The iPhone 15 could be exclusively eSIM in many additional countries besides US
Apple’s decision to remove the SIM card tray from the iPhone 14 caused quite a stir in the United States. The use of eSIMs exclusively was seen by some as a mistake, forcing users to adopt a less common technology like the iPhone eSIM. However, others saw it as a positive move, offering greater convenience and eliminating the risk of water and dirt damaging the handset.
Now, reports suggest that the eSIM-only trend could spread beyond the USA with the launch of the iPhone 15, which may also be eSIM-only in France. Although this report has not been confirmed by any official sources, the change will likely extend across Europe, as Apple tends to sell the same models across multiple countries.
As eSIM technology becomes more widespread, it’s clear that Apple is investing in it as the future of mobile communications. The iPhone 14 allows users to add up to eight virtual SIM cards to a single handset, providing a high degree of flexibility for frequent travellers or anyone who needs to switch between different networks or locations. With the iPhone 15 set to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, users can look forward to an even greater range of options for managing their mobile connectivity.
Is the eSIM-Only iPhone 15 the Future of Mobile Technology?
As someone who travels frequently, the ability to have multiple SIMs pre-installed in our phones is a major advantage. While most countries are covered by my main SIM’s roaming policy, there are always a few exceptions that can cause problems. By having a second eSIM that covers those locations, I can ensure that I never lose connectivity when I’m on the move. Of course, not everyone needs multiple SIM cards, but for those who do, the eSIM-only approach is a major step forward.
With the iPhone 15 expected to hit the market later this year, it won’t be long before we find out whether the rumours about eSIMs are true. While some may still prefer the traditional SIM card approach, it’s clear that Apple is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or simply want the most advanced phone on the market, the eSIM-only iPhone is likely to offer a range of benefits that traditional SIM cards can’t match.
Every iPhone 14 model can store at least eight different eSIMs, and even more in some instances. Two can be in use at one time. Here are three options to activate your eSIM:
Set up iPhone 14 with ‘eSIM Quick Transfer’
In a support document, Apple explains that you’ll be able to convert your physical SIM to an eSIM during the iPhone 14 setup process. This can be done even if you’ve never used an eSIM before.
During the setup process, you’ll be asked to transfer your SIM from your old iPhone to your new iPhone. This is also the process you’ll use if you’re transferring an existing eSIM from your old iPhone to your new iPhone 14.
- Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another device. If you don’t see a list of numbers, tap Transfer From Another Device. This requires both devices to have iOS 16 or later.
- Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer. To confirm, tap Transfer or, if asked for a verification code, enter the code that’s displayed on your new iPhone.
- Wait for the cellular plan to activate on your new iPhone. Your previous SIM is deactivated when the cellular plan on your new iPhone activates.
- If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says Finish Setting Up Your Carrier’s Cellular Plan, tap it. You will be redirected to your carrier’s webpage to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, contact your carrier.
Use a QR code from your telecom operator
Some carriers don’t support what Apple refers to as “eSIM Quick Transfer.” If this is the case, you’ll have to scan a QR code from your carrier to activate the eSIM inside your iPhone 14. When you reach the “Set up Cellular” screen in the iPhone 14 setup process, there will be an option to use a QR code.
This will walk you through the process of scanning the QR code provided by your carrier to activate your iPhone 14’s eSIM. The process of getting that QR code will vary from carrier to carrier.
Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM with your current iPhone
If you want to get a head start on the transition to eSIM, you can convert the physical SIM inside your current iPhone to an eSIM. From there, you’ll be able to transfer that eSIM to your new iPhone 14 when it arrives.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular.
- Tap Convert to eSIM. If you don’t see this option, you’ll have to contact your carrier.
- Tap Convert Cellular Plan.
- Choose Convert to eSIM.
- Wait for your eSIM to activate. Once this is complete, your previous SIM card is deactivated.
- Remove the physical SIM and reboot your iPhone.
Recap
In conclusion, Apple’s decision to remove the SIM card tray from the iPhone 14 and use eSIMs exclusively caused quite a stir, but it’s clear that the tech giant is investing in eSIMs as the future of mobile communications. With reports suggesting that the eSIM-only trend could spread beyond the USA with the launch of the iPhone 15, the change will likely extend across Europe, providing users with an even greater range of options for managing their mobile connectivity.
For frequent travellers or anyone who needs to switch between different networks or locations, the ability to have multiple pre-installed eSIMs is a major advantage. While some may still prefer the traditional SIM card approach, the eSIM-only iPhone is likely to offer a range of benefits that can’t be matched. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology, the eSIM-only approach is a major step forward, and the iPhone 15 is sure to be one of the most advanced phones on the market.
