Everything You Need to Know About eSIM: What It Is and Which Phones Support It
Over the past few years, you may have heard the term “eSIM” being mentioned when people talk about modern smartphones. But what exactly is an eSIM, how does it work, and why is it becoming so significant for mobile users in the UK and beyond?
In this guide we explain everything you need to know about eSIM technology, the key benefits, and which devices on the market today support it.
What Is eSIM?
An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM card that allows you to activate a mobile plan without using a physical SIM card. Unlike traditional SIM cards that are plastic and removable, an eSIM is embedded directly into the phone’s hardware.
This technology has been around in smart devices for a few years, but has recently gained traction because it simplifies switching between networks, using multiple numbers, and travelling overseas without needing a separate SIM card.
How eSIM Works
When you buy a phone with eSIM capability, your network provider sends your connection details over the internet instead of through a physical SIM card. Activating your number then becomes a matter of scanning a QR code or entering a provider’s details — all done digitally.
Many providers in the UK now support eSIM plans, and some let you use both a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time — ideal if you want one number for work and another for personal use.
Benefits of eSIM
eSIM technology brings several advantages:
- Flexibility: Easily switch between networks without changing a physical card.
- Dual SIM options: Many phones allow both an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously.
- Travelling convenience: Add a local data plan when abroad without swapping SIMs.
- Fewer lost or damaged SIM cards: No need to worry about tiny plastic cards.
Which Phones Support eSIM?
Support for eSIM varies by manufacturer and model. Below are popular phones that include eSIM support (either as the primary SIM option or alongside a physical SIM).
Apple iPhones with eSIM Support
Most recent Apple devices that support iOS include eSIM functionality. These include:
- iPhone XS, XS Max and XR
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series*
- iPhone 15 series*
(*Some models support dual eSIM or eSIM + physical SIM depending on the region.) If you’re considering a second-hand or affordable device, you can browse supported iPhone models at Envirofone’s iPhone page.
Samsung Phones with eSIM Support
Many newer Samsung Galaxy devices include eSIM, particularly in higher-end or recent models. Notable supported models include:
- Galaxy S20 series
- Galaxy S21 series
- Galaxy S22 series
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy S24 series
- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models (recent generations)
You can check availability of Samsung devices with eSIM support at Envirofone’s Samsung page.
Google Pixel Phones with eSIM
Most Google Pixel devices released in recent years also support eSIM, including:
- Pixel 3 and later (in certain regions)
- Pixel 4 series
- Pixel 5 series
- Pixel 6 series
- Pixel 7 series
- Pixel 8 series
For refurbished Google Pixel devices with eSIM support, see Envirofone’s Pixel page.
Other Phones with eSIM Support
A range of other devices also include eSIM, such as some Huawei, Sony and Motorola models — though support can vary by region and carrier.
If you’re unsure whether a specific model supports eSIM, most refurbishers and retailers list this feature in the device specifications.
How to Activate eSIM on Your Phone
The process varies slightly by carrier, but generally follows these steps:
- Choose an eSIM plan with your network provider.
- Scan the QR code provided by the carrier or enter the activation details.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to install the eSIM profile.
- Restart your phone if needed and confirm your connection.
Once installed, you can switch between eSIM profiles and physical SIMs in your phone’s settings without needing to open the SIM tray.
eSIM and Dual SIM Convenience
Many modern phones support both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time, commonly referred to as “dual SIM.” This lets you have, for example:
- A personal number and a work number on the same device
- A domestic plan and a local plan when travelling
- An eSIM for data and a physical SIM for voice
This flexibility is one of the biggest reasons eSIM is becoming more popular among frequent travellers, remote workers and anyone who juggles multiple networks.
Benefits of eSIM for Users in the UK
In the UK, most major networks, including EE, Vodafone, O2 and Three, now offer eSIM plans. That means:
- You can switch networks without waiting for a SIM card in the post
- You can activate a local data plan quickly when abroad
- You can keep multiple numbers active on one device
This convenience and speed are key reasons many users are choosing eSIM-capable devices.
Future of eSIM Technology
eSIM is likely to become the standard for smartphones and connected devices. Major manufacturers and carriers are increasingly embracing it, and some newer devices are phasing out physical SIM trays altogether.
As the technology evolves, features such as remote provisioning, multi-carrier support and seamless switching between networks will likely become more widespread.
Is eSIM Right for You?
If you value flexibility, ease of switching networks, and fewer physical parts to worry about, eSIM is an excellent choice. It’s especially useful if you travel frequently or use multiple numbers.
If you’re buying your next phone, consider eSIM support as a feature — and take a look at available models on Envirofone’s refurbished phone collection to find one that suits your needs and budget.
About Envirofone
Envirofone is one of the UK’s leading platforms for buying and selling refurbished technology. Choosing a device with eSIM support ensures greater flexibility and convenience for your mobile experience.
