eSIM-Compatible Devices: The Complete List and How to Check If Yours Works
Planning a trip abroad and starting to explore connectivity options? You've likely come across the term eSIM more than once. eSIM technology (short for Embedded SIM) is transforming everything we knew about mobile communication abroad, making the process simpler, cheaper, and faster than ever. If you're looking for the most up-to-date list of eSIM-compatible devices, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know, present a list of popular phones supporting the technology, and walk you through step-by-step how to check eSIM compatibility on your device.
Why Is Everyone Talking About eSIM and How Does It Save You Money Abroad?
Traveling abroad has always involved cumbersome dealings with SIM cards. Whether it's purchasing expensive data packages from Israeli carriers or enduring a tedious search for a local kiosk selling physical SIMs at the airport after a long flight – the process was far from ideal. eSIM technology arrived to solve exactly these problems. It's a digital SIM card embedded directly in your smartphone's motherboard, allowing you to download and install a dedicated data package for your destination country in just a few simple taps, before you even leave home.
The benefits are clear and immediate. With a service like nRed eSIM roaming packages abroad, the entire process is 100% digital. You choose a package, pay, and within seconds receive a QR code directly to your email. No waiting for a courier, no physical shipping, and no risk of losing a tiny SIM card. You scan the code, and your phone connects to the local network immediately upon landing. Simple, fast, and efficient.
A critical advantage you must know about: One of travelers' biggest concerns is what will happen to their WhatsApp. With nRed's eSIM, that worry disappears. The eSIM serves only for data browsing, while your Israeli SIM remains active for calls and SMS (if you choose). This means your WhatsApp account remains linked to your original Israeli number. All your contacts, all your groups and conversations stay exactly as they are, and you remain completely available to everyone.
Before You Buy: How to Check If Your Device Supports eSIM?
This is undoubtedly the first and most important step in the process. Before you get excited and purchase a data package, you must verify that your smartphone actually supports eSIM technology. This simple check will save you headaches and ensure a smooth experience. Fortunately, there are three main and easy ways to perform this check:
- The Easy and Recommended Way: To make your life simple, we've developed a dedicated and fast tool. Simply visit the eSIM compatibility checker on the nRed website, select your device manufacturer and model, and get an immediate and definitive answer.
- Quick Manual Check in Settings: You can also check support directly from your device settings. On iPhone, go to 'Settings' > 'Cellular'. If you see an option like 'Add eSIM' or 'Add Cellular Plan', your device supports it. On Android devices, the process is similar: go to 'Settings' > 'Network and Internet' > 'SIM Cards'. Look for an 'Add eSIM' button or plus (+) icon. If the option exists, you're good to go.
- Check Using a Dial Code: A slightly more technical method, but effective. Open your phone's dialer and dial *#06#. Your device's identification numbers will appear on the screen. If among the numbers there's a category called EID (Embedded Identity Document), this is a clear sign that your device contains an eSIM chip and supports the technology.
List of eSIM-Compatible Devices by Manufacturer
eSIM technology is becoming increasingly common, and most major smartphone manufacturers are already embedding it in their flagship and mid-range models. However, it's important to remember that the list is constantly updated and there may be differences between models purchased in different countries. The following list consolidates the most popular and common models. Always remember to perform the preliminary check we detailed earlier to be 100% certain.
Apple iPhone Devices Supporting eSIM
Apple is one of the pioneers in adopting eSIM technology, offering support across a wide range of models since 2018. If you have an iPhone from recent years, the chances it supports eSIM are very high. The main supported models are:
- iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR series
- All iPhone 11 series (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max)
- All iPhone 12 series (12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
- All iPhone 13 series (13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
- All iPhone 14 series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
- All iPhone 15 series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
- iPhone SE models (2nd generation from 2020 onwards)
Important Note: Be aware that iPhones purchased in China, Hong Kong, or Macau may come with dual physical SIM slots and no built-in eSIM support. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's always recommended to consult the official list on Apple's website.
