We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. How we test and make money
Quick answer
iPhone XS, XR and every newer iPhone support eSIM, as do Google Pixel 3a and newer and many recent Samsung Galaxy phones. Your phone also has to be unlocked from your home carrier. The quick checks below take about a minute.
Quick check on any phone
Look in your SIM settings for an option to add an eSIM or a mobile plan. If it’s there, your phone supports eSIM. Many phones also show an EID number when you dial *#06#; an EID means the phone has an eSIM.
iPhone
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and all later models support eSIM.
- Check the lock: go to Settings > General > About. Carrier Lock should say No SIM Restrictions.
- If you bought your iPhone in China mainland, only certain models support eSIM there.
Google Pixel
- Pixel 3a and later can use an eSIM alongside a physical SIM.
- Pixel 7 and later can hold two eSIM profiles, if your carrier allows it.
- A Pixel 3a bought in Japan can’t use two SIMs.
Samsung Galaxy
- Some Galaxy phones have an eSIM and some don’t; it can depend on the model and the country you bought it in.
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you see Add mobile plan, your phone supports eSIM.
- You can find the EID at Settings > About phone > Status.
Is your phone unlocked?
A phone locked to your home carrier won’t accept another provider’s eSIM. On iPhone, use the Carrier Lock check above. On Android, ask your carrier, or try adding the eSIM: a locked phone usually refuses it. Unlock the phone before you travel.
Checked against the official guides: Apple Support: use an eSIM while traveling internationally, Apple Support: set up eSIM on iPhone, Google Pixel Help: use multiple SIMs, Samsung: how to use an eSIM with your Galaxy phone. Checked 20 October 2026. Menu names can differ slightly between phone models, software versions and countries.
Next steps
Joseph Larkin is the founder and editor of eSIM Mentor. He compares travel eSIM plans and checks every price on the provider's own website before it goes on the site, and every coupon is tried at checkout before it is listed. His aim is simple, honest advice that helps travelers pick the right plan and avoid roaming bills.
