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eSIM Guide

How to activate eSIM on iPhone: A Complete Guide

In this article, we will explain what an eSIM is and guide you step-by-step through how to activate eSIM on iPhone.

What is eSIM?

eSIMs are the new generation of SIM cards, which are integrated directly into the hardware of the device. They offer greater flexibility and convenience, as you don’t need to have a physical card and you can store multiple phone numbers and switch between them easily.

iPhones compatible with eSIM

All iPhones and some other Apple devices after the XR, XS and XS Max are compatible with eSIM. Older Apple models do not have the eSIM chip built in. It’s important to note that although eSIM is becoming more widely adopted, not all carriers support the technology yet.

Here is our list of eSIM compatible devices to check if your Iphone model is eSIM compatible.

Steps to activate eSIM on iPhone

– Contact your carrier to request an eSIM data plan.

You will receive a QR code or your plan information by email or text message.

– On your iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan.

Scan the QR code or enter your plan information manually.

Follow the onscreen instructions to complete activation.

Additional tips

– If you have a physical SIM card, you can convert it to eSIM in some cases.

– You can use the eSIM for your main line and a physical SIM for secondary devices.

– When you travel, you can add a temporary local plan to your eSIM.

Common issues when activating your eSIM on iPhone

Unable to scan the QR code: If you can’t scan the QR code, enter the activation code manually.

The eSIM profile does not appear: If your eSIM profile does not appear, contact your operator.

eSIM profile disappears: If your eSIM profile disappears, contact your operator to download the profile again.

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Choose the right operator to activate eSIM on iPhone

– Compare available carriers and their plans.

– Search for coverage, features, prices and Price/GB.

– Consider the number of devices you will use with the eSIM.

– Choose a carrier with good customer service, coverage and speed.

– Consider regional plans for international travel.

Adding a Second Mobile Data Plan

Can I add a second data plan on my iPhone?

One of the main advantages of using eSIM on your iPhone is being able to add a second data plan. Furthermore, you can get mobile data on your other Apple devices like your iPad or Apple watch without needing another SIM card.

Why add a second mobile data plan?

This is especially useful for those who travel frequently or want to separate work and personal phone numbers. To add a second mobile data plan, simply go to Settings, select Cellular, and then tap on Add Cellular Plan. From there, you can enter the information for the new plan, including the QR code or confirmation number provided by your carrier.

Dual SIM with eSIM and Physical SIM

If your iPhone supports dual SIM, you can also use eSIM along with a traditional SIM card to have two separate phone numbers on the same device. To set up dual SIM, insert your physical SIM card and activate eSIM as described earlier in this article. From there, you can choose which line to use for phone calls, messages, or mobile data usage.

Managing Multiple eSIM Profiles

In addition to using multiple SIM cards, you can also manage multiple eSIM profiles on your iPhone. This is particularly useful if you have multiple plans with different carriers or want to switch between mobile data plans when traveling internationally. To manage multiple eSIM profiles, simply go to Settings, select Cellular, and then choose the plan that you want to use.

Traveling with eSIM

One of the biggest advantages of using eSIM is the flexibility it offers for international travel. Instead of having to swap out SIM cards, you can simply activate a new eSIM plan for the country you are visiting. Keep in mind that not all carriers support eSIM, so it’s best to check with yours before assuming you will have access to eSIM when traveling.

Additional resources

– About eSIM on iPhone – Apple Support: https://support.apple.com/es-es/HT212780

– Set up cellular services on iPhone – Apple Support: https://support.apple.com/es-lamr/guide/iphone/iph3f11fba92/ios

And remember

– Not all carriers support eSIM.

– Make sure your iPhone supports eSIM.

We hope this guide has helped you activate eSIM on your iPhone.

FAQ about activate eSIM on iPhone

What Happens to My Physical SIM When I Activate eSIM?

When you activate eSIM in the Settings app on your iPhone, your SIM card becomes inactive and cannot be used for cellular data or calls. However, you can remove the physical SIM and store it safely, just in case. The eSIM takes over the functionality of the physical SIM, allowing you to use your iPhone with your cellular plan. It’s also worth noting that you can switch back to using a SIM card again in the future if you choose to do so.

Can I Activate eSIM from My New iPhone?

Yes, you can activate eSIM on your new iPhone. Your carrier must support eSIM Activation and provide you with an eSIM Activation QR Code. Once you have the QR Code, simply open your iPhone’s Settings app, tap “Cellular” and then “Add Cellular Plan”. From there, you can scan the QR Code or enter the details manually to activate your eSIM.

Do I Need a Special Code from My eSIM Carrier to Activate eSIM?

Yes, you need an eSIM Activation Code to activate eSIM on your iPhone. Your eSIM carrier will provide you with a special activation code, which you must enter into your iPhone when prompted. This code will activate your eSIM and allow you to start using your cellular plan with your iPhone.

Can I Use Dual SIM with eSIM and Physical SIM on Older iPhones?

Dual SIM is only available on certain iPhone models, including the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE (2nd generation) and later models. If your iPhone model supports Dual SIM, you can use eSIM with a physical SIM to have two lines of service on one iPhone. Keep in mind that your carrier must support eSIM and Dual SIM use, so it’s best to check with them first before setting up Dual SIM on your iPhone.

What are the benefits of using eSIM on iPhone?

Flexibility: have multiple cellular plans on one device

Convenience: no need for physical SIM cards

Less hassle: easier activation process compared to physical SIM cards

Travel-friendly: ability to add temporary local plans when abroad

Compatibility: supported on newer iPhone models