Hotline 24/7:0974.250.568
ENEN
EN EN
0

Use eSIM on iPhone

Learn how to use eSIM on iPhone, including how to install, activate, use, and transfer eSIM on your iPhone.

Major carriers in Vietnam such as Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone all provide eSIM services. However, eSIM technology is still relatively new to many Vietnamese users. This guide will show you how to use eSIM on iPhone, from setup and activation to converting a physical SIM to eSIM and using travel eSIMs on iPhone.

I. What is eSIM on iPhone?

eSIM on iPhone is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile plan without using a physical SIM card. In simple terms, eSIM is an electronic chip built directly into the iPhone.

Please note that eSIM is only available on iPhone XS/XR models and later. You can install 8 or more eSIMs on one iPhone and use 2 phone numbers simultaneously.

Should you use eSIM on iPhone?

Yes. You should use eSIM on iPhone if you value convenience, want to use two phone numbers on one device (1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM), frequently switch between carriers, or travel abroad often.

However, transferring eSIMs between devices can sometimes be more complicated than transferring physical SIM cards.

II. Requirements to Activate eSIM on iPhone

To use eSIM on iPhone, you need to meet these 2 basic requirements:

  • An iPhone that supports eSIM: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and newer models.
  • A carrier that supports eSIM: In Vietnam, Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone currently support eSIM services.

III. What to Prepare Before Installing eSIM on iPhone

Before installing eSIM on your iPhone, prepare the following:

  • An eSIM-compatible iPhone. If using a travel eSIM, your phone must be carrier-unlocked.
  • A stable Internet connection (WiFi or mobile data).
  • eSIM information from your carrier (QR code or SM-DP+ activation details).

IV. How to Install eSIM on iPhone

There are 2 ways to install eSIM on iPhone:

  • Scan a QR code
  • Enter activation details manually

Usually, scanning the QR code is the fastest and easiest method. Manual setup is only needed if the QR code cannot be scanned.

Steps to Install eSIM on iPhone

  1. Open Settings > Cellular / Mobile Data
  2. Select Add Cellular Plan (iOS 15 or earlier) or Add eSIM (iOS 16 or later)
  3. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier
  4. If scanning fails, choose Enter Details Manually and enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code
  5. Your eSIM will now be installed

How Long Does eSIM Installation Take?

The installation process usually takes 3–5 minutes. On some iPhones running iOS 16, activation may take 15–20 minutes.

V. Detailed Guide to Using eSIM on iPhone

After successfully installing eSIM, you can personalize settings for easier management and usage.

1. Rename Your eSIM

Renaming your eSIM helps distinguish it from your physical SIM.

Steps:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular / Mobile
  • Select the newly added eSIM
  • Choose Cellular Plan Label
  • Rename and save

2. Choose the Default Mobile Data Line

If your iPhone has 2 lines (physical SIM + eSIM or dual eSIM), you can choose which line to use for mobile data.

Steps:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular
  • Select Cellular Data
  • Choose the SIM/eSIM you want to use for Internet access

3. Set the Default Line for Calls, Messages, iMessage, and FaceTime

You can choose which number to use by default for calls, SMS, iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple ID.

Steps:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular
  • Select the SIM/eSIM you want as the default line
  • Tap Continue

VI. How to Activate an International Travel eSIM on iPhone

Travel eSIMs require a few extra steps compared to regular eSIMs.

Steps to Activate Travel eSIM

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular
  2. Select the travel eSIM
  3. Turn on This Line
  4. Enable Data Roaming
  5. Return to Cellular
  6. Choose the travel eSIM for Cellular Data
  7. Once you arrive in the destination country, the eSIM will automatically connect to a supported carrier

If the Internet still does not work:

  • Restart your iPhone
  • Configure the APN manually:
    • Go to Settings > Cellular > select the eSIM > Cellular Network
    • Enter the APN provided by your eSIM provider

VII. How to Delete eSIM on iPhone

To remove an eSIM:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular
  2. Select the eSIM you want to remove
  3. Tap Remove Cellular Plan

Note: Be careful before deleting an eSIM. Some travel eSIMs can only be installed once.

VIII. How to Convert to eSIM on iPhone

1. Convert Viettel SIM to eSIM

There are 2 ways:

  • At a Viettel store
  • Online through the My Viettel app

The conversion fee is 25,000 VND.

At a Viettel Store

Bring:

  • Your ID card/passport
  • Your current SIM card

Through the My Viettel App

Steps:

  1. Open My Viettel
  2. Go to Menu > Utilities > SIM Conversion > Convert to eSIM
  3. Confirm the fee and sign the agreement
  4. Enter personal information and phone number

2. Convert MobiFone SIM to eSIM

You can:

  • Visit a MobiFone store
  • Use the My MobiFone app

Through the My MobiFone App

Steps:

  1. Open My MobiFone
  2. Select Convert to eSIM
  3. Enter the OTP code
  4. Confirm the conversion
  5. Restart your iPhone after receiving the success message

3. Convert Vinaphone SIM to eSIM

The only way to convert to a Vinaphone eSIM is by visiting a Vinaphone service center directly with:

  • Original ID/Passport
  • SIM card to be converted

Hopefully, this guide helps you easily install and use eSIM on your iPhone.