How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone

Complete guide to activate and configure eSIM on your iPhone. Step-by-step instructions for adding cellular plans without physical SIM cards.

1. Check eSIM compatibility. Open Settings > General > About and scroll down to find your IMEI numbers. If you see multiple IMEI entries, your iPhone supports eSIM. eSIM works on iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and all newer models running iOS 12.1 or later.
2. Contact your carrier for eSIM activation. Call your wireless carrier or visit their website to request eSIM service. They will provide either a QR code, carrier app download instructions, or manual activation details. Some carriers can convert your existing physical SIM to eSIM remotely.
3. Add the eSIM plan to your iPhone. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If your carrier provided a QR code, tap 'Use QR Code' and scan it. For carrier apps, download the app from the App Store first, then return to this menu. For manual entry, tap 'Enter Details Manually' and input the activation details.
4. Confirm the cellular plan activation. Your iPhone will download the carrier settings and display a confirmation screen. Tap 'Done' when activation completes. You should see signal bars appear and your carrier name in the status bar within 2-3 minutes.
5. Configure line labels and default settings. In Settings > Cellular, tap each line to assign custom labels like 'Personal' or 'Work'. Set your default line for voice calls, messages, and cellular data. Choose which line to use for iMessage and FaceTime in Settings > Messages and Settings > FaceTime respectively.
6. Test both voice and data connectivity. Make a test call and send a text message from each line to verify functionality. Open Safari and browse a website to confirm data connectivity. Check that you can receive calls and messages on both lines.
7. Remove the physical SIM if converting. Once eSIM works correctly, power off your iPhone and carefully remove the physical SIM card using the SIM ejection tool. Store the physical SIM safely as a backup. Power on your iPhone and verify eSIM connectivity remains active.