Can I use multiple eSIMs?
Many phones can store more than one eSIM profile. You typically use one at a time for cellular, but you can switch between them in settings. This guide explains how multiple eSIMs work and what to expect.
Definition
Using multiple eSIMs means having more than one eSIM profile installed on your device. You can switch which profile is active for data (and sometimes for voice); you do not use several at the same time for data. The number of profiles and active lines depends on the device.
How it works
1. Add the first eSIM as usual (QR code or link).
2. Add a second (and more if the device allows) in the same way; each gets a name (e.g. Travel 1, Travel 2).
3. In Cellular or SIM settings, you see all installed plans.
4. Choose which plan is used for mobile data; on some devices you can also choose for voice/SMS.
5. Switch at any time by changing the default data (or voice) plan.
6. You can disable or remove a profile when you no longer need it.
7. Only one eSIM is usually "active" for data at a time; the others are stored but not in use.
2. Add a second (and more if the device allows) in the same way; each gets a name (e.g. Travel 1, Travel 2).
3. In Cellular or SIM settings, you see all installed plans.
4. Choose which plan is used for mobile data; on some devices you can also choose for voice/SMS.
5. Switch at any time by changing the default data (or voice) plan.
6. You can disable or remove a profile when you no longer need it.
7. Only one eSIM is usually "active" for data at a time; the others are stored but not in use.
Benefits and limitations
Benefits: You can keep several plans (e.g. different regions) and switch without removing anything; useful for frequent travelers. Limitations: Device-dependent; not all phones support multiple eSIM profiles; only one active for data at a time.
Comparison with alternatives
Multiple eSIMs are like having several SIM cards but only one in the slot at a time. You switch in software instead of swapping cards. Compared to one eSIM, you have more flexibility but the same rule: one active data line at a time.
Frequently asked questions
- How many eSIMs can I have at once?
- It depends on the device. Many phones allow several stored profiles with one (or two) active. Check your device’s specifications.
- Can I use two eSIMs for data at the same time?
- Typically no. One line is used for data at a time. You switch between them in settings.
- Will I get two phone numbers?
- Only if each eSIM plan includes a number. Many travel eSIMs are data-only. You can have two numbers if both plans include voice.
- Does having two eSIMs use more battery?
- Having multiple profiles stored does not significantly affect battery; only the active line is used for connectivity.
- Can I use one eSIM for calls and another for data?
- On dual-SIM devices you can assign one line for voice and one for data. So one eSIM could be for data and your main SIM for calls, or the other way around.
- Do I need to remove one to add another?
- Only if the device has a limit on stored profiles and is full. Otherwise you can add more without removing.
- What happens when I switch eSIMs?
- The newly selected plan becomes the one used for data (or voice, depending on settings). The previous one stays installed but is no longer used until you switch back.
- Can I have an eSIM and a physical SIM together?
- Yes. Many phones support one physical SIM and one or more eSIMs. You choose which is used for data and which for voice.
- Why would I want more than one eSIM?
- To have plans for different regions or trips ready, or to separate work and personal lines, without swapping cards.
- Do all phones support multiple eSIMs?
- No. Support and the number of profiles vary by device. Check your phone’s specs.
When this solution makes sense
Use multiple eSIMs when you travel to different regions often and want plans ready, or when you want to keep a personal and a work (or travel) plan on the same device.
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