iPhone eSIM Installation Tutorial: Complete Process from Purchase to Activation

iPhone has supported eSIM since XS / XR. This article uses iPhone as an example to explain the complete process from purchasing eSIM to activating upon landing, helping you get everything ready before departure.

Step 1: Confirm Your iPhone Supports eSIM

Supported Models:

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and all later models
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

Models Not Supporting eSIM: iPhone X and earlier models.

Not sure? Use this site's One-click Detection feature to quickly confirm whether your device supports eSIM.

Step 2: Purchase eSIM Plan

1. On this site's Compare page, select destination and travel days

2. Compare prices, data, validity period, and hotspot support

3. Click the plan to enter the provider's page to purchase

4. After purchase, you will receive a QR code or activation code (usually sent via email)

Step 3: Install eSIM

Method 1: Scan QR Code (Recommended)

1. Open iPhone "Settings" → "Cellular" → "Add eSIM"

2. Select "Use QR Code"

3. Scan the QR code received after purchase

4. Follow the prompts to complete installation, set a label for the new eSIM (e.g., "Travel")

Method 2: Manually Enter Activation Code

1. Open "Settings" → "Cellular" → "Add eSIM"

2. Select "Enter Details Manually"

3. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code received after purchase

Step 4: Configuration and Pre-Departure Testing

After installation is complete, it is recommended to perform the following checks:

Confirm "Data Roaming" is enabled (Settings → Cellular → Your eSIM → Data Roaming)
Test whether you can access the internet normally in a Wi-Fi environment before departure
Confirm APN has been automatically configured (most brands configure automatically)

Step 5: Activate Upon Landing

1. After arriving at your destination, turn off Airplane Mode

2. iPhone will automatically search for local networks and register

3. If there is still no service after 1-2 minutes, go to "Settings" → "Cellular" → Select your eSIM → "Network Selection" → Manually select a local carrier

4. Confirm signal bars appear and you can access the internet normally

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I keep the physical SIM card while using eSIM?

Yes. iPhone supports "physical SIM + eSIM" dual SIM dual standby. You can keep your domestic number to receive SMS and calls, and use eSIM for internet access.

Q: Does eSIM need to be activated immediately after installation?

Most plans start counting the validity period from installation or first network connection. It is recommended to install before departure, or confirm the plan's validity period start rules to avoid wasting days in advance.

Q: Do China mainland iPhones support eSIM?

China mainland iPhone XS and later models have hardware support for eSIM, but some early China mainland models are restricted at the software level. It is recommended to confirm compatibility with the provider before purchasing eSIM.

Q: How many eSIMs can one iPhone install?

iPhone can store multiple eSIM profiles simultaneously, but usually only 1-2 can be enabled at the same time. The specific number varies by model, newer models support more.

Q: What if there is still no internet after landing?

Try the following steps: Enable data roaming → Turn airplane mode off and on again → Manually select a carrier → Restart the phone. If it still doesn't work, contact the provider's customer service to obtain APN configuration information.