eSIM Compatible Phones List
Check whether your phone can use a travel eSIM before buying a data plan. Compatibility depends on three things: your exact device model, whether the phone is carrier-unlocked, and whether eSIM support is enabled for your region or carrier version.
Fast Compatibility Check
The fastest way to check eSIM support is to look for an EID number. EID is the identifier for the embedded SIM hardware inside your device.
Method 1: Dial *#06#
Open the phone dialer and enter *#06#. If you see an EID number, the phone usually has eSIM hardware.
Method 2: Check settings
Look for Add eSIM, Add Mobile Plan, Download SIM, or SIM manager in the cellular/network settings.
Method 3: Confirm unlock status
Even if your device supports eSIM, it should be unlocked to use a travel data plan from another provider.
Important
Compatibility lists are helpful, but exact model numbers matter. Some phones sold in specific countries, through certain carriers, or as regional variants may have different eSIM behavior.
Common eSIM-Compatible iPhone Models
Recent iPhones generally support eSIM, but some regional versions can differ. Before buying a travel plan, confirm that your exact iPhone shows eSIM options and is not carrier-locked.
iPhone XR, XS and newer
Most iPhones from the XR/XS generation onward support eSIM, including newer standard, Pro, Plus, Max, SE and Air models.
Travel setup
Go to Settings → Cellular or Mobile Service. If you see Add eSIM, the phone is ready for digital plan setup.
Carrier lock
On iPhone, check Settings → General → About. “No SIM restrictions” means the device is unlocked.
Regional notes
Some models sold in specific markets may not support travel eSIM in the same way as international versions.
Common eSIM-Compatible Android Phones
Android support is more fragmented than iPhone support. The brand name alone is not enough; check the exact model, regional variant and carrier lock status.
| Brand | Common compatible families | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy | Recent Galaxy S, Z Fold, Z Flip and selected A-series models | Open SIM manager and look for Add eSIM; regional variants can differ |
| Google Pixel | Most Pixel models from Pixel 3 onward, with stronger support on newer models | Open Network & internet → SIMs and look for Add SIM or Download SIM |
| Motorola | Selected Razr, Edge and newer premium models | Check exact model name and regional support before buying |
| Xiaomi, Oppo, OnePlus, Honor, Huawei | Selected flagship and premium models only | Do not assume support by brand; confirm EID and settings options |
| Tablets and laptops | Selected iPad, Windows and cellular tablet models | Check whether your travel plan supports the device type |
Samsung quick path
Settings → Connections → SIM manager. Look for Add eSIM, Add mobile plan, or a similar option.
Pixel quick path
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs. Look for Add SIM, Download a SIM, or eSIM setup options.
Why a Compatible Phone Can Still Fail Setup
A phone can support eSIM hardware and still fail installation. Most issues are caused by lock status, region restrictions, missing updates, unstable Wi-Fi, or trying to reinstall a profile that was already used.
Carrier lock
A locked phone may only accept plans from the original carrier. Check unlock status before buying a travel data plan.
Regional variant
The same phone name can have different hardware or software rules in different markets.
Old software
Update iOS or Android before travel if your settings menu does not show expected eSIM options.
Already-installed profile
Many travel profiles cannot be installed repeatedly. Do not delete one unless the plan instructions say it is safe.
Phones That Usually Do Not Work with Travel eSIM
This list is intentionally practical rather than exhaustive. If your device is older, entry-level, carrier-locked, or missing an EID number, check carefully before buying a plan.
Older iPhones
iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 7 and older models do not support normal eSIM travel plan installation.
Many budget Android phones
Entry-level Android models often still rely on physical SIM cards only, even when newer flagship models from the same brand support eSIM.
Carrier-restricted phones
A device bought on a contract may be locked. Unlock status matters as much as technical eSIM support.
eSIM Compatibility FAQs
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# and look for an EID number, then check your mobile network settings for Add eSIM, Add SIM, Download SIM or Add Mobile Plan.
Is EID enough to guarantee travel eSIM support?
It is a strong sign, but not the only requirement. Your phone should also be unlocked and allowed to use a plan from another provider.
Why does my friend’s phone support eSIM but mine does not?
Phones with the same marketing name can have different regional variants, carrier software, or lock status. Always check your own device settings.
Does every iPhone support eSIM?
No. Older iPhones do not. Most iPhones from the XR/XS generation and newer support eSIM, but regional exceptions can exist.
Does every Samsung Galaxy support eSIM?
No. Many Galaxy S and Z models support eSIM, while some A-series and regional versions may not. Check SIM manager on the exact phone.
Can I use eSIM on a locked phone?
Usually no for travel plans from another provider. Ask your carrier to unlock the phone before buying a travel eSIM.
What should I do if my phone is not compatible?
Use roaming, a physical local SIM, pocket Wi-Fi, or another unlocked device that supports eSIM. Do not buy a digital plan until compatibility is clear.
Check Compatibility Before You Buy
Look for EID, confirm unlock status, check the exact model, and then choose a travel eSIM plan for your destination.