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Did you know that in the past, we used to insert a SIM card into our phones to make calls and access the internet? But now, with the introduction of eSIM, we can say goodbye to those tiny plastic cards! In this digital age, we cannot overlook the importance of communication in our daily lives and the business field. From the days of old-fashioned telephony to today's high-speed internet, communication technology has been continuously evolving.
Regarding 'How to Convert Your Physical SIM to an eSIM,' we will provide 4 distinct solutions, approaching the topic from various angles to address your concerns.
Important Considerations Before Starting:
- Device compatibility: Make sure your phone model supports eSIM functionality.
- Carrier support: Your mobile carrier must support eSIM service. Not all carriers offer eSIM, and not all plans support eSIM.
- Backup data: Before performing any SIM card conversion operation, it is recommended to back up your phone data just in case.
- Internet connection: eSIM activation usually requires a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network connection.
- Old SIM card: After successfully converting and activating the eSIM, it is recommended to keep the old SIM card to prevent data loss due to failure.
1：Direct Conversion via Phone Settings (for select iPhone/Android devices):
Many modern smartphones, including iPhone XS and later models, some Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel phones, offer a direct option in their settings to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM. Check for esim-compatible devices
Conditions that need to be met
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or newer
- eSIM-compatible wireless carrier or global service provider
- Your new iPhone needs a Wi-Fi connection. However, eSIM-only iPhone 14 models and newer can be activated without Wi-Fi.
eSIM is not supported on any iPhone models in mainland China. In Hong Kong and Macao, certain iPhone models support Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards.
2:eSIM Carrier Activation
This is the most common method. You'll need to contact your mobile carrier (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) and inform them you wish to transfer your existing number from a physical SIM to an eSIM.
Your carrier will either remotely push the eSIM profile to your device or provide a QR code for you to scan. After contacting them, they might provide an eSIM activation QR code via email, text message, or at one of their retail locations.
In your phone's settings, select "Add Cellular Plan" or "Add eSIM," then choose "Use QR Code" to scan it and follow the prompts to complete the activation.
3:In-Carrier App Conversion
Some carriers allow you to directly convert a physical SIM to an eSIM through their official app.
Log in to your carrier's app and look for options like "SIM Management," "Replace SIM," or "Convert to eSIM." Then, just follow the in-app instructions to complete the process.
4:Through an eSIM Provider (Typically for Phones Supporting Both Physical SIM and eSIM)
While this is a way to purchase an eSIM, it's also a quick method to check if your phone supports and can use eSIM.
Additionally, some virtual SIM card providers (MVNO) also allow you to transfer your existing number to their eSIM service. This usually requires your original carrier to support number porting to that platform.
Note:
Finally, you can read the following posts for more information about eSIM cards, including definitions, operations, and more.
