How to check if your device supports eSIM transfers

Edited

This article will go over how to check if your device support eSIM transfers between devices. If you discover that your device does not support this, and you need to move your eSIM to a different device, you will need to request an eSIM replacement by contacting Support.

iPhone to iPhone:

New device setup:

  • While you're setting up your iPhone, if your prompted to transfer your SIM, please follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your eSIM.

  • Make sure that you’re signed in with your Apple Account on both devices,

    • Or that your previous iPhone is unlocked with the device passcode.

  • Both devices need to be near each other with Bluetooth turned on.

  • Both devices need to be using iOS 16 or later.

  • If you don't have access to your current iPhone, please reach out to support to request an eSIM replacement.

While you're setting up your iPhone, if you're asked to transfer your SIM, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your eSIM.

Manual transfer of eSIM:

  1. On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.

  2. Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another iPhone.

    • If you don't see a list of numbers, tap Transfer From Nearby iPhone. This requires both devices to have iOS 16 or later.

  3. Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer. To confirm:

    • Either tap "Transfer" or

    • If asked for a verification code, enter the code that's displayed on your new iPhone.

  4. Wait for the eSIM to activate on your new iPhone.

    1. Your previous SIM is deactivated when the eSIM plan on your new iPhone activates.

  5. If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says "Finish Setting Up Your Carrier's Cellular Plan", tap it. You will be redirected to your carrier's webpage to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, please contact support.

iPhone to Android:

Please reach out to support to request an eSIM replacement.


Android to Android:

  1. Go to your new device's settings.

  2. Go to "Connections".

  3. Go to "SIM Manager".

  4. Look for the option to add an eSIM

    • If you are not seeing the option to add an eSIM, it's possible that your device does not support this capability.

      • Recent models like Google Pixel (from Pixel 3 onwards) and Samsung Galaxy S series (S20 and newer) should be able to support this.

Android to iPhone:

Please reach out to support to request an eSIM replacement.