Which devices support eSIM (phones, tablets, and computers)?

The eSIM is a major advancement in mobile connectivity. Unlike traditional SIM cards that need to be physically inserted into a device, an eSIM is built directly into the device’s motherboard. This technology provides greater flexibility for activating plans and managing multiple numbers on a single device. However, before purchasing an eSIM, you need to check which devices support eSIM.

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that allows users to connect to a cellular network without needing a physical card. This comes with several benefits, including the ability to switch plans or carriers quickly and easily. Device compatibility is crucial, as not all models support this technology. Before buying a device, it’s essential to verify compatibility to avoid any frustration. Once confirmed, you can compare plans and stay connected wherever you go!

Compatibility also enables users to access services from multiple carriers without having to swap out a physical SIM card. This is especially useful for travelers who want to use local plans while abroad.

Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country the device is designed for. Before purchasing, it’s recommended to check with your carrier to ensure eSIM support in your region.

Apple was one of the pioneers of eSIM technology and offers a wide range of compatible devices. Since the launch of the iPhone XR and XS in 2018, all new iPhones have supported eSIM. Here is the list of iPhones that are eSIM-compatible:

For iPads, all cellular-enabled models from the iPad Air (3rd generation) onward and all iPad Pro models from the 3rd generation onward also support eSIM

The compatibility of eSIM extends to a variety of Android smartphones. Here are some of the main compatible devices:

Samsung currently offers several eSIM-compatible smartphones, including the Galaxy S series and the Fold and Flip series. Below is a full list of supported devices:

Not compatible: Galaxy S20 FE 4G/5G, US versions of S20/S21, Galaxy Z Flip 5G (US), Galaxy Note 20 Ultra (US and Hong Kong), Galaxy Z Fold2 (US and Hong Kong), and several devices purchased in South Korea.

Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country the device is intended for. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check with your carrier to ensure eSIM support in your region.

Along with Apple, Google was one of the first manufacturers to adopt virtual SIM cards. All Google Pixel smartphones from the Pixel 2 onward support eSIM. However, it is advisable to check with your carrier first:

Google Pixel Series: Pixel 2 (no dual SIM), Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3 (not compatible in Australia, Taiwan, Japan, or with some US/Canada carriers except Sprint and Google Fi), Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a (not compatible in Japan and Verizon), Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel Fold

With the launch of its Razr smartphone in 2019, Motorola eliminated the physical SIM slot to adopt eSIM-only technology, anticipating a future where this standard might become mainstream. Other manufacturers may follow this trend to optimize device space. Currently, Motorola’s eSIM-compatible smartphones include:

Currently, only the Huawei P40, P40+, and Mate 40 Pro support eSIM.

Note: The P40 Pro+ and P50 Pro are not compatible.

These devices only support one eSIM at a time. On dual-SIM smartphones, adding an eSIM disables the second physical SIM slot, preventing the simultaneous use of two physical SIM cards with an eSIM.

The following Apple iPads support eSIM technology:

Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country the device is intended for. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check with your carrier to ensure eSIM support in your region.

eSIM-enabled smartwatches offer standalone connectivity, allowing users to make calls, send messages, and access the internet without needing a smartphone nearby.

Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country the device is intended for. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check with your carrier to ensure eSIM support in your region.

For now, only Windows laptops with eSIM are available. Apple has not yet introduced a MacBook with this technology.

eSIM-compatible laptops are becoming more common, especially in professional and high-end ranges. With eSIM technology built directly into the device, users can connect to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card, offering ideal flexibility for remote workers and international travelers.

Note: eSIM compatibility may vary depending on the country the device is intended for. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check with your carrier to ensure eSIM support in your region.

To check if your smartphone supports eSIM, first ensure that it is unlocked for use with any carrier. A locked device may not be compatible with eSIMs from carriers other than the original one.

Next, to confirm the presence of an EID (unique eSIM identification number), dial *#06# on your phone’s keypad. If your device supports eSIM, the EID number will appear. This number is essential, as it is required for eSIM activation with many carriers.

Additionally, check eSIM compatibility directly with your carrier, as certain features or services may vary depending on the country and device version.

Go to the connectivity settings or device information. If the device supports eSIM, the SIM management options should display the EID.

On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Cellular, then select Manage eSIM to check for the EID. If your Windows device is eSIM-compatible, the eSIM management option should be visible.

For other operating systems, check the network or cellular settings of your device.

Note: If you are unsure, refer to your device manual or the manufacturer’s website to confirm eSIM compatibility.

Choosing an eSIM-compatible device unlocks new connectivity possibilities. With an eSIM, you can enjoy a seamless connection, especially beneficial for travelers and tech enthusiasts. Find the best eSIM offers here!

For more details, check out our articles:

Safe travels!