Help with eSIM
If you're looking for a more convenient way to get connected, eSIM might be just what you need. Instead of using a physical SIM card, everything happens digitally! There’s no need to wait for a SIM card to arrive or worry about inserting it correctly. It’s a handy option for anyone wanting to get up and running quickly.
In this article
What is an eSIM?
Simply put, eSIM is a virtual SIM card that offers a more flexible way to connect without needing a physical SIM card. It’s built into many modern devices and can help simplify how you keep connected.
Some phones support Dual SIM, which means that if you add an eSIM to a Dual SIM capable phone you can run two mobile plans at the same time from the same device.
Benefits of eSIM
How do I get an eSIM?
An eSIM works by downloading a profile onto the chip built into your phone. You download the profile by scanning a QR code our team can provide you with at your nearest 2degrees store, or by calling our Customer Care team on 0800 022 022. Once you have your QR code you’ll need to activate your profile which links it to a mobile number and mobile plan.
Note: eSIM is only available on selected iOS and Android models.
eSIM for Phones
We use a QR code system to set up a new eSIM for most devices. if you’re wanting to transfer an eSIM to a new Apple device, or to transfer your physical SIM on to an eSIM on your existing Apple device, you can use their native Quick Transfer system. Setting up your eSIM is a super easy process, but should you need help we have a comprehensive set up page.
eSIM for iPads and Tablets
Some iPads and Tablets are already eSIM only devices. follow the steps on our handy set up page if you need help, or head in-store and chat to a friendly team member.
eSIM for Wearables
Our eSIM supports selected Samsung Galaxy wearables. Learn more here.
Note: We are working on the next phase which may include other wearables in the future.
List of eSIM capable devices
Not all devices are enabled for eSIM, so it’s important to check whether yours is compatible before getting started. Below is a list of devices that support eSIM.
Note: If your device is not listed check your settings anyway, if you see a prompt that says ‘Add eSIM’ your device is eSIM capable.
Moving my eSIM to 2degrees
We use a QR code system to set up a new eSIM for most devices. if you’re wanting to transfer an eSIM to a new Apple device, to transfer your pSIM on to an eSIM on you existing Apple device, you can use their native Quick Transfer system. Setting up your eSIM is a super easy process, but should you need help we have a comprehensive set up page
What do I do with my physical SIM?
Once your eSIM is up and running, you can reuse your physical SIM in another device or recycle it. To help reduce electronic waste, drop it into a 2degrees e-waste bin at any of our stores. Learn more here.
How does Dual SIM work?
Using an eSIM allows your phone to become Dual-SIM, which means that you can use two mobile plans simultaneously. You can store one plan on your eSIM and another plan on your physical SIM card but only one* of them can be active at a time.
This can be helpful if you’re roaming as you don't need to carry multiple devices with different profiles. Instead, you can switch between your eSIM profiles easily.
OPPO and Samsung models allow for one physical SIM and one eSIM to be active at the same time. The iPhone 13 and newer models allow two different eSIM profiles to be active at the same time.
