How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone (All eSIM iPhones)

The transition from physical SIM cards to eSIM technology marks one of the most important evolutions in how to connect.

But if you’re considering an iPhone purchase or trying to maximize your current device’s capabilities, you might be wondering exactly how many eSIMs your iPhone can handle.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone?

In this guide, we’ll discuss all of the iPhone models with eSIM technology as well as how many eSIMs they can take.

Below is a quick glance at what iPhone models support eSIM and how many they can take:

Evolution of eSIM Support in iPhones

eSIM technology in iPhones represents Apple’s gradual but deliberate shift toward a more flexible and digital approach to cellular connectivity. This evolution has transformed from a supplementary feature to becoming the primary connection method in newer models.

When Apple first introduced eSIM technology in 2018 with the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, it was positioned as a complementary feature alongside the physical SIM card. These models are supported using one physical SIM and one eSIM simultaneously, giving users their first taste of dual-SIM functionality in an iPhone.

The timeline looks like this:

2018 (iPhone XS/XS Max/XR):

• First implementation of eSIM technology
• One physical SIM + one eSIM support
• Ability to store multiple eSIM profiles

2019-2021 (iPhone 11 through 13):

• Refined eSIM implementation
• Maintained physical SIM + eSIM dual setup
• Improved profile switching capabilities
• Enhanced storage for multiple eSIM profiles

2022 (iPhone 14):

• US models became eSIM-only
• Dual active eSIM support
• Eliminated physical SIM slot in US market
• Streamlined eSIM activation process

This progression shows Apple’s commitment to making eSIM technology more accessible and user-friendly while gradually preparing users for a future without physical SIM cards.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone 15 Series

The iPhone 15 series represents Apple’s most advanced implementation of eSIM technology to date, offering robust multi-eSIM capabilities that give users unprecedented flexibility in managing their cellular connections.

Active eSIM Support:

• Supports two simultaneously active eSIMs
• Allows users to maintain two active phone lines at once
• Both lines can receive calls and messages simultaneously
• Can utilize 5G on both active eSIMs (carrier dependent)

Storage Capacity:

• Can store eight or more eSIM profiles on the device
• Easily switch between stored profiles without needing to re-download
• Profiles remain securely stored until manually removed
• No degradation in performance when storing multiple profiles

Key Improvements Over Previous Models:

• Faster eSIM activation process
• More streamlined carrier switching
• Enhanced stability when using dual active eSIMs
• Improved power management when using multiple eSIMs

The iPhone 15’s eSIM implementation stands as a testament to Apple’s vision of a fully digital SIM experience, offering users maximum flexibility while maintaining the security and reliability they expect from an iPhone.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone 14 Series?

The iPhone 14 series marked a significant shift in Apple’s eSIM strategy, particularly in the US market where it became the first iPhone to completely eliminate the physical SIM tray. This bold move showcased Apple’s confidence in eSIM technology’s maturity.

Dual Active eSIM Support:

• Supports two active eSIM connections simultaneously
• Both lines maintain full functionality for calls, texts, and data
• Users can designate primary and secondary lines
• Label lines as “Personal” and “Business” for easy identification

Storage Capacity:

• Stores up to eight or more eSIM profiles
• Maintains stored profiles even when not in active use
• Quick switching between stored profiles
• No performance impact from storing multiple profiles

Regional Variations:

• US models: eSIM-only functionality
• International models: Combination of physical SIM + eSIM support
• All models support the same number of stored eSIM profiles
• Consistent dual active eSIM capability across regions

Key Features:

• Quick transfer of eSIM profiles from older iPhones
• Carrier activation directly from Settings
• Simple eSIM line management interface
• Support for major carriers worldwide

The iPhone 14’s eSIM implementation represented a crucial stepping stone between traditional SIM card usage and the fully digital future Apple envisions for cellular connectivity.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone 13 Series?

The iPhone 13 series represents a middle ground in Apple’s eSIM evolution, offering robust eSIM capabilities while maintaining the physical SIM option for users who prefer traditional connectivity methods.

