Say “goodbye” to physical SIMs.

Say “goodbye” to physical SIMs.

What is an eSIM?

An embedded SIM (eSIM) is a digital version of a physical SIM card. Simply activate your eSIM using the QR Code we send you via email, and get connected to iD Mobile hassle-free!

Keep in mind: our eSIMs are for mobile use only, and aren’t currently compatible with tables and wearables.

Find out more about eSIMs and how they are used.

Is my phone eSIM compatible?

To double-check if your phone is eSIM compatible, simply dial *#06# into your keypad.

If you see a pop up which includes an EID number on the screen, then your device is eSIM compatible. Simple!

How do I get an eSIM?

1

Pick your
deal.

Choose your plan type (a phone contract or SIM Only deal) and select eSIM at checkout.

2

Get your eSIM email.

Once your order is confirmed, you will get an email that contains a QR Code to download your eSIM.

3

Follow the instructions.

Follow the steps in the email to download your eSIM. Don’t forget to connect to Wi-Fi!

4

Complete the download.

The download might take approximately an hour to complete. Once done, you can use your eSIM!

Please note: If you ordered a new phone with your eSIM, you’ll need to wait until your phone arrives to start the eSIM download. If you chose a SIM Only eSIM plan, you can start your download as soon as you receive the QR code email.

Need help downloading?

Having trouble with your eSIM setup? Don’t sweat! We’ve curated Community articles to walk you through each step.

Show me step-by-step

Need a replacement eSIM? Simply login to the iD Mobile app or my.idmobile.co.uk to get one now!

eSIM benefits.

Instant.

No need to wait for your SIM to arrive – purchase your eSIM and get connected in one click!

Double digits.

You can have two active numbers and seamlessly switch between them.

More secure.

There is no physical SIM to remove, so it’s safer if your phone is lost or stolen.

Less plastic.

Less physical SIMs means less plastic in circulation – a win for the environment.

5G

unleashed

Stream, game,
and browse
faster and
more
reliably
with the
power of 5G.

Get ready for 5g

FAQs.

Yes, you can use a PAC or STAC as usual if you wish to keep or ditch your number when joining iD Mobile. If you're currently using an eSIM with your previous network and plan to switch your number over to iD, we recommend deleting your old eSIM after you've successfully downloaded your new iD Mobile eSIM. For additional information, please visit our switching page.

You will be sent an email that contains a QR Code to download your eSIM. You will need to download the eSIM directly onto the phone you'll be using. For a step-by-step guide, check out our helpful Community article.

If your phone gets delayed – because it’s out of stock or on pre-order – and you’ve picked an eSIM at checkout, don’t worry. We’ll send your eSIM as soon as your phone is dispatched. Remember: you’ll have to wait until your phone arrives before you can download the eSIM.

To get a replacement eSIM, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to the iD Mobile App or my.idmobile.co.uk and click on Plan.
  2. Go to SIM & Phone Management > Request a replacement SIM or eSIM.
  3. Select Get a replacement eSIM, confirm your email, and choose Yes, I want a new eSIM.

Yes. You can switch from an eSIM back to a physical SIM anytime. Check out our Community Article on how to get a replacement SIM card.

Deleting your eSIM does not cancel your iD Mobile plan. To continue using the plan, you will need to get a replacement eSIM. Alternatively, log in to the iD Mobile App to cancel your plan.

Please follow the steps on this Community Article to complete a manual setup of your eSIM.

Yes, travelling with your eSIM is the same as using a physical SIM, just make sure your phone settings are ready before you go (check out this article if you need any help). We also offer great-value Roam Beyond data add-ons if you're travelling outside of our 50 inclusive destinations – To learn more about roaming, visit our Roaming Charges page.

Yes, eSIM is safe to use with online banking apps.

You’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to download your eSIM. Once it’s done you can use your phone as normal, with or without internet access.

No – using an eSIM won’t use more battery than a physical SIM card.

Terms and Conditions.

  • iD 5G is available on selected 5G compatible phones only, as listed here. 4G vs 5G speeds based on fastest average median download speeds tested across 16 cities in RootMetrics UK 5G 2023 report.
  • Coverage subject to location. Check coverage in your area.