are making the switch:
- Instant setup: No hunting for SIM shops at airports or waiting for mail delivery
- Cost savings: Avoid expensive international roaming fees
- Flexibility: Switch between plans or countries without swapping cards
- Keep your number: Use eSIM for data while your home SIM stays active
- No risk of loss: Nothing to drop, damage, or leave in an old phone
How Simbye Makes eSIM Simple
Not all eSIM providers offer the same experience. Here's what sets Simbye apart:
| Feature | Simbye | Other Providers |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1 | $4.50+ |
| Free Trial | 100MB (no credit card) | Rarely offered |
| Top-Up Option | Yes (first to offer) | Limited or unavailable |
| Support | 24/7 human agents (15 staff, 12 languages) | Often chatbot-only |
| Cashback | 5% on every purchase | Usually referral-only |
| Hotspot | Included | Varies by plan |
| Countries | 190+ | 150-200 |
Our "install at home, activate on arrival" approach means you're never caught without internet. And if anything goes wrong, real humans are available around the clock via WhatsApp, Telegram, or live chat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does eSIM stand for?
eSIM stands for "embedded SIM" or "embedded Subscriber Identity Module." It's a programmable chip built into your device that replaces the traditional removable SIM card.
Is eSIM the same as a virtual SIM?
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Technically, an eSIM refers to the physical chip embedded in your device, while a "virtual SIM" might refer to the downloadable profile. For practical purposes, they mean the same thing for most users.
Do all eSIMs work in all countries?
No. Each eSIM plan has specific coverage areas. When purchasing a travel eSIM, check that it covers your destination. Regional eSIMs (like "Europe" plans) work across multiple countries, while local eSIMs are country-specific.
Can I use eSIM for calls and texts?
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, meaning they don't include a phone number for traditional calls or SMS. However, you can make calls through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype using your data connection. Some providers offer plans with local phone numbers at higher prices.
How much data do I need for travel?
Light users (maps, messaging, email) typically need 1-3GB per week. Moderate users (social media, video calls) need 5-10GB. Heavy users (streaming, constant hotspot use) should consider unlimited plans. Simbye's easy top-up feature means you can start small and add more if needed.
What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?
If your phone lacks eSIM capability, you'll need to use a physical SIM card. Consider this when purchasing your next device—eSIM support is becoming standard on most new smartphones.
Ready to Try eSIM?
eSIM technology eliminates the hassle of plastic SIM cards, offering instant activation, better security, and the flexibility travelers need. Whether you're a first-time user or ready to switch providers, getting started is easier than ever.
Simbye offers the most affordable entry point in the market, with data packages starting from just $1. Not sure if eSIM is right for you? Try our free 100MB trial—no credit card required—and experience the convenience for yourself.
Download the Simbye app for the easiest setup experience:
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment