Does the iPhone XS support eSIM?
Yes, the iPhone XS supports eSIM. To use a travel eSIM, the phone must be carrier-unlocked.
What to know about the iPhone XS
This guide covers the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max.
The iPhone XS uses one physical SIM and one eSIM at the same time. Keep your home SIM for calls and texts and use the travel eSIM for data.
iPhones sold in mainland China usually have two physical SIM slots and no eSIM. If you bought yours there, check for Add eSIM first.
How to check your phone
Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data). If you see Add eSIM, your iPhone supports eSIM. You can also go to Settings > General > About and look for an EID number.
How to install a travel eSIM on the iPhone XS
- Buy a plan
- Pick a plan for your destination. Your QR code arrives by email minutes after checkout.
- Scan the QR code
- On Wi-Fi, open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code, and scan the code from another screen or a printout.
- Turn it on when you land
- When you land, turn on the travel eSIM, choose it for Cellular Data and turn on Data Roaming for it.
Before you travel
A phone bought from a carrier can be locked to it, and a locked phone will not accept a travel eSIM. Ask your carrier to unlock it before you leave, and install the eSIM on Wi-Fi a day or two before your trip.
Questions about the iPhone XS
- Can I keep my number on the iPhone XS?
- Yes. Keep your regular SIM on for calls and texts and use the travel eSIM for data. WhatsApp stays linked to your number.
- Can the iPhone XS store more than one eSIM?
- Yes. You can keep several eSIMs on the phone and turn each one on or off in settings. Delete a travel eSIM only after its plan has ended.
- What if the eSIM does not connect on my iPhone XS?
- Turn on data roaming for the eSIM and choose it for mobile data. If it still does not connect, follow our eSIM not working guide or contact support.