eSIM in the UK

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device — no physical plastic card needed. Instead of inserting a SIM, you activate service by scanning a QR code or using an app. The activation usually takes about 10 minutes.

Advantages of eSIM

No physical card — activate instantly, no waiting for delivery
Switch networks without swapping a SIM card
Use two numbers on one phone (eSIM + physical SIM) — useful for travelling or work/personal separation
iPhone Air (2025+) is eSIM-only — no physical SIM slot at all
Supported on most modern smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops

Which UK networks support eSIM?

Network	eSIM Supported	Activation Method	Notes
O2	✓ Yes	My O2 app or QR code	All plan types; Apple Watch supported
Three	✓ Yes	Three app or QR code	eSIM Quick Transfer on iPhone; PAYG eSIM
EE	✓ Yes	My EE app or QR code	Apple Watch Cellular; tablets & laptops
Vodafone	✓ Yes	My Vodafone app or QR code	Connected devices (watch, tablet) supported
Tesco Mobile	✓ Yes	QR code by email	Pay Monthly plans
Sky Mobile	✓ Yes	Sky Mobile app	All plan types
Lebara	Partial	QR code	Rolling out from Oct 2025 — initially iPhone Air only
iD Mobile	✓ Yes	iD Mobile app	Rolling and 12-month plans
VOXI	✓ Yes	QR code (~10 min)	Fully digital sign-up
Asda Mobile	Check website	—	Historically limited — verify current status
giffgaff	✓ Yes	giffgaff app or QR code	All accounts, easy app activation
BT Mobile	✓ Yes	QR code	eSIM only — no physical SIM (2026 relaunch)

Compatible devices

iPhones

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018) and all later models support eSIM. The iPhone Air (2025) and iPhone 16 (UK) are eSIM-only — no physical SIM slot.

Samsung

Galaxy S20 series and later. Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models. Some Galaxy A series (check specific model).

Google Pixel

Pixel 3 and later all support eSIM.

Other devices

Many iPads (iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini from 2019+), Apple Watch Series 3+ (Cellular), Samsung Galaxy Watch 4+, Surface Pro X, and many modern Windows laptops.

How to check if your device supports eSIM

Dial *#06# — if an EID number appears alongside your IMEI, your device supports eSIM.

How to activate an eSIM

Purchase an eSIM plan from your chosen network
You'll receive a QR code by email or in the network's app
On iPhone: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
On Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add eSIM
Your eSIM activates within a few minutes

Using two SIMs on one phone

Most eSIM-compatible devices support Dual SIM — one eSIM and one physical SIM (or two eSIMs on some devices). Useful for separating work and personal numbers, or using a local data SIM abroad while keeping your UK number active.

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