Dual eSIM Support:

• Supports dual eSIM functionality
• Can use one eSIM + one physical SIM simultaneously
• Alternative configuration: two active eSIMs at once
• Full support for 5G on eSIM connections (carrier dependent)

Storage Capabilities:

• Stores eight or more eSIM profiles
• Retains stored profiles until manually deleted
• Easy profile management through Settings
• Minimal storage impact on device performance

Key Differences from iPhone 14:

• Retains physical SIM slot in all regions
• More flexible configuration options
• Similar profile storage capacity
• Slightly slower eSIM activation process

The iPhone 13’s implementation of eSIM technology offers a balanced approach, providing the benefits of digital SIM technology while maintaining compatibility with traditional physical SIM cards.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone 12 Series

The iPhone 12 series introduced several key improvements to Apple’s eSIM implementation while maintaining a familiar approach to dual SIM functionality that balanced traditional and digital connectivity options.

Single Active eSIM Configuration:

• Supports one active eSIM at a time
• Can be used alongside a physical SIM card
• 5G support on eSIM (carrier dependent)
• Seamless switching between stored profiles

Storage Capacity:

• Capable of storing eight or more eSIM profiles
• Profiles remain stored until manually removed
• No impact on device performance
• Easy access to stored profiles through Settings

Limitations Compared to Newer Models:

• Cannot use two active eSIMs simultaneously
• Slightly slower profile switching process
• More basic carrier activation interface
• Limited dual 5G support compared to newer models

The iPhone 12’s eSIM capabilities, while more limited than newer models, still provide significant flexibility for most users’ needs, especially those transitioning from traditional SIM card usage.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone 11 Series

The iPhone 11 series was one of Apple’s early adopters of eSIM technology, offering a solid foundation for digital SIM functionality while maintaining familiar physical SIM support. This implementation helped introduce many users to the benefits of eSIM technology.

Single Active eSIM Support:

• Supports one active eSIM at a time
• Works in conjunction with physical SIM card
• Cannot activate multiple eSIMs simultaneously
• Full support for 4G LTE on eSIM connections

Storage Capabilities:

• Stores eight or more eSIM profiles
• Secure storage of carrier credentials
• Profiles remain until manually deleted
• Simple profile management through Settings

Practical Applications:

• Great for first-time eSIM users
• Useful for international travel
• Effective for basic dual-line setup
• Backup carrier option storage

Limitations:

• No dual eSIM functionality
• Basic carrier activation process
• Limited to 4G LTE speeds
• Slower profile switching than newer models

The iPhone 11’s eSIM implementation, while more basic than current models, provided a reliable introduction to digital SIM technology and remains practical for users with straightforward connectivity needs.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max

The iPhone XS and XS Max marked Apple’s first venture into eSIM technology, introducing this revolutionary feature to the iPhone lineup. As pioneering models, they established the foundation for future eSIM implementations while offering users their first taste of digital SIM functionality.

Initial eSIM Implementation:

1. Support for one active eSIM
2. Functions alongside physical SIM card
3. First-generation eSIM activation process
4. Compatible with major carriers worldwide

Storage Capacity:

• Stores eight or more eSIM profiles
• Secure storage of carrier information
• Profiles remain until manually removed
• Basic profile management interface

Historical Significance:

• First iPhone models with eSIM support
• Introduced dual SIM capability to iPhone
• Paved way for future eSIM development
• Established core eSIM functionality

Technical Limitations:

• Single active eSIM only
• Original activation process can be slower
• Basic carrier switching interface
• Limited to 4G LTE on eSIM

As groundbreaking devices in Apple’s eSIM journey, the iPhone XS and XS Max demonstrated the potential of digital SIM technology while laying the groundwork for more advanced implementations in future models.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone XR

The iPhone XR, launched alongside the XS series, brought eSIM technology to a more affordable price point, democratizing access to digital SIM capabilities while maintaining core functionality comparable to its premium siblings.

eSIM Capabilities:

• Supports one active eSIM
• Works in tandem with physical SIM card
• Full 4G LTE support on eSIM
• Compatible with major global carriers

Profile Storage:

• Ability to store eight or more eSIM profiles
• Secure storage system
• Profiles maintained until manual deletion
• Basic but functional profile management

Budget-Friendly Benefits:

• Same core eSIM features as XS series
• More accessible price point
• Reliable dual SIM functionality
• Perfect entry point for eSIM adoption

Limitations:

• Single active eSIM only
• First-generation activation process
• Basic switching interface
• No 5G support

Despite its position as a more affordable option, the iPhone XR’s eSIM implementation matches its premium contemporaries, making it a significant model in bringing digital SIM technology to a broader audience.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) brought eSIM capabilities to Apple’s budget-conscious line, offering essential digital SIM features in a compact and affordable package that appeals to users seeking value without compromising on connectivity options.

