By Hanna · Updated August 19, 2026

eSIM Compatible Phones: Full List by Brand (2026)

Most iPhones from the XS onward, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20/Note20 and later support eSIM. Below is the full breakdown by brand, plus how to check your exact model before you buy a travel eSIM plan.

Which iPhones Support eSIM?

Every iPhone from the XS and XR onward supports eSIM. In the US specifically, the iPhone 14, 15, 16, and 17 lines (including the eSIM-only iPhone Air) ship with no physical SIM tray at all — eSIM is the only option. Outside the US, most of these same models still include a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM support.

iPhone eSIM support by model
Model rangeeSIM supportNotes
iPhone 17 / Air / 16 / 15YesUS models are eSIM-only, no physical tray
iPhone 14YesUS models are eSIM-only
iPhone 13 / 12 / SE (2020+)YesDual SIM (physical + eSIM)
iPhone 11 / XS / XRYesFirst eSIM-capable iPhones
iPhone X and earlierNoPhysical SIM only

Which Samsung Galaxy Phones Support eSIM?

Most Samsung Galaxy S20 and Note20 models onward support eSIM, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip foldable lines from their first generation. Support and regional availability vary by carrier and country — some Samsung models sold through specific US carriers have eSIM disabled at the software level, so it's worth checking your exact carrier variant.

Which Google Pixel Phones Support eSIM?

Every Google Pixel from the Pixel 3 onward supports eSIM, and Google has led the eSIM-only shift on Android — the Pixel 10 launched as an eSIM-only device in some markets, mirroring Apple's move with the iPhone.

Which Other Android Phones Support eSIM?

Beyond Samsung and Pixel, eSIM support has spread to most recent flagship and many mid-range Android phones, though it's less universal than on iPhone or Pixel. According to Counterpoint Research in 2024, 23% of smartphones shipped globally had eSIM capability that year, and adoption has climbed steadily since as more manufacturers add support to non-flagship models.

How to Check If Your Specific Phone Supports eSIM

  1. On iPhone: go to Settings → General → About, and look for an EID number
  2. On Android: go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs, and look for an option to add an eSIM
  3. Check your carrier lock status — even an eSIM-capable phone can't install another provider's eSIM if it's carrier-locked
  4. If you're in mainland China, check specifically, since some models have eSIM disabled by the manufacturer even when the same model supports it elsewhere
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Once you've confirmed compatibility, see how eSIM works for the full setup walkthrough, or browse the best eSIM providers for 2026.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check if my specific phone supports eSIM?

On iPhone, go to Settings, then General, then About, and look for an EID number, which confirms eSIM support. On Android, check Settings, then Network & Internet, then SIMs, and look for an option to add an eSIM.

Are all iPhone 15 and 16 models eSIM-only?

Only in the US market. iPhone 15 and 16 models sold in the US have no physical SIM tray and are eSIM-only. Models sold in most other countries, including the UK, EU, and Japan, still include a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM support.

Does my phone need to be unlocked to use a travel eSIM?

Yes. A carrier-locked phone can't install another provider's eSIM profile, even if the model itself supports eSIM technology. Check with your carrier about unlocking before you travel if you're not sure.

Do budget or mid-range phones support eSIM?

Increasingly, yes, though flagship models still have the widest support. Coverage varies a lot by brand and region, so check your specific model's spec sheet rather than assuming based on price alone.

Why is eSIM disabled on some phones sold in China?

Manufacturers disable eSIM hardware on phones sold in mainland China even when the same model supports it elsewhere, largely because domestic eSIM regulations there have historically been more restrictive. This is changing as Chinese carriers roll out eSIM support, but it's still worth checking if this applies to your device.