Understanding eSIM on iPhone 14
The latest iPhone models are not compatible with physical SIM cards. In fact, iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models sold in the United States don’t feature a physical SIM card or a SIM card tray. These models must be activated with an eSIM. While eSIM has existed as an option for iPhone users since the release of the iPhone XS in 2018, users who upgrade to an iPhone 14 will need to learn how to convert their physical SIM to an eSIM. Thankfully, Apple provides an eSIM Quick Transfer feature, which notably reduces the degree of friction needed to optimize your cellular plan for the transition to an iPhone 14. The following iPhone models are not only eSIM-capable but eSIM-exclusive in the United States:
iPhone 14iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 ProiPhone 14 Pro Max
Identifying iPhone eSIM Compatibility
If your current iPhone already supports eSIM, you can prepare for a new iPhone 14 by converting your physical SIM to an eSIM ahead of time. The following iPhone models already offer eSIM compatibility:
iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XRiPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro MaxiPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro MaxiPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
How to Convert the Physical SIM to eSIM on Your Existing iPhone
You can convert the physical SIM on your existing iPhone to an eSIM in preparation for your new iPhone 14. The process is easy and does not require a WiFi connection.
How To Convert Your Physical SIM to eSIM Using eSIM Quick Transfer on iPhone 14
Even if you have never used eSIM before, you can utilize Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer workflow to transition the physical SIM in your existing iPhone to an eSIM in your new iPhone 14 as part of the device setup process. To ensure that the eSIM conversion process goes smoothly, it is recommended that you update your iPhone to iOS 16 before you proceed.
How to Use QR Codes to Activate eSIM on iPhone 14
Some carriers support eSIM but do not support Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer feature. If this is the case, you will automatically receive a prompt on the “Set up Cellular” screen to scan a QR code from your carrier in order to activate eSIM on your iPhone 14. You can use the built-in Camera app on your iPhone to scan the onscreen QR code. Image credit: Brahm Shank
