A Simple Way to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM [iPhone & Android]

Learn how to quickly and accurately check if your device supports eSIM, complete with detailed steps & images.

shuhei

Jan 16, 2024 • 3 min read

If you're interested in using eSIM but aren't sure if your smartphone or tablet (or a family member's) is compatible, this article is for you.

Simply put, the key is to check for something called an EID.

This article explains what EID is and how to check for it step-by-step for both iPhone and Android devices.

What is EID?

EID, or Embedded Identity Document, is a unique identifier associated with an eSIM chip (module) inside a connectivity device like smartphones.

Think of an eSIM chip as a container. When you install an eSIM 'Profile' into this chip, it enables it to function similarly to a traditional physical SIM card. This is essentially how eSIM technology works in devices.

If your device has an EID number, it means it is equipped with an eSIM chip. In other words, the presence of an EID is a straightforward and easy way to confirm that your phone is eSIM-compatible.

How to check for EID

There are several ways to verify if a device has an EID, but the most common and effective methods are the following two:

Method 1: Using Dial Pad (USSD code)
Method 2: From Settings screen

Let's dive in each method, with visual images.

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Note that the actual screens and texts may vary slightly depending on the OS version and device model.

Method 1: Using Dial Pad

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This method is for iPhones and iPads only.

Just like making a call, you can utilize Phone app on your iPhone to check if EID exists. Simply dial the following number using the keypad dialer.

*#06#

Remember to start with '*', then sandwich the '06' with the '#'.

Do not worry, this won't initiate an actual phone call.

As soon as you enter the final '#', a screen displaying several numbers and barcodes, like the one shown below, should appear.

If 'EID' is displayed among the information (typically on top), it means your iPhone supports eSIM. The EID is a 32-digit number.

FYI, entering specific numbers like this on the dial screen to execute certain actions is known as using a 'USSD code'. USSD stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data.

You can also check if EID is present from Settings app.

Again, if an EID is present, it means your device is eSIM compatible.

For iPhones

Navigate to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'About'. You'll find the EID displayed around the middle of the screen, as shown below, if the iPhone supports eSIM.

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If the 'Carrier Lock' status shows 'No SIM restrictions', your iPhone is not SIM-locked, meaning you can use any eSIM/SIM. If it's SIM-locked, only eSIMs/SIMs from specific carrier(s) can be used. This is important especially if you are to use prepaid travel eSIMs.

For Android

On Android devices, go to 'Settings' > 'About phone' to find if EID exists. It's usually located around the middle of the screen, under the 'Device details' section.

Initially, you might see a prompt like 'Tap to show info' instead of the actual number. Once you tap, the EID number and EID QR code will be displayed in a modal.

Now you know how to check eSIM compatibility. If your device supports it, you're ready to enjoy the flexibility and seamless connectivity that eSIM technology offers!

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