eSIM

Method for user identification in the mobile communications network

eSIM (“embedded SIM”) is a procedure that allows users to identify themselves in the network of a mobile communications provider. Unlike the “classic” SIM card (SIM = Subscriber Identification Module), which is a physical chip card, the eSIM requires a chip already installed in the end device. Registration then takes place promptly online.

eSIM-capable devices from Apple

iPhones

All iPhone models from the iPhone XR onwards are eSIM-compatible, which includes the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone SE (2020) and all successors to the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 generations.

Dual eSIM

Since generation 13, iPhones also support the use of eSIMs only or multiple eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray generally support two active eSIMs.

iPads

Some iPads also have an eSIM chip installed. The following models feature the component:

• iPad Pro 11 inches (from 1st gen.)
• iPad Pro 12.9 inches (from 3rd gen.)
• Apple iPad Air (from 3rd gen.)
• Apple iPad (from 7th gen.)
• Apple iPad mini (from 5th gen.)

eSIM under Android

Under Android, the following models, among others, are eSIM-capable (no claim that the list is complete).

• Google Pixel (from 3rd gen.)
• Samsung Galaxy S-Class (from S20)
• Samsung Galaxy Fold
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
• Huawei P (from P40)
• Motorola Razr (from 2019)

All three mobile network operators in Germany (Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, Telefónica) offer eSIM.

Dual SIM devices

Devices that are designed to accept and use two SIM cards or a SIM card and an eSIM are called dual-SIM models.

ePIN

To register an eSIM, users need an activation code, the so-called ePIN.

Links

• Phone plans