Before purchasing an India eSIM, it’s important to confirm that your smartphone supports eSIM technology. While most modern premium phones are compatible, support depends on the exact model, country where the device was sold and whether it is carrier unlocked.
Checking compatibility only takes a minute and can help you avoid installation problems before your trip to India.
Quick answer: if your phone supports eSIM, is network unlocked and displays an EID number when dialing *#06#, you can usually install an India eSIM.
Top India eSIMs
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your smartphone. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you simply download a mobile plan by scanning a QR code.
This makes it ideal for international travel because you can install the eSIM before departure and activate it after arriving in India.
How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM
There are several simple ways to verify compatibility.
Method 1: Dial *#06#
Open the Phone app and dial *#06#.
If your phone displays an EID number in addition to the IMEI numbers, your device supports eSIM.
Method 2: Check the Settings
Look for one of the following options:
- Add eSIM
- Add Mobile Plan
- Download SIM
- Add Cellular Plan
- SIM Manager → Add eSIM
If you see one of these options, your phone most likely supports eSIM.
eSIM-Compatible iPhones
| iPhone Model | eSIM Support |
|---|---|
| iPhone XS / XS Max | Yes |
| iPhone XR | Yes |
| iPhone 11 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 12 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 13 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 14 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 15 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 16 Series | Yes |
| iPhone 17 Series | Yes |
Some iPhones sold in mainland China do not support eSIM, so always verify your exact model.
eSIM-Compatible Android Phones
| Brand | Examples |
|---|---|
| Samsung | Selected Galaxy S, Fold and Flip models |
| Most recent Pixel devices | |
| Motorola | Selected Razr and Edge models |
| OnePlus | Selected newer models |
| Honor | Selected Magic models |
| Xiaomi | Selected premium devices |
Android compatibility depends on the exact device model and sales region. Two phones with the same commercial name may have different hardware.
Your Phone Must Also Be Unlocked
Even if your phone supports eSIM, it must also be carrier unlocked.
A locked phone may reject travel eSIMs from other providers.
If you’re unsure, contact your mobile carrier before purchasing your India eSIM.
Why Use an India eSIM?
- Install before departure.
- No physical SIM card.
- No airport queues.
- Keep your regular phone number.
- Works with Dual SIM devices.
- Fast activation after arrival.
- Reliable mobile internet throughout India.
How to Install Your India eSIM
- Purchase your India eSIM.
- Connect your phone to WiFi.
- Open your SIM settings.
- Select Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code.
- Complete installation.
- Keep the eSIM installed until you arrive in India.
Your QR code and installation instructions are delivered by email immediately after purchase and are also available in your NoveSIM account.
How to Activate the eSIM in India
- Enable the India eSIM.
- Select it for Mobile Data.
- Enable Data Roaming.
- Turn off Automatic Data Switching.
- Keep Network Selection on Automatic.
Your phone should automatically connect to a supported local mobile network.
Recommended Mobile Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Mobile Data | India eSIM |
| Calls | Primary SIM |
| SMS | Primary SIM |
| Data Roaming (India eSIM) | ON |
| Data Roaming (Primary SIM) | OFF |
| Automatic Data Switching | OFF |
| Network Selection | Automatic |
| APN | data.esim if required |
India eSIM APN Settings
Most phones configure the APN automatically. If necessary, enter:
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| APN | data.esim |
| Username | Leave blank |
| Password | Leave blank |
| Authentication | None |
What If My Phone Doesn’t Support eSIM?
If your device doesn’t support eSIM, you can still stay connected by purchasing a local prepaid SIM card after arriving in India or by using international roaming from your home carrier.
If you’re planning to upgrade your phone soon, choosing an eSIM-compatible device makes international travel much easier.
Common Compatibility Problems
- Carrier-locked phone.
- Regional model without eSIM support.
- Outdated software.
- No Add eSIM option in settings.
- Previously deleted eSIM that cannot be reinstalled using the same QR code.
Related India Guides
- India eSIM
- India eSIM for iPhone
- India eSIM for Android
- Install an India eSIM
- Activate an India eSIM
- India eSIM Not Working
FAQ
How can I check whether my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06#. If your device displays an EID number, it supports eSIM.
Can a carrier-locked phone use an India eSIM?
Usually not. Your phone should be network unlocked before installing a travel eSIM.
Do all Android phones support eSIM?
No. Compatibility depends on the exact model and region where the phone was sold.
Should I install the eSIM before traveling?
Yes. Installation requires WiFi, so it’s best completed before departure.
What APN should I use?
If manual configuration is required, use data.esim.
Final Recommendation
Checking eSIM compatibility before purchasing your India eSIM only takes a few minutes and helps ensure a smooth setup. Verify that your phone supports eSIM, confirm it is carrier unlocked and install the eSIM before you travel.
After arriving in India, enable the eSIM, select it for Mobile Data and turn on Data Roaming for the best experience.