Does your phone support eSIM?
Most phones from about 2019 onward support eSIM. That means every iPhone from the XS and XR (2018) on, every Google Pixel from the Pixel 3 on, and Samsung Galaxy from the S20 on, plus the Note 20, all Z Fold and Z Flip, and the A5x line. The main catch is that some carriers and regional versions disable it, and a carrier-locked phone will not take a travel eSIM. Got a compatible, unlocked phone? See our best travel eSIM guide. Verified July 9, 2026.
An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM, so whether you can use one comes down to your phone model. The good news is that eSIM has been standard on flagship phones for years, so if your handset is reasonably recent it almost certainly qualifies. Here is the model-by-model picture, how to check in under a minute, and the one iPhone change that trips people up.
eSIM support by brand
| Brand | Supports eSIM | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple iPhone | iPhone XS, XR and later (2018 on) | US iPhone 14 and later are eSIM-only (no physical SIM); other regions keep both |
| Google Pixel | Pixel 3 and later | Consistent eSIM support across the range |
| Samsung Galaxy | S20 and later, Note 20, all Z Fold and Z Flip, A5x (A54/A55/A56) | Some carriers or regions disable it; check your version |
| Others | Many recent flagships (Motorola Razr, Huawei, Oppo, Sony and more) | Support varies by model and region; confirm before buying |
How to check in under a minute
- iPhone: Settings, then Cellular or Mobile Data, and look for Add eSIM or Add Data Plan.
- Android: Settings, then Network and internet or Connections, and look for Add eSIM or a mobile-plan option.
- Any phone: dial *#06# and look for an EID number; if one shows, your phone has an eSIM.
If the option is missing on a phone that should support it, the device may be carrier-locked or a regional version with eSIM disabled. Unlock it or confirm support for your exact model before buying a plan.
Got a compatible phone? Pick a travel eSIM
Once your phone is eSIM-capable and unlocked, a travel eSIM installs from a QR code in minutes. Our value pick is eSimania, with Jetpac a cheap way to try one from about $1. Start with our best travel eSIM guide, or see how eSIMs work in our setup guide. Network speeds depend on the local carrier.
Frequently asked questions
Does the iPhone 11, 12 or 13 have eSIM?
Yes. Every iPhone from the iPhone XS and XR in 2018 onward supports eSIM, so the iPhone 11, 12 and 13 all have it, alongside a physical SIM. You can store several eSIMs and keep two lines active at once. Just make sure the phone is carrier-unlocked before installing a travel eSIM.
Is the iPhone 14 eSIM only?
In the United States, yes. From the iPhone 14 onward, US models dropped the physical SIM tray and are eSIM-only. Models sold in most other countries still include both a physical SIM and eSIM. Either way the iPhone 14 and later work perfectly with a travel eSIM.
How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?
On an iPhone, open Settings, then Cellular or Mobile Data, and look for Add eSIM or Add Data Plan. On Android, open Settings, then Network and internet or Connections, and look for an option to add an eSIM or a mobile plan. You can also dial *#06# and check for an EID number, which indicates eSIM support.
My phone should support eSIM but the option is missing. Why?
Some carriers and regional versions disable eSIM even on models that otherwise support it, and a carrier-locked phone will not accept a travel eSIM. Check that your device is unlocked and, if the option is still missing, confirm eSIM support for your exact model and region with the manufacturer or your carrier.
Device support was verified on July 9, 2026 from manufacturer and industry sources. Regional and carrier variations exist, so confirm your exact model if in doubt.