Does My Phone Support eSIM in Taiwan? Compatibility Check Guide

Before buying a Taiwan eSIM, the first step is checking whether your phone supports eSIM technology. Most modern smartphones can use travel eSIMs, but compatibility depends on the exact model, region, software version and whether the device is carrier-unlocked.

A compatible phone allows you to install a Taiwan eSIM digitally and use mobile data without replacing your physical SIM card. This is especially convenient for travellers who want to keep their main number active while using affordable mobile internet in Taiwan.

Quick answer: Check whether your phone has an EID number by dialling *#06# and look for an “Add eSIM” option in your mobile network settings. Your phone must also be unlocked.

What Phones Support eSIM in Taiwan?

eSIM support is available on many newer smartphones from major manufacturers. However, not every version of a model supports eSIM.

Common compatible devices include selected models from:

• Apple iPhone.
• Samsung Galaxy.
• Google Pixel.
• Motorola.
• Huawei.
• Honor.
• Xiaomi.
• Other manufacturers with eSIM-enabled models.

The same phone name may have different SIM capabilities depending on where it was purchased. Always check the exact model number before travelling.

How to Check eSIM Support on Any Phone

The fastest compatibility check is using the device identification menu.

1. Open the Phone application.
2. Dial *#06#.
3. Look for an EID number.

If an EID appears, the phone usually contains eSIM hardware.

You should also check your mobile settings for an eSIM installation option.

Look for:

• Add eSIM.
• Add Mobile Plan.
• Add Cellular Plan.
• Add SIM.
• Download SIM.
• SIM Manager.

How to Check eSIM Support on iPhone

Most recent iPhones support eSIM, but regional differences exist.

To check:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Cellular or Mobile Service.
3. Look for Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.

You can also check:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select General.
3. Tap About.
4. Look for an EID field.

Common iPhone models with eSIM support

iPhone Series	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, depending on region
iPhone 15 series	Yes, depending on region
Newer iPhone models	Check exact version

Some iPhone versions sold in specific markets may have different SIM configurations.

How to Check eSIM Support on Samsung Galaxy

Many Samsung Galaxy flagship models support eSIM, but availability depends on the exact model and country version.

Check:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Open SIM Manager.
4. Look for Add eSIM.

Common Samsung models with eSIM support

Samsung Series	eSIM Support
Galaxy S20 series	Selected models
Galaxy S21 series	Selected models
Galaxy S22 series	Selected models
Galaxy S23 series	Selected models
Galaxy S24 series	Selected models
Galaxy Z Fold series	Selected models
Galaxy Z Flip series	Selected models

Samsung budget models often have different specifications and may not support eSIM.

How to Check eSIM Support on Google Pixel

Google Pixel devices generally have strong eSIM support.

Check:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Open SIMs.
4. Look for an option to add a SIM or eSIM.

Compatible Pixel models commonly include recent Pixel generations.

Why Does My Phone Support eSIM but Installation Fails?

Having eSIM hardware does not always guarantee successful installation.

Common reasons include:

• The phone is carrier locked.
• The regional model does not support eSIM.
• The operating system is outdated.
• The device already has too many active SIM profiles.
• The QR code has already been used.
• The phone does not support the required eSIM technology.

Check If Your Phone Is Carrier-Unlocked

A locked phone may prevent you from installing a Taiwan eSIM.

iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Select General.
3. Open About.
4. Check Carrier Lock.

The device should show that there are no SIM restrictions.

Android

Android menu options vary. Check:

• Carrier information.
• Original purchase documents.
• Your operator account.
• SIM restrictions in network settings.

Only the original carrier can remove a network lock.

Phones That Usually Do Not Support eSIM

Many older and entry-level smartphones do not include eSIM technology.

Common examples include:

• Older Android phones.
• Many budget smartphones.
• Devices designed only for physical SIM cards.
• Some regional versions of otherwise compatible models.

If your phone does not support eSIM, a physical SIM card or portable WiFi device may be an alternative.

Does a Dual SIM Phone Support Taiwan eSIM?

Yes, many Dual SIM phones support a combination of:

• Physical SIM + eSIM.
• Two eSIM profiles.
• Multiple stored eSIM profiles.

The number of active SIMs depends on the device model.

This setup allows travellers to:

• Keep their main number.
• Receive verification codes.
• Use Taiwan eSIM for internet.

Can I Use a Taiwan eSIM on a WiFi-Only Tablet?

No. A WiFi-only tablet does not have cellular hardware and cannot install a mobile eSIM.

Compatible tablets need:

• Cellular connectivity.
• eSIM support.
• An unlocked network configuration.

Can I Use a Taiwan eSIM on a Smartwatch?

Some smartwatches support eSIM, but travel eSIM compatibility depends on the device and mobile operator requirements.

Most travellers should install the Taiwan eSIM directly on their smartphone for the simplest setup.

What Information Should I Check Before Buying?

Check	Required
eSIM support	Yes
EID available	Recommended
Unlocked phone	Yes
WiFi for installation	Yes
Updated software	Recommended

What If My Phone Does Not Support eSIM?

If your phone cannot use eSIM, you still have other options:

• Buy a local physical SIM card in Taiwan.
• Use your operator’s roaming service.
• Rent a portable WiFi device.
• Use another compatible device as a hotspot.

For future travel, upgrading to an eSIM-compatible phone provides more flexibility.

Related Articles

• Best eSIM for Taiwan
• How to Install Taiwan eSIM
• How to Activate Taiwan eSIM
• Taiwan eSIM for iPhone
• Taiwan eSIM for Android

FAQ

How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?

Dial *#06# and check whether your phone displays an EID number. You can also look for an Add eSIM option in your mobile network settings.

Does iPhone support Taiwan eSIM?

Most recent iPhones support eSIM, but regional versions may differ. Check your exact model and carrier status.

Does Samsung support Taiwan eSIM?

Many Samsung Galaxy flagship models support eSIM, but availability depends on the exact model and region.

Why does my phone have no Add eSIM option?

Your phone may not support eSIM, may be a regional variant without eSIM capability or may require a software update.

Can a locked phone use Taiwan eSIM?

No. A carrier-locked phone may prevent eSIM installation. Contact your original carrier to remove the restriction.

Can I keep my SIM card while using Taiwan eSIM?

Yes. Compatible Dual SIM phones allow you to keep your regular SIM active while using the Taiwan eSIM for mobile data.

Final Recommendation

Before purchasing a Taiwan eSIM, check three things: your phone supports eSIM, your device is unlocked and you can find an EID number or Add eSIM option in the settings.

Most modern iPhones, Samsung Galaxy flagship devices and Google Pixel phones work with travel eSIMs, but always verify the exact model version. A quick compatibility check before your trip prevents installation problems and ensures reliable mobile internet when you arrive in Taiwan.