How to transfer esim from one phone to another phone : An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small digital chip built inside your phone that replaces the need for a physical SIM card. It stores your mobile number and plan details digitally. Because it is software based, moving it from one phone to another requires reactivation not just inserting or removing a card like before.
When you buy a new phone, you might want to keep your same number and carrier. To do that , you must transfer your eSIM from your old phone to your new one. This process is simple if you follow the right steps.
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Why you may need to transfer eSIM from one phone to another phone
Here are some common reasons you might transfer an eSIM :
- You’ve upgraded to a new phone and want to keep your same number.
- Your old phone is damaged or lost, and you need service on a new device.
- You’re switching from Android to iPhone, or from iPhone to Android.
- You want to change the device used for your eSIM plan (for travel or work).
What happens during eSIM transfer between phones
When you move your eSIM, your carrier reactivates your mobile plan on the new phone. The old eSIM on your previous phone gets deactivated automatically once the new one is active. You don’t lose your phone number or carrier just move it safely to another device.
Checklist before you start eSIM transfer
Before starting the transfer, make sure you complete these steps:
- Charge both phones : keep them at least 50% charged.
- Check eSIM compatibility : both phones must support eSIM.
- Check carrier support : not all carriers allow direct transfer,some issue a new QR code.
- Backup your data : contacts, photos, and apps don’t transfer with eSIM.
- Keep your carrier account details ready : you may need your login or ID.
- Write down the IMEI numbers : you can find them under Settings → About Phone.
- Use a stable Wi-Fi connection : some steps require internet access.
Common methods to transfer eSIM
There are three main ways to transfer an eSIM :
- Carrier app:
Many carriers (like Jio, Airtel, AT&T, Verizon, T Mobile, etc.) allow users to transfer eSIM through their mobile app. You can log in and select “Move eSIM to new device.” - QR code from carrier:
Your carrier can send you a new QR code. You simply scan it on your new phone to activate your eSIM. - Direct phone-to-phone transfer:
Some phones, like iPhones running iOS 16 and above, allow direct transfer between nearby devices. However, this feature usually works only between same-brand phones (iPhone to iPhone, Samsung to Samsung).
Things to remember while transfer eSIM from one phone to another phone
- Don’t delete the old eSIM until your new one is working.
- Keep your old phone nearby until the transfer is complete.
- Restart your new phone after activation if the network doesn’t appear.
- Contact your carrier if you see errors or the QR code doesn’t scan.
Process of esim transfer from one phone to another phone
Transferring an eSIM from one phone to another might sound tricky, but it’s actually quite simple. Once you understand the process, it only takes a few minutes. The key is to follow your carrier’s specific instructions and make sure both phones are compatible.
These step by step guides will help you move your eSIM easily, whether you want to transfer esim from android phone to iphone or iphone to android phone everything got covered.
How to transfer eSIM from Android to iPhone How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to AndroidMartin David is a seasoned tech writer and mobile technology expert with a Master’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering. As the Senior Content Producer at Vox Mobile, he brings deep technical knowledge and a passion for simplifying complex topics related to eSIMs, smartphones, and digital connectivity. Martin is also an avid traveler who loves exploring new destinations, making him uniquely positioned to write about mobile tech from a global perspective.