How to transfer iPhone eSIM with iOS 18

With the launch of iOS 18, iPhone users now have access to the eSIM iOS Transfer feature. This feature allows a user with an iPhone to transfer their eSIM between two iPhones without having to replace their eSIM. This is only available for iPhones running iOS 18. 

How does the eSIM iOS Transfer feature work?

During the process of setting up a new iPhone, users will be asked if they want to transfer their current phone number to their new phone. This is effectively asking them if they want to transfer their current eSIM to their new phone. The user does not have to purchase a new SIM card; it automatically transfers their current eSIM.

Is this feature only available for eSIM?

Yes, this is only for eSIMs and eSIM-capable phones.

How to transfer your current eSIM to a new iPhone

There are two ways to transfer your eSIM between your old iPhone and your current iPhone, as long as both iPhones are running iOS 18. 

The first way is during the set up and initial activation process. Here’s how:

1. Bring your new iPhone next to your previous phone
2. A pop up will appear in your previous iPhone to Set Up New iPhone
3. Tap continue and scan the unique pattern that shows up in your new iPhone using your previous iPhone
4. You will be guided through the setup process
5. Tap Set Up For Me and enter the passcode of your previous phone on your new iPhone 
6. On your new iPhone, Apple will give you the option to select Transfer Phone Number 
7. Select the correct eSIM and tap continue
8. Tap Transfer Number 
9. Confirm number transfer on your previous iPhone 
10. Your new iPhone will then activate the number

Note: If this option fails to work, you can try again in Settings. 

The second way is via the Settings app of your new iPhone after it’s all been set up. Here’s how:

1. Open up the Settings app on your new iPhone (make sure you have your previous iPhone handy)
2. Tap Cellular
3. Tap Set up cellular
4. Select the phone number you want to transfer and tap continue
5. Tap Transfer Number on the pop-up that appears
6. On your previous iPhone, a pop-up should also appear. Double click the power button to Confirm Transfer
7. You’re all set — just wait for the transfer to go through on your new iPhone

For Apple support, click here.