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Apple has become one of the leading tech companies with eSIM-enabled cellular devices since 2018; they are now a reference point, and the iPhone is the traveler’s favorite cellphone. Since they need to change their cellular data plan frequently, and the eSIM technology provides this feature.
Now Digital SIM is becoming the main cellular service tech for most devices, such as the iPhone 17, which only allows the use of eSIM. For this reason, many telecommunications companies are incorporating virtual SIMs into their services, and we see more and more international eSIM carriers daily.
But let’s start with the main topic of this post! You may be wondering what an eSIM is, how it works on iPhones, which iPhones support eSIM, and how to set up one. These and other questions we will answer in this article.
An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular data plan from your local operator or from an international operator without having to use a traditional SIM card.
It is based on a tiny chip embedded in your Apple device, which is activated once you download and add a virtual SIM plan. They have become very popular because of their versatility. You can use them on different devices, such as laptops, smartwatches, and even cars!
USA is one of the countries with the most iPhone users in the world and many of its models are moving towards eSIM. For this reason, it is essential to learn where to buy a USA eSIM for your iPhone and how it works.
The eSIM on iPhone devices works exactly like in other devices that support eSIM. Each iPhone cellphone has an embedded chip where you can download and install your Digital SIM card once you buy one from your local operator or an international eSIM carrier. Below, you will see how to install and activate your eSIM if you have an iPhone compatible with virtual SIMs.
With the above paragraph, you might wonder if all iPhones have eSIM, and the answer is no. Most iPhone devices support eSIM now, but some older smartphones do not support this technology.
Below you can see which iPhones support eSIM:
In most iPhone cellphones that support virtual SIM cards, you can have up to 20 eSIMs, but you can use just one eSIM or two Digital SIMs simultaneously. It depends on your iPhone model, but in a large percentage of iPhones, you can use your traditional SIM card and a virtual SIM simultaneously; this is called Dual SIM.
Dual SIM means you can use a nano-SIM (the classic) and an eSIM (virtual card) simultaneously; it means you can use data, recieve and make calls with both SIMs. This is how the dual SIM works in many iPhones, but with the launch of the iPhone 14, which does not have a physical SIM slot, you can now use two eSIMs simultaneously.
You can find more information about Using Dual SIM with an eSIM on Apple’s support page.
If you are thinking of buying an eSIM or you currently have one and you don’t know how to set it up, you are in the correct place! We will teach you in an easy step by step how to install and activate your Virtual SIM.
There are different ways to set up and activate your eSIM on iPhone, but the most common is with a QR code. Let’s take a look at two ways you can set up your eSIM. Remember, this can vary depending on your iPhone model and current iOS version.
1. Scan a QR code (provided by the network operator)
2. Manual Activation
You can see your eSIMs going to Settings and taping in Cellular.
If your iPhone is locked to use with different operators, you will be able to use an eSIM, but only with your current carrier.
Yes, if you have an iPhone that supports eSIM, you can use a virtual SIM as the primary line. So, you will not need a physical SIM.
With iOS 16, you can transfer your eSIM from an old iPhone to your new iPhone with Quick Transfer: Go to “Settings” > “Mobile/Cellular Data” > “Add eSIM” > “Transfer from Nearby iPhone”. Keep in mind, both devices must be updated with iOS 16. If you would like to know more about how to transfer an eSIM on iPhone.
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Andrés Perugachi
My name is Andrés and I am the founder of Mundo eSIM. I started my life as a traveler and have experience in eSIM with a focus on travel since 2018. After working at Holafly in 2023, I decided to start my journey into the world of eSIMs and travel reviews on my own.
Our goal at Mundo eSIM is clear: to provide quality internet for travelers at the best possible price on the market.
Being without internet in Europe, Aruba, Colombia, the Caribbean, and the US and seeing the high costs of internet inspired me to found Mundo eSIM with the purpose of connecting everyone to the internet so they don’t miss out on anything during their trip.
I hope that the reviews on internet for travel or destinations are useful to you, as each post is thoroughly researched and aims to show you which option is best for you.
