How to check if my phone is eSIM compatible?
eSIMs are revolutionizing the way we stay connected, and more and more devices are now including them as a standard feature. But let’s be honest, not everyone knows if their phone is compatible with this technology. Is that you? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Before you rush to buy an eSIM, there are two key things you need to check: whether your phone is unlocked and if it supports eSIM.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to check if your iPhone or Android device is compatible with eSIMs. By the end, you won’t just know if you can use an eSIM, you’ll also discover where to get one from the best providers.
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Table of contents
ToggleWhat is an eSIM card?
The eSIM is the evolution of the traditional SIM card. Instead of a physical card, it’s a microchip embedded in your phone’s hardware that lets you install multiple data plans without swapping SIM cards.
🔹 Advantages of eSIM:
- ✅ Instant connection: Activate a data plan in seconds.
- ✅ Perfect for travelers: No need to buy local SIMs or pay for roaming.
- ✅ Less plastic, more eco-friendly: Helps reduce electronic waste.
- ✅ Two numbers on one phone: Ideal for balancing work and personal life.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
If you have a high end smartphone from the past few years, chances are it already comes with eSIM support. But if you’re not sure, don’t worry, there are easy ways to check.
- 📌 The fastest way: Go to your phone’s settings and check the network options. If you see something like “Add Mobile Data Plan” or “Add eSIM” and it prompts you to scan a QR code, congratulations! 🎉 Your device is eSIM compatible.
- 📌 Another option: Look up your phone’s technical specifications online. Just type “[your phone’s brand and model] + eSIM” into Google and check if it appears on the compatibility list.
👉 However, this is a general explanation, so we will explain in detail the steps to verify that your phone supports eSIMs, depending on your phone model or brand.
eSIM on iPhone
Apple was a pioneer in this technology, so if you have a recent iPhone, it is very likely to be compatible.
First, we recommend checking that your iPhone is unlocked by the carrier. You can do it the following way:
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > General > About.
- 2️⃣ Scroll down to the Carrier Lock section.
- 3️⃣ If it says “No SIM restrictions,” your iPhone is unlocked.
Now, to find out if your iPhone supports eSIMs, you must follow the steps below:
- 1️⃣ Open Settings on your iPhone.
- 2️⃣ Go to Cellular.
- 3️⃣ If you see the option to “Add eSIM” or “Add Mobile Data Plan,” you’re all set! 🎉 Your iPhone supports eSIM.
ℹ️ eSIM compatible iPhones: iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and newer models.
eSIM on Samsung
Samsung is one of the most popular brands in the Android world, and many of its devices already support eSIM. However, before purchasing one, it’s important to check if your model is compatible. Here’s how to do it:
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you see the option “Add eSIM,” great news! Your device is compatible.
- 2️⃣ You can also search for “IMEI” in the Settings search bar. If you see “IMEI (eSIM),” it means your phone supports eSIM.
- 3️⃣ Use the IMEI to confirm that your phone is unlocked and ready to use with any carrier.
eSIM on Google Pixel
If you have a Google Pixel and want to check if it supports eSIM, follow these quick steps:
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
- 2️⃣ Tap Advanced.
- 3️⃣ Select Add Carrier.
- 4️⃣ A prompt will appear to scan a QR code with your phone’s camera.
If you’ve reached this step without any issues, congratulations! 🎉 Your Google Pixel is eSIM compatible.
eSIM on Huawei
Huawei is another brand with a wide range of Android devices, but not all of its models support eSIM. That’s why, before purchasing one, make sure your phone is compatible by following these steps:
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Mobile networks > SIM management.
- 2️⃣ Look for the option Add SIM or eSIM.
If you see the option., congratulations! 🎉 Your Huawei device supports eSIM.
eSIM on Xiaomi
If you have a Xiaomi, you should know that while most of its models do not support eSIM, the brand has started incorporating this technology into its latest devices.
📌 Xiaomi models compatible with eSIM:
- ✔️ Xiaomi 12T Pro
- ✔️ Xiaomi 13 and 14 series
- ✔️ Xiaomi Black Shark 3
If your model is compatible, the “Add eSIM” option will appear in the network settings. Additionally, according to Xiaomi, its future high end smartphones will support eSIM only, completely removing the physical SIM slot.
eSIM on Motorola
If you have a Motorola and want to check if it supports eSIM, follow these steps:
- 1️⃣ Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network.
- 2️⃣ Tap Advanced, then select Carrier.
- 3️⃣ Choose Add carrier and tap Next.
- 4️⃣ If the option to scan a QR code appears, bingo! 🎉 Your Motorola is eSIM compatible.
eSIM on Oppo
If you have an Oppo device, some of its latest models already support eSIM. To check if yours is compatible, follow these steps:
- 1️⃣ Dial *#06# and press call. If your device supports eSIM, you will see the EID (eSIM Unique Identification Number).
- 2️⃣ You can also go to Settings > About > Status Information. If you see the EID field, your Oppo is eSIM compatible.
If this option does not appear, your device does not support eSIM.
Can eSIM be used internationally?
If your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked, you can use it anywhere in the world. This is one of the biggest advantages for travelers, you can purchase your plan online before your trip and activate it as soon as you land. No paperwork, no lines, no hassle.
Today, there are many options for getting an international eSIM. One of the best is our Free Roaming online store, which offers coverage in over 190 countries. If you’re visiting multiple destinations, you can get Free Roaming’s eSIM cards for Europe, eSIM South America, UK tourist eSIM, or North America.
🎯 Why choose a Free Roaming eSIM?
- ✅ Connect to the best local networks with no roaming fees.
- ✅ Plans with unlimited data in many countries.
- ✅ Share data with other devices if needed.
- ✅ 24/7 support for any questions.
With a Free Roaming eSIM, all you have to worry about is enjoying your trip.