How to convert your physical SIM to eSIM on iPhone and Android (2025)

The SIM card has long been a small but essential component of our mobile devices, connecting us to our carriers with a simple plastic chip.

However, as technology evolves, the physical SIM is gradually being replaced by its digital counterpart, the eSIM.

Embedded directly into your phone's hardware, eSIMs eliminate the need for physical cards, offering seamless carrier switching, support for multiple profiles, and greater convenience.

This transition is particularly significant for iPhone users in the U.S., where models starting with the iPhone 14 and continuing through the latest iPhone 16 are eSIM-only, completely removing the traditional SIM tray.

This shift toward eSIM technology reflects a broader industry trend, with Android manufacturers also increasingly adopting the standard.

Whether you're upgrading to one of these newer iPhones or a modern Android device, converting your physical SIM to an eSIM is a straightforward process, provided your carrier supports it.

This guide will walk you through the steps for both platforms, ensuring a smooth transition to digital SIM technology.

What you need before converting to an eSIM

Before starting the conversion process, ensure your device supports eSIM technology. For iPhone users, this includes all models from the iPhone XS and XR onward, with the iPhone 14 and newer in the U.S. being eSIM-only.

Android users should check their device's specifications, as most flagship models from 2020 and later, such as the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, come with eSIM support.

Next, confirm that your carrier allows eSIM conversions. Major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon typically support eSIM, but smaller carriers or MVNOs may not.

Finally, ensure you have a stable internet connection, as eSIM activation requires downloading carrier profiles.

Converting a physical SIM to eSIM on iPhone

If your iPhone supports eSIM and you're using a physical SIM, you may be able to convert it directly from yoursettings:

• Open Settings > Cellular
• Tap Convert to eSIM (if you don’t see this, your carrier doesn’t support conversion)
• Tap Convert Cellular Plan
• Tap Convert to eSIM again to confirm
• Wait for your eSIM to activate, then remove your physical SIM

If the "Convert to eSIM" option is missing, your carrier may not support this feature, and you’ll need to contact them for assistance.

If you're transferring your eSIM to a different iPhone, these are the steps to follow:

• On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
• Choose Transfer from Nearby iPhone (both devices need iOS 16 or newer)
• Follow the on-screen steps on both devices and approve the transfer
• Or, scan a QR code provided by your carrier to activate the eSIM
• You can also enter activation details manually under Add Cellular Plan

Converting a physical SIM to eSIM on Android

The process on Android varies by manufacturer and carrier, but the following steps provide a general guideline:

• OpenSettingsand navigate toConnectionsorNetwork & Internet.
• SelectSIM ManagerorSIMs.
• TapAdd Mobile PlanorDownload SIM.
• Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or enter the details manually.

For Samsung devices, the process is slightly more streamlined:

• Go toSettings>Connections>SIM Card Manager.
• Select your physical SIM.
• TapConvert to eSIMand follow the on-screen instructions.

If your carrier doesn’t provide a QR code, you may need to contact them directly to initiate the eSIM activation process.

Troubleshooting common issues

If you encounter issues during the conversion, start by ensuring your device and carrier support eSIM technology.

If the "Convert to eSIM" option is missing, your carrier may require you to request an eSIM profile manually. For QR code scanning problems, check that your camera is functioning properly and that the code is clearly visible.

If activation fails, restart your device and ensure you’re connected to a stable internet connection.

Things to know before you switch

Once you convert a physical SIM to an eSIM, the physical card becomes inactive. If you’re switching phones permanently, some carriers might need to issue a new eSIM for the new device.

Also, not all eSIM activations are reversible. If you want to go back to a physical SIM later, you’ll likely need to request a new card from your carrier.

Dual SIM setups work a bit differently. Some phones let you use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time, while others allow two eSIMs but no physical SIM. Check your device’s SIM configuration if you plan to use multiple lines.

Why switch to an eSIM?

eSIMs bring several advantages over traditional SIM cards. For starters, they remove the hassle of physically swapping cards, which is particularly useful for those who frequently switch carriers or travel internationally.

With an eSIM, you can store multiple carrier profiles on a single device, making it easier to manage personal and work numbers or take advantage of local data plans abroad. Additionally, eSIMs are more environmentally friendly, reducing the need for plastic SIM cards.

However, there are a few limitations to consider. Not all carriers support eSIM conversions, and some older devices lack eSIM functionality entirely.

If you’re switching between iPhone and Android, you may also need assistance from your carrier, as the process isn’t always seamless across platforms.

Whether you’re making the switch today or waiting for broader adoption, understanding the process ensures you’re prepared for the next step in mobile connectivity.

Source(s)

Antony Muchiri - Tech Writer - 11 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025

I’ve been obsessed with tech for as long as I can remember, so much so that I’ve become the unofficial "tech support" for my entire family. Whether it’s fixing gadgets, explaining specs, or recommending the best buys, I love breaking down tech for everyday people. That passion led me to writing about tech. When I’m not testing gadgets or writing reviews, you’ll probably find me hiking or doom-scrolling car listings (still hunting for my first ride, wish me luck, lol).