What is an eSIM?
Everything you need to know about eSIM technology before your trip
The digital SIM of the future
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital chip built directly into your phone. Unlike traditional SIM cards that you need to physically insert, an eSIM is activated digitally by scanning a QR code. No store visits, no chip cutting, no waiting for shipping.
Scan a QR, activate the plan, and you're connected in minutes.
eSIM vs Physical SIM
eSIM (Digital)
- Instant activation with QR
- No physical chip to insert
- Multiple profiles on one device
- Perfect for travelers
- Switch plans without changing chips
- Impossible to lose or damage
Physical SIM
- Requires inserting a chip
- Need a physical card
- One profile per card
- Need to buy local SIM at destination
- Switch plan = swap chip
- Can be lost or damaged
Benefits of eSIM for travel
Instant activation
Get your eSIM by email and activate it by scanning the QR. No waiting, no shipping.
Dual SIM
Keep your personal number active while using local data with the eSIM. Perfect for WhatsApp.
No roaming
Avoid surprise international roaming charges. Pay a fixed price before you travel.
More secure
Cannot be physically extracted or cloned. Your connection is protected.
Eco-friendly
No plastic, no packaging, no waste. 100% digital.
Flexible
Switch plans or providers without needing to change chips.
How many eSIMs can I store?
Modern devices can store multiple eSIM profiles, though only one or two can be active simultaneously.
iPhone (XS and later)
Storage
8+ eSIM profiles
Active
2 active simultaneously
Note
iPhone 14+ (USA) are eSIM-only, no SIM tray
Samsung Galaxy (S20+)
Storage
5+ eSIM profiles
Active
1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
Note
FE models are generally NOT compatible
Google Pixel (3+)
Storage
Multiple profiles
Active
1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
Note
Pixel 7+ support dual eSIM
What is an unlocked phone?
To use an eSIM, your phone must be unlocked — meaning it's not tied exclusively to one carrier (like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, etc.). An unlocked phone can use SIMs or eSIMs from any provider.
How to check if your phone is unlocked
iPhone
Settings → General → About → look for "No SIM restrictions"
Android
Insert a SIM from a different carrier. If it works and you can make calls, your phone is unlocked.
Contact your carrier
Call your current carrier and ask if your phone is unlocked. If not, request an unlock.
Need an unlocked phone?
You can buy factory-unlocked phones from these stores:
Ready to try your first eSIM?
Connect in Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic in minutes.