What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a type of SIM card that is embedded directly into your mobile device, instead of being a removable card like traditional SIMs. "eSIM" stands for "Embedded Subscriber Identity Module."
Why use an eSIM?
eSIM technology offers several benefits, particularly for travelers, making it a preferred choice over traditional SIM cards. Here are the key advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Activating an eSIM usually costs much less than standard roaming fees, helping you save money while traveling.
- Seamless Experience: You can switch to a local carrier's tourist plan without the hassle of physically swapping out SIM cards. This provides a convenient and smooth transition.
- Dual SIM Capability: With a compatible phone, you can use the eSIM for data services while keeping your original SIM active. This allows you to access local data rates and avoid high roaming charges, while still using your home number for calls and texts.
These benefits make eSIM an attractive option for travelers seeking both convenience and cost savings.
eSIM-Compatible Phones
Brand | Model | Notes |
Apple | iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | Not Dual SIM |
iPhone 14, Plus, Pro, Pro Max | Not Dual SIM | |
iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 mini | 13 Pro not Dual SIM | |
iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini | 12 Pro not Dual SIM | |
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | 11 Pro not Dual SIM | |
iPhone SE (2020), SE (2022) | ||
iPhone XS, XS Max | Not Dual SIM | |
iPhone XR | Not Dual SIM | |
iPad Air (2014, 2019, 2020, 2022) | ||
iPad Pro 11" (2018, 2020) | ||
iPad Pro 12.9" (2015, 2017) | ||
iPad Pro 10.5" (2017) | ||
iPad Pro 9.7" (2016) | ||
iPad 10.2" (2019, 2020, 2021) | ||
iPad 9.7" (2016, 2017, 2018) | ||
iPad mini 4 (2015), mini 3, mini (2019, 2021) | ||
Samsung | Galaxy A55, A54, A35 | |
Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra | ||
Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE | ||
Galaxy S22 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G | ||
Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G | US versions not compatible with eSIM | |
Galaxy S20, S20 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra, S20 Ultra 5G | US versions of S20 and S20 FE 4G/5G not compatible with eSIM | |
Galaxy Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra 5G | US and Hong Kong versions of Note 20 Ultra not compatible with eSIM | |
Galaxy Xcover7 | ||
Galaxy Fold, Z Fold4, Z Fold3 5G, Z Fold2 5G | ||
Galaxy Z Flip4, Z Flip3 5G, Z Flip, Z Flip 5G | US versions of Z Flip 5G not compatible with eSIM | |
Pixel 7, 7 Pro | ||
Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro | ||
Pixel 5, 5a 5G | ||
Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL, 4a 5G | ||
Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL, 3a XL | ||
Xiaomi | Xiaomi 13, 13 Lite, 13 Pro | |
Xiaomi 12T Pro | ||
Huawei | Huawei P40, P40 Pro | Not including P40 Pro + |
Huawei Mate40 Pro | ||
Sony | Sony Xperia 10 III Lite | |
Sony Xperia 10 IV | ||
Sony Xperia 5 IV | ||
Sony Xperia 1 IV |
How to activate eSIM
Activating an eSIM is a quick process, usually taking about five minutes. When you purchase an eSIM package, you'll receive a QR code from the vendor within an hour. The activation steps differ slightly depending on whether you're using an iPhone or an Android device. Below are the instructions for each:
For iOS Devices:
- QR Code Installation:
- Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
- Select Use QR Code and scan the QR code.
- Tap Activate eSIM and then Continue.
- Choose the default network for Cellular Data. Ensure Allow Cellular Data Switching is off, Turn On This Line is enabled, and Data Roaming is on.
- If the network is incorrect, go to Network Selection and select the correct one.
For Android Devices:
- QR Code Installation:
- Navigate to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
- Tap + to add a SIM, then select Download a SIM and tap Next.
- Scan the QR code, then tap Download.
- After "Download Complete" appears, return to Settings.
Trip.com eSIM: Cheap Price & Flexible Plans
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