How to check if your phone supports eSIM?

eSIM technology is rapidly replacing traditional SIM cards—especially in the context of travel and using mobile internet abroad. With eSIM, you can activate mobile data internationally without needing to swap a physical card, which significantly simplifies life for travelers, freelancers, and remote workers. Moreover, the entire purchase and installation process is done online, so you can set up your internet access even before departure. This solution eliminates the need to search for local carriers and helps save both time and money.

However, before deciding to purchase an eSIM or a data package, a key question arises: does my phone support eSIM? In this article, I will show you step by step how to check this on both Android and iPhone, what to look out for, and whether this technology is actually worth it in the context of travel and roaming. You will also learn which device models support eSIM and what limitations may exist depending on the region or carrier. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid issues with internet access abroad.

What is eSIM and why is it the future of mobile internet?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a chip built into your device that replaces a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a card, you download a carrier profile—such as a data package for internet without roaming—and activate it within minutes.

Key advantages of eSIM:

• no need to physically replace a SIM card
• ability to have multiple numbers on one device
• quick activation of data packages abroad
• ideal solution for internet while traveling
• often cheaper than traditional roaming

Disadvantages of eSIM:

• not supported by all phone models
• requires an internet connection for activation

👉 That’s why we recommend installing your eSIM before departure—this way you avoid connectivity issues at your destination.

Thanks to these benefits, eSIM has become one of the best solutions for people who want mobile internet available immediately after landing in a new country.

How to check if your phone supports eSIM

Quick checklist (for the impatient)

Check the following:

✔ Phone model (list of compatible devices)
✔ System settings (SIM / mobile network section)
✔ USSD code (Android)
✔ Manufacturer’s website
✔ Carrier support (whether it supports eSIM)

How to check eSIM on iPhone

Apple was one of the pioneers of eSIM, which is why most newer iPhone models support this technology.

iPhone models with eSIM support:

• iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
• iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 (all versions)
• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)

iPad:

• iPad (from 7th generation) – from 2019
• iPad Air (from 3rd generation) – from 2019
• iPad Pro 11-inch (from 1st generation) – from 2018
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (from 3rd generation) – from 2018
• iPad Mini (from 5th generation) – from 2019

How to check eSIM in iPhone settings:

• Go to Settings
• Tap Cellular
• Check if you see:
  “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”

If yes—your iPhone supports eSIM.

Alternative method:

• Settings → General → About → check model
• Compare it with Apple’s official list

How to install eSIM on iPhone

• Open Settings and make sure you have internet access (preferably Wi-Fi)
• Go to Cellular
• Tap Add eSIM
• Select Use QR Code
• Scan the QR code received via email from XOXO eSIM
• Tap Continue, then Done after setup completes

After installation:

• Go to Settings → Cellular
• You should see your eSIM listed

⚠️ Note: XOXO eSIM does not include a phone number, so the “My Number” field will remain empty—this is normal.

Important settings:

• Enable Data Roaming
• Set eSIM as the mobile data source (before travel)
• Keep your main SIM for calls

👉 If internet doesn’t work: restart the phone and toggle airplane mode.

How to check eSIM on Android

On Android, it’s more complex—not every model supports eSIM.

Method 1 – phone settings:

Go to:
Settings → Network & Internet → SIM cards

Look for options like:

• “Add eSIM”
• “Download SIM”
• “eSIM management”

If present—you have eSIM.

Method 2 – USSD code:

Dial: *#06#

If an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM.

Method 3 – list of compatible Android models

Samsung:

• Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24+
• Note 20 / Ultra
• Fold / Flip
• Selected A-series (A54, A55)

Google Pixel:

• Pixel 3 and newer

Xiaomi / Redmi / Poco:

• Xiaomi 12T Pro, 13, 14, 15
• Selected Redmi Note models

Motorola:

• Razr, Edge series

Oppo / OnePlus:

• Oppo Find X series
• OnePlus 11, 12

Huawei:

• Huawei P40
• Huawei P40 Pro (not Pro+)
• Huawei Mate 40 Pro
• Huawei Pura 70 Pro

How to install eSIM on Samsung

• Go to Settings
• Select Connections / Mobile networks
• Tap SIM card manager
• Choose Add eSIM
• Scan QR code
• Confirm installation

Then:

• Enable Data Roaming
• Set eSIM as mobile data source

Why eSIM is ideal for internet abroad

Traveling often comes with high roaming costs.

eSIM vs roaming

👉 Conclusion: eSIM is often the cheapest way to access mobile internet abroad.

What to consider before buying eSIM

Key aspects:

• SIM-lock → phone must be unlocked
• Regional support → some models differ by market
• Dual SIM → ideal for travel
• Coverage → check country availability
• Data package → match to your usage

Does eSIM work in mobile routers?

Yes—many modern routers support eSIM.

Ideal for:

• families
• remote workers
• digital nomads

Benefits:

• one data plan for multiple devices
• stable internet
• no need for phone hotspot

Is eSIM worth it?

When it’s worth choosing:

• traveling abroad
• avoiding roaming fees
• needing internet immediately after arrival
• using multiple numbers

When it may not be worth it:

• cheap EU roaming
• no eSIM support in your phone
• very short trips

Common eSIM issues (and solutions)

❌ No eSIM option → check phone model
❌ No internet → check APN
❌ Cannot add profile → check SIM-lock
❌ Weak signal → change network

FAQ – common eSIM questions

Does every phone support eSIM?
No. Only selected models—mainly newer premium smartphones.

Does eSIM work without internet?
Internet is required only for activation.

Can I use eSIM and SIM together?
Yes—most phones support Dual SIM.

Does eSIM work in every country?
Depends on provider and plan.

Is eSIM safe?
Yes—often safer than physical SIM cards.

Summary

eSIM is one of the most convenient solutions for mobile internet—especially when traveling. If you want internet abroad without stress, high roaming fees, or buying local SIM cards, eSIM is definitely worth considering. It also allows instant switching between operators and data plans, giving you full control over costs and connection quality.

Checking your phone’s compatibility takes just a few minutes and can unlock access to much cheaper and more convenient internet while traveling. In practice, this means you can activate mobile data before your trip and have connectivity immediately after landing—no need to search for Wi-Fi or deal with connectivity issues.

👉 If your phone supports eSIM, it’s worth considering a data package tailored to your destination and travel style. Check eSIM offers on the XOXO WIFI website and enjoy internet wherever you are.

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