Two things have to be true:
- Your phone supports eSIM.
- Your phone is carrier-unlocked, so it accepts other networks' SIMs.
The 10-second test
Open your phone's dialler and type *#06#. If you see a number labelled EID, your phone supports eSIM.
Rough guide
iPhone XS or newer, Pixel 3 or newer, Galaxy S20 or newer, and most 2020+ flagships. It varies by model and by the country the phone was sold in, so check yours on the phone check page.
Unlocked?
A locked phone may install the eSIM but refuse to connect with it. To check:
- iPhone: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means it's unlocked.
- Android: it varies by brand. The surest way is to ask your carrier, or try another network's SIM.
If you bought the phone outright, it's usually unlocked. If it came on a contract, ask your carrier.
Bought one and your phone turns out not to support eSIM? If it isn't installed, you can request a refund.