How to activate an eSIM on iPhone 15

Setting up an eSIM on iPhone 15

To set up an eSIM on your iPhone 15, first ensure you meet all the requirements for eSIM activation. Then, follow the activation steps, and you'll be ready to enjoy your new eSIM in no time.

Before you begin:

• Update your iPhone 15 to the latest iOS version.

• Connect your iPhone 15 to a Wi-Fi network.

• Get eSIM activation details from your carrier.

Note: The wording of buttons and menu options may differ slightly depending on your region or device settings. Don’t worry if you see variations — just look for similar options.

Use eSIM Carrier Activation

If you've already set up your iPhone and arranged with your carrier to activate an eSIM via Carrier Activation, follow these simple steps:

1. Tap the notification that says, "Carrier cellular plan ready to be installed."

2. In Settings, select "Carrier cellular plan ready to be installed."

3. Tap "Continue."

4. Test your iPhone's cellular connectivity by making a call. If the call doesn't go through, contact your carrier for help.

5. If your new plan replaces a physical SIM card (note: this applies only for models outside the US), remove the physical SIM and restart your new iPhone.

If you're switching from an Android phone:

If you're switching an eSim to an iPhone from an Android phone, just contact your carrier to smoothly transfer your phone number. They can activate your embedded SIM card either through Carrier Activation or by having you scan a QR code.

Once you receive the code, simply scan it with your iPhone camera to activate your embedded SIM card — it's that easy! If your carrier opts for eSIM Carrier Activation, you'll get a notification saying that your cellular plan is ready to be installed. Just tap the notification to start the setup process and follow the on-screen instructions.

Use eSIM Quick Transfer

Using eSIM Quick Transfer is a breeze when you're moving your existing eSIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone 15. Follow the steps below to smoothly transfer your cellular plan:

1. On your new phone, choose the plan you want to transfer or tap "Transfer from another device."

2. Follow the prompts on your old iPhone. Tap "Transfer" to confirm, or if the on-screen instructions ask you for a verification code, enter the code displayed on your new iPhone.

3. Wait a moment for the plan to activate on your new iPhone. Once the new eSIM is active, the SIM on your old device will deactivate automatically.

4. If a message pops up on your new iPhone saying, "Finish setting up your carrier’s cellular plan," tap on it. This will take you to your carrier’s webpage to complete the eSIM transfer.

If you’re switching from an iPhone 14:

If you're upgrading from an iPhone 14 to an iPhone 15, your transition will be smooth and quick. During the setup process of your new iPhone 15, a prompt will guide you to transfer your eSIM from your iPhone 14. This process takes just a few minutes, and then you’ll be ready to enjoy your new device.

Use your carrier's QR code

If your carrier doesn't support eSIM Quick Transfer, no worries! You can activate the embedded SIM card on your iPhone 15 by scanning a QR code.

To activate your eSIM during the setup process of your iPhone 15:

1. When you reach the "Set up cellular" screen, select the option to use a QR code.

2. Follow the steps to scan the QR code provided by your carrier.

Alternatively, to activate your eSIM after you set up your iPhone 15:

1. Go to “Settings” > “Cellular” > “Add eSIM.”

2. Choose “Use QR code.”

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code.

4. Follow the prompts to add the eSIM to your device.

5. Tap “Done.”

Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on your current iPhone

If your current iPhone supports eSIM technology, you can convert the physical SIM in your phone to an eSIM, and then smoothly transfer it to your new iPhone 15 once you have your hands on it.

To convert your previous SIM card to an eSIM on your iPhone 15:

1. Open the Settings app and navigate to “Cellular.”

2. Tap “Convert to eSIM.” If you can’t see this option, your carrier may not support it. In that case, move your phone number from your physical SIM to an eSIM through eSIM Carrier Activation.

3. Tap “Convert cellular plan,” then select “Convert to eSIM” again to confirm your choice.

4. Give it a moment to activate your eSIM. Once activated, your physical SIM will deactivate automatically.

5. Remove the physical SIM card, restart your iPhone, and embrace a physical SIM-free experience!

Enter the eSIM information manually

You might need to enter your eSIM information manually on your iPhone 15, but don't worry — it's a simple process. This could happen if your carrier doesn't provide a QR code, if you encounter a hiccup with the scanning, or if you're setting up a local eSIM during international travels. 

Manual entry ensures that no matter the situation, you can activate and enjoy your eSIM services.

1. Go to “Settings” > “Cellular” > “Add eSIM.”

2. Choose “Use QR code.”

3. Select “Enter details manually” at the bottom of your screen.

4. Enter the required information, such as the SM-DP+ address and the activation code, which you received from your carrier.

5. Tap “Next.”

6. When you see the “Cellular plan detected” notification, tap “Continue.”

7. Hit “Done.”

Is the iPhone 15 eSIM only?

Yes, the iPhone 15 is eSIM-only in the US, continuing the trend set by the iPhone 14. But is the iPhone 15 eSIM only in the rest of the world too? No, iPhone models sold in other countries still include a nano-SIM card slot.

How many eSIMs can the iPhone 15 have?

The iPhone 15 can store about eight eSIM profiles, depending on your carrier, but only two embedded SIM cards can be active at one time. If you're wondering about other iPhone models and how many eSIMs an iPhone can use, it can store multiple profiles, but only two can function simultaneously. This versatility is perfect for frequent travelers!