How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to iPhone

How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to iPhone

Moving your mobile number to a new iPhone is much easier than it used to be. Instead of removing a physical SIM card and using a SIM ejector tool, you can now transfer your eSIM digitally.An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your iPhone that lets you activate and manage your mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card.

If you’re upgrading to a new iPhone or moving your existing number to another device, you can often transfer your eSIM directly from one iPhone to another. Here’s everything you need to know about how to transfer an eSIM from iPhone to iPhone, including what you need before starting and what to do if the quick transfer option isn’t available.

What You Need Before Transferring Your eSIM

Before you begin, check that both iPhones are ready for the transfer. Having these things in place can help make the process much smoother.

Requirement Details
Compatible iPhone Both devices should support eSIM, such as iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or newer
Latest iOS Update both iPhones to the latest available version of iOS
Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both devices
Apple Account Sign in to the same Apple Account on both iPhones where required
Distance Keep both iPhones close to each other during the transfer
Battery Make sure both devices have enough charge to complete the process

It’s also a good idea to keep your old iPhone nearby and unlocked when you start the transfer.

Method 1: Transfer Your eSIM Using eSIM Quick Transfer

The easiest option, when supported by your carrier, is eSIM Quick Transfer. It lets you move your mobile plan from your old iPhone to your new one without needing to contact your carrier or use a physical SIM card.

Option A: Transfer Your eSIM During New iPhone Setup

If your new iPhone is still on the Hello screen, you can transfer your mobile plan while setting it up.

  1. Turn on your new iPhone: Start the setup process and follow the instructions on the screen.
  2. Connect to Wi-Fi: Connect your new iPhone to a reliable Wi-Fi network when prompted.
  3. Choose Your Cellular Plan: When you reach the cellular setup screen, look for the option to Transfer from Nearby iPhone.
  4. Confirm the Transfer on Your Old iPhone: Keep your old iPhone nearby and unlocked. When you receive the transfer prompt, follow the instructions and confirm the transfer.
  5. Wait for Activation: Give the transfer a few moments to complete. Once your mobile plan is active on the new iPhone, the previous SIM or eSIM will be deactivated.

Option B: Transfer Your eSIM After Setting Up Your New iPhone

Already finished setting up your new iPhone? You can still transfer your eSIM from the Settings app.

  1. Open Cellular Settings: On your new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular or Settings > Mobile Service, depending on your region.
  2. Add an eSIM: Tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM.
  3. Select Transfer From Nearby iPhone: Choose Transfer From Nearby iPhone and wait for your new iPhone to detect the available mobile plan.
  4. Confirm the Transfer: Unlock your old iPhone and follow the instructions that appear on the screen. You may need to confirm the transfer or enter a verification code.
  5. Wait for Activation: Once the transfer is complete, check that your new iPhone has a cellular signal. Your previous SIM or eSIM will be deactivated when the new one becomes active.

Method 2: Convert a Physical SIM to an eSIM

If your old iPhone uses a physical SIM card, you may be able to convert it to an eSIM on your new iPhone. Whether this option is available depends on your carrier and region.

To check:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM on your new iPhone.
  2. Look for your mobile number or an option to transfer your existing plan.
  3. If available, select Convert to eSIM.
  4. Follow the instructions shown on your iPhone.
  5. Once the new eSIM is active, your physical SIM will no longer be needed for that line.

Carrier support varies, so you may need to contact your mobile provider if the conversion option doesn’t appear.

Method 3: Use Your Carrier's App or an eSIM QR Code

If eSIM Quick Transfer isn’t available for your carrier, you may still be able to activate your eSIM using your carrier’s app, a QR code, or manual activation details.

1. Use Your Carrier's App

Some carriers let you activate or transfer an eSIM directly through their app.

  • Download your carrier’s official app from the App Store.
  • Sign in to your account.
  • Look for options such as Manage Device, Transfer Number, SIM Swap, or Activate eSIM.
  • Follow the instructions to assign your mobile number to the new iPhone.

The exact steps and menu names will vary depending on your carrier.

2. Activate Your eSIM Using a QR Code

If your carrier provides an eSIM QR code:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM on your new iPhone.
  2. Select Use QR Code.
  3. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete activation.

3. Enter eSIM Details Manually

Some carriers may provide activation details instead of a QR code.

If you receive an SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
  2. Select Use QR Code.
  3. Choose Enter Details Manually.
  4. Enter the activation information provided by your carrier.
  5. Follow the remaining instructions to activate your mobile plan.

What If Your eSIM Transfer Isn't Working?

If your eSIM doesn’t transfer successfully, check that both iPhones are connected to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth is turned on, and both devices are running the latest available iOS version.

You should also make sure your carrier supports eSIM transfers. If the Transfer From Nearby iPhone option doesn’t appear, your carrier may require you to activate the eSIM through its app, a QR code, or customer support.

Avoid deleting the eSIM from your old iPhone until you’re sure your number is working on the new device. Once the new eSIM is active, test a call, text message, and mobile data connection to make sure everything is working properly.

Conclusion

Transferring an eSIM from one iPhone to another is usually quick and straightforward, especially when your carrier supports eSIM Quick Transfer. You can move your mobile plan during the initial iPhone setup or transfer it later through the Cellular settings.

If Quick Transfer isn’t available, your carrier may offer other options, such as an activation app, QR code, or manual eSIM setup. Before starting, keep both iPhones nearby, connect them to Wi-Fi, and make sure you have access to your carrier account if needed. Most importantly, don’t remove the eSIM from your old iPhone until your number is successfully activated on the new device.

If you’re planning to upgrade to a new iPhone, iSTYLE UAE offers the latest iPhone models and Apple accessories, helping you make the most of your new device and enjoy a smooth transition.

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