Which iPhones and iOS devices support eSIM in 2024?

In 2024, iPhone eSIM support has become a standard feature across many of Apple’s models, offering flexibility for users to manage their network options seamlessly. In fact, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and any later model will support eSIM, with some devices even providing dual SIM functionality.

In this guide, we’ll cover the full range of compatible devices, including the more recent models, and explain how eSIM-only iPhones work in the USA. We’ll also see if eSIMs work on iPads, Apple Watches, and other iOS devices, and explain the activation processes for each.

First, is your iPhone eSIM-compatible? Here’s a complete list.

List of iPhones that support eSIM

Apple introduced eSIM capability with the iPhone XR, and has since expanded it across all newer models. With this function, users can manage multiple lines without needing a physical SIM card, which is particularly useful for frequent travelers or those who need a separate phone line for work.

Here’s a complete list of iPhones with eSIM support:

Given Apple’s dominance of the technology market for several decades, it’s not surprising that they have been quick to take up eSIM technology. As a result, most of their newer models have robust support.

Notably, iPhones from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao don’t have eSIM capability except for the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS. 

You may notice that iPhone models after the iPhone 14 don’t support physical SIM cards in the US. This will likely be the norm moving forward, but we’ll cover that in more detail moving forward.

List of iPads that support eSIM

Apple has also introduced eSIM compatibility across a variety of its iPad models. However, only iPads with 4G or 5G (cellular) connectivity support eSIM, since your iPad must be able to connect to the network in the first place.

Here’s a list of the eSIM-compatible models:

These iPads with eSIM give users multiple data options, useful for frequent travel. However, if you’re looking for the utmost convenience, it’s worth choosing one of the models with dual SIM support. That way, you can use a physical SIM at home and an eSIM when you travel.

The iPad and iPad 10th Generation, meanwhile, only allow for either a single eSIM or a single SIM card.

List of iOS smartwatches that support eSIM

Apple also features eSIM capability in several of its smartwatches. If you have an Apple Watch with GPS and cellular capabilities, then chances are that it supports eSIM, which means you can connect to the network directly from your watch without needing a phone nearby.

These are the Apple Watches that are compatible with eSIM:

• Apple Watch Series 3
• Apple Watch Series 4
• Apple Watch Series 5
• Apple Watch Series 6
• Apple Watch Series 7
• Apple Watch Series 8
• Apple Watch Series 9
• Apple Watch Series 10
• Apple Watch Ultra LTE
• Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen

With the GPS and cellular models, wearers can make calls, send texts, and use apps independently of their phones as long as they have an eSIM.

How to check if my iOS device supports eSIM

To Check if your iPhone or iPad supports eSIM, you can follow just a few simple steps. Generally, you’ll need to check the model number and carrier lock status to find out if you can install an eSIM.

On an iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap General, then About.
3. Tap Model Number until it changes to a format with an “A” followed by four numbers. This is the full model number.
4. Check via the Apple website that the model number is not specific to China, Hong Kong, or Macao. If it isn’t, then the device is likely eSIM compatible.
5. Return to the Settings > General > About screen. 
6. Scroll to Carrier Lock. If it says “No SIM restrictions”, your device is unlocked and ready to use with a new eSIM. 

On an iPad:

1. Open the Settings app. 
2. Tap General, then About.
3. Tap the Model Number until it changes to an “A” model number.
4. Check via the Apple website that the model number is not specific to regions where eSIM may be restricted.

You should also check whether your device is mentioned in the above lists as having eSIM capabilities. 

For the most accurate confirmation, contact Apple or your primary carrier, especially if you’re uncertain or if your device originates from a region with restrictions on eSIMs. 

Can you use eSIM and regular SIM with your iPhone?

Yes, you can use both an eSIM and a regular SIM simultaneously on any iPhone that supports dual SIM functionality. This setup, known as Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) allows you to have two active phone lines on the same device.

The following models support dual SIM:

• iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and 3rd generation)
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series (outside the USA)

If you want to activate and use both an eSIM and a physical SIM, here’s how:

1. Use the SIM tool to open the SIM tray, insert your physical SIM, and close the tray. Your phone should automatically recognize the SIM and prompt you to configure settings.
2. Then, go to Settings, tap Cellular, and Add Cellular Plan.
3. Scan the QR code sent by your eSIM provider using your device’s camera.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation.
5. After both plans are activated, go to Settings, then Cellular.
6. Label both of the lines so you know which is which (e.g. “Personal” and “Work”).
7. Select your primary line for voice and SMS, and assign each line to specific contacts if desired.
8. Select your primary line for data usage.

After that, you’re all set up. iPhones allow you to switch data usage between lines as needed, which means you can easily manage your plans from settings, or via the app of your chosen eSIM network.

iPhones and iOS devices and eSIM in the future

Apple’s decision to launch eSIM-only iPhones in the USA, starting with the iPhone 14 series, signals a shift toward a fully digital SIM future for this manufacturer. By eliminating the physical SIM tray, Apple has made these iPhones slimmer and simpler internally, aligning with the company’s preference for sleek, unified hardware design. 

This move also reflects a commitment to a streamlined user experience, where users can activate and switch carriers without handling a physical card. And the success of eSIM-only iPhones in the US hints that Apple could eventually roll out these models globally.

There’s also potential for Apple to try eSIM laptops. Other popular brands, like Lenovo, Dell, and HP, now sell eSIM-compatible laptops or 2-in-1 laptop/tablets. 

Currently, none of the Macbook models are compatible with eSIM, but since Apple sells smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets all with a heavy emphasis on eSIMs, this is something that may change in the future. For now, there have been no announcements or set plans in motion to add eSIMs to the Macbook range.

The wider tech industry is showing a trend toward embedded SIM solutions that offer users greater control and adaptability. With Apple’s eager uptake of eSIM-only devices in the USA, they seem to be leading this charge

Alessia Copolla

I’m Alessia Coppola, and I combine my love for writing with a passion for travel and staying connected. Through my work, I guide readers to the best solutions for staying connected while on the move, covering options like eSIMs, SIMs, and pocket Wi-Fi. My goal is to help travelers stay connected easily and seamlessly, no matter where they are in the world.