eSIMion

iPad Pro eSIM support

Cellular iPad Pros support eSIM across the board: every 11-inch generation, and the 12.9-inch from the 3rd generation (2018) onward. The 2024 iPad Pro went further — its cellular models dropped the physical SIM tray entirely, making eSIM the only option.

What this device can do

The facts first, then why each one matters on a trip.

eSIM support Cellular models: 11-inch all generations; 12.9-inch from the 3rd generation (2018)

Wi-Fi-only iPads have no cellular hardware at all — check Settings for a Cellular Data section first.

eSIM profiles stored Multiple; one active at a time

Keep plans from past trips stored; switch the active one in Settings when you land.

Physical SIM tray Yes until 2024; the 2024 (M4) cellular models are eSIM-only

On a 2024 Pro there is no physical-SIM fallback — the eSIM path is the only path.

Calls and texts None — iPads are data-only

Travel eSIMs are data-only too, so nothing is lost: the fit is exact and there is no home line to protect.

Dual SIM No dual-SIM juggling on iPad

One line does everything, which makes iPad the simplest device to set up.

Hotspot Yes

A cellular iPad can feed your laptop or phone over hotspot; it draws from the plan allowance.

5G From the 2021 (M1) generation onward; earlier cellular Pros are LTE

Where the local network offers 5G, the travel eSIM can use it; LTE-only models still work everywhere.

Which iPad Pros qualify

Wi-Fi + Cellular versions of: iPad Pro 11-inch, all generations, and iPad Pro 12.9-inch from the 3rd generation (2018) onward. Earlier 12.9-inch Pros (2015, 2017) predate eSIM.

The 2024 iPad Pro (the M4 generation) has no SIM tray on cellular models — eSIM only, the same shift the US iPhone made in 2022.

A Wi-Fi-only iPad Pro has no cellular hardware and cannot use any SIM. Quick check: if Settings shows a Cellular Data section, it is a cellular model.

iPad-specific checks

iPads have no dial pad, so the *#06# trick does not apply. Instead: Settings, Cellular Data — if you see Add eSIM or Add a New Plan, you are set.

Carrier-purchased iPads can be carrier-locked just like phones, and mainland-China cellular iPads may lack eSIM. Check before you buy a plan.

Travel eSIMs are data-only, which suits an iPad perfectly — there is no phone line to juggle and no dual-SIM step. One eSIM covers one device, so a phone and an iPad each need their own plan.

Installing your travel eSIM

Your eSIMion eSIM arrives by email with a tap-to-install link, a QR code, and manual details. Full steps on the iPad guide below.

Related

iPad eSIM guide →

iPad Air eSIM support →

All devices →