How to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM: A step-by-step guide for different devices

Should you bother converting your eSIM to a physical SIM?

So, as mentioned earlier, an eSIM is virtually the same thing as a physical SIM. But how does it work, and why is it better than plastic SIM cards? Compared to the benefits of a SIM, an eSIM offers these perks:

• Lucid setup. Few taps of your phone and your eSIM is good to go. It's a nice alternative to buying a SIM and then tinkering with your phone to insert the card without damaging it.

• Multiple profiles on one device. Many devices with eSIM technology support a dual-SIM connection, which means you can add multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them as you please.

• Perfect for international travel. Say you’re traveling somewhere far. Data roaming isn’t cheap, so you decide to get yourself a local SIM card. To do that, you need to find a local store, buy the ridiculously overpriced SIM card, and set it up (usually in a foreign language). Only then can you access the mobile network. But with an eSIM, all you have to do is download the app and pick the plan that’s best for you.

Along with these benefits, you can also add a positive impact on the environment (eSIM removes the need for plastic SIM cards) or a space-saving design (eSIM removes the need for a SIM card slot), but these are minor details compared to the major benefits of an eSIM.

How to find out if you can convert your existing SIM to eSIM

To find out if you can convert your existing SIM card to an eSIM, all you need to do is check if your phone supports an eSIM connection. You can find that out by checking your phone’s settings, contacting your carrier, or looking up your phone model in the list below.

How to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM

Converting a SIM to an eSIM is a piece of cake and takes just a few minutes. While the process is similar on all devices and operating systems, there may be some differences, depending on your phone model. Here’s how to convert your SIM to an eSIM on your smartphone.

Convert a SIM to an eSIM on iPhone

1. Open the “Settings” app.

2. Go to “Mobile service.”

   

3. Tap “Add eSIM” and then “Allow.”

   

4. Tap “Use QR code.”

   

5. Scan your carrier's QR code or enter the eSIM details manually.

   

Et voila! All you have to do now is wait for the phone to activate your new eSIM (it usually takes a few seconds), and you’ll be able to use your iPhone the same way you’d use it with a physical SIM card.

IMPORTANT: Some iPhone models may have a direct “Convert to eSIM” function which you’ll find in the “Mobile service” section (right under “SIM applications”). Tapping on it will convert your SIM to eSIM, deactivating your physical SIM card and setting up your eSIM connection.

Convert a SIM to an eSIM on Samsung 

1. Open your Samsung’s settings.

2. Tap “Connections."

   

3. Tap “SIM manager.”

   

4. Tap “Add eSIM.”

   

5. Pick your way of adding an eSIM and proceed with activation.

   

Samsung devices may take a few minutes to activate the eSIM. Which leaves you with just enough time to check out the weather forecasts in your destination.

IMPORTANT: Some Samsung models may have a direct “Convert to eSIM” function which you’ll find by tapping on your SIM card in the “SIM manager” section. Selecting “Convert to eSIM” will change your SIM to eSIM, deactivating your physical SIM card and setting up your eSIM connection.

Convert a SIM to an eSIM on Google Pixel

1. Open your Google Pixel’s settings.

2. In “Network & internet,” tap “SIMs.”

   

3. Tap “Add SIM.”

   

4. Tap “Set up an eSIM.”

   

5. Scan your carrier's QR code or enter the eSIM details manually.

Your Google Pixel will take a few seconds to activate your eSIM. In the meantime, you can start wondering about the holiday wardrobe or look up the best compositions for perfect travel pictures.

IMPORTANT: Some Google Pixel models may have a direct “Convert to eSIM” function which you’ll find by tapping on your SIM card in the “SIMs” section and scrolling to the bottom of the screen. Selecting “Convert to eSIM” will change your SIM to eSIM, deactivating your physical SIM card and setting up your eSIM connection.

Will converting a SIM to an eSIM hurt your wallet?

Usually, switching from SIM to eSIM doesn't cost a penny. And if it does (depending on the carrier), it’s somewhere between $5 and $10. Contacting your mobile carrier is the easiest way to find out if it charges for switching to an eSIM.

Now, if you’re planning a trip abroad, switching from a SIM card to an eSIM is a budget-friendly solution. If you use a mobile network, choosing an eSIM data provider, such as Saily, instead of a local physical SIM will save you money and time.

How long does it take to convert a SIM to an eSIM?

Converting from SIM to eSIM only takes a few minutes. It could drag out for a bit longer (for example, if you install your eSIM at the carrier store), but it still won’t take ages. A few taps, a short wait until your phone activates the eSIM, and you’re all set!

Can you use both an eSIM and a regular SIM at the same time?

If you’re worried you’ll have to throw out your SIM card after getting an eSIM, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Most eSIM-friendly smartphones come with a dual SIM capability, which means you can use both the SIM card and eSIM at the same time. This feature also allows you to add more eSIMs and switch between them when you want to. 

A dual SIM is handy because it allows you to use your mobile service as you please. For example, you can use the physical SIM for calls and messages while using the eSIM for browsing with mobile data. Splitting the services this way can be very useful when traveling.

Are there any disadvantages to switching to an eSIM?

It would be unfair to highlight only the eSIM's highs. Naturally, like everything else, this technology also has some downsides worth mentioning. The biggest hiccup with eSIMs is that access to them is still limited. While an absolute majority of the latest smartphones come with eSIMs, older phones might not support them.

Additionally, not every carrier supports eSIM connections. And from those who do, some may charge for eSIM activation or switching. However, even with these issues, eSIM is still a game-changer, especially when traveling abroad. 

What happens to a physical SIM after converting to an eSIM?

What happens to your SIM after converting to eSIM is entirely up to you. You can keep the SIM card on your phone as a backup and use it for your preferred services, such as mobile data browsing or sending SMS, (if you enable dual SIM) or remove and deactivate it. In both cases, you need to reach out to your carrier to inform them of your SIM changes.

Can an eSIM be converted back to a physical SIM? 

Yes you can convert an eSIM to a SIM, but keep in mind that you can’t do that by yourself. Contact your carrier and inform them you want to make a switch and they will walk you through the process. You can also buy yourself a new SIM card by from athe vendor you like, and install it manually. However, it doesn’t remove your current eSIM unless you deactivate it via your carrier. 

SIM-sational tips for an easy SIM to eSIM conversion

Converting your regular SIM to eSIM is super easy, especially if you follow these tips:

• Choose a reliable carrier/provider. Make sure that you’re getting your eSIM from a trusted carrier. Mobile data eSIM services, such as Saily, are also great alternatives if you’re going abroad and looking for cheaper eSIM data plans.

• Use the QR code for activation. Instead of activating your eSIM manually (by typing in the activation or verification code), scan your carrier's QR code when buying an eSIM. It will save you time.

• Backup your data. Before installing your eSIM, consider backing up all the important data on your phone, just in case. The chances of losing data while activating an eSIM are small, but it’s still possible.

• Activate your eSIM before travel. If you’re going abroad, activate your eSIM before leaving home or boarding the plane. This way, you won’t waste your time setting up your eSIM upon arrival.