Will my phone work with an eSIM?
If your phone came out in 2018 or later and was not bought in mainland China, the answer is almost always yes. Here is how to know for sure.
The one-minute test
Open your phone's dial pad and type *#06# like a phone number. A screen of codes appears.
If you see a line labeled EID, your phone supports eSIM. If there is no EID line, it does not.
This test works on iPhone and Android and settles the question for any phone, any year, any country.
Compatible iPhones
iPhone XS, XR, and everything newer. That covers every iPhone released from late 2018 on, including all SE models from 2020, every numbered model from 11 through the current line, and every Pro, Plus, Max, and mini in between.
Compatible Android phones
Google Pixel 3 and newer. Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, plus recent Z Flip, Z Fold, and Note models. Many newer phones from Motorola, Sony, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Huawei also support eSIM.
Android is a big family, so the *#06# test above is the fastest way to be sure about a specific phone.
Tablets and watches
Recent iPads with cellular and many newer Android tablets support eSIM and work fine with our plans.
Smartwatches do not work with travel eSIMs. Watches need a special number-sharing plan from a regular carrier, which travel eSIMs cannot provide.
The exceptions to know
Phones bought in mainland China usually have eSIM switched off by the carrier, even when the hardware is there. The same is true for some phones from Hong Kong and Macau, though fewer.
Carrier-locked phones are the other catch. If your phone is locked to your home carrier, it will refuse any other SIM, including an eSIM. Ask your carrier to unlock it before your trip. Most will if the phone is paid off.
Phone checks out?
Forward your trip email to trips@get.esimion.com and your eSIM will be in your inbox. No app needed.
Model-by-model guides for iPhone, Samsung, Pixel, and iPad →