Which Phones Support eSIM in 2026? Full Compatibility List

Q: Does every smartphone support eSIM?

No. Only selected modern smartphones include eSIM hardware, so it is important to check the exact device compatibility before purchasing an eSIM.

eSIM technology is now supported by most modern smartphones, but not every device—or every regional version—has eSIM enabled. If you plan to use a travel eSIM, checking device compatibility before purchase is essential.

This guide provides:

A list of phones that support eSIM in 2026
How to check if your specific model supports it
What to do if you’re unsure

What is required for a phone to support eSIM?

For eSIM to work, three things must be true:

The device model must support eSIM hardware
The phone must be carrier unlocked
The regional firmware must allow eSIM activation

Even when a model supports eSIM globally, some regional variants may not have the feature enabled.

iPhone models that support eSIM

All newer iPhones support eSIM:

iPhone XR / XS / XS Max
iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2020 and newer)
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 13 series
iPhone 14 series (US models are eSIM-only)
iPhone 15 series
iPhone 16 series
iPhone 17 series

Most iPhones allow Dual SIM functionality (eSIM + physical SIM, or dual eSIM depending on region).

Samsung phones that support eSIM

Selected Samsung flagship and newer devices support eSIM:

Samsung Galaxy S20 / S21 / S22 / S23 / S24 / S25 series
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 / Note 20 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
Selected Galaxy A-series (region-dependent)

Availability may vary by country and carrier version.

Google Pixel phones that support eSIM

Most Pixel models support eSIM:

Pixel 3 and newer
Pixel 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 series

Pixel devices typically offer one of the most consistent eSIM experiences globally.

Other brands supporting eSIM

More manufacturers now include eSIM support in premium devices:

Huawei (selected flagship models)
Motorola (selected new models)
Oppo / Xiaomi / Honor (some flagship versions)
Sony Xperia (selected devices)

Always verify the exact model number before purchasing an eSIM.

How to check if your phone supports eSIM (quick method)

Method 1 – Phone settings

Go to:

Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM

If the option appears, your device supports eSIM.

Method 2 – Manufacturer website

Search your exact model: “device name + eSIM support”

Method 3 – Carrier compatibility check

Some carrier-locked phones disable eSIM until unlocked.

Why eSIM compatibility matters when traveling

Using an eSIM-compatible phone allows you to:

Activate mobile data instantly after landing
Avoid physical SIM swapping
Keep your primary number active
Switch between plans digitally

For frequent travelers, eSIM support has become one of the most important smartphone features.

Planning your next trip? Check compatible travel data plans here: https://novesim.com/destinations/

Frequently asked questions

Does every smartphone support eSIM?

No. Only selected modern smartphones include eSIM hardware. Always check the exact model compatibility before purchasing an eSIM plan.

Can the same phone model have eSIM in one country but not another?

Yes. Some regional versions of the same device may not support eSIM depending on firmware or carrier restrictions.

Do I need to unlock my phone to use travel eSIM?

Yes. Carrier-locked phones may block third-party eSIM installation until unlocked.

Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM together?

Most modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, allowing one eSIM and one physical SIM simultaneously.