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How many eSIM cards can I activate on my iPhone?
Are you an iPhone user wondering about eSIM cards? Find out how many eSIM cards you can activate in your cellphone and so much more in this article!
Got a new iPhone that works only with eSIMs? You’re probably thinking how many eSIMs you can activate on it, especially if you’re running a business or frequently traveling.
We’ll tell you everything about how many eSIM cards you can activate on your iPhone, as well as tell you about one of the best alternatives to stay connected when abroad, the Holafly eSIM.
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What is eSIM on iPhone?
Both for iPhones and other devices, an eSIM is a virtual SIM card embedded in your device that allows you to use mobile phone services without needing a physical SIM.
There is no doubt that the eSIM card has changed how we connect to the internet nowadays; with it, you don’t have to worry about losing or breaking it. It’s totally digital!
What iPhone is eSIM compatible?
Since it is a very new technology, not all devices can support it yet, so it is important to ensure that your cellphone is eSIM compatible before getting or activating an eSIM.
Currently, the iPhone versions that are compatible are the following: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and Max, iPhone SE 2 (2020), iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, iPhone 16, iPhone 17 and more recent models. To see the complete list, check our eSIM-compatible phones list.
Can I activate multiple eSIMs on iPhone?
Now that you have read the general information, it is important to know how many eSIM cards can be activated on your cellphone. It is possible to store eight or more eSIM cards in the same iPhone, it depends on the version and model, but it is important to note that you won’t be able to use all of them at the same time.
eSIM activation: How many eSIMs can be used in a phone?
It does not matter if it is an eSIM card from a local or international provider, you will only be able to use two eSIM cards at the same time, which you will have to pick depending on the usage and the service it offers.
- You can use 1 physical SIM card and 1 eSIM: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone SE (3rd generation), and eSIM iPhone 14.
- iPhone that can use 2 eSIM cards: iPhone 17, iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 13, iPhone SE (3rd generation), and other eligible devices.
But remember that not all eSIM cards are available in all countries or regions. Holafly is one of the preferred providers for travelers with options in more than 200 destinations including the eSIM for Southeast Asia.
How does the eSIM card work?
You can only use two eSIM cards simultaneously or a traditional SIM card for iPhone and an eSIM, which will depend on the model of your iPhone. Both numbers or services can work to make and receive calls and send SMS and iMessage.
The best part is that with the Holafly eSIM, if you have a SIM slot, you can keep your old SIM and still use an eSIM hassle-free.
Note: With the iPhone, you can only use one eSIM card with cellular data at a time. You cannot have two cellular data networks at the same time.
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Frequent questions about how many eSIM cards you can activate at the same time
An eSIM card has only a telephone line or service. The eSIM card works exclusively with one network provider.
Usually, the activation process does not come along with any fee. The price of the eSIM card is the only one that you pay when you complete the purchase.
You have to install both eSIM cards and activate the service in Settings > mobile/cellular data. There you will find the eSIM cards that are installed and change their numbers, and the label to use one line as a parent and another as a child.
You can only activate one eSIM card, even when you are using two.
Yes, if your device supports dual eSIM you are able to activate two eSIMs at the same time.
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Hi, I'm Brenda Beltrán. I'm passionate about travel, technology, and video games. In 2019, I started my career as a journalist in entertainment and technology. Then, I discovered that content creation was my true calling. Now, at Holafly, I'm dedicated to sharing travel tips and experiences that will make your adventures unforgettable. ✈️ Hola, soy Brenda Beltrán, apasionada por los viajes, la tecnología y los videojuegos. Desde mis inicios en 2019 como periodista en entretenimiento y tecnología, descubrí que la creación de contenido era mi verdadera vocación. Hoy, en Holafly, me dedico a compartir consejos y experiencias de viaje para que cada una de tus aventuras sean memorables.✈️
