As eSIM technology becomes more prevalent, information on what phones have eSIM capabilities and which do not is in demand. Apple has embraced eSIMs, however, not all iPhones have this feature.
For those of us who own an iPhone X, or are thinking of buying one, you might be wondering: Does iPhone X have eSIM?
This post is going to give you a straight answer and everything you need to know about using eSIM with iPhone X.
Does the iPhone X Support eSIM?
The quick answer is that no, the iPhone X doesn’t have eSIM functionality. As a 2017 device, the iPhone X is designed with a single physical nano-SIM card slot. Thus, it can’t be used with an eSIM on any carrier in any region.
eSIM compatibility was first added in 2018 to Apple’s iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. These models can use an eSIM in addition to the physical SIM card, allowing two numbers to be used simultaneously.
How to Use eSIM on iPhone X
The iPhone X does not support eSIM technology. This means that regardless of the eSIM brand, you cannot directly activate or use it on this model. However, if you want the convenience that eSIM offers, there are still some ways to enjoy its benefits.
Method 1: Change to a Phone That Supports eSIM
The simplest way to use an eSIM is to switch to a device that supports eSIM. Many newer phones, especially those from Apple and Android brands, come with built-in eSIM functionality.
Recommended iPhone Models with eSIM Support:
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and later models (including iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and newer) support eSIM.
These models allow you to use a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously, giving you more flexibility for dual SIM use.
Android Phones with eSIM Support:
Google Pixel 3 and newer Pixel models
Samsung Galaxy S20 and later models
Other newer Android devices may also support eSIM, but support varies by region and carrier.
How to Confirm eSIM Support:
Before purchasing a new phone, make sure to check if it supports eSIM:
Check in Settings: On your iPhone, go to: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If you see the option to add a cellular plan, your iPhone supports eSIM. If this option is missing, your device likely does not support eSIM.
Check with your carrier if they support eSIM activation for the model you want. Carrier support is essential as not all carriers enable eSIM functionality on all phones.
You can also find device eSIM support information on Apple’s or the manufacturer’s official support websites.
Switching to a phone with eSIM support is the most straightforward way to use eSIM features such as having multiple numbers on one device, or easily switching carriers without swapping physical SIM cards.
Method 2: Use a Secondary Device with eSIM Support
If you’re not ready to upgrade your iPhone X, another option is to use a secondary device that supports eSIM, such as a smartwatch or tablet.
Examples of Devices That Support eSIM:
Apple Watch Series 3 (Cellular) and later
iPad Pro (3rd generation and later)
Some Samsung Galaxy Watches and tablets
Google Pixel Tablet with eSIM support (available in select models)
This can be helpful if, for example, you're traveling and want to use local data via eSIM without affecting your main phone line. You can keep your iPhone X as your main device while managing mobile data or secondary numbers through the eSIM-enabled device.
Method 3: Use a Portable eSIM Router or Hotspot
Another workaround is to use a portable eSIM-enabled Wi-Fi router or hotspot. These are small devices that support eSIM cards and can provide internet access to your iPhone X and other devices.
Advantages:
Great for travelers who want to avoid high roaming charges.
No need to change your main phone or SIM.
Can connect multiple devices at once.
Things to Consider:
Requires a separate device and possibly a subscription.
Does not support voice or SMS — only data.
Method 4: Use Carrier Apps to Manage Virtual Lines
Some mobile carriers offer apps that let users add temporary or virtual numbers via the app, without needing a second SIM or eSIM. While not true eSIM, it provides a similar function.
Examples:
Google Voice
Hushed
MyNumber (Japan)
Your carrier’s proprietary virtual number app, if available
These apps often allow calling, texting, and even voicemail through an internet connection. It’s a lightweight alternative for users who don’t want to switch phones or manage physical SIMs.
FAQ
1. Can you do this eSIM card with an iPad or any of the other Apple products?
Yes, most of the newer iPads and Apple Watches use eSIM.
2. Does using eSIM affect phone performance?
No, an eSIM works just like a normal SIM card, except that it’s integrated into your device.
3. Is there a way to upgrade iPhone X to support eSIM?
No, hardware limitations prevent adding eSIM support to iPhone X.
Conclusion
iPhone X is not compatible with eSIM, meaning users of the iPhone X will need to use the traditional method of inserts a physical SIM card.
Apple introduced eSIM in later models and compatible ones include the iPhone XS, XR, and newer, making it easier to manage phone plans.
If you wish to use eSIM, you’ll need to upgrade your phone to a compatible device or switch back to a physical SIM slot. Be sure to consult your model of iPhone and any region-specific differences to check compatibility.