Quick answer: your network gives you an eSIM by QR code or in its app. To move one to a new phone, use the transfer option during set-up or in your SIM settings – and keep the old phone until the new one shows signal.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a SIM built into the phone, downloaded from your network instead of being a plastic card. Most recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones support eSIM, and some – such as iPhone Air – only use eSIM. Many phones can use a physical SIM and an eSIM together – handy for a work number or travel data.
Add an eSIM
iPhone
Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM. Scan your network’s QR code or choose to transfer from a nearby iPhone.
Samsung
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM.
Google Pixel
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → add a SIM → Download a SIM instead?
Moving to a new phone
- Connect both phones to Wi-Fi and keep them charged and side by side.
- iPhone to iPhone: choose to transfer your number during Quick Start, or later in Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Transfer from nearby iPhone.
- Android, or switching between iPhone and Android: many networks support transfer in the phone’s set-up; if not, request a new eSIM in your network’s app or by calling them.
- Don’t delete the eSIM from the old phone until the new one has signal and can make a call.
Before you erase or sell a phone, make sure your eSIM has moved or been removed – erasing a phone can delete an eSIM you still need.
No Service after switching?
- Restart the phone and toggle Airplane Mode.
- Check the eSIM line is turned on and chosen for mobile data.
- Check for a carrier settings update (iPhone: Settings → General → About).
- Still nothing? Your network can reissue the eSIM – they’ll ask security questions first.
More signal fixes: No signal or No SIM.
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