Is my phone eSIM compatible?

If you’ve been shopping around for a new phone or wireless carrier, you may have heard the term “eSIM” floating around and done a bit of research to find out what eSIM is, exactly. But here’s a TL;DR explanation, just in case: an eSIM, or embedded SIM, helps you switch wireless carriers in minutes, provides enhanced security, and makes adding an extra line to your phone easy thanks to dual SIM technology (among other cool capabilities).

So with all the cool advantages eSIM has to offer, you might be wondering… is my phone eSIM compatible? In this article we’ll cover: 

• How to tell if your phone is eSIM-compatible
• What the most common eSIM compatible phones are
• How to check for eSIM compatibility on iPhone and Android phones

Does my phone support eSIM?

To find out if your specific device supports it, you’ll want to check out the specifications of your particular phone model.  Usually you can find eSIM support info under Settings in your phone (keep reading for more detailed instructions on that), via a quick web search or, for the most accurate results, on your phone manufacturer’s website. 

Most newer iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung models support eSIM since it’s kind of the hot new thing in SIM technology, but you’ll want to check to be sure. In fact, starting with iPhone 14, all subsequent iPhone models ONLY support eSIM; so while physical SIM cards aren’t going away just yet, it’s probably not a bad idea to start familiarizing yourself with their digital

Common eSIM-compatible phones

If you’re feeling too lazy to go to your phone manufacturer’s website just yet, here are some of the most common eSIM-compatible phones in a bulleted list (because lists are great):

• iPhones (iPhone 14 on)
• Google Pixel (Pixel 3 on)
• Samsung Galaxy (Galaxy S20 on)

Check the list of phones from your manufacturer (once you’ve worked up the energy to do so, of course) since most of them frequently update their lineups with new models that support eSIM, because it really is that cool. 

How to check eSIM compatibility

If trying new things scares you, don’t worry. Checking eSIM compatibility is super easy, whether you’re Team Apple or Team Android.

How to check eSIM compatibility on iPhone

1. Go to Settings
2. Select Cellular
3. Look for Add Cellular Plan or Add eSIM. If you see an option to add a cellular plan with a QR code, your device supports eSIM. Congrats. 

How to check eSIM compatibility on Android phones

1. Navigate to Settings
2. Select Network & internet
3. Go to Mobile network. If there is an option to add a mobile plan, your device is likely eSIM compatible. Congrats.

Check your IMEI number for eSIM compatibility

If you feel like ignoring the instructions above, or just like knowing how to do cool things, you can also check your IMEI number to determine eSIM compatibility. Just dial *#06 and your phone will display your IMEI number and EID numbers. If you see an IMEI (eSIM) entry, your phone is most likely eSIM compatible. 

Call your carrier to check for eSIM compatibility

If you’re the kind of extroverted person who enjoys hopping on the phone, you can also contact your mobile network provider to verify if your phone model is eSIM compatible.  While you’re on the phone, your carrier can also provide a list of supported devices and guide you through the activation process. Because hey, if you’re already on the phone, you might as well become an eSIM eXPERT.

Embrace eSIM technology freedom

There’s a lot to love about eSIM, and while you might not be able to literally hug an eSIM, you can embrace the freedom eSIM technology provides. So, in short, eSIM won’t solve all your problems, but it certainly can make it easier to do a lot of things regarding switching your phone and wireless plan. Still hungry for eSIM knowledge? Learn more about dual SIM phones and get the 411 on eSIM safety at our article, Are eSIMs safe?.

Now that you know all the e-mazing things you can do with eSIM, find out if your phone is compatible with eSIM and Mint (and Mint savings while you’re at it).