Quick answer
Your phone supports eSIM if dialing *#06# shows an EID number. It must also be carrier-unlocked. iPhone XS, XR, and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer usually support eSIM, with some regional exceptions. Check the exact phone, not just the brand.
How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?
Use either of these checks.
- Dial *#06#. If the screen shows an EID (a long number), the phone supports eSIM.
- iPhone: Settings, then General, then About. Look for an EID entry.
- Android: Settings, then the SIM or Connections menu. Look for Add eSIM or Download SIM.
Is my phone carrier-unlocked?
A phone bought on contract may be locked to your home carrier, and then it will refuse another carrier’s eSIM. On iPhone, go to Settings, General, About, and look at Carrier Lock: it should say No SIM restrictions. On Android, ask your carrier, or try another SIM card in the phone.
Which phones usually do not support eSIM?
Some phones sold in mainland China, including many iPhones, use two physical SIM slots and have no eSIM. Many budget and older Android phones also lack eSIM, even when a more expensive model in the same range has it. Dial *#06# on the phone you will travel with. If there is no EID, do not buy this eSIM for that phone.
Frequently asked questions
What is an EID?
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The EID is the identifier of the eSIM chip in your phone. If your phone shows one when you dial *#06#, it has an eSIM chip.
Can I use the China eSIM and my home SIM at the same time?
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Yes, on phones that support dual SIM. Most eSIM phones do. Keep your home SIM on for SMS and bank codes, with roaming off, and use the China eSIM for data.
What if my phone does not support eSIM?
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Then this eSIM will not install on it, so do not buy it for that phone.