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Looking to switch to eSIM on your iPhone XS? The excellent news for you is that this iPhone model is eSIM-compatible!
Even better, this nifty little technology can help you save money when coupled with a plan from a low-cost carrier.
In this guide, we'll dive into eSIM on the iPhone XS, exploring everything from installation to pros and cons to make sure switching to eSIM is the best fit for you.
eSIM on the iPhone XS
The iPhone XS is one of the first generations of iPhones that were made eSIM-compatible.
As a digital SIM card, the eSIM eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. This means you can have a secondary cell phone plan without needing a SIM card.
With the iPhone XS, you'll have dual SIM functionality. Dual SIM card support includes one physical SIM slot and one eSIM. So, you can have two phone numbers with different plans on a single device. This is ideal if you have two numbers you want to access on one device.
Dual SIMs also allow you to use more than one wireless network on the same device. And, if you enable cellular data switching, your phone will switch to whichever line has the best mobile data service, depending on coverage and availability.
The newest iPhones have dual eSIM support (eSIM-only), getting rid of the need for a traditional SIM card slot altogether.
How to install eSIM on an iPhone XS
Installing an eSIM on your iPhone XS is fast and easy. Here's how:
- Carrier: Contact your carrier and inquire about their eSIM offerings. They'll provide you with a QR code or activation details.
- Access settings: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone XS.
- Cellular: Tap on 'Cellular' and then 'Add Cellular Plan.'
- Scan QR code: If your carrier provided an eSIM QR code, simply scan it using your phone's camera. Alternatively, you can enter the activation details manually.
- Activate: Follow the prompts to activate your eSIM. Voila! You now have two cellular plans on one device.
- Select default phone number: Since you can have two phone numbers, choosing a preferred line is important. It's easy to switch phone numbers as needed.
Benefits of eSIM on the iPhone XS
- Cost savings: With eSIMs, you can easily switch between carriers to find the best deal for your needs, saving you significant money in the long run.
- Convenience: No more messing around with physical SIMs – eSIM plans allow you to switch carriers or plans with a few taps on your screen.
- Travel-friendly: When globetrotting, you can hop onto a local carrier's plan without needing a prepaid SIM card. No more sky-high roaming charges!
Disadvantages of eSIM on the iPhone XS
- Limited compatibility: Not all carriers support eSIMs, so you must make sure your chosen carrier offers this option.
- Device lock-in: Some carriers might lock your eSIM to their network, limiting your flexibility to switch carriers.
Which other iPhones support eSIM?
While the iPhone XS does support eSIM, it's not the only one. There are several other eSIM-compatible iPhone devices:
- iPhone SE 2 (2020)
- iPhone SE 3 (2022)
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
All of the above iPhones support eSIM functionality but still have a physical SIM card tray, apart from the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series, which don't support the traditional SIM card.
eSIM support on iPhone XS FAQs
No, the iPhone XS simultaneously supports one eSIM and one physical SIM card.
Yes, you can switch eSIMs by adding a new plan or replacing the existing one in your settings.
Yes, the iPhone XS offers dual SIM functionality, so you can use both an eSIM and a traditional SIM card simultaneously.
Recap
Embracing the power of eSIMs on your iPhone XS is a smart move for more flexibility and paired with an MVNO to cut your cell phone bill costs.
From cost savings to travel convenience, eSIMs offer a whole host of benefits that you don't want to miss out on. Whether you're considering a switch, it's worth exploring carriers that support eSIMs to make the most of this money-saving technology.
