What is an eSIM?
Initially launched in 2016, an eSIM essentially acts as a virtual SIM card and functions in a similar way to the traditional SIM. An eSIM is embedded into your phone, which means that it can be digitally updated if and when you change to a different network provider.
The main benefit of having an eSIM is that there’s no need to swap a physical SIM card when moving to a different network; simply phone your new network provider, and they will assist you in transferring your old number over. This makes them ideal for those travelling internationally or spending a long time away from home.
How does an eSIM work?
It’s easy to activate your eSIM or switch to a new one – and once it’s activated, you can get connected instantly. Once you’ve chosen your network provider, you’ll be sent an email containing everything you’ll need to get started. Find out more about setting up your eSIM with iD Mobile. brought to you by Currys.
Step One: find your eSIM email
All you need to get started is the email sent from your provider, which will contain your unique QR code.
Step Two: connect to your Wi-Fi
You’ll need to be connected to Wi-Fi before downloading your new eSIM: we’d always recommend connecting to a secure network you trust, rather than using public Wi-Fi.
Step Three: follow on-screen instructions
Open ‘Settings’ on your phone, head to ‘Mobile Service’, ‘Network & Internet’ or ‘Connections’ and then click on ‘eSIM’. This process will differ slightly depending on your handset’s manufacturer.
Step Four: scan your QR code
When prompted, scan the QR code in your email to start downloading your eSIM. That’s it!
What phones are eSIM compatible?
A vast range of modern handsets support eSIMs as standard, so saying goodbye to your physical SIM shouldn’t be a problem when upgrading.
You’ll be able to use an eSIM with any Apple device released from 2018, including the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
All Google phone releases from the Pixel 4 onwards work with eSIM cards, including the Pixel 9 series. Samsung began including eSIM compatibility alongside the release of the S20 series and recommend that the Galaxy S25 range be activated with an eSIM.
What are the benefits of using an eSIM?
If you travel frequently, using an eSIM is a convenient way to ensure you stay connected, no matter where you are in the world. Some of the benefits include:
Convenience
You don’t have to travel to your local store or wait for your SIM card to be delivered to you; it can all be done simply by using your phone.
Flexibility
If you’re a frequent flyer, you will know the hassle of having multiple SIM cards that can only be used in certain locations; however, this isn’t the case with an eSIM. You can have multiple eSIM profiles on your handset, each with their own mobile numbers that you can switch between when travelling or working abroad.
Security
If your phone is stolen, you don’t have to worry about losing any of your contacts on your SIM card. As there’s no physical SIM to remove, it’s much safer and easier to restore information if your handset goes missing.
How to set up an eSIM on an Android?
Setting up your eSIM on an Android phone is simple and only takes a couple of minutes:
- Go to the setting app on your handset
- Search for ‘Network & Internet’ or ‘Connections’
- Click on ‘Mobile network’ or ‘SIM card manager’
- Select the option to add an eSIM
- Enter your activation code or scan the QR code
- You will then be presented with a series of on-screen instructions to complete the setup
How to set up an eSIM on an iPhone?
To add a new eSIM on an iPhone, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Go to settings and tap on ‘Mobile Service’
- Click ‘Add eSIM’ and scan the QR code, or click the option to ‘Transfer from a nearby iPhone’
- Complete the on-screen instructions to finish the set-up
Summary
If you’re on the hunt for your next piece of tech that’s compatible with an eSIM, browse our range of pay monthly and SIM only deals. For more tech advice before you buy your next eSIM-compatible handset, head to our handy eSIM guide.
FAQs.
Yes, with iD Mobile, you can enjoy 5G super-speeds at no extra cost, no matter which type of SIM card you’re using.
If you’re unsure whether your handset has an eSIM or not, there’s one quick way to check. On an iPhone, go to 'Settings’, then ‘Cellular’. If there’s an ‘eSIM’ link below the carrier settings, then it is currently activated.
To check on an Android, go to ‘Settings’, ‘About’, then ‘Status Information’, and look for the EID number.