Samsung Galaxy Devices Supporting eSIM
Samsung, the world's largest Android manufacturer, also offers broad eSIM support, particularly in its flagship series and foldable devices. Popular supported models include:
- Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra series
- Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra series
- Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra series
- Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra series
- Samsung Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra series
- Samsung Galaxy Note20 and Note20 Ultra series
- All Z Flip series devices (Flip, Flip 3, Flip 4, Flip 5)
- All Z Fold series devices (Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3, Fold 4, Fold 5)
Important Note: eSIM availability on Samsung devices can vary depending on the country and region where the device was purchased. Certain versions intended for specific carriers (particularly in the US) may come without support. It's worth checking according to Samsung's official information or in your device settings.
Google Pixel Devices Supporting eSIM
As the developer of the Android operating system, Google ensures that its Pixel devices are among the first to adopt new technologies. Nearly all Pixel devices from recent years support eSIM:
- Google Pixel 3 and 3a series (and all XL models)
- Google Pixel 4 and 4a series
- Google Pixel 5 and 5a
- Google Pixel 6, 6a, and 6 Pro series
- Google Pixel 7, 7a, and 7 Pro series
- Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro series
- Google Pixel Fold
Xiaomi Devices Supporting eSIM
Xiaomi has begun adding eSIM support more broadly in its newer global models. Here, individual checking is particularly important, as many of the company's devices come in different configurations for different markets. Known models that support eSIM include:
- Xiaomi 12T Pro
- Xiaomi 13, 13 Pro, 13 Lite
- Xiaomi 13T Pro
- Additional models in high-end series intended for the global market.
Due to the large variation among Xiaomi models, we strongly recommend using the manual checking method in your device settings to verify compatibility before any purchase.
My Device Is on the List! What's Next?
Excellent! You've discovered that your device supports eSIM, and now you're just a few minutes away from an affordable and convenient data package for your next trip. The process with nRed eSIM roaming packages abroad is designed to be the simplest and fastest there is:
- Step 1: Choose Your Package
Visit the website and select your destination. You can find the perfect eSIM package for you, whether you need a package for a single country, an entire continent, or a global package. - Step 2: Secure Payment
Add the package to your cart and proceed to checkout. Payment is processed in shekels, in a completely secure manner, with no conversion fees or unexpected surprises on your bank statement. - Step 3: Immediate Email Delivery
This is the magic of a digital service. Immediately upon payment confirmation, your unique QR code will be sent directly to the email address you provided. No waiting, no need to collect anything. - Step 4: Scan and Activate
Open your camera settings or cellular network settings on your device, scan the QR code, and follow a few simple on-screen instructions. In less than a minute, the eSIM is installed and ready to use the moment you land.
In summary, you save valuable time, significant money, and enjoy peace of mind knowing everything is prepared in advance. And if you need help, our customer service and support team are available to you in full Hebrew.
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Compatibility
Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Absolutely. Most compatible devices allow you to activate both lines simultaneously (a mode called Dual SIM). This is an ideal solution for travelers, as it allows you to keep your Israeli line (with the physical SIM) available for receiving important calls and SMS from home, while simultaneously using nRed's eSIM for fast and cheap browsing abroad.
What happens if I buy an eSIM and my device doesn't support it?
This is exactly why we emphasize throughout this guide the critical importance of checking compatibility *before* purchase. Since the service is digital and delivered immediately, it's important to verify compatibility in advance. In case of an error, we recommend contacting our customer service as soon as possible, and we will examine the case individually according to our refund policy.
Will my WhatsApp change to the eSIM number?
No, and this is one of the greatest and most important advantages of using eSIM for browsing. The WhatsApp application is linked to the phone number on which it was first activated (your Israeli number). The eSIM provides you only with a data connection (internet). Therefore, your WhatsApp will continue to work normally with your original number, and you can maintain contact with everyone without any changes.
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