Is my phone eSIM compatible?
Almost every flagship phone released since late 2018 supports eSIM. That includes all iPhones from XS onward, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20-and-newer plus the Z Fold and Z Flip ranges. The other requirement is that the phone is unlocked to other networks — most UK contract phones are unlocked by default since 2021.
Almost every flagship phone released since late 2018 supports eSIM. That includes all iPhones from XS onward, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20-and-newer plus the Z Fold and Z Flip ranges. The other requirement is that the phone is unlocked to other networks — most UK contract phones are unlocked by default since 2021.
Quick check
iPhone: XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and all SE 2nd-gen onward. Settings → General → About → look for EID number. If it's there, eSIM is supported.
Samsung Galaxy: S20, S21, S22, S23, S24 series (all variants), Note 20, Z Fold 2/3/4/5/6, Z Flip 3/4/5/6. The base S20 FE 4G does not have eSIM in some regions — check Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
Google Pixel: Pixel 3, 3 XL, 4, 4 XL, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, 9.
Other Android: Most flagship Motorola, Sony, Oppo, Huawei, Honor, OnePlus and Xiaomi devices from 2022 onwards. Mid-range and budget phones often skip eSIM — check the spec sheet.
Network unlock
Your phone must be unlocked to use any carrier — including a travel eSIM. Most UK contract phones bought after December 2021 are unlocked from new (Ofcom rule). Older or refurbished phones may still be locked: in that case, contact your original carrier and request a free network unlock before buying an eSIM.
People also ask
- What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you scan a QR code or tap a link and a mobile plan is downloaded onto a secure chip inside the device. It takes about a minute and works alongside your normal SIM, so you can keep your home number while using a travel data plan abroad.
- How does an eSIM work?
When you buy an eSIM you receive a QR code or activation link. Your phone reads it, downloads a mobile profile onto its built-in eSIM chip, and connects to the local network the carrier has roaming agreements with. From that point it behaves exactly like a physical SIM — except you can install several profiles and switch between them in Settings.
- Can I have two eSIMs active at the same time?
Yes. Modern iPhones (XS and later) and most flagship Androids let you store many eSIM profiles and have two active at once — typically your home line plus a travel eSIM. Calls and texts route through whichever line you choose as default, while data can be set to use the cheaper travel eSIM automatically.