eSIM
What is eSIM?
eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your device that lets you activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a nano-SIM, you scan a QR code or use your network’s app to download your plan directly onto the device.
eSIM is becoming more widespread amongst iPhone users. iPhones have supported eSIM since the iPhone XS and iPhone XR. From iPhone 14 onwards, all models support Dual eSIM – meaning you can have two eSIMs active at the same time without a physical SIM tray (though UK models still include a nano-SIM tray).
The iPhone Air is eSIM only worldwide – there is no physical SIM tray on any model in any country. In the USA, the entire latest iPhone range is eSIM only with no nano-SIM tray included.
Benefits of eSIM
- No need to handle or store tiny nano-SIM cards
- Switch between plans or networks without swapping a physical SIM
- Store multiple eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them
- Quick activation – scan a QR code and you’re connected
- Useful for travel – add a local data plan without removing your main SIM
General Setup Process
The exact setup process varies between networks, but the general steps are:
- Contact your network or use their app/website to request an eSIM. Some networks let you choose eSIM at checkout when signing up.
- You will receive a QR code – either by email, in the network’s app, or on a card in-store.
- On your iPhone go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM (or Add Mobile Plan on older iOS versions).
- Scan the QR code with your camera when prompted.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete activation. You may need a confirmation code from your network.
If you are transferring from a physical SIM to eSIM on the same network, some networks support Apple’s Quick Transfer feature – this lets you convert your physical SIM to eSIM directly from Settings without needing a QR code.
Transferring eSIM to a New Device
When setting up a new iPhone, iOS may offer to transfer your eSIM from your old device during the setup process. If this doesn’t appear, you will need to contact your network to get a new QR code or use their app to transfer the eSIM to your new device.
Make sure your old SIM/eSIM is still active when transferring. Some networks will deactivate your current SIM as soon as the new eSIM is activated, so it’s worth checking with your network beforehand.
Further Reading
The following sites have good information on UK eSIM coverage and are updated regularly, although they may not be fully up to date with every network that supports eSIM.