How to transfer eSIM to new iPhone or another Phone

Max Pankratov •Updated 23 Sep 2024

4 minutes to read

Transfer eSIM to new iPhone
How to transfer eSIM from one phone to another

Yesim virtual SIM card

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eSIM is a technology that realizes the dream of Steve Jobs about a smartphone without connectors and removable storage media. It allows you to record a mobile number in the built-in memory of the device, and not on a removable chip. In this article, we will tell you how to transfer eSIM to a new iPhone or another phone when updating your gadget.

Transfer eSIM to new iPhone

Apple is known for its сustomer care. It offers several ways to transfer data. There are two ways to transfer an eSIM to a new iPhone:

1. Via bluetooth. 2. Via a QR code.

Via Bluetooth

iOS 16 introduced eSIM transfer to a new iPhone via Bluetooth. The instruction is as follows:

1. Make sure both devices support eSIM technology and are updated to iOS 16. 2. Unlock both iPhones, turn on Bluetooth, and check that they are in a stable connection zone — up to 5 meters, without obstacles such as main walls. 3. Open in the new gadget the Settings menu — Cellular — Set up eSIM. 4. Select «Transfer from another iPhone». 5. Wait for the device to detect another device. 6. When the number appears on the screen, check that it is correct. 7. To transfer eSIM to a new iPhone, confirm the command. 8. Wait until the process is completed — it may take 2-5 minutes. 9. If you see a push message on your new iPhone «Complete your mobile operator tariff plan setup», press it and follow the instructions. 10. When you receive a message that the operation is completed, the number will be deleted on the old device and appear on the new one.

Via QR code

Although Apple provides phone support for quite a long time, it cannot be provided indefinitely. Sooner or later, there comes a point when the operating system stops updating. Then it will be more difficult to solve the problem of transferring eSIM to a new iPhone.

First, you should contact your mobile operator — call the "hotline" or use the chat in the application. Check if it provides eSIM transfer service. Please note: the service may be paid and not available in all tariff plans. If the operator offers it, follow the prompts of the technical consultant. Usually you need to scan a QR code or enter the number received in SMS.

It remains for us to tell you how to transfer eSIM from an old iPhone to a new iPhone in the traditional way. To do this, you will need a QR code issued by the mobile operator when applying for an electronic SIM card. If it is reusable, you can use it right now, if it is disposable, you will have to contact the company office again.

Follow the below instructions:

1. Delete eSIM in the old gadget. Open the Settings menu — Cellular — Cellular rates — *your Esim number* — Delete cellular plan. Deleting is necessary for the virtual card to work in the new device. The simultaneous existence of two copies of the number is prohibited. 2. On your new iPhone, go to Settings — Cellular — Add Cellular Plan. 3. Scan the QR code provided by your mobile operator. 4. Follow the prompts to activate the number.

The virtual card will work in 2-3 minutes after all actions are completed.

How to transfer eSIM from one phone to another

In terms of virtual numbers, Google's operating system is still lagging behind iOS. The instruction on how to transfer an eSIM from one phone to another is as follows:

1. Delete the number on the old device to prevent the existence of two copies of the virtual card. Enter the Settings menu — Connections — SIM card manager — eSIM — *your eSIM number* — Delete mobile data plan. 2. On your new smartphone, open Settings — Connections — SIM card manager — Add mobile data plan. 3. Choose a method supported by your mobile operator — QR code or activation number via SMS. 4. Scan the QR code or enter the activation number you received. Follow the prompts on the screen. 5. Transferring eSIM to another phone and installing a virtual card may also require an EID code. You can find it in Settings — Phone details — EID. 6. The process takes 2-5 minutes. After it is completed, you will receive a message that the setup was successful.

The guide on how to transfer eSIM from one phone to another may be easier if your operator offers a similar service in their application. To clarify its availability and terms of use, use the hotline number or online chat.

Transferring eSIM to a new phone for Yesim customers

If you need to transfer your eSIM number to another device, just contact the company's support team. Specialists will create a new profile and send a quick access QR code to your email address. Your active eSIM plan and all unused megabytes will be available on your new device.

For more information, visit the Yesim Customer Support page.