iPhone 13 is eSIM compatible. It has Dual SIM, so it can have a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously. This allows you to have two active numbers on a single phone. All iPhone 13 models support eSIM, and you can even have two eSIMs on a single phone.
Roami was founded to serve as a trusted resource for travelers in need of reliable internet solutions abroad. Our team, comprising avid travelers, provides comprehensive reviews and guidance on data SIM cards, eSIMs, pocket WiFi devices, and free WiFi apps, drawing from firsthand usage during our travels.
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An eSIM is safer than a standard SIM since it can't be taken out if your iPhone is stolen or you lose your iPhone. You don't need to swap physical SIM cards, which can be lost, and you don't need to wait for them to be sent to you if you're ordering an international one for travel.
However, not all phones support eSIMs. A lot of older devices don’t have the capability to use eSIMs, and it can also depend on where the iPhone was purchased, since some regions do not have this available.
Here we’ll outline all the information you’ll need to know about iPhone 13 eSIM compatibility.
Does iPhone 13 support eSIM?
Yes, eSIM is supported on iPhone 13. That means individuals can change and add phone plans without ever using a physical SIM card to give them increased convenience and independence. You have the ability to use two eSIMs simultaneously with a physical SIM card in iPhone 13 and other devices.
Do all iPhone 13 models support eSIM?
You might be wondering can all iPhone 13 models use eSIM and the answer is yes. All models of the iPhone 13 series—iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max—are eSIM card-supporting devices. With this feature, you can have a digital SIM card. You can choose to have this digital SIM card along with a physical SIM card or replace the physical SIM card with it. You can have two eSIMs together, apart from a physical SIM.
What you need to know before getting an eSIM for iPhone 13
Before you get an eSIM for iPhone 13, there are a few things you should bear in mind. This includes compatibility and carrier support, along with how you activate it. Find out more details below:
Check Compatibility: eSIM is compatible with most newer iPhones, but it does not hurt to double-check if the iPhone 13 is compatible with eSIM, as it can be region locked.
Check Carrier Support: Check that your mobile carrier allows eSIM. It's a good idea to contact them before buying an eSIM.
Compare and Research eSIMs: Research different eSIMs before buying. Compare them and find the best among them that you require. You can get an eSIM online from various companies.
Activation method: You have some activation options. You can activate with a QR code or Apple's eSIM Carrier Activation.
Find Dual SIM Requirements: Your iPhone needs to be unlocked if you wish to use a physical SIM or eSIM from various carriers.
Activation via Wi-Fi: You will require a Wi-Fi connection in order to activate or reactivate your eSIM. iPhones starting from model 14, which are eSIM-only, do not require Wi-Fi for reactivation.
How to install an eSIM on the iPhone 13
There are a variety of ways to install an eSIM on an iPhone 13, including via QR code, transfer from another nearby iPhone, and manual entry of the details from your carrier. Follow the steps given below for easy installation.
Prepare your iPhone: Make sure your iPhone 13 is using the latest version of iOS.
You’ll also need to check that your carrier supports eSIM cards.
Choose installation method:
You can choose to install the eSIM from a QR code or transfer from a nearby iPhone. Under “Use QR Code,” you also have the option to manually activate the eSIM by providing the activation code and SM-DP+ address from your carrier.
Set up your eSIM: After installation, you can choose if you want the eSIM to be your primary or secondary contact number in iPhone’s Cellular settings.
You may then need to configure the eSIM for cellular data or mobile data. If “Allow Cellular Data Switching” is turned on, then you may be potentially charged on your other SIM.
How to activate eSIM on the iPhone 13
Activating your eSIM on the iPhone 13 requires the use of a QR code that your carrier provides you with or by manually entering the eSIM details. More detailed activation instructions are as follows:
Locate eSIM Setup: Tap on “Settings” and then open “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” and navigate to “Add Cellular Plan” or “Add eSIM”.
Choose how to activate your eSIM: You can either use the QR code that your carrier provides you and scan it with the iPhone camera, or enter the details manually.
