What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is simply a digital SIM card—“embedded SIM” literally means a SIM that’s integrated into the device. Unlike a traditional physical SIM card, it doesn’t require a plastic chip. The network operator information is downloaded via software, making installation and activation much faster and more convenient.
Differences Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM
Feature | Physical SIM | eSIM |
Support | Plastic card with chip | None, it’s embedded in the device |
Installation | Manual, by inserting into a slot | Digital, via QR code |
Operator switch | Requires replacing the SIM | Just install a new digital profile |
Compatibility | Varies by smartphone generation | Compatible with most modern smartphones |
Benefits of Using eSIM
- Convenience: No physical card to insert, no risk of losing it, and no waiting for delivery if ordered online.
- Flexibility: A wide range of data plans to choose from—and you can install more than one at a time and activate them as needed!
- Security: An eSIM is much harder to steal or clone compared to a physical SIM. Plus, eSIMs from eSIM.sm allow you to top up your data when needed, so you’ll never run out at a critical moment.
Smartphones Compatible with eSIM
There are countless smartphones compatible with eSIM technology—virtually all recent-generation devices support it. Listing every model would be impossible, so here are the main models from the most popular brands:
Brand | eSIM-Compatible Models |
Apple | iPhone XS / XS Max / XR and later (including iPhone SE 2nd/3rd gen, iPhone 11–15) |
Samsung | Galaxy S20–S24 / Galaxy Z Fold & Flip / Galaxy Note 20 / Galaxy A54 5G |
Pixel 3 and later (except Pixel 3 USA), Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 | |
Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro |
Motorola | Razr 2019, 5G / Edge+ (2023) |
Xiaomi | Xiaomi 12T Pro, 13, 13 Pro |
Oppo | Find X3 / X5 / X6 / Reno 5A |
Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country where the phone was purchased and whether the carrier restricts installation of eSIMs from other providers.
How to Check If Your Smartphone Supports eSIM
Here are several ways to verify eSIM compatibility:
- Check the technical specs: The official product page from the manufacturer will list eSIM support in the technical specifications.
- Check your phone settings:
– On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
– On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM > Add eSIM - Contact your operator: Your mobile carrier can confirm compatibility based on your phone model. You can also reach out to the eSIM.sm support team via the help page.
How to Activate an eSIM
Activating an eSIM is quick and easy:
- Purchase a data plan from platforms like eSIM.sm
- Scan the QR code received via email after your purchase. Alternatively, you can manually enter the eSIM details to install it on your device.
- Activate the eSIM. This is the final step as outlined in the email instructions. If you’re using it for travel, activate the eSIM once you arrive at your destination to avoid prematurely using up your plan.
You’ll be online instantly, and if you’re abroad, you can forget about roaming charges!
You’ll find full installation and activation instructions on our dedicated page.
Why Choose eSIM.sm?
Among all eSIM providers, why go with us? Here are the benefits of choosing eSIM.sm for your digital connectivity:
- Coverage in over 190 countries
- Flexible data plans to suit your real usage and needs
- Easy and fast setup in just a few clicks: buy, scan, install, and activate!
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
- No surprise roaming charges! Total control over your budget and top-ups
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIMs
Can I use my eSIM with any operator?
It depends! Some smartphones may be locked by a carrier, restricting new eSIM installation. Make sure your phone is “unlocked”, or check with your operator.
What happens if the phone with my eSIM breaks?
If your device is damaged, you can usually transfer your eSIM to another compatible device. You may need to request a new QR code from the provider.
Are eSIMs more secure than traditional SIM cards?
Absolutely! Being digital, they are less susceptible to theft, loss, or cloning.
What’s the future of eSIMs?
They’re likely to fully replace physical SIMs. In fact, Apple has already released its first iPhone models with eSIM-only support!
Can I use multiple eSIMs at the same time?
You can install multiple eSIMs on the same smartphone, but only one can be active at a time—unless your device supports dual active eSIMs.