How to factory reset an iPhone without losing the eSIM: A comprehensive guide
Do you need to reset your iPhone to factory settings but don’t want to lose your eSIM? We’ve got your back! Here’s your go-to guide on factory resetting your iPhone while keeping your eSIM.
5 min read
What is a factory reset?
A factory reset is just what it sounds like — it’s the process of returning your iPhone to its original (aka factory) settings. A factory reset is quite extreme because it wipes your phone clean of your data and the apps you’ve downloaded. If you decide to go for it, back up your data and files beforehand. Otherwise, you might lose them for good.
Here’s what happens to your iPhone when you factory reset it:
All of the content, including apps, photos, and contacts, is deleted.
Your iPhone is restored to its original factory settings.
System files return to the same state as when your iPhone was new.
Doing a factory reset is a smart move if your apps keep crashing or your phone is running super slow. It can give your device a fresh start, making it feel like new again. Are you worried you’ll lose your eSIM, too? Read on!
How can I factory reset my iPhone without losing the eSIM?
It’s entirely up to you to keep or delete your eSIM after the factory reset. At the end of the process, you’ll be asked to choose “Erase data and eSIMs” or “Erase data and keep eSIMs.” Just tap on the second option, and your eSIM will stay active!
Here’s how to factory reset your iPhone without losing your eSIM:
First, you should back up your data, so go to “Settings.”
Tap on your name.
Tap “iCloud.”
Tap “iCloud backup.”
Tap “Back up now.”
Once the backup is done, go back to “Settings.”
Tap “General.”
Select “Transfer or reset iPhone.”
Choose “Erase all content and settings.”
Tap “Continue.”
Tap the “Erase data and keep eSIMs” option to keep your eSIM.
What happens to your eSIM once you perform a factory reset?
When you start the factory reset process on your iPhone, you will be given the option to either delete the eSIM from your iPhone or keep it. If you keep it, your eSIM will stay intact and active. If you decide to delete it, the eSIM profile will be gone.
If you don’t want to deal with the consequences of deleting your eSIM, you should keep it. But don't worry if you accidentally wipe it — you can always reach out to your carrier (the eSIM provider) and ask it to help you reactivate your eSIM.
When should you delete your eSIM?
Sometimes, deleting your eSIM is better than keeping it. For example, you no longer need it if you’re switching carriers. You’ll also want to delete your eSIM if you’re selling your iPhone or giving it away and don’t want the new owner to have access to your eSIM.
Another reason you might want to delete your eSIM is if you’re moving it to a new device and need to remove it from the old one. Once you do, you can install your eSIM on your new iPhone.
FAQ
How do I turn my eSIM back on my iPhone?
You might want to turn your eSIM off when you’re not traveling. When you’re back on the road, you can quickly turn it back on:
Go to “Settings.”
Tap “Cellular” or “Mobile service,” depending on your region.
Tap your eSIM name and toggle the “Turn on this line” switch to the “On” position.
How do I fix the eSIM on my iPhone?
Is the eSIM not working on your iPhone? There are a few things you can try to get it working. First, call your mobile service provider to find out if the plan you have for your iPhone includes support for using two SIM cards at the same time (a physical SIM card and an eSIM).
Using a corporate mobile plan? Double-check with your company or provider to make sure they support this feature. Also, make sure your network provider has coverage in your area and that your mobile plans are all set up and paid for.
If your eSIM is still giving you a headache, don’t worry. Try these options to fix it on your iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max (these steps will be identical or very similar on all iPhones with eSIM capability):
Check for EID. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “About” and look for the EID (Embedded Identity Document) number. If you can’t see any numbers, contact Apple Support because this may indicate a hardware issue.
Verify the carrier in the status bar. Swipe down from the screen's upper-right corner to open the Control Center. Look for your carrier in the status bar. If it’s not there, go to step 3.
Toggle the airplane mode on and off. Go to “Settings” > “Airplane mode,” turn it on, wait a few seconds, then turn it off.
Check cellular settings. Go to “Settings” > “Cellular,” and see if the number you're trying to activate is there. If it is, disable the switch next to the line, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.
Restart your iPhone. Turn your phone off, wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.
Still not working? Then it’s time to ask your service provider’s support team for help.
Irma writes about eSIMs and smartphones with the same passion she has for catching waves on her surfboard. When she’s not unraveling the mysteries of digital connectivity, she’s probably trying to teach her cat to use a touchscreen.