Quick answer: Your phone is eSIM compatible if it is a recent iPhone, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy model and it shows an EID (a 32-digit eSIM chip ID) in its settings. Compatible is not enough for a travel eSIM, though. The phone must also be carrier-unlocked.

Which phones are eSIM compatible?

An eSIM is a SIM that lives inside your phone instead of on a removable card. The chip that holds it is called an eUICC, a term that GSMA, the mobile industry body, notes comes from "embedded UICC". Think of it as a blank notebook: your plan gets written into it digitally, with no card to swap.

Here is what the phone makers say:

  • iPhone: Apple lists the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and every later model.
  • Google Pixel: Google says all Pixel 4 phones and later work with eSIM. Some older models, such as the Pixel 3 and 3a, depend on where you bought them.
  • Samsung Galaxy: Samsung lists Galaxy S20 and later S-series phones, many Z Fold and Z Flip models, some A-series phones and some tablets.

Not sure about your model? Use the eSIMzee device checker.

How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?

Look for an EID, the Embedded Identity Document. It is the serial number of the eSIM chip. If your phone has one, it has an eSIM chip.

  1. iPhone: open Settings, tap General, then About. Apple says to scroll down to find the EID.
  2. Pixel: Google says your carrier may ask for Pixel ID numbers such as the EID, and its help center has a page on finding them. Pixel 4 and later all support eSIM, so you can skip the check.
  3. Samsung and other Android phones: open Settings, then Connections, then SIM manager. If you see an Add eSIM option, the phone supports it, as in Samsung's setup steps.

On many phones you can also dial *#06# to see the EID. None of the maker pages above lists this shortcut, so treat it as a quick extra check, not proof.

Does an eSIM compatible phone work with every travel eSIM?

No. Compatibility and lock status are two separate things. A locked phone only accepts plans from one carrier.

On an iPhone, Apple explains the check: open Settings, General, About, and look at Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means the phone is unlocked. If you see a carrier name, only that carrier can unlock it. Apple cannot do it for you.

Apple adds that to use two carriers on one iPhone, the carrier must unlock it, or both plans must come from the same carrier. Samsung also says a new Galaxy must be unlocked for eSIM Instant Transfer.

Choose a travel eSIM if your phone is eSIM compatible and unlocked. Contact your carrier first if it is locked or still on a payment plan.

Do some phones lose eSIM in certain countries?

Yes. Where you bought the phone matters. Apple says that in China mainland only iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 17e and iPhone Air support eSIM. In Hong Kong and Macao, certain iPhone models have two nano-SIM slots instead.

Samsung warns that eSIM may not work in your country even if your model is listed. Google says Pixel 3 phones bought in Australia, Taiwan and Japan do not work with eSIM. Check the box or the model number if you bought abroad.

What should I do once I know my phone is compatible?

Next, pick a plan that matches your trip. Compare plans by country on the eSIMzee providers page, and estimate how much data you need with the data calculator.

Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before you fly. Apple tells you to connect your iPhone to a Wi-Fi network or hotspot before setting up an eSIM. Apple also says Dual SIM lets you keep one number for home and add another for a travel line, so you do not have to give up your usual number.

Frequently asked questions

Can I find out if my phone supports eSIM without opening settings?

Check your model on the maker's support page. Apple, Google and Samsung each publish the supported models linked above.

What is an EID?

It is the unique ID of the eSIM chip inside your phone. Carriers and providers may ask for it when they set up a plan. Apple shows it under Settings, General, About.

Can a Wi-Fi only tablet use an eSIM?

No. Samsung states that Wi-Fi only tablet models do not support eSIM. You need a cellular model.

My phone supports eSIM but my travel eSIM will not install. Why?

A carrier lock is one possible cause. Check that the phone is unlocked, then connect to Wi-Fi before you try again.

Does eSIM work on the iPhone I bought in China?

Only on the models Apple names for China mainland: iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 17e and iPhone Air.

Sources