Meet the eSIM cards for Turkey, a new alternative to save money and time. We explain their rates, re...
eSIM Cards
You can use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time as long as your device has dual SIM functionality. Many modern smartphones, including most newer iPhones and Android devices, are equipped with dual SIM technology, which means you can use both an eSIM and a SIM card at the same time. To enable this […]
You can use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time as long as your device has dual SIM functionality. Many modern smartphones, including most newer iPhones and Android devices, are equipped with dual SIM technology, which means you can use both an eSIM and a SIM card at the same time.
To enable this setup, you’ll need to ensure your device supports dual SIM, then activate both SIMs through your phone’s settings. Start by inserting your physical SIM into its designated slot, then scan the eSIM QR code provided by your carrier to activate the eSIM. Once both are activated, you can customize which SIM handles specific tasks, such as data usage, calls, and texts, from your phone’s settings.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about using an eSIM physical SIM simultaneously. We’ll discuss the benefits, how to set up and manage your SIMs, and why you might need to use this feature.
Dual SIM functionality is a feature that allows a single device to use SIM profiles simultaneously, enabling users to manage two phone numbers or plans on the same phone. Traditionally, this was achieved by inserting two physical SIM cards into a dual SIM tray. However, with advancements in technology, many modern devices now also support eSIM as one of the two SIM options.
Dual SIM functionality allows you to enjoy the benefit of two networks, which can be useful for:
Modern devices with dual SIM capabilities often let users customize how to use each SIM and when. As a result, you get far more flexibility when it comes to using your data plans.
Using a physical SIM and an eSIM together can be a game-changer, but there are specific limits and requirements to consider.
For example, you’ll need:
If you have all three things, you should be able to use both SIM profiles with ease. However, there are some limits that might affect your experience, including:
As long as you understand these limitations, you can optimize your dual SIM setup to get the most out of your device’s capabilities.
Setting up and using an eSIM alongside a physical SIM means you can manage multiple plans, but you’ll need to set it up correctly to ensure you make the most of it.
Firstly, insert your physical SIM into its designated slot. With most phones, activation is automatic.
Then, activate your eSIM by scanning the QR code provided by your carrier, or by following their app-based activation process.
Once both SIMs are active, you can begin customizing their settings to optimize your experience.
Assigning labels helps you distinguish between your eSIM and physical SIM, making it easier to manage calls, texts, and data.
Ensure your eSIM is activated and ready to use in your settings. The process for doing this varies slightly on Android and iPhone, and it can also depend on your carrier. However, you can generally follow these steps.
You’ll then need to choose which SIM or eSIM you want to use for calls and texts by default. This will be the line that you use to send and receive calls and text messages.
Next, you’ll need to do the same thing for your data, selecting which line to use for internet usage. Notably, this line will also be used for things like iMessage and FaceTime, which work using data.
Switching between an eSIM and a physical SIM is really straightforward, and it allows you to alternate between network or plans depending on your needs. If you’re having trouble deciding which line to use for which purpose, it’s worth learning the difference between a physical SIM and an eSIM.
Generally, you’ll need to consider:
If you want to change lines, the steps are different on an iPhone and an Android.
On an iPhone:
On an Android:
Using a SIM and eSIM together offers significant advantages for users who need flexibility and enhanced connectivity. Here are some of the key benefits:
Yes, dual SIM and eSIM functionality allows you to make and receive calls from two separate numbers. You can assign one SIM or eSIM as the default for outgoing calls or choose which number to use before making a call. Incoming calls will automatically be routed to the corresponding number, meaning seamless management of both lines.
Yes, you can send SMS messages using either number. In your phone’s settings, you can set a default line for sending SMS and using data. However, you can switch lines at any time.
Yes, dual SIM and eSIM are excellent for travelers because they allow you to avoid roaming fees by activating an eSIM for local data. You can also manage costs and separate travel expenses by assigning specific tasks (like data) to the eSIM.
The best global eSIM provider
From $2.3/week
A reliable eSIM provider for budget travelers
From $2.4/week
The best global eSIM provider
From $2.3/week
A reliable eSIM provider for budget travelers
From $2.4/week
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
Reviews