What happens if I delete an eSIM? (Iphone and Android)

Deleting an embedded SIM on your Apple device or Android might seem simple, but understanding what happens if I delete an eSIM is crucial. It can affect your cellular service, data access, and carrier support. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is embedded in your device, and removing it erases its profile entirely.

In this guide, we’ll explain what happens if you delete an eSIM, how to do it safely, and how to manage network settings without losing essential support.

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM into your device, an eSIM is embedded in the device’s hardware and can be activated with a QR code or code from your carrier. It supports multiple profiles, making it ideal for travelers, professionals, or anyone using dual mobile plans.

With eSIMs, users can easily switch between mobile networks, access international plans, or run both personal and work numbers on a single phone. Supported by most modern phones including iPhones, Androids, and Galaxy devices, eSIM technology represents the next evolution of mobile connectivity.

Removing an eSIM profile means wiping the virtual SIM data associated with your device’s cellular configuration. This action disconnects the associated subscription and erases related data from your phone. It’s a digital deletion, similar to removing an online account or user profile.

Once removed, the digital SIM card cannot be reused unless reinstalled with a fresh activation code. Often, this also cancels your data package—unless specific arrangements are made with your network provider.

There are several reasons why users choose to remove their eSIM:

Before removing an eSIM, make sure your account is either deactivated or migrated to another handset to avoid losing service.

Before removing your eSIM, check if your carrier supports easy reactivation. If you’re abroad, ensure you have another active SIM or eSIM to stay connected.

Not all providers let you reinstall eSIMs without issuing new QR codes. Some may charge a fee for reactivation. Always contact customer support or review your account dashboard to confirm your options.

Removing an eSIM from an Apple device is straightforward but irreversible:

This action will delete the eSIM, clear associated data, and disconnect cellular access tied to that plan. Do this only if you’re switching phones or no longer need that line.

The process may vary by manufacturer (Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, etc.):

After this, the profile and its connection settings are removed from your phone.

If you’re unsure about deleting, you can disable your eSIM without erasing it completely.

This pauses usage without deleting the plan.

This lets you keep the profile for later without needing to reinstall it.

When you erase an eSIM, the data plan, carrier connection, and access settings are removed instantly. You’ll no longer be able to call, text, or use data tied to that profile—unless a new one is installed.

Your phone will not connect to the cellular network through that eSIM anymore. It also deletes the number and related credentials from the device’s internal storage.

In some cases, removing the eSIM doesn’t automatically cancel your subscription. You might still be charged until you formally cancel it with your provider. Always verify this post-deletion.

Generally, once deleted, a digital SIM card cannot be restored unless your carrier allows you to regenerate the profile or send a new activation code.

Some mobile operators provide reactivation via their app or customer portal. If not, you’ll need to manually request a new QR code.

Yes, but only if your operator supports reactivation. Apple itself doesn’t store deleted eSIM profiles.

Performing a factory reset may erase your eSIM data, depending on your device model and OS version. On iPhones, you’re often given the option to retain eSIMs during reset, while many Android phones remove them by default. Always back up important info and check your phone’s reset options to avoid unintended loss of digital SIM profiles.

Most Android factory resets will remove your eSIM unless backed up. On iPhone, you can choose whether to keep or erase eSIM profiles during the reset process.

No. Carrier locks are tied to the phone’s hardware, not the SIM profile. Deleting your eSIM won’t unlock your device.

Follow the instructions under Settings > Cellular, then tap the plan and select Remove. The profile will be cleared from both the system and network access settings.

To deactivate, toggle off the line in your cellular settings. To reactivate, use the original QR code or request one from your service provider.Removing an eSIM clears your cellular subscription and profile, which may disrupt your service and require customer support to recover. Unlike a physical SIM card, reinstallation usually involves a new activation process. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to disable the eSIM rather than delete it completely.

Want to compare the best eSIM deals or activate one for your next trip? Visit our eSIM comparison tool and activation guide to get started with confidence.