eSIM technology is a digital alternative to the traditional SIM card used in mobile phones. Instead of a physical card that users insert into their devices, eSIMs are embedded chips that allow users to activate mobile plans directly on their smartphones or other devices. These chips can support multiple network providers and are becoming increasingly common in modern smartphones. However, transferring an eSIM from one device to another is not always simple, especially when moving between different types of devices or mobile operators. On iPhones, transferring an eSIM to another iPhone can be done using Apple’s Quick Transfer feature, which requires both devices to be close and connected via Bluetooth. For Android devices, the process involves generating a QR code on the new phone, which the old device scans to complete the transfer. However, when moving an eSIM from an iPhone to an Android device or vice versa, the process usually involves the mobile operator deactivating and reactivating the eSIM remotely. While this method is still used by some providers, recent updates to both iOS and Android have made direct transfers between the two platforms more common, though not all French mobile operators currently support this feature. In France, SFR is the only major mobile operator that currently allows direct eSIM transfers between an iPhone and an Android device. This feature is available only on newer models, such as the iPhone 11 or newer with iOS 26.3, and Google’s Pixel 9 or 10 with Android 16. Other major providers like Orange, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile still require customer service assistance or manual activation methods for such transfers. Before attempting an eSIM transfer, it’s important to confirm that the new device supports eSIM technology and that the mobile operator allows the transfer, especially when moving between Android and iOS. Most modern smartphones are eSIM-compatible, and the necessary operating system versions are widely available. For example, transferring an eSIM from an Android device to an iPhone involves deactivating the eSIM on the Android phone through the SIM Manager or SIM Cards menu, then obtaining a QR code or activation code from the operator to activate the eSIM on the iPhone. The same process applies in reverse when moving from an iPhone to an Android device. Transferring an eSIM between smartwatches is not possible in the traditional sense, as each eSIM profile is tied to a specific smartwatch. However, some mobile operators allow users to deactivate the eSIM on the old smartwatch and activate it on a new one through their customer service portal. This process may involve activation fees, with Orange and SFR charging 10 euros for the service, while Free Mobile offers a no-fee option called eSIM Watch for compatible smartwatches.