Jump to
What’s an eSIM?
How do I transfer to eSIM?
Scan a QR code or use a carrier app
Convert a SIM card to an eSIM on the same iPhone
Transfer a SIM card or eSIM on your old iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone
How do I delete the eSIM from my device?
What’s an eSIM?
eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without using a physical SIM card. It has a few priceless features that a physical SIM card can’t match:
- Your SIM can no longer be lost.
- Your SIM can no longer be physically removed from your phone.
- Your SIM can no longer be damaged.
- It’s easier and more convenient to switch carriers or phone plans.
- On some devices, you can install multiple SIMs on one phone and use two phone numbers at the same time.
Some phones support both physical SIM cards and eSIM, however, you might find yourself with a model that supports exclusively eSIM. You’ll recognize these models quickly, as they won’t have the SIM card slot.
How do I transfer to eSIM?
Some carriers support SIM transfers from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them. You can also convert your current physical SIM card to an eSIM.
If you don't have access to your current iPhone, contact your carrier to transfer your eSIM.
While you're setting up your iPhone, if you're asked to transfer your SIM, follow the on-screen instructions to transfer your physical SIM or eSIM. If you need to transfer more than 1 SIM to your new iPhone, transfer your additional SIMs by following the steps below.
Scan a QR code or use a carrier app
If your carrier doesn’t support eSIM Carrier Activation or eSIM Quick Transfer, you can scan a QR code from your carrier instead.
To activate your eSIM while setting up your iPhone:
Step 1. When you get to the Set Up Cellular screen, tap Use QR Code.
Step 2. Follow the onscreen instructions.
To activate your eSIM after you set up your iPhone, contact your carrier to get a QR code. Then, follow these steps:
Step 1. Open the camera app and scan your QR code.
Step 2. Select the “Cellular Plan Detected” notification when it appears.
Step 3. Select “Continue” > “Add Cellular Plan”.
If you're asked to enter a confirmation code to activate the eSIM, enter the number that your carrier provided.
If your carrier supports activating eSIM using an app, download your carrier’s app from the App Store and follow the instructions.
Convert a SIM card to an eSIM on the same iPhone
You can convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same iPhone if your carrier supports it. This only works on iPhones that don’t have a SIM card tray.
Follow these steps:
Step 1. Go to: “Settings” > “Cellular”.
Step 2. Select “Convert to eSIM”). If you don't see it, your carrier doesn't support this option. Contact your carrier to move your phone number from your physical SIM to an eSIM using eSIM Carrier Activation or by scanning a QR code.
Step 3. Select “Convert Cellular Plan” > “Convert to eSIM”.
Step 4. Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card is deactivated when the cellular plan on your iPhone activates.
Step 5. Remove the physical SIM from your iPhone.
Step 6. Restart your iPhone.
Transfer a SIM card or eSIM on your old iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone
Follow these steps:
Step 1. From your new iPhone, go to: “Settings” > “Cellular” > “Add Cellular Plan”.
Step 2. Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another iPhone. If you don't see a list of numbers, select “Transfer From Another iPhone”. Note this requires both devices to have iOS 16 or later.
Step 3. Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer. To confirm, select “Transfer” or, if asked for a verification code, enter the code that's displayed on your new iPhone.
Step 4. Wait for the cellular plan to activate on your new iPhone. Your previous SIM is deactivated when the cellular plan on your new iPhone activates.
Step 5. If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says “Finish Setting Up Your Carrier's Cellular Plan”, tap it. You will be redirected to your carrier's webpage to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, contact your carrier.
How do I delete the eSIM from my device?
You’ll need to disconnect your eSIM from your device if you return it to the seller for a refund (within the first 30 days) or a repair.
If your phone still works:
You have 2 options to remove the eSIM.
Option 1: Go to “Settings” > “Mobile Data” > “Delete eSIM”.
Option 2: When you restore your device, you can choose to erase your eSIM.
If your phone won’t turn on:
You’ll need to contact your carrier to disconnect the eSIM from your broken device.
Learn more about eSIMs on Apple devices
It is also worth mentioning that your phone carrier might have the best information for you. If you have questions or the transfer to eSIM doesn’t seem to work, contact your phone plan provider directly.