Single eSIM Support:

• One active eSIM at a time
• Functions alongside physical SIM card
• Full 4G LTE support on eSIM
• Standard carrier compatibility

Storage Features:

• Stores eight or more eSIM profiles
• Secure profile storage system
• Profiles remain until manually deleted
• Straightforward management interface

Budget-Friendly Benefits:

• Most affordable eSIM-capable iPhone
• Essential dual SIM functionality
• Reliable performance
• Simplified setup process

Technical Limitations:

• Single active eSIM only
• Basic activation process
• Standard switching interface
• No 5G connectivity

The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) successfully democratized eSIM technology, making it accessible to users who prefer Apple’s more affordable options while maintaining core functionality comparable to its contemporary models.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone SE (3rd Generation)

The iPhone SE (3rd Generation) represents a significant upgrade in eSIM capabilities within Apple’s budget lineup, bringing more advanced digital SIM features while maintaining the series’ commitment to affordability and accessibility.

Enhanced eSIM Support:

• Supports dual active eSIM functionality
• Option to use physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously
• Full 5G support on eSIM (carrier dependent)
• Improved carrier activation process

Storage Capabilities:

• Stores eight or more eSIM profiles
• Enhanced secure storage system
• Long-term profile retention
• More intuitive profile management

Improvements Over 2nd Generation:

• Addition of dual eSIM support
• Faster profile switching
• 5G connectivity support
• Streamlined setup process

The 3rd Generation iPhone SE offers eSIM capabilities that closely match its premium counterparts while maintaining its position as a budget entry point to the iPhone ecosystem.

How Many eSIMs Can Be Used in iPhone X and Earlier Models

The iPhone X and earlier models represent the pre-eSIM era of Apple devices, where physical SIM cards were the only option for cellular connectivity. Understanding these limitations is crucial for users considering upgrades or managing expectations with older devices.

Complete Lack of eSIM Support:

• No eSIM capability
• Single physical SIM slot only
• No dual SIM functionality
• Traditional carrier activation required

Affected Models:

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

Connectivity Limitations:

• Must use physical SIM cards
• No option for digital carrier switching
• Single line operation only
• Manual SIM swapping required for carrier changes

For users still operating these devices, upgrading to an eSIM-capable iPhone would provide significant advantages in terms of flexibility and convenience in managing cellular connections.

Managing Multiple eSIMs on iPhone

The effective management of multiple eSIMs on your iPhone requires understanding the built-in tools and best practices that make switching between profiles and maintaining your cellular connections as seamless as possible.

Activating and Switching eSIMs

Adding a new eSIM to your iPhone is straightforward through Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. Most carriers provide either a QR code to scan or an app-based activation process. In some cases, you might need to enter activation details manually, but this is becoming increasingly rare as carriers streamline their processes.

Daily Management Best Practices

Clear labeling is crucial for managing multiple eSIM profiles effectively. Take time to name each profile meaningfully – for example, “Work US” or “Travel EU” – rather than leaving default carrier names. This simple step prevents confusion when switching between profiles.

For dual active eSIM users, designating primary and secondary lines helps manage calls and data usage effectively. You can set specific preferences for each line, such as which line to use for default calls or data.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When activation issues occur, they’re usually related to internet connectivity or carrier compatibility. Ensure you have a strong internet connection during activation, and verify that your carrier supports eSIM functionality for your specific iPhone model.

If you experience problems switching between profiles, a simple iPhone restart often resolves the issue. For persistent problems, checking for carrier settings updates or, as a last resort, resetting network settings can help restore proper functionality.

Essential Maintenance Tips

• Store activation codes and QR codes securely
• Regularly back up eSIM profiles to iCloud
• Maintain an updated list of carrier support contacts
• Review and remove unused profiles periodically

By following these management practices, you can ensure a smooth experience with multiple eSIMs while maintaining the flexibility and convenience that digital SIM technology offers.