To determine if a phone is eSIM compatible, users can dial *#06# on the keyboard to check for a 32-digit EID number, or look for options such as "Add a cellular plan" or "Add an eSIM" in the settings. eSIM technology allows users to activate mobile data plans without a physical SIM card, making it easier to switch providers or use multiple lines on a single device. As of 2026, several smartphone brands and models support eSIM, with varying features and regional availability. Apple's iPhone models from the iPhone XS/XR (2018) are eSIM compatible, and newer models like the iPhone 11 and later support up to eight virtual SIM profiles. The iPhone 13 and newer models allow for dual eSIM active lines. The iPhone Air (5.6 mm) has no physical SIM tray and is eSIM only. In the United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and eight other territories, the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max also lack a physical SIM tray. However, in mainland China, eSIM is only available on the iPhone 17e and Air models. Apple's eSIM allows up to eight profiles, with two active lines from the iPhone 13. Locked devices may refuse third-party eSIMs. Samsung Galaxy models from the Galaxy S20, Fold, and Flip (2019-2020) are eSIM compatible. The Galaxy S26 allows for a nano-SIM plus eSIM or two active eSIMs. The Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra have only one physical slot, allowing a second line through eSIM with a maximum of two active profiles. The Galaxy S24 series supports dual active eSIM. However, models in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan do not support eSIM. The S20, S21, and Note 20 Ultra are American exclusives, while the A series models like A35 and A36 are reserved for Europe, North America, and Korea. In Korea, most locally purchased Galaxy phones do not have eSIM. Other compatible brands include Honor, Motorola, and Oppo. Honor's Magic series, including the Magic7 Pro, Magic6 Pro, Magic V2, and V3, are compatible by region. Motorola introduced eSIM with the Razr 2019 and expanded to the Razr 40, 50 Ultra, Edge 50, and several Moto G models. Oppo models such as the Find X8, Find N5, and Find X9 support eSIM, depending on the region and software version. Choosing and activating an eSIM plan involves identifying a compatible phone and using a QR code or app provided by the carrier. Providers like Ubigi, Holafly, and GoMoWorld offer various data plans, with options ranging from rechargeable data to fixed data envelopes. Before purchasing a phone, users should check for eSIM compatibility and consider the sales region, as imported models may lose physical SIM slots or eSIM compatibility. For travel, Ubigi is recommended for multi-country stays, Holafly for heavy users, and GoMoWorld for small budgets. iPhones and Pixels are rated highest for eSIM compatibility, followed by Samsung and Xiaomi. Foldable phone enthusiasts should consider Honor Magic V, Motorola Razr, or Galaxy Flip, all of which support eSIM depending on the region.