eSIM Compatible Devices (Updated 2026)

Last reviewed: October 2026

Planning to use a Simify travel eSIM on your next trip? Before purchasing a plan, check two things: your phone must support eSIM technology, and it must be unlocked from your current mobile carrier. If either requirement isn't met, you may not be able to activate your travel eSIM.

In this guide, I'll explain what an unlocked device is, how to check your phone's status, and which iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, Google Pixel devices, and other smartphones support eSIM in 2026. I'll also cover regional differences, common compatibility problems, and what to do before travelling.

Quick answer:

• Unlocked phone: Can be used with compatible mobile networks from different carriers.
• eSIM-compatible phone: Has the hardware and software needed to install an eSIM profile.
• Both are required: Your device must be eSIM-compatible and unlocked to use a Simify travel eSIM.
• Check the exact model: Compatibility can vary by country, carrier, and device variant.

Ready to get connected? Browse Simify's Europe SIM options or check your destination's available plans before travelling.

What Is an Unlocked Device?

An unlocked phone is a mobile device that isn't restricted to one specific carrier. It can generally connect to other compatible mobile networks, provided the phone supports their network technology and the carrier accepts the device.

For example, if you purchased a phone through Telstra, Optus, AT&T, or another mobile operator, it might be locked to that carrier. If it is locked, a travel SIM or eSIM from another provider may not work until the restriction is removed.

However, buying a phone from a mobile carrier doesn't automatically mean it's locked. Likewise, purchasing a device outright from a retailer such as Best Buy, JB Hi-Fi, or Harvey Norman doesn't guarantee that it is unlocked. The status depends on the device and the seller's terms.

An unlocked phone gives you more flexibility when travelling. Instead of relying exclusively on your home carrier's international roaming service, you can use a compatible local SIM or install a travel eSIM for mobile data.

For a more detailed introduction, read How Does eSIM Work.

How to Check If Your Phone Is Unlocked

You can usually check your phone's lock status in its settings or by contacting your mobile carrier. The exact method depends on your device.

On an iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Select About.
4. Scroll down to Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock.
5. Look for the status No SIM restrictions.

If your iPhone displays “No SIM restrictions,” it is unlocked. If it displays a different status, contact your carrier to confirm whether the device is locked.

On an Android Phone

Android doesn't have one universal menu for checking whether a phone is carrier-locked. The available options depend on the manufacturer, model, and software version.

Start by opening Settings and checking sections such as Connections, Network & Internet, or SIM Manager. These menus can help you identify your active SIMs and network settings, although they may not explicitly confirm whether the phone is unlocked.

The most reliable option is to contact your carrier and ask whether your specific device can accept a SIM or eSIM from another provider. You may need to provide your IMEI number, which you can usually find under Settings → About phone.

What Is an eSIM-Compatible Device?

An eSIM is a digital SIM profile that allows a compatible device to connect to a mobile network without inserting a physical SIM card. Instead of swapping cards, you download or install the profile supplied by your mobile provider.

However, not every smartphone supports this technology. Some models look almost identical but have different capabilities depending on where they were sold.

To use a Simify travel eSIM, your device must meet three requirements:

• eSIM support: The exact model and regional variant must support eSIM.
• Unlocked status: Your carrier must not restrict the device to its own network.
• Network compatibility: The phone must support the mobile networks and frequencies available at your destination.

If you are unsure which devices qualify, see our guide to eSIM-compatible phones.

eSIM-Compatible Phones in 2026

The following lists cover common eSIM-compatible device families available by October 2026. They are a practical starting point, not a guarantee that every regional variant supports eSIM.

Manufacturers regularly release new models, and compatibility can differ between countries and carrier versions. Always check the exact model number before buying a travel plan.

Apple iPhone

Most iPhones beginning with the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR generation support eSIM, including many newer models. Compatible families include:

• iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR
• iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE: second and third generations
• iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16e
• iPhone 17 family: iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 17e, and iPhone Air
• Newer supported models: Certain iPhone 18-generation models, including the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max

Apple's documentation confirms that eSIM support varies by model and region, particularly for devices purchased in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao. Check Apple's current eSIM guidance for iPhone before relying on a particular model.

Important regional differences:

• Some iPhones sold in the United States are eSIM-only and have no physical SIM tray.
• Many international versions of the same iPhone generation support both a physical SIM and eSIM.
• Some iPhone models sold in mainland China do not support eSIM in the same way as international versions.
• Certain iPhones sold in Hong Kong and Macao use two physical SIM cards instead of the usual physical-SIM-plus-eSIM configuration.

Don't assume that an iPhone supports eSIM simply because another version of the same model does.

Apple iPad

Some cellular iPads support eSIM, but Wi-Fi-only models do not provide cellular connectivity. Compatible model families include selected cellular versions of:

• iPad Pro
• iPad Air
• Standard iPad
• iPad mini

Support varies by generation, model number, and region. For example, an iPad with cellular connectivity may support an eSIM, a physical SIM, or both. Check Apple's technical specifications for the exact model before purchasing a plan.

Samsung Galaxy

Many Samsung Galaxy flagship phones support eSIM, as do selected mid-range models. Common compatible families include:

• Galaxy S series: Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, and S26 families, including supported Plus, Ultra, and FE variants.
• Galaxy Z series: Selected Galaxy Fold and Galaxy Z Flip models, from earlier generations through newer Fold and Flip releases.
• Galaxy A series: Selected models such as the Galaxy A54, A55, A56, A35, and A36, depending on the regional version.
• Galaxy Note series: Galaxy Note20 and Note20 Ultra, subject to regional compatibility.
• Selected Galaxy tablets: Certain cellular Galaxy Tab S models support eSIM.

Samsung's official compatibility list includes the S20 and newer flagship generations, selected Z Fold and Z Flip devices, and certain A-series models. It also warns that availability can vary by market and device variant.

Watch out for regional variants. Some US versions of otherwise compatible Galaxy models do not support eSIM. Certain models sold in other regions may also differ from their international counterparts.

To verify your Samsung phone, check its official specifications for Embedded SIM or eSIM, or contact Samsung support with your exact model number.

Google Pixel

Google Pixel phones are another popular option for travellers using eSIMs.

Common compatible models include:

• Pixel 4 series: Pixel 4 and 4 XL
• Pixel 5 series: Pixel 5 and 5a
• Pixel 6 series: Pixel 6, 6a, and 6 Pro
• Pixel 7 series: Pixel 7 and 7 Pro
• Pixel 8 series: Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a
• Pixel 9 series: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9a
• Pixel 10 series: Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and other supported variants
• Pixel Fold family: Supported Pixel Fold models

Google states that Pixel 4 and later phones support eSIM, subject to the carrier and device requirements. Some older Pixel 2 and Pixel 3 models have specific restrictions based on the carrier or country where they were purchased.

One additional detail matters for travellers: some newer Pixel models sold in the United States, including the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL, do not accept a physical SIM card. This does not prevent eSIM use, but it does affect your options if you normally swap physical SIM cards.

For current details, consult Google's Pixel SIM and eSIM support guide.

Other Android Devices

Several manufacturers offer eSIM support, but availability is particularly dependent on the exact model and sales region.

Manufacturer	Examples of compatible models or families	What to check
Xiaomi	Xiaomi 12T Pro, selected Xiaomi 13 models, and selected newer Xiaomi 14, 15, and 17-series devices	Regional specifications and eSIM support for the exact model
Motorola	Selected Razr foldable phones and Edge models, including supported Razr 60 and Edge 60 variants	Carrier and regional variant
Huawei	Selected P40 and Mate 40 Pro models	Model-specific and regional restrictions
OPPO	Selected Find X-series and other supported models	Country of purchase and exact variant
Sony	Selected Xperia 1, Xperia 5, and Xperia 10 models	Exact model number and region
HONOR	Selected Magic-series and other supported models	Regional specifications and carrier support
Fairphone	Fairphone 4 and selected later models where supported	Device software and regional support
Nokia	Selected X-series and XR-series models	Exact model and network compatibility
OnePlus	Selected OnePlus models, including supported regional variants	Manufacturer specifications and carrier support
Sharp	Selected AQUOS models	Primarily model- and region-specific support

For example, Xiaomi's official support information confirms eSIM support for the Xiaomi 12T Pro and explains that support on other models depends on the device and region. Motorola likewise advises checking the exact device and carrier before setting up an eSIM.

Treat this table as a starting point rather than a definitive compatibility list. A manufacturer may sell two versions of the same phone, one with eSIM and another without it. The most reliable check is the manufacturer's specification page for your exact model number.

How to Check eSIM Compatibility

Before purchasing a travel eSIM, use the following checks to confirm that your phone is ready.

1. Find Your Exact Model Number

Open your phone's settings and look under About phone or About device. On an iPhone, go to Settings → General → About.

Write down the model name and, if available, the model number. This matters because two devices with the same commercial name may have different capabilities in different markets.

2. Look for an eSIM Setting

On an iPhone, open Settings → Cellular or Mobile Data and look for an option to add an eSIM, such as Add eSIM.

On a Samsung Galaxy, look under Settings → Connections → SIM manager. On a Google Pixel, check the SIM settings under Network & Internet.

The exact menu wording can vary with software versions. If you cannot find an eSIM option, verify your model with the manufacturer rather than assuming the phone is incompatible.

3. Confirm That the Phone Is Unlocked

For an iPhone, check Carrier Lock under Settings → General → About. On Android, contact your carrier or consult its device-unlocking instructions.

An eSIM option in the settings confirms neither that your phone is unlocked nor that every eSIM provider will work with it.

4. Check the Destination and Plan

Make sure the travel eSIM covers your destination and that your phone supports the required mobile networks. Check the plan's data allowance, validity period, and activation instructions before you leave.

5. Prepare Before Departure

If possible, install your travel eSIM while you have a reliable internet connection and follow the provider's instructions about when the plan should be activated. Some plans start their validity period at installation, while others begin when they connect to a supported network.

What to Do If Your Phone Is Locked

If your phone is locked to a carrier, contact that carrier and ask whether it can be unlocked. The process depends on the carrier, country, contract status, and any remaining payment obligations.

Some carriers unlock eligible devices at no cost, while others have specific eligibility requirements. Don't assume that unlocking always involves a fee or that it will be completed immediately.

Once the carrier confirms that your phone is unlocked, check eSIM compatibility again and follow the travel eSIM provider's installation instructions.

If your device cannot be unlocked or does not support eSIM, alternatives include using your home carrier's international roaming service, purchasing a compatible physical travel SIM, or using Wi-Fi where available.

Common eSIM Compatibility Problems

Even when a phone appears on a compatibility list, a few issues can prevent activation.

The phone is carrier-locked. The device may support eSIM technology but refuse a plan from another provider. Ask your carrier to confirm the lock status.

The model is from a restricted region. Some versions of iPhones, Samsung phones, and other devices have different SIM capabilities depending on the market where they were sold.

The phone supports physical SIM only. An unlocked device isn't automatically eSIM-compatible. You need to verify both requirements independently.

The plan doesn't cover your destination. An eSIM can install successfully but still fail to connect if the destination or network isn't included in the plan.

The device needs a software update. Some compatibility or activation issues can be resolved by updating the operating system, restarting the phone, or following the provider's troubleshooting instructions.

The eSIM is installed but not selected for data. On a Dual SIM phone, check which line is selected for mobile data and whether the travel eSIM is enabled. Follow the provider's guidance on data roaming for that particular plan.

For additional help, see our eSIM-compatible phones guide and How Does eSIM Work.

Stay Connected with Simify

Checking your phone before travelling can save you time, stress, and unexpected connectivity problems. Confirm that your device is unlocked, verify that its exact model supports eSIM, and check that your destination is covered by your chosen plan.

Once those details are confirmed, a travel eSIM can make it easier to get mobile data abroad without swapping your everyday SIM card.

Explore Simify's Europe SIM options to find a plan for your trip. Review the coverage, data allowance, validity period, and activation instructions before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an unlocked phone?

An unlocked phone is not restricted to one mobile carrier. It can generally use compatible SIM cards or eSIM plans from other providers, subject to network compatibility and the provider's requirements.

Does my phone need to be unlocked to use a Simify eSIM?

Yes. Your phone must be unlocked and support eSIM technology. A carrier-locked phone may reject an eSIM from another provider even if the device has built-in eSIM capability.

How do I know if my iPhone is unlocked?

Go to Settings → General → About and check the Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock field. If it says No SIM restrictions, your iPhone is unlocked.

Which iPhones support eSIM in 2026?

Many iPhones from the XS, XS Max, and XR generation onward support eSIM, including numerous iPhone 11 through iPhone 17 models and certain newer models. However, regional variants differ, so check your exact model before purchasing a plan.

Do all Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM?

No. Many flagship Galaxy S and Z models support eSIM, as do selected A-series devices, but support depends on the exact model and region. Some carrier or regional versions do not include eSIM functionality.

Do Google Pixel phones support eSIM?

Google Pixel 4 and later phones generally support eSIM, subject to carrier and device requirements. Certain older Pixel models have restrictions based on where they were purchased or which carrier supplied them.

Can I use an eSIM on a locked phone?

A locked phone may restrict eSIM plans from other carriers. Contact your carrier to confirm the lock status and ask about unlocking the device before purchasing a travel eSIM.

Can a phone support eSIM but still be incompatible with a travel plan?

Yes. The phone may be locked, the regional variant may lack eSIM support, or the device may not support the networks used at your destination. Check device compatibility, unlocking, and plan coverage separately.

How do I check whether my Android phone supports eSIM?

Look for an eSIM or SIM manager option in your settings, then verify the exact model on the manufacturer's official website. If the information is unclear, contact the manufacturer or your carrier.

What should I do if my phone doesn't support eSIM?

You can consider a compatible physical travel SIM, your carrier's international roaming service, or Wi-Fi. If you choose a physical SIM from another provider, make sure your phone is unlocked and supports the relevant network.

Can I keep my regular number while using a travel eSIM?

On compatible Dual SIM devices, you can often keep your regular SIM active while using a travel eSIM for data. Check your settings and your home carrier's roaming charges to avoid unexpected fees.

Should I install my travel eSIM before travelling?

Often, yes, because installing it before departure gives you time to troubleshoot while you have a reliable internet connection. However, check the provider's instructions first, since the plan's validity may begin at installation or at first network connection.