How to transfer your eSIM from old to new iPhone

As eSIM technology becomes more widespread, Apple has removed physical SIMs from its newest smartphone – the iPhone 14 series launched in the US. Creating an eSIM profile for your iPhone is easy and straightforward, however, you may not be interested in creating a new profile for each different device. If you bought a new iPhone, you can easily and seamlessly transfer your existing eSIM from your old phone to your new device.

See also: Digital eSIMs are here to replace physical SIM cards

iPhone users can easily and conveniently transfer their eSIM from one device to another with the help of Apple. Therefore, if you have an iPhone with a current eSIM profile, transferring it to your new iPhone is quick and easy.

Requirements for eSIM transfer:

• iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR or newer model.
• A wireless service provider or international service provider that supports eSIM.
• Wi-Fi network connected to your new iPhone.

With Fast eSIM Transfer, you can effortlessly switch your existing eSIM to a new iPhone without having to contact your carrier. It's important to keep in mind that for a successful eSIM transfer between iPhones, both devices must be running iOS 16.

See also: Qualcomm's iSIM could eliminate SIMs and eSIMs

Here's how you can do it:

1. Go to the Settings menu on your new iPhone and select the Mobile Data or Cellular option .
2. Then, tap on Add eSIM.
3. Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another iPhone.
4. If you don't see a list of numbers, then two options will appear on your iPhone screen — Transfer from Nearby iPhone and QR Code.
5. If you select the Transfer from Nearby iPhone option from the pop-up window, a verification code will be received on your old iPhone. You can enter this code in the space provided on your new iPhone.
6. Wait for the cellular plan to activate on your new iPhone. Once the cellular plan is activated on your new iPhone, the previous SIM will be deactivated.
7. After that, tap on the banner that says Finish setting up your carrier's mobile plan on your new iPhone. To transfer your eSIM, you'll be redirected to your carrier's website.

See also: iPhone 14: Apple explains the benefits of eSIM for travelers

Once you activate eSIM on your new iPhone, cellular data and calling features will be ready for immediate use