Frequently Asked Questions

• What is an eSIM?

  An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device. It performs the same function as a physical SIM card but is programmed remotely by your operator. You do not need to insert or remove it.

• Which UK devices support eSIM?

  Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and many other Android flagships. Check your device specifications or settings to confirm.

• Can I have two eSIMs on one phone?

  Many modern devices support multiple eSIM profiles, but typically only one or two can be active simultaneously. The exact limits depend on your device model and operating system version.

• How do I activate an eSIM?

  Purchase a plan from a UK operator, receive your QR code by email, then go to your device's SIM settings and scan the code. Full step-by-step instructions are on our Process page.

• Can I keep my existing phone number?

  Yes. Request a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from your current operator and provide it to your new operator. The port typically completes within one working day.

• What happens to my eSIM if I factory reset my phone?

  A factory reset will delete all eSIM profiles from your device. You will need to re-add your eSIM after the reset. Contact your operator for re-provisioning instructions.

• Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?

  You cannot copy an eSIM profile directly. You must contact your operator to re-provision the eSIM on your new device. Some operators offer self-service transfer through their app.

• Is eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?

  eSIM offers some security advantages — it cannot be physically removed and swapped, which reduces certain types of SIM-swap fraud. However, remote provisioning introduces its own security considerations. Operators implement security measures to protect against unauthorised profile changes.

• What should I do if my eSIM activation fails?

  First, ensure you have a stable internet connection and that your device is unlocked. Check that you are scanning the correct QR code and that it has not expired. If the problem persists, contact your operator's customer support.

• Can I use eSIM abroad?

  Yes. You can add a local eSIM plan for your destination while keeping your UK eSIM active. This allows you to use local data rates while still receiving calls on your UK number.

• What is the difference between eSIM and iSIM?

  An eSIM is a separate chip embedded in the device. An iSIM (integrated SIM) is integrated directly into the device's main processor. Both perform the same function from a user perspective, but iSIM is a newer, more compact technology.

• How do I cancel an eSIM plan?

  Contact your operator directly to cancel your plan. You can then delete the eSIM profile from your device settings. Note that deleting the profile from your device does not automatically cancel your plan.

eSIM Glossary

eSIM

Embedded SIM — a digital SIM card built into a device, programmable remotely.

RSP (Remote SIM Provisioning)

The technical process by which an operator loads a SIM profile onto an eSIM remotely.

PAC (Porting Authorisation Code)

A code used to transfer (port) your phone number from one operator to another.

MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator)

A mobile operator that does not own its own network infrastructure but leases capacity from a major network operator.

QR Code Activation

The most common method of activating an eSIM — scanning a QR code provided by your operator.

eSIM Profile

The digital equivalent of a SIM card — a set of credentials stored on the eSIM chip that identifies you to a specific operator's network.

Dual SIM

A device configuration where two SIM profiles (physical or eSIM) are active simultaneously.

5G

The fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds and lower latency than 4G.