eSIM for iPhone: guide and compatibility
Many iPhones support eSIM, so you can add a travel or second-line plan without a physical SIM. This guide explains compatibility and how to set up an eSIM on an iPhone.
Definition
eSIM on iPhone means using the built-in eSIM to store and use one or more cellular plans. You add a plan by scanning a QR code or using a link; no physical SIM is required. Support depends on the model and the region where the iPhone was sold.
How it works
1. Check that your iPhone model and region support eSIM (Apple’s website lists supported models).
2. Get the eSIM from your provider (QR code or link).
3. On the iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add Cellular Plan.
4. Scan the QR code with the iPhone camera or open the link on the same iPhone.
5. Tap Add Cellular Plan and follow the prompts; name the plan (e.g. Travel).
6. In Cellular > Cellular Plans, choose which plan is used for data and which for voice/SMS.
7. When traveling, set the travel plan as default for data so you do not use roaming.
2. Get the eSIM from your provider (QR code or link).
3. On the iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add Cellular Plan.
4. Scan the QR code with the iPhone camera or open the link on the same iPhone.
5. Tap Add Cellular Plan and follow the prompts; name the plan (e.g. Travel).
6. In Cellular > Cellular Plans, choose which plan is used for data and which for voice/SMS.
7. When traveling, set the travel plan as default for data so you do not use roaming.
Benefits and limitations
Benefits: No SIM tray needed for a second plan; you can have multiple plans and switch in settings. Limitations: Not all iPhone models or regions support eSIM; some carriers restrict eSIM on iPhones they sell.
Comparison with alternatives
iPhone eSIM works like eSIM on other devices: same concept of profiles and activation. The menus and options are in iOS under Cellular / Mobile Data.
Frequently asked questions
- Which iPhones have eSIM?
- Most iPhones from the XS, XR, and later support eSIM in many regions. Check Apple’s support page for your model and country.
- How many eSIMs can an iPhone hold?
- Recent iPhones can store multiple eSIM profiles; you can have one active at a time (plus one physical SIM if the model has a tray).
- Do I remove my current SIM to add eSIM?
- No. You keep your existing SIM; the eSIM is an additional plan.
- Where is Add Cellular Plan on iPhone?
- Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add Cellular Plan. You may need to scan the QR code or use the link from the provider.
- Can I use eSIM for data only on iPhone?
- Yes. You can set the eSIM as the line for data and keep your main SIM for voice and SMS.
- Does eSIM work with iPhone dual SIM?
- Yes. iPhone dual SIM typically means one physical SIM and one eSIM (or two eSIMs on models without a tray). You choose which is used for data and which for voice.
- What if my iPhone does not show Add Cellular Plan?
- Your model or region may not support eSIM, or your carrier may have disabled it. Check Apple’s list and your carrier’s information.
- Can I remove an eSIM from my iPhone?
- Yes. Settings > Cellular > the plan > Remove Cellular Plan.
- Will eSIM drain my iPhone battery?
- Using eSIM is not meaningfully different from using a physical SIM for battery life.
- Is eSIM on iPhone the same as on Android?
- The concept is the same; the menus and steps differ. Both use a profile downloaded to the device.
When this solution makes sense
Use eSIM on iPhone when you have a supported model and want a travel plan or second line without a physical SIM.
Last updated: