Here's the short answer: you can confirm whether your phone supports eSIM in about 30 seconds using one of three methods. (1) Open your phone's dialer and enter *#06# — if a number labeled "EID" appears, your phone most likely supports eSIM. (2) Open your Settings and look for an option to add an eSIM or a mobile/cellular plan. (3) Match your model name against our eSIM compatible devices list. Working through them in this order is the most reliable approach. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps for both iPhone and Android, plus a few things that commonly trip people up — all explained simply enough for first-timers. If eSIM itself is new to you, you may also want to start with What is an eSIM? (A Beginner's Guide).
What exactly is an eSIM-compatible device?
An eSIM is a chip built into your phone that a mobile plan can be written to digitally. There's no physical SIM card to swap — you simply set it up by scanning a QR code or using an app, and your connection is ready to go.
That said, not every phone supports eSIM. Most newer devices (roughly iPhones from 2018 onward, and many recent Android flagships) are compatible, while older phones and certain region-specific models may not be. That's exactly why it's worth checking your own device before you buy.
Method 1: Check for an EID using *#06# (fastest)
The quickest option is to dial a special code in your phone app. The EID (Embedded Identity Document) is a unique identifier assigned to the eSIM chip, so if this number appears, it's a good sign your phone has an eSIM chip on board.
Steps (same for iPhone and Android)
- Open your phone app (the dialer / keypad screen)
- Enter
*#06# - On the screen that appears, check whether an "EID" number is listed alongside the "IMEI"
If an EID is shown, there's a strong chance your phone supports eSIM. If no EID appears, move on to the Settings check below as well. (Some models display this information differently, so rather than relying on this one method alone, it's reassuring to confirm with more than one.)
Method 2: Check in your Settings (most reliable)
Whether your Settings app includes an option to add an eSIM is another clear indicator. The location differs by operating system, so follow the path that matches your device.
On iPhone
Go to "Settings" → "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data"). If you see options like "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan," your phone is compatible. If no such option appears at all, the device may not support eSIM, or there may be a region-specific limitation.
On Android
Go to "Settings" → "Network & internet" → "SIM" or "Mobile network," and check for options like "Add SIM" or "Download an eSIM." Wording and menu structure vary by manufacturer and Android version, so if you can't find it, typing "eSIM" into the Settings search bar is usually the quickest way to locate it.
Method 3: Match against the compatible devices list
If the code and Settings checks leave you unsure, matching by model name is the most dependable route. Check Bloomy's eSIM compatible devices page to see whether your phone is on the list. You can search by model number or name, so it's easy to use even if it's your first time.
The table below summarizes the three methods at a glance.
| Method | Time needed | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check EID with *#06# | About 30 seconds | Anyone who just wants a quick answer |
| 2. Check in Settings | About 1 minute | Confirming whether the menu option exists |
| 3. Compatible devices list | About 1 minute | Matching by model name |
Things to keep in mind when checking
Make sure the phone isn't carrier-locked
Even if your device supports eSIM, a carrier lock (SIM lock) can prevent it from using another provider's eSIM. With second-hand phones or devices tied to older contracts, it's wise to confirm the unlock status in advance.
Differences between regional versions
The same model name can vary in eSIM support depending on the country or region it was sold in (some regional versions are physical-SIM only). This is especially worth noting if you're using a phone bought abroad. Because compatibility depends on the model, country of purchase, and carrier, the surest approach is to confirm with both the compatible devices page and what your device itself displays.
Bloomy plans are generally data-only
One thing worth knowing before you check: Bloomy plans are generally data-only. Even if your device supports eSIM, that only means it can handle data — it does not mean you'll have a phone number, SMS, or voice calling. If you need a phone number or SMS verification, look into other options such as a local SIM or a plan that includes a number. Calling through apps like WhatsApp may work wherever you have a working data connection. For more details, see our FAQ.
If no EID appears, or you're still not sure
Even if "no EID is shown" or "there's no eSIM option in Settings," there's no need to assume your phone is incompatible right away. An outdated OS version can sometimes cause these to not display, so first update your software to the latest version, then try all three methods again.
If you still can't tell, don't force a purchase — feel free to reach out via our contact page with your model name and we'll help. And if you run into trouble during setup after purchasing, our setup guide and connection troubleshooting walk you through the steps.
Once you've confirmed compatibility: using Bloomy
Once you know your device supports eSIM, all that's left is to choose a plan that fits your destination and the data and days you need. Here's the general flow:
- Choose a plan that matches your destination, data, and duration on our eSIM comparison page
- Install (set up) the eSIM before you travel
- Activate the line once you arrive
Activation timing can differ from plan to plan, so check the details provided before you buy. If you expect to use a lot of data, an unlimited plan with its own usage conditions is another option to consider. (Even on unlimited plans, a fair-use policy and conditions on speed or tethering may apply, so it's reassuring to check these in advance.) Plan details can change, so please confirm the latest information shown at the time of purchase. Pricing is in USD — confirm the current price when you buy.
In summary: start with a 30-second check
You can confirm whether your phone supports eSIM in three steps: look for the EID with *#06#, check your Settings, or match your model against the compatible devices list. Once compatibility is confirmed, just keep in mind that plans are data-only and that unlimited options come with usage conditions — and you won't be caught off guard after buying. Also remember that real-world connection quality varies depending on the local network, your device, and the area. To start, grab your phone and try the fastest option, *#06#.