Follow the instructions: The iPhone may ask you to label the cellular plan and set up which line is the default for calls and iMessages. You can also configure which line is used for cellular data and whether cellular data switching should be turned on or off.
Complete setup: After following the prompts, the eSIM should be activated and ready for use.
Benefits of Using eSIM on iPhone 13
An eSIM on an iPhone 13 is really handy. It makes it more convenient and offers you flexibility. It also offers security for your phone. With an eSIM, switching SIM cards is easy. You can also have multiple profiles on one phone. This is really helpful if you travel a lot or if you would like to have work and personal numbers on one phone. It saves you the trouble of keeping two phones and not complicating your life.
A more detailed explanation of the benefits:
Convenience and flexibility: Switch between different cell plans without having to swap physical SIM cards. It is convenient for traveling abroad or carrying many phone numbers on one phone. iPhones can support up to eight eSIMs.
Travel seamlessly: Switching to an eSIM abroad can do away with expensive roaming fees that can be racked up on your home network.
Improved security: eSIM cards cannot be taken out or tampered with physically if your phone is lost or stolen. Physical SIM cards can also be easily lost or misplaced since they are small.
Activation simplified: eSIM cards mean there is no longer a waiting game for receiving a physical card to be posted to you or a trip to the store. You typically need to simply scan a QR code, and you're live.
How to choose the best eSIM provider for your iPhone 13
There are a couple of things you want to search for when it comes to finding the best eSIM carrier for your iPhone 13. These are global coverage and network speed, as well as security and compatibility.
Here's a closer look at what to search for:
Coverage: Look at plans in your local area, but also take a look at global coverage if you're traveling.
Data plans and rates: The carriers will offer different data plans and rate structures that you'll need to choose based on your needs. Unlimited plans are a good choice if you use your phone heavily.
Network speed: Check the network speed and reliability, as well as whether the carrier is 5G-capable, if you need high-speed internet access.
Compatibility: Check that the carrier supports your iPhone 13 and see what customer support options they offer if you’re planning on traveling.
Activation and use: Look out for providers who provide a convenient activation process in an app or with a QR code that offers a user-friendly interface along with simple instructions for setup.
Two of the best eSIM providers are Holafly and Airalo. Holafly is convenient and simple to use while overseas. Airalo has different options for global use and tailoring to local and regional needs as well.
FAQ
Do all iPhones support eSIM?
While you may be researching if the iPhone 13 is eSIM compatible, not all iPhone models support eSIM. Since the XR and XS models, most iPhones have eSIM capability. In fact, iPhone 14 models, which were later purchased in the U.S., are eSIM only and no longer accept physical SIM cards.
iPhone eSIM supported models include: iPhone XR, XS, XS Max and later models such as the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 series as well as iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generation but you might like to check the full list of eSIM compatible phones before purchasing an eSIM just in case.
Older models like the iPhone X and 7 are not eSIM supported.
How do I check if my iPhone 13 supports eSIM?
There are a few ways you can tell if your iPhone 13 supports eSIM. One is to check for the IMEI. To do this, go to "Settings" and under "General", select "About". If the IMEI is a 15-digit number, then your iPhone will support eSIM. Another method is to go to "Cellular" or "Mobile Data" in "Settings" and see if it has the option to "Add eSIM".
Why is eSIM not working in the iPhone 13?
An eSIM may not work due to reasons like incorrect activation, carrier setup, or telephone or network problems. You will also need to check that the plan you use allows Dual SIM service. Should you have past settings, you can then redo these in "Settings" > "About" in "General".
Can I have two eSIMs on an iPhone 13?
iPhone 13 can support two eSIMs because it also supports dual SIMs. It is, therefore, possible for you to use two phone plans simultaneously. You can use a single physical SIM card and an eSIM, for instance, or use two eSIMs. The device can store various eSIMs, although there can be just two at any given time.
Adventurer, passionate traveler, and tech enthusiast. On Roami, I aim at sharing the best solutions to help you navigate the complexities of staying connected abroad, ensuring a hassle-free experience. I enjoy playing chess, reading Brian Greene, and exploring different cultures!
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