The short answer: most iPhones from the iPhone XS / XS Max / XR (released in 2018) onward support eSIM. That includes the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 series, as well as the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation). On the other hand, the iPhone X and earlier, along with the iPhone SE (1st generation), do not support eSIM. The first step is simply to identify your model. In this guide, we'll lay out the compatibility list, how to check in your settings, and a few easy-to-miss points to watch for. If eSIM is completely new to you, you may also want to read our Beginner's Guide: What Is an eSIM?
- Nearly all iPhones from the 2018 XS/XS Max/XR onward support eSIM
- The iPhone X, iPhone 8 and earlier, and the SE (1st gen) do not support eSIM
- You can confirm support in under a minute by checking for an EID under "Settings → General → About"
- A SIM lock or a model purchased in certain regions (such as the mainland China version) may not work, so it's worth checking
- This is a data-only eSIM: it has no phone number, and voice calls and SMS are not supported, though app-based calls such as WhatsApp can work over data
iPhone eSIM Compatibility List
The table below is a general guide to eSIM support across the main iPhone models. Some models, such as those bought in certain regions, can be exceptions, so for a definitive answer it's safest to check the device in your hand. We'll cover how to do that in the next section.
| Series | eSIM support | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 series | Supported | Dual SIM with eSIM + physical SIM (most regions) |
| iPhone 15 series | Supported | Same as above |
| iPhone 14 series | Supported | Same as above (U.S. models are eSIM-only) |
| iPhone 13 series / SE (3rd gen) | Supported | — |
| iPhone 12 series | Supported | — |
| iPhone 11 series / SE (2nd gen) | Supported | — |
| iPhone XS / XS Max / XR | Supported | The first generation to support eSIM |
| iPhone X / 8 / 7 and earlier | Not supported | Physical SIM only |
| iPhone SE (1st gen) | Not supported | Physical SIM only |
As a rough rule of thumb, it's easy to remember that "an iPhone released in 2018 or later is likely to be supported." For a broader list that includes non-iPhone devices that work with Bloomy, see our eSIM-compatible devices page.
How to Check Whether Your iPhone Is Compatible
Even if you're not sure of your model name, you can confirm it from the Settings app in under a minute. Any one of the following methods is quick and easy.
Method 1: Look for an "Add eSIM" option in Settings
Open "Settings" → "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data") and look for an option like "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan." If it's there, your iPhone supports eSIM. If you can't find it, the device may not support eSIM, or your iOS version may be out of date.
Method 2: Check whether an EID (eSIM identifier) is shown
Open "Settings" → "General" → "About" and scroll down. If you see an "EID" — a number of around 15 digits — your device supports eSIM. If there's no EID, the device most likely does not support eSIM.
Method 3: Check the model name and number
Under "Settings" → "General" → "About," compare the "Model Name" and "Model Number" against the compatibility table above. This model number is especially helpful if you're unsure whether the device was purchased in another region.
Before you check, it's a good idea to update to the latest iOS under "Settings" → "General" → "Software Update," so the setup process goes smoothly.
Things to Watch For, Even on Supported Models
Even if you have a supported model, there are a few points that are easy to overlook. A quick check before you leave can save you from scrambling once you arrive.
Whether there's a SIM lock
If an iPhone bought from a carrier has a SIM lock, it may not work with eSIMs from other carriers or providers. Recently purchased devices are often unlocked, but if you're unsure, check the lock status with the carrier you bought it from.
Models bought in other regions (such as the mainland China version)
iPhones sold in mainland China can be designed to use two physical SIMs instead of an eSIM. Some regional models, such as the Hong Kong and Macau versions, can also differ. If you're using an iPhone purchased abroad, we especially recommend checking in your Settings using the methods above.
U.S. eSIM-only models
Some iPhone 14 and later models sold in the United States are eSIM-only and have no physical SIM slot. eSIM itself works without any issues; just keep in mind that you can't insert a physical SIM.
It's a data-only service (an honest note)
Bloomy's eSIM is, by design, data-only. It can be used for the internet, maps, and app-based calls such as WhatsApp wherever data is available, but it does not provide a mobile phone number, SMS (text messages), or traditional voice calling. If you need SMS verification for apps like banking, or you need voice calls, it's worth also lining up an alternative such as a local SIM or a plan that includes a number.
Setting Up Your eSIM and Using It On-Site
Once you've confirmed compatibility, it helps to picture the setup flow. It breaks down into three main steps.
- Before you leave: Buy the eSIM and install it on your iPhone, for example by scanning a QR code
- After you arrive: Turn on the relevant eSIM line and, if needed, enable "Data Roaming"
- Start using it: Check the signal indicator and connect to the internet
The timing for activation can vary by plan, so check the instructions provided at purchase. If you'd like step-by-step instructions with images, see How to Set Up an eSIM. Installing before departure while you have Wi-Fi is the smoothest approach and helps you avoid hiccups.
What to Check If You Can't Connect
If you've set everything up but still can't get online, going through the following in order usually helps.
- Whether the relevant eSIM line is turned on (Settings → Cellular)
- Whether "Data Roaming" is turned on
- Whether the line used for cellular data has been switched to the eSIM you purchased
- Try toggling Airplane Mode off and on, or restart the device
- Whether you're within the start date and valid period of the plan
If that still doesn't fix it, we've put together more detailed steps in What to Do When You Can't Connect. You're also welcome to reach out through our Contact page.
What You Can Do With a Bloomy eSIM
Once you've confirmed compatibility, all that's left is to pick a plan to match your destination. With Bloomy, you can search by country, data allowance, and number of days. For a short trip you might choose a smaller allowance; for a long stay or for heavy video streaming you might go for a larger allowance or an unlimited-style option — it's designed to make it easy to pick just what you need.
If you're not sure how much data to get, start at Compare eSIM Plans and narrow things down by destination and number of days. For those who want plenty of data, Bloomy Unlimited Max is one option to consider. Unlimited-style plans suit longer sessions, but they may come with a fair-use policy, a possible speed reduction after a certain amount of use, and conditions on tethering, so it's wise to review the latest terms before you buy. After purchase, you can check your remaining data and QR code in My Account. Note that connection quality depends on the local network, your device, and your location.
For the full list of compatible devices — including non-iPhone models — and our other eSIM guides, head to the eSIM Guide index.
Summary: First, Check for an EID in Your Settings
Nearly every iPhone from the 2018 XS/XR onward supports eSIM. When in doubt, check whether there's an EID under "Settings → General → About," or whether "Add eSIM" appears under "Cellular" — either way, you can decide in under a minute. As long as you watch for SIM locks and models bought in other regions, getting ready becomes a lot easier. Once you've confirmed compatibility, choose a plan to match your destination and number of days, and install it before you depart. Plan details may change, so please check the latest information shown before you buy.
