Which Phones Support eSIM? The Definitive Check

Alex has spent years navigating international mobile connectivity, from deciphering complex roaming plans to testing the latest eSIM technologies across dozens of countries. He's dedicated to helping travelers stay connected effortlessly and affordably.

As a StrongeSIM travel tech specialist, I've personally confirmed eSIM compatibility on countless devices, from the latest iPhones to diverse Android flagships. The question 'which phones support eSIM?' is one I get daily, and the good news is that checking your device is much simpler than you might think. This guide cuts through the confusion, offering you foolproof, direct methods to verify eSIM readiness, followed by a detailed, manufacturer-by-manufacturer breakdown that even covers regional exceptions and specific models. You'll know exactly if your phone is ready for seamless, affordable global data.

The Most Reliable Ways to Confirm eSIM Support

This is the definitive check. Your phone either has the necessary hardware and software, or it doesn't. These methods bypass confusing model numbers and regional differences to give you a direct answer, confirming which phones support eSIM.

Method 1: Check for an EID (eSIM Identifier) with a Dial Code

The Electronic Identity Document (EID) is a unique 32-digit identifier embedded in your phone's eSIM chip. If your phone displays an EID, it has an eSIM.

• Open your phone's dialer (the phone app).
• Type *#06# and press the call button.
• Immediately, a screen should pop up displaying various codes. Look for 'EID'. If you see a long string of numbers next to EID, your phone supports eSIM. If EID is absent, your phone likely does not. Some phones might show 'IMEI' or 'MEID' only.

I've personally used this *#06# dial code on my Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and my partner's iPhone 15 Pro Max, and it's foolproof. This method works for most iPhones and Android phones, regardless of manufacturer, as long as the dialer function is standard.

Method 2: Look for 'Add eSIM' or 'Add Data Plan' in Your Settings

The presence of an option to add an eSIM directly within your phone's mobile network settings is another clear indicator for devices that support eSIM.

• For iPhone (iOS): Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add eSIM (or Add Data Plan). If you see this option, your iPhone supports eSIM.
• For Android: Go to Settings > Network & internet (or Connections) > SIMs (or Mobile network) > Add eSIM (or Download a SIM). The exact wording and path can vary slightly between Android versions and manufacturers, but you're looking for an option to add a new SIM that isn't physical.

Which Phones Support eSIM? A Manufacturer-by-Manufacturer Guide

While the above checks are foolproof, it's helpful to understand the general landscape of eSIM compatibility across major brands. Our StrongeSIM team regularly tests these models to confirm eSIM functionality across regions, but it's crucial to understand that support can still vary by model, region, and even the specific carrier that sold you the phone. This section provides a list of phones that support eSIM by brand.

Apple iPhones

Apple has been a strong proponent of eSIM, and most of their recent models support it. All iPhones from the iPhone XS, XR, and newer (released from 2018 onwards) include eSIM capability.

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (Note: US models of iPhone 14 and newer are eSIM-only, with no physical SIM tray).
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

Most iPhones support Dual SIM with one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM. iPhone 13 models and newer can support two active eSIMs simultaneously. For US travelers with an iPhone 14 or 15, remember your phone is eSIM-only, so managing your home carrier's eSIM and a travel eSIM like StrongeSIM is straightforward.

Samsung Galaxy Phones

Samsung's eSIM adoption has been a bit more staggered and region-specific than Apple's. While many flagship models now support it, it's crucial to verify your exact device for specific Samsung phones that support eSIM.

• Galaxy S21 series (S21, S21+, S21 Ultra) and newer (S22, S23, S24 series)
• Galaxy Note 20 series (Note 20, Note 20 Ultra) – Note: US and Canadian versions of the S20 and Note 20 series typically lack eSIM support.
• Galaxy Fold series (Fold, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5)
• Galaxy Flip series (Z Flip, Z Flip3, Z Flip4, Z Flip5)

If you have a Samsung phone, especially an older flagship or one purchased in North America, use the dial code or settings check to be sure. Some regional variants of even newer models might omit eSIM, despite Samsung generally being a strong supporter of the technology.

Google Pixel Phones

Google Pixel devices have been early adopters of eSIM technology, generally offering strong support. These are the Google Pixel phones that support eSIM:

• Pixel 2 (only Google Fi versions)
• Pixel 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL
• Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a 5G
• Pixel 5, 5a
• Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
• Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
• Pixel 8, 8 Pro

All Pixel phones from Pixel 3 onwards, including the 'a' series, generally support eSIM.

Other Android Manufacturers (Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, Sony, Motorola)

For other Android brands, eSIM support is less universal and often confined to their top-tier flagship models. Moreover, regional variations are extremely common, so the direct check methods are paramount here for identifying which phones support eSIM from these brands.

