SIM with eSIM profile: How to use eSIM on unsupported phones

The revolution of the eSIM It has arrived with a bang, but if your phone isn't natively compatible with this technology, all is not lost. In recent years, ingenious alternatives and tailored solutions have emerged to take advantage of the benefits of the digital SIM even on phones that don't support it by default. This article breaks down everything you need to know about it. How to use an eSIM or a SIM with an eSIM profile on phones that don't originally support it, reviewing viable methods, compatible devices, benefits, precautions, and much more.

If you travel frequently, want more competitive rates, or are simply looking to ditch the plastic of a physical SIM, here you'll find a complete and updated guide with the safest and most recommended options. Get ready to discover a smart way to take advantage of eSIMs on devices that seemingly aren't "ready" for this technology.

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

The eSIM is the evolution of the classic physical SIM cardInstead of being manually inserted into a slot, the eSIM is integrated into the hardware of the device: a chip soldered to motherboard which allows the remote installation of different operator profiles. The name comes from the Anglicism «Embedded Subscriber Identity Module», i.e. integrated subscriber identity module.

Its basic operation is the same as that of a traditional SIM: It allows you to connect to an operator's network, make calls, send messages and browse the Internet.The essential difference is in their flexibility: You can install multiple profiles from different companies and switch between them very easily, without having to remove or insert any physical cards.

In practice, eSIM activation is usually done through a unit’s QR code that the operator provides after contracting, although some processes allow it to be done with apps own or even with direct activation if the operator and the device support it.

Furthermore, You can have multiple eSIMs stored and choose which one you use at any given time, which is especially useful for travelers or those who handle multiple numbers.

Why look for an eSIM on incompatible phones?

The use of eSIM is growing for several reasons. It allows flexibility, convenience and more digital management of mobile lines.However, most manufacturers only integrate this feature in high-end or recent models, such as iPhone starting with XR/XS or premium Androids (Samsung Galaxy S, Google Pixel, some Xiaomi and Huawei, among others).

But why would anyone want to use an eSIM on an unsupported phone?

• International travel: Ordering eSIM data profiles from foreign operators is easier and faster than purchasing physical SIMs.
• Economic savings: Many eSIM plans, especially for travelers, are more affordable.
• Detachment from the physical SIM: Never lose your card again or wait for it to arrive in the mail.
• Avoid roaming: You install a local profile and browse at the best price.

The demand for using eSIMs on "non-compatible" phones is realFortunately, solutions and adapters have emerged to implement eSIM profiles even on devices that don't support it by default.

What is an eSIM profile? Magic happens with eUICCs.

The key to all this lies in the technical specification. A Traditional SIM It is based on the UICC standard (Universal Integrated Circuit Card), while eSIM o Virtual SIM uses the variant eUICC (Integrated UICC), which allows you to install operator profiles remotely.

Here comes the trick: nothing prevents you from making physical SIM cards with eUICC specificationThese are standard SIMs that fit into any phone's slot, but internally support eSIM profile management, just like an integrated eSIM.

There are already several international companies on the market such as eSIM.me, 5ber o JMP that market these products: SIM cards compatible with eSIM profiles that work on phones that only support a physical SIM.

These cards allow you Install eSIM profiles from operators anywhere in the world, provided the phone is compatible with a specific management system (there are nuances that we will discuss later). Prices usually range between 25 and 35 euros by the SIM adapter itself, to which you must add the eSIM profile that you then want to install.

How do SIM adapters with eSIM profile work?

The process is simple, although it requires following some steps:

1. Purchase a SIM card with an eSIM profile (from eSIM.me, JMP, 5ber, etc.).
2. Insert it into your phone's standard SIM slot.
3. In most cases, you will need to use one specific application (provider app) to manage the installation and activation of eSIM profiles: scan the QR code, choose which profile to activate, etc.
4. Once installed, you can switch eSIM profiles or store multiple profiles, depending on the model you purchase and the number of profiles allowed.

Some providers, such as JMP, offer apps for various platforms (Android, Windows, macOS, Linux), which provides greater versatility. Others, such as eSIM.me, focus on Android and often have updated compatibility lists for popular smartphones.

Important tipBefore purchasing, always check the list of compatible devices on the eSIM adapter provider's website. Not all phones can manage the configuration, especially if they don't support Open Mobile API (OMAPI), a technical requirement for some Android models.

Advantages and disadvantages of using a SIM with an eSIM profile on non-compatible mobile phones

Using these types of adapters and hybrid cards opens up new possibilities, but also has nuances to consider.

main advantages

• Total flexibility: You can change operators or rates without changing your physical SIM.
• Ideal for traveling: Install a local eSIM profile in seconds and avoid expensive roaming.
• multiple profiles: Some adapters allow you to have multiple profiles stored and switch between them from an app.
• No physical loss: The eSIM is virtual, you can't break it or lose it.
• More sustainability: Less plastic waste by not requiring new physical SIMs for each operator or trip.

Disadvantages and limitations

• Limited compatibility: Not all “non-compatible” phones will be able to use these adapters.
• Slightly more complex installation and management: : usually requires additional apps.
• Third party dependency: The quality of support and updates depends on the company that makes the adapter.
• On older phones, management may be unstable. (especially on older versions of Android).
• Some eSIM profiles can only be installed once.If you delete your profile, you typically won't be able to reuse the same QR code.

