What is an eSIM and why would you use one?

An eSIM is a built-in, digital SIM card that is already inside your smartphone. Unlike a traditional physical SIM card, you no longer need to insert a small plastic card into your phone. The eSIM is activated entirely digitally, which makes the process a lot easier.

More and more smartphones support eSIM technology, including the latest iPhone models, Samsung Galaxy phones and Google Pixel devices. The big advantage of an eSIM is that you can switch quickly and easily between providers or plans, without having to go to a store for a new SIM card.

Benefits of an eSIM

  • No physical SIM card needed: You don't have to wait for shipping or go to a store
  • Multiple numbers on one phone: Ideal for keeping work and personal separate
  • Easy switching: Switch easily between different providers
  • More environmentally friendly: No more plastic SIM cards needed
  • Handy when traveling: Quickly activate a local provider abroad

Check whether your phone supports eSIM

Before you can activate an eSIM, you first need to check whether your smartphone supports this technology. Not every phone has an eSIM chip built in.

Checking eSIM support on iPhone

Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down and look for the line "Available SIM". If you see "eSIM" there, your iPhone supports this feature. All iPhones from the iPhone XS and newer support eSIM.

Checking eSIM support on Android

Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. If you see an option to add or download an eSIM, your phone supports eSIM. On Samsung phones you can find this under Settings > Connections > SIM manager.

Step by step: activating an eSIM on iPhone

Activating an eSIM on your iPhone is a simple process that is usually done within a few minutes. Make sure you are connected to a Wi-Fi network before you start.

Method 1: Activating an eSIM with a QR code

Most providers send you a QR code that you can use to activate the eSIM. This is the most common method.

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
  2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data
  3. Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan
  4. Choose Use QR Code
  5. Scan the QR code you received from your provider
  6. Wait until the eSIM has been downloaded and activated
  7. Give your new plan a name, for example "Work" or "Personal"
  8. Choose which number you want to use as the default for calls, texts and data

Method 2: Activating an eSIM through the provider app

Some providers offer their own app that lets you activate the eSIM directly, without a QR code.

  1. Download your provider's app from the App Store
  2. Log in with your account details
  3. Find the option to activate your eSIM
  4. Follow the instructions in the app
  5. The eSIM is added to your iPhone automatically

Step by step: activating an eSIM on Android

The activation process on Android phones is very similar to the one on iPhone, although the exact steps can differ slightly by manufacturer.

Activating an eSIM on Samsung

  1. Open Settings on your Samsung phone
  2. Go to Connections > SIM manager
  3. Tap Add mobile plan
  4. Choose Scan with camera to scan a QR code
  5. Point the camera at your provider's QR code
  6. Confirm the activation and wait until the profile has been downloaded
  7. Turn on the eSIM by flipping the switch

Activating an eSIM on Google Pixel

  1. Open the Settings app
  2. Tap Network & internet > SIMs
  3. Tap the plus sign (+) to add a SIM
  4. Choose Download a SIM
  5. Scan the QR code or enter the activation code manually
  6. Follow the further instructions on the screen

Common problems with eSIM activation

Sometimes activating an eSIM doesn't go entirely smoothly. Below you'll find solutions to the most common problems.

The QR code is not recognized

If your phone can't scan the QR code, try the following:

  • Make sure there is enough light when scanning
  • Hold the camera about 20 centimeters from the code
  • Clean the camera lens
  • Try opening the code on another screen (not on a screen that is too small)
  • Ask your provider for a new QR code if it seems damaged

Error message during activation

Getting an error message? Here is what you can try:

  • Check whether you are connected to Wi-Fi
  • Restart your phone and try again
  • Check whether your phone has the latest software update
  • Contact your provider if the problem persists

eSIM doesn't work after activation

If the eSIM has been activated but doesn't work:

  • Check whether the eSIM is turned on in the settings
  • Make sure the eSIM is selected for mobile data
  • Turn airplane mode on briefly and then off again
  • Restart your phone

Using an eSIM with a physical SIM (Dual SIM)

A big advantage of eSIM is the ability to use two numbers at the same time on one phone. This is called Dual SIM. For example, you can use your business number as an eSIM and keep your personal number on the physical SIM card.

Setting up Dual SIM

After you have activated your eSIM, you can choose which number you want to use for different functions:

  • Default line for calls: Choose which number is used when you make a call
  • Default line for texts: Decide which number messages are sent from
  • Mobile data: Select which plan your mobile data uses

You can always change these settings through the SIM settings on your phone.

Tips for using an eSIM when traveling

An eSIM is especially handy when you travel abroad. Instead of buying a local SIM card, you can activate an eSIM from a local or international provider in advance.

Benefits of an eSIM when traveling

  • Activate a local data plan before you leave
  • Avoid high roaming charges
  • Keep your Dutch number so you stay reachable
  • Switch easily between providers in different countries

Several providers offer eSIM plans specifically for travelers. These often offer data bundles for specific countries or regions at attractive rates. Always compare prices and terms before you make a choice.

Frequently asked questions about eSIM

Can I keep my current number when I switch to an eSIM?

Yes, you can transfer your existing phone number to an eSIM. This process is called number porting. Contact your provider to arrange this. They make sure your number is linked to your new eSIM. The transfer usually takes one to three business days.

What happens to my eSIM if I buy a new phone?

When you buy a new phone, you need to activate the eSIM again on the new device. The eSIM is linked to the chip in your current phone and cannot be transferred. Ask your provider for a new QR code or activation code for your new phone. Don't forget to remove the eSIM from your old phone first.

Can I have multiple eSIM profiles on my phone?

Yes, most modern smartphones can store multiple eSIM profiles. However, you can usually have only one or two profiles active at the same time, depending on your phone model. This is useful if you regularly switch between different providers or if you have both a business and a personal plan.

Is an eSIM safe to use?

Yes, an eSIM is very safe. Because the SIM card is built into your phone, it can't be stolen or copied like a physical SIM card. In addition, the eSIM is protected by the same security measures as the rest of your phone. If your phone is stolen, you can have your provider block the eSIM remotely.