This year, Apple introduced three new iPhone models with many similarities. To the delight of many, the iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max and iPhone Xr were equipped with an eSIM.
All three iPhones are being delivered for the first time with dual SIM functionality - a feature that has been available from other manufacturers for some time and is particularly popular with people who use company cell phones. However, Apple has a special feature, as only one real SIM card can still be used. Anyone who has an additional number can use it via the eSIM built into the iPhone.
What is an eSim?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is an integrated SIM that is already built into the device as a chipset and can be assigned a mobile phone tariff at any time.
Why is a dual SIM useful?
iPhone users who have two mobile phone numbers were previously forced to use two devices. The classic: business and private. With the new iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max and iPhone Xr models, Apple enables the use of one device in several areas of application thanks to the dual SIM function. Such a function can also be useful on vacation. Booking a suitable tariff is quick and the annoying task of changing the SIM card is no longer necessary.
How to activate the eSim
In order to activate the eSim, an iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone Xr or newer models are required - version iOS 12.1 or later is required.
There are three ways to activate the eSim.
- eSim activation via QR code
- eSim activation via app
- manual entry of the necessary data
1. Set up eSim via QR code
If you want to activate the eSim via QR code, you must select the "Mobile network" section in the "Settings". Then tap on "Add mobile tariff" and scan the QR code. The QR code is provided by the respective mobile provider. To complete the activation, you must enter the confirmation code.
2. Activate eSim via app
The alternative to the QR code would be activation using the app of the respective mobile phone provider. To do this, the app must be downloaded from the App Store and the desired tariff selected. Once the selection has been made, the provider will provide instructions. These can vary from provider to provider.
3. Manual entry of the necessary data
The third and final option would be to enter the necessary data manually. To do this, open the "Settings" and then select the "Mobile network" section. Then tap on "Add mobile plan" and select the "Enter information manually" option.
Which providers support the electronic SIM?
In Germany, Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone are listed. The mobile operator Telefonica will follow at a later date. In Austria and the Czech Republic, it is T-Mobile. Switzerland is not currently listed. In Spain, Vodafone Spain will initially support the service. For Great Britain, it is the provider EE. The service is also already supported in Croatia, Hungary, Canada, the USA and India. Click here for the current list the participating providers.
