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By Simnity Editorial Team 17 Jun 2026 2 min read

Which Phones Support eSIM in 2026? The Full List

Most phones released from 2019 onward support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy S, Z, A and Note models. As long as your phone is eSIM-capable and unlocked to all carriers, you can use a travel eSIM. Once you have confirmed yours, browse plans on the Simnity destinations page.

How to check if your phone supports eSIM

The fastest check is in settings: look for Add eSIM or Add data plan under Cellular (iPhone) or SIMs (Android). On iPhone you can also dial *#06# and look for an EID number, which only eSIM-capable devices have. If you see those, your phone is ready; follow the install guide.

eSIM-compatible iPhones

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and every model since support eSIM, including the SE (2020) and later, the iPhone 11 through iPhone 16 lines, and newer. Note that iPhones sold in the United States from the iPhone 14 onward are eSIM-only with no physical SIM tray, which makes a travel eSIM essential rather than optional. Apple maintains the official list on its eSIM support page.

eSIM-compatible Samsung Galaxy phones

The Galaxy S20 series and newer, the Z Fold and Z Flip foldables, the Note 20 series, and many recent A-series models support eSIM. Availability can vary slightly by region and carrier variant, so confirm in settings.

eSIM-compatible Google Pixel phones

Pixel 3 and newer support eSIM in most regions (a few early carrier variants were exceptions). The Pixel 6, 7, 8 and 9 lines all support it.

Other brands

Many Motorola, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo and Nothing models now include eSIM, though support is less universal than on iPhone and Pixel. Always verify with the settings check above before you buy a plan.

What if my phone is locked?

A carrier-locked phone can refuse a third-party eSIM. If you bought your device on an installment or carrier plan, contact the carrier to unlock it, then the eSIM will install normally.

Once your phone is ready

Pick a destination such as Japan or the United States, or a multi-country Europe eSIM, and you can be online within minutes of landing. If anything goes wrong during setup, see eSIM not working.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?

Open your settings and look for an Add eSIM or Add data plan option under Cellular or SIMs. On iPhone you can also dial *#06# and check for an EID number.

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

Yes. A carrier-locked phone may reject a third-party eSIM. If you bought the phone on a carrier plan, request an unlock first.

Can older phones use an eSIM?

Most phones released before 2018 do not have eSIM hardware. From 2019 onward, eSIM support is common across iPhone, Samsung and Pixel.

About the author

Simnity Editorial Team, eSIM & travel connectivity experts. The Simnity editorial team covers eSIM technology, international data and staying connected while travelling. Every guide is researched against official carrier and device documentation, reviewed for accuracy before publishing, and updated as plans and devices change.

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