Steps to install an eSIM (or eSIM profile) on an incompatible phone

The process varies depending on the adapter brand, but generally it goes like this:

1. Buy an eSIM adapter trusted (eSIM.me, JMP, 5ber…)
2. Check compatibility on the seller's website.
3. Insert the SIM card with eSIM profile into your phone's SIM slot.
4. Download and install the management app provided by the adapter manufacturer.
5. Open the app, add an eSIM profile by scanning the unit’s QR code provided by your operator or eSIM provider.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Accepting the settings and selecting the active profile is usually sufficient.
7. In some cases, you'll have the option to add multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them using the app.

The main difficulty lies in profile management and the compatibility limitations of certain Android phones. For example, some models don't support the standard. OMAPI, which prevents the app from correctly configuring the card.

Which phones support eSIM and which don't?

At present, Most mobile phones that support eSIM are high-endHere's a guide:

• Apple : All iPhone models from XS/XR onwards (iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, etc.). Starting with iPhone 13, they support dual active eSIM (Dual eSIM). For more model details, see this article.
• Samsung: Mainly S series (S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, etc.), some foldable models, and most Ultra models. See details for A and M series.
• Google: Pixel 3 onwards, but newer versions (Pixel 7, 8, 9…) have better support for Dual eSIM.
• Other Android manufacturers: There are advances in brands such as Xiaomi, HONOR, OPPO, Huawei, Motorola, Sony and some models of DOOGEE, Planet Computers, Rakuten, Sharp…

If your mobile phone is not listed in the official lists, check in the settingsIf you see the option to "Add eSIM" or "Add mobile data plan," you're in luck and can install native profiles. Otherwise, you'll need to use an adapter.

Can I use two eSIMs or combine an eSIM and a physical SIM?

On terminals that do officially support eSIM, Almost all of them support combining eSIM and physical SIM, which allows you to have two active lines (ideal for separating work and personal life, or for travel).

The function Dual eSIM (using two eSIMs at the same time) is limited to specific models. For example, on Apple, all iPhones since the 13th allow two eSIMs to be active simultaneously, while on Android, compatibility depends on each manufacturer (see the guide to managing roaming).

On non-factory compatible mobile phones, you cannot have dual eSIM Due to technical limitations, you will be able to manage multiple saved profiles in most cases, but only one will be active at a time.

How much does an eSIM cost and where can I buy it?

The cost of using an eSIM depends on two factors:

• The SIM adapter with eSIM profile: between €25 and €35 ​​on average, depending on the model and number of profiles allowed.
• The eSIM profile or data plan: You can buy them on websites like Holafly, HolaSim, or directly from the traditional operator (Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, etc.), with prices that vary greatly depending on the destination and duration (from global plans starting at $30 to packages for Europe at around $50 per month).

Some companies, such as HolaSim, don't charge for the eSIM itself, only for the associated data plan. Payment is usually a one-time fee for the adapter card, and recurring fees apply for each new eSIM profile installed.

Recommendations before purchasing and installing a SIM with an eSIM profile

Before embarking on this technological adventure, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the compatibility of your mobile on the adapter supplier's website.
• Check how many eSIM profiles you can manage at once (some only allow two, others up to five or more).
• Make sure your phone supports OMAPI If you're using Android, this is essential for the app to write to the SIM adapter.
• Store your eSIM QR codes and profiles in a safe place.Many operators do not allow reuse of them after deletion.
• Suspicion of very low prices in adapters or little-known services.
• Be careful with permissions rootSome apps, such as OpenEUICC, require root and can be complicated to navigate for less experienced users.

What if I deactivate the SIM slot with an active eSIM profile on my phone?

On Android phones, especially from version 13 onwards, there is a small drawback: If you disable the SIM slot where the eSIM.me card (or other adapter) is inserted, the active eSIM profile may become inaccessible. until you reset the phone to factory settings or follow an advanced guide like XDA Developers.

This happens because the operating system assigns an identification code (CardID) to the active configuration, and if the slot is disabled, that CardID is marked as "deactivated," with no way to manually reactivate it. Before deactivating anything, be sure to first disable the eSIM profile in the carrier's app.

Which operators and countries offer eSIM?

The eSIM is an increasingly widespread technology. For example, in Spain, most major operators (Movistar, Orange, Vodafone) offer eSIM as an alternative to a physical SIM, even free for new subscribers. In Latin America, adoption is progressive, with countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Mexico, Colombia, Paraguay, and Peru already offering this service through major telecoms (Movistar, Claro, Personal, AT&T, Telcel, Entel, Tigo, Bitel, etc.).

If you purchase an international eSIM profile, such as those from Holafly or HolaSim, you can access data in more than 140 countries without changing your physical SIM, simply by installing the profile sent to you by email on your adapter.

Can I use the eSIM on wearables, tablets, or other devices?

The adoption of eSIM also extends to smartwatches, tablets and portableThe principles are the same: if your device supports eSIM or you can install an adapter with an eSIM profile, you'll enjoy the benefits of this technology without any physical ties.

To recap, the eSIM represents the future of mobile connectivityAnd although manufacturers are pushing you to buy new models, there are safe and reliable solutions to enjoy their benefits on all types of phones. Whether for savings, convenience, or flexibility, opting for a SIM with an eSIM profile is a smart decision, as long as you follow the compatibility guidelines and safety tips. The market for hybrid adapters will continue to improve, so stay tuned for developments and don't be left behind in this digital revolution.