Which iPhone Model Has eSIM: A Complete List

Wondering if your iPhone is eSIM compatible? 

Many iPhone users are curious about this new technology.

In this guide, we’ll explore which iPhones have eSIM support and how you can use it. We’ll also look at the benefits of eSIM and what it means for the future of iPhones.

What is an eSIM?

Before we dive into which iPhones have eSIM, let’s understand what an eSIM is. eSIM stands for “embedded SIM.” It’s a digital version of the SIM card that’s built right into your phone. Unlike a physical SIM card that you can take out, an eSIM is part of your phone’s hardware.

eSIMs make it easier to switch between phone data plans. You don’t need to go to a store or wait for a new SIM card in the mail. Instead, you can activate a new plan right from your phone’s settings.

Some key benefits of eSIM include:

• Convenience: You can change plans without swapping physical cards.
• Flexibility: It’s easy to add a temporary plan when traveling.
• Dual SIM: You can have two phone numbers on one device.
• Space-saving: Phones can be made slightly smaller without a SIM tray.

iPhone Models with eSIM Compatibility

Now, let’s look at which iPhone models support eSIM technology.

iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max (2018)

Apple first introduced eSIM in these models:

• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max

These phones were the first to offer dual SIM capability, with one physical SIM slot and one eSIM.

iPhone 11 Series (2019)

The iPhone 11 lineup continued to support eSIM:

• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max

Like their predecessors, these models had one physical SIM slot and one eSIM.

iPhone SE 2nd Generation (2020)

Apple brought eSIM to its budget-friendly option:

• iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

This model also supports dual SIM with one physical SIM and one eSIM.

iPhone 12 Series (2020)

All iPhone 12 models support eSIM:

• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max

These phones can use one physical SIM and one eSIM at the same time.

iPhone 13 Series (2021)

The iPhone 13 series took eSIM support a step further:

• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max

These models can support two active eSIMs at once, plus a physical SIM card. This means you could potentially use three different phone lines on one device.

iPhone SE 3rd Generation (2022)

Apple’s newest budget iPhone also supports eSIM:

• iPhone SE (3rd Generation)

It has dual SIM capability with one physical SIM slot and one eSIM.

iPhone 14 Series (2022)

The iPhone 14 lineup marked a significant shift in eSIM use:

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max

In a big change, iPhone 14 models sold in the United States don’t have a physical SIM card slot. They rely entirely on eSIM technology. Models sold in other countries still offer a physical SIM slot along with eSIM support.

iPhone 15 Series (2023)

The latest iPhone models continue the trend of strong eSIM support:

• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max

Like the iPhone 14 series, U.S. models are eSIM-only, while international versions retain the physical SIM slot alongside eSIM capability.

Older iPhone Models Without eSIM

It’s important to note that not all iPhones support eSIM. Here are some popular models that don’t have eSIM:

• iPhone X
• iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
• iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
• iPhone 6s and earlier models

These older iPhones only use physical SIM cards. If you have one of these models and want to use eSIM, you’ll need to upgrade to a newer iPhone.

How to Check if Your iPhone Supports eSIM

Not sure if your iPhone has eSIM? Here’s how to check:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on “Cellular” or “Mobile Data.”
3. Look for an option that says “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan.”

If you see one of these options, your iPhone supports eSIM. If you don’t see them, your iPhone probably doesn’t have eSIM capability.

Setting Up eSIM on iPhone

If your iPhone supports eSIM, there are several ways to set it up:

Activation During Initial iPhone Setup

When you first set up a new iPhone, just follow the on-screen instructions during the setup process.

eSIM Quick Transfer

If you’re switching from an older iPhone to a new one, you can use eSIM Quick Transfer. This feature lets you move your eSIM from one device to another without contacting your carrier. Both iPhones need to be running iOS 16 or later and be connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Scanning a QR Code

Many carriers provide a QR code to activate your eSIM. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Camera app on your iPhone.
2. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier.
3. Tap the notification that appears.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to add the eSIM.

Using a Carrier App

Some carriers have their own apps for activating eSIMs. You can download these apps from the App Store and follow the instructions to set up your eSIM.

Manual Entry

If your carrier gives you the eSIM information directly, you can enter it manually:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
2. Tap “Enter Details Manually” at the bottom of the screen.
3. Enter the information provided by your carrier.

Troubleshooting eSIM Issues

Sometimes, you might run into problems when setting up or using an eSIM. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:

eSIM Not Activating

If your eSIM won’t activate:

• Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Check that your carrier supports eSIM.
• If using a QR code, make sure it’s clear and undamaged.
• Contact your carrier for help if the problem continues.

No Cellular Service

If you’re not getting service with your eSIM:

• Check that your eSIM plan is active with your carrier.
• Try turning Airplane Mode on and off.
• Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans and make sure your eSIM plan is turned on.
• If you still have issues, contact your carrier.

Can’t Switch Between eSIMs

If you’re having trouble switching between eSIMs:

• Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans and tap the plan you want to use.
• If you don’t see an option to switch, contact your carrier to make sure your eSIMs are set up correctly.

The Future of eSIM and iPhones

As we’ve seen with the iPhone 14 and 15 series in the U.S., Apple is moving towards eSIM-only devices. This trend is likely to continue and spread to other countries in the future.

Using only eSIMs could bring several benefits:

• Simpler iPhone design without a SIM card tray
• More space inside the iPhone for other components or a bigger battery
• Easier switching between carriers or plans
• Potentially more waterproof designs

As more carriers around the world start supporting eSIM technology, we’ll likely see a gradual shift away from physical SIM cards in the coming years. This change won’t just affect iPhones, but other smartphone brands as well.

Regional Considerations

It’s important to note that eSIM support can vary by country or region. For example:

• iPhones sold in mainland China don’t support eSIM.
• In Hong Kong and Macao, only certain iPhone models support eSIM.
• Some carriers in different countries may not offer eSIM support yet.

Always check with your local carrier to see if they support eSIM before relying on it for your phone service.

Complete iPhone eSIM Supported List

iPhone 15
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 Mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 Mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max
iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2020)
iPhone SE (2022)
iPad Air (3rd generation)
iPad Air (4th generation)
iPad Air (5th generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation)
iPad (7th generation)
iPad (8th generation)
iPad (9th generation)
iPad (10th generation)
iPad Mini (5th generation)
iPad Mini (6th generation)

*The following Apple devices DO NOT have eSIM capability:

• iPhone devices from Mainland China.
• iPhone devices from Hong Kong and Macao (except for the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS).

*For iPhones and iPads purchased in TURKEY:
•   If you’re setting up your device for the first time after June 23, 2020, your eSIM will activate after installation. Contact your carrier if you don’t have eSIM enabled.

*Only iPad devices with Wi-Fi + Cellular features are supported.

Conclusion

eSIM technology is becoming more common in iPhones, offering users more flexibility and convenience. From the iPhone XR to the latest iPhone 15 series, Apple has expanded eSIM support across its lineup.

If you have a recent iPhone model, chances are you can take advantage of eSIM technology. It’s especially useful for travelers, people who need separate work and personal numbers, or anyone who likes to switch between carriers easily.

As Apple continues to embrace eSIM technology, we can expect to see more innovations in how we connect our phones to cellular networks. Whether you’re using an eSIM now or considering it for the future, understanding this technology can help you make the most of your iPhone’s capabilities.

Remember to check your specific iPhone model and carrier support to see if eSIM is available for you. With the knowledge from this guide, you’re now well-equipped to navigate the world of iPhone eSIMs.