How do I know if my phone is eSIM compatible?

SIM technology has come a long way since the credit-card-sized SIM cards of the 1990s. Now, eSIMs (digital SIMs) are built into your phone, making staying connected easier than ever. If you're curious if your phone is compatible with eSIMs, you've come to the right place. Here, we'll explore the ins and outs of eSIMs, which phones are eSIM-compatible, and how you can use an eSIM to stay connected.

What is an eSIM?

First, let's look at what an eSIM is and how it works . An eSIM (or digital SIM) is an embedded SIM. It's a tiny chip built into your device that connects you to a mobile network. Unlike a physical SIM, it does so entirely digitally. If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can download an eSIM data plan, install it on your device, and instantly connect to a mobile network.

How do I know if my phone is eSIM compatible?

Ready to experience the freedom and flexibility of having an eSIM? Before you dive in, you'll want to check that your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

Most phones manufactured since 2018 are eSIM compatible. However, this may vary depending on your location and carrier. To keep things simple (we love doing that!), we've compiled a comprehensive list of eSIM-compatible devices . Below, we'll look at each type of device in more detail.

someone holding the iPhone 14 Pro

Is my iPhone compatible with eSIM?

Apple released its first eSIM-compatible iPhones when it launched the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR in 2018. If you have a later iPhone model, it's likely compatible with eSIM technology. Keep in mind that this also depends on where you live and which carrier you use (for example, iPhones in China don't support eSIM).

Follow these steps to see if your iPhone is carrier unlocked and eSIM compatible:

Go to Settings > General > About

Scroll down to see the Carrier Lock section.

If your device is unlocked, it will show "No SIM Restrictions"

Scroll down to see Available SIM (iOS 15 or later) or Digital SIM (older iOS versions)

If your phone supports eSIM, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Depending on your device, you may have more than one active SIM card. If this is the case, you may need to pause or remove one before downloading and installing an eSIM.

Is my Android compatible with eSIM?

Many of the latest Android phones support eSIM technology. However, Android is an open-source operating system, so any mobile device manufacturer or carrier can customize it. Whether your Android is compatible with eSIM will depend on the model, where it was manufactured, and the carrier you use.

The best way to determine if your Android supports eSIM is to check with your manufacturer, retailer, or network provider. You can also go to your device's settings to see if your Android supports eSIM. Below, we'll review how to do this on Google Pixel and Samsung devices.

If you have another Android device, you can check if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number). This is a serial number that matches the eSIM embedded in your device. Here's how:

Dial *#06# and press call

If your device is eSIM compatible, you will be able to see your EID number.

Google Pixel with Google apps displayed

Is my Google Pixel compatible with eSIM?

Here's how to check if your Google Pixel phone is compatible with eSIM technology:

Go to Settings > Network & Internet

Tap eSIM Cards

If the option "Download a SIM instead?" appears under Connect to a mobile network , your device is compatible with eSIM.

Contact Google Pixel support or your carrier to see if the above steps work for your phone.

Samsung S23 back

Is my Samsung device compatible with eSIM?

Follow these steps to check if your Samsung device is eSIM compatible:

Go to Settings > Connections

Tap SIM Card Manager

If Add Mobile Plan is available, your Samsung is eSIM compatible!

HUAWEI P40 next to a watch

Is my Huawei phone compatible with eSIM?

You'll need to check if you have an EID number to find out if your Huawei phone is compatible with eSIM technology. Here's how to do it:

Go to Settings

Tap About phone

Click Show EID

If you see an EID number, your phone is eSIM compatible.

How to use an Olysim eSIM

Now that you know your phone is unlocked and compatible with an eSIM, you can install one from the comfort of your own home. Here's how to get started with an Olysim eSIM.

Step 1: Buy an eSIM

Visit the Olysim website find an eSIM plan for your destination. Here are some things to consider when choosing an eSIM package:

Data: The amount of data preloaded on the eSIM (e.g., 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, etc.).

Validity period: How long you can use the eSIM (e.g., 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, etc.).

Price: The value of the eSIM package (e.g. $5, $10, $15, etc.).

Location: The countries and regions where you can use the eSIM. You can choose between a local , regional , or global eSIM .

Step 2: Install your eSIM

Once you've purchased an eSIM, we'll send you an email with detailed installation instructions. Before you begin, make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection to avoid connection issues mid-installation.

There are three ways to install an Olysim eSIM (please note that the direct method is not available for all devices):

Direct : Follow the instructions to install the eSIM from the Olysim

QR Code : Scan a QR code to start the installation process.

Manual : Enter the eSIM information manually in your device settings.

During installation, you'll be asked to label your eSIM line (usually the "secondary" line on your device). Choose a label that easily identifies the eSIM (for example, France eSIM). This will be helpful when activating your eSIM line.

Step 3: Activate your eSIM

The validity period of your eSIM will begin when it's activated. Some eSIMs will activate immediately after installation, while others will begin when you connect to a compatible network at your destination.

You can find your eSIM activation policy in your package details. If your eSIM is activated immediately, it's best to wait until just before your trip to install it.

Step 4: Connect to a network

When you arrive at your destination, you can activate your eSIM line and connect to a compatible network.

Here's how to do it on an iPhone:

Go to Settings

Press Mobile

Click on your eSIM line

Select Activate this line

Activate data roaming

Follow these steps for an Android device:

Go to Settings

Click Network & Internet

Press Mobile Network

Activate your eSIM plan

Activate Mobile Data

Activate data roaming

You're now ready to connect to a local network. Remember to deactivate your primary line to avoid unexpected roaming charges from your home provider.

Open Olysim app showing eSIMs

Advantages of using an Olysim eSIM

Using an Olysim eSIM has several advantages. Here's a quick look at some of them.

Instant connectivity. Download an eSIM plan and connect to a local network in minutes.

Multiple lines, one device. Switch between multiple lines without having to swap SIM cards or devices.

Avoid roaming charges. Connect to a mobile network with local rates. No hidden fees or unexpected roaming charges.

Flexible and easy to manage. Store multiple eSIM plans on your device and switch between them whenever you need.

Frequently asked questions about eSIMs

eSIM technology is relatively new, so it's no surprise you have questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about eSIMs.

SIM vs. eSIM: What's the difference?

Although they serve the same function, there are some key differences between physical SIM cards and eSIMs . An eSIM is integrated directly into the device and cannot be removed. You don't need to contact your carrier, buy a new SIM card, or replace your old one to change plans. And because it's integrated, it's not easy to lose, damage, or have it stolen.

Can I use an eSIM and a SIM card at the same time?

Most current devices use Dual SIM technology. They can store and use more than one SIM and/or eSIM at a time, allowing you to connect to different networks simultaneously. This is practical when traveling and if you want to keep your work and personal lines separate. You can even use your eSIM for data and the SIM for calls and texts if you're somewhere with unreliable Wi-Fi.

How many eSIMs can I add to my phone?

Depending on your device, you can download and store multiple eSIM profiles on your phone. This makes it easy to switch between plans while traveling.

If you're still unsure whether your phone is compatible with eSIM technology, we're here to help. Visit our Help Center or contact esim proider in India support team for further assistance.