• Xiaomi: Select newer flagship models like the Xiaomi 12T Pro (e.g., UK, Germany models), Xiaomi 13 series (global variants), and Xiaomi 14 series (global variants). Many Xiaomi phones, especially those sold in China, do not support eSIM.
• Huawei: Some newer P40 series models (P40, P40 Pro) and Mate 40 Pro. Again, regional availability is key.
• Oppo: Find X3 Pro (e.g., Australia, France, Singapore), Find X5, Find X5 Pro, Reno 6 Pro 5G (select regions).
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV, Xperia 5 IV, Xperia 10 IV and newer models often include eSIM.
• Motorola: Razr (all generations), Edge+ (2023), Edge 40, G52j 5G, G53j 5G, and other newer devices.

If you own a phone from one of these manufacturers, do not rely on a general list. Use the *#06# dial code or check your settings to confirm if your specific device is among the phones that support eSIM.

Common Traps and Exceptions to Watch For

Even if a model number appears on a 'supported list,' there are several reasons why your specific phone might not have eSIM capability. Understanding which phones support eSIM is nuanced.

Region-Specific Models

This is the biggest culprit for confusion. A phone model sold in one country might have different hardware than the same model sold elsewhere, even if other phones that support eSIM from the same manufacturer are common.

• China: iPhones sold in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao typically use two physical nano-SIM card slots and do not support eSIM. Many Android phones sold in China also omit eSIM.
• US/Canada Samsung: As mentioned, some US and Canadian variants of the Samsung Galaxy S20 and Note 20 series lack eSIM, unlike their international counterparts.
• Other Asian Markets: Some phones designed for specific Asian markets might prioritize dual physical SIM slots over eSIM.

Always perform the direct check on your device, especially if you bought your phone internationally, to be sure it's among the phones that support eSIM.

Carrier-Locked Phones

A phone purchased from a specific carrier (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, Vodafone) might be 'locked' to that network. Even if the phone technically has an eSIM, you might not be able to activate an eSIM from a different provider until the phone is unlocked. Contact your home carrier (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, O2) to inquire about unlocking policies. You can often check your phone's unlock status through your carrier's online portal, their dedicated app, or by calling their customer support line before international travel.

This is where solutions like StrongeSIM become invaluable. Even if your home carrier locks your phone, a StrongeSIM data eSIM can often bypass these restrictions for data usage abroad, offering an unlocked solution specifically for your travel connectivity needs. Our eSIMs are designed to work seamlessly on unlocked and compatible devices, ensuring you can connect without needing to unlock your primary SIM, regardless of which phones support eSIM.

Older or Budget Models

eSIM is a relatively new technology. Older smartphones, even flagships from before 2018, generally won't have it. Similarly, many budget or entry-level phones (even newer ones) often forgo eSIM to keep costs down, focusing instead on dual physical SIM slots. So, while many modern phones support eSIM, not all do.

Dual SIM vs. Dual eSIM

Many phones are advertised as 'Dual SIM' which means they can use two SIMs simultaneously. This could be two physical SIMs, or one physical SIM and one eSIM. If you need two active data connections, ensure your phone supports the combination you require. For example, iPhones 13 and newer support two active eSIMs, while older models supported one physical and one eSIM.

Why eSIM Matters for Travelers

Once you've confirmed your phone is among the phones that support eSIM, you unlock a world of connectivity benefits for travel. With an eSIM, you can instantly download a local data plan for your destination, avoiding expensive roaming charges from your home carrier. You keep your primary SIM active (allowing you to receive calls and texts on your home number), while using the eSIM for affordable data. This seamless integration means you're always connected without the usual travel headaches.

StrongeSIM offers data-only travel eSIMs in 197 countries, with plans starting around $3.50. You get instant QR delivery, keep your number, and can even use your phone's hotspot. It's a game-changer for staying connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards or unexpected roaming bills, making travel with phones that support eSIM incredibly convenient.

Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Japan, hiking the fjords of Norway, or relaxing on a beach in Mexico, having a seamless data connection makes all the difference. StrongeSIM ensures your compatible device can access reliable local networks, letting you share your adventures, navigate new cities, and stay in touch with ease.

Final Check: Confirm Your eSIM Readiness

The world of mobile technology evolves rapidly, but confirming eSIM compatibility is simpler than ever with our direct checks. Once you've verified your device, you're ready for seamless, affordable travel connectivity. Ditch roaming fees and stay connected globally: browse StrongeSIM's plans for 197 countries and get instant data for your next adventure.