eSIM for Samsung: What is it, and how does it work?

What is an eSIM for Samsung?

An eSIM for Samsung is an embedded SIM within Samsung devices. eSIMs are virtual alternatives to physical SIM cards, allowing you to connect to mobile networks without the need for extra hardware.

While many Samsung Galaxy phones have both nano-SIM and eSIM technology incorporated, Samsung now recommends that customers use an eSIM on S24, S25, and other newer models for activation instead of a traditional SIM card.

Why? eSIMs are more advanced than physical SIM cards, so tech companies are increasingly shifting to eSIM devices. The benefits of an eSIM include:

• Easy switching between different mobile carriers, including when traveling abroad.

• Better coverage.

• More cellular data plan flexibility.

• Increased security.

• Separate work and personal phone numbers.

• Compatibility with multiple devices, including smartwatches and tablets.

• No chance that the SIM card can get lost, stolen, or damaged.

 With an eSIM, you can still get high-speed data all over the world — with none of the hassle of traditional SIM cards!

How does an eSIM for Samsung work?

An eSIM for Samsung works by connecting your device to mobile data. An eSIM on Android phones (like the Samsung Galaxy series) uses a preinstalled chip and software to communicate with cellular networks. Once you’re on the network, you can use mobile data to make calls, send texts, and surf the web. 

To get an eSIM, all you have to do is buy and activate a plan. Then you can use the eSIM as either your primary SIM or secondary line. Most Samsung devices have dual SIM technology, you don’t even have to remove your physical nano-SIM card!

Does an eSIM work on a Samsung Galaxy watch as well?

eSIMs work on the Samsung Galaxy watch. That means that you can still use your smartwatch without needing to keep your smartphone on you, and you can stay on track with your fitness goals, even when you’re on vacation in another country.

Here are all the Samsung smartwatches that work with an eSIM:

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 LTE

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 LTE

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 LTE

• Samsung Gear S3 Frontier LTE

• Samsung Gear 2 3G Classic

• Samsung Watch Active 3 4G

• Samsung Watch Active 2 4G

• Samsung Watch

If you see your Samsung watch above, you’ll be able to use it with an eSIM. However, it’s important to note that using an eSIM on your smartwatch can cause the battery to drain more quickly, so plan ahead and keep your Samsung devices charged!

eSIM-compatible Samsung phones: A complete list

While most modern Samsung phones are eSIM-compatible, some older models may not incorporate eSIM technology, so it’s important to check whether your phone can support an eSIM before you buy a plan.

Here’s a complete list of eSIM-compatible Samsung phones:

• Samsung Galaxy S25

• Samsung Galaxy S25+

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

• Samsung Galaxy S24

• Samsung Galaxy S24+

• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

• Samsung Galaxy S24 FE

• Samsung Galaxy S23

• Samsung Galaxy S23+

• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

• Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (unless the model is from China)

• Samsung Galaxy S22

• Samsung Galaxy S22+

• Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

• Samsung Galaxy S21 (for more info, see our article on eSIM on S21)

• Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G

• Samsung Galaxy S21+ Ultra 5G

• Samsung Galaxy S20

• Samsung Galaxy S20+

• Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G

• Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

• Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Note 20

• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Fold

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 5G

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 FG

• Samsung Galaxy A56

• Samsung Galaxy A55 5G

• Samsung Galaxy A54 (Japanese, Korean, and International models)

• Samsung Galaxy A36

• Samsung Galaxy A35

Long story short, if your Samsung device was made after 2020, it probably supports eSIM and dual SIM technology, but it’s always a good idea to check.

How to activate an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy

Activating an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy is simple! To start, you’ll need to purchase an eSIM cellular plan. If you already have an eSIM on another device, check out our article on how to transfer an eSIM to a new Android phone.

If you have a new eSIM plan, follow these steps for how to activate an eSIM on Android:

Step 1: Go to “Connections”

First, make sure that you have a stable internet connection (either via Wi-Fi or mobile data). Then, open your Settings app and click “Connections.”

Step 2: Choose “Add mobile plan”

Under Connections, you’ll see the “SIM manager” menu. Click it and then tap “Add mobile plan.”

Step 3: Add your eSIM

Scan your SIM provider’s QR code and follow their instructions to install an eSIM on Android.

And it’s that simple! If you’re unsure whether you successfully activated your eSIM, you can check in the SIM menu. Your new eSIM should be listed there. If not, try scanning the QR code again or contacting your carrier.

eSIM activation on Samsung Galaxy watches

Follow these steps to activate an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy watches:

1. Install the Galaxy Wearable app on your Samsung phone.

2. Put your Samsung watch and phone near each other.

3. When your phone senses the smartwatch, tap “Connect.”

4. Confirm the pairing code on each device and click “Ok.”

5. Accept the terms and conditions.

6. Open “Mobile networks” in the Galaxy Wearable app.

7. Tap “Use code.”

8. Scan your eSIM provider’s QR code and follow any necessary prompts.

9. Tap “Download” to complete activation.

Once your eSIM is connected, you can use your Samsung Galaxy watch to send and receive messages, use apps, and track your fitness progress — even when you’re on the go!

How to remove an eSIM from a Samsung Galaxy

If you need to switch your mobile plan, you can remove an eSIM from your Samsung Galaxy with a few taps.

To remove a Samsung Galaxy eSIM:

1. Open your Settings app.

2. Select “Connections.”

3. Tap “SIM manager.”

4. Find the eSIM you want to delete.

5. Select “Remove.”

6. Enter your password if prompted.

Make sure that you triple check which eSIM you’re removing before you delete it! Most eSIMs only support a single activation, so you’ll have limited options for recovery if you delete an eSIM on accident.

Saily: The travel eSIM provider for your Samsung 

When it comes to travel eSIMs for Samsung, Saily is a great choice! Saily offers eSIMs for over 200 destinations so that no matter where you are in the world, you can still get access to high-speed data!

With Saily, you never have to worry about expensive roaming fees or fumble with physical SIM cards. Instead, you get to:

• Activate your eSIM at any time (including before you depart).

• Choose the right data plan for your needs and easily make adjustments.

• Experience reliable coverage from the best international carriers.

• Avoid the risk of lost, stolen, or damaged SIM cards.

• Enjoy enhanced security features.

• Stay connected with friends and family.

Download Saily to make the most of your next vacation!