Like a traditional SIM card, an eSIM stores the data your device needs to use the EE network. ‘eSIM’ simply means an embedded SIM, but unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is already built into your device.
It also allows you to have multiple lines on a device, that you can switch between. And it’s more secure - someone can’t remove the physical SIM card if your device is lost or stolen.
In just a few simple steps, you are ready to make calls, send messages, and browse the web.
If you're new to EE and have ordered an eSIM with your new device directly from us, you’ll either:
simply need to turn on your new device and follow the prompts to install your eSIM, or;
scan the QR code in the eSIM pack that was sent with your new device
If you've ordered an eSIM for a SIM only plan with us, you'll be able to download your eSIM by logging in to EE. Simply follow the instructions in your confirmation email. If you’re using the EE app, make sure you're using the latest version.
If you're upgrading to a newer iPhone model, you can convert your physical SIM to an eSIM or transfer your eSIM as part of the Quick Start set up on your new iPhone. Both the old and new iPhone will need to be on iOS 15.4 or above.
Turn on your current iPhone. Make sure it's connected to WiFi and been updated with the latest iOS software. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on
Place your new iPhone next to your current one – check both are turned on
Your new iPhone will ask you to choose your language and country. Then, Quick Start will appear
Just follow Quick Start's instructions on how to transfer or convert your SIM
If you're a current EE customer and are switching to an iPhone from any other device and would like to use an eSIM, it's easy to do, you can:
log in to EE and order a replacement eSIM
call 150 from your EE phone or 0800 956 6000 from an alternative line
pick up an eSIM Pack by visiting an EE store with ID
There are a few ways to get up and running with an eSIM. You'll need an internet connection to get set up.
If you purchased your new iPhone from ee.co.uk and selected eSIM, simply turn on your new iPhone and follow the on screen prompts as part of set-up to download your eSIM.
If you’ve been sent an eSIM pack (this contains a paper QR code), scan it and the information stored in it will allow us to add the eSIM to your phone safely and securely.
To set up your eSIM with an eSIM Pack:
go into Settings > Mobile Data
select Add Data Plan
use your camera to scan the QR code on your eSIM pack and once recognised you can confirm by pressing the Add Data Plan button
If you’ve ordered an eSIM for a SIM only plan with us, you’ll be able to download your eSIM by logging in to EE. Simply follow the instructions in your confirmation email.
If you’re using the EE app, make sure you’re using the latest version and update it if not.
As part of the set up you'll be given the option to assign a name to each line and also choose what lines are used by default for data and for calls and voice messages. These can be easily changed later if you change your mind by going to Settings > Mobile Data > Default Voice Line / Mobile Data.
Dual SIM means that there are two SIM slots within the device - a physical SIM card and an eSIM.
With a Dual SIM device you can:
have two phone numbers and two different plans on one device
get a local SIM plan while travelling abroad without swapping SIMs
(only available on unlocked devices)
have a plan on another network i.e. for your work number (only available on unlocked devices)
All iPhone models from the 2018 XS onwards (11, 12, SE, 13, 14, 15 etc).
eSIM is currently only available to EE Pay Monthly customers.
If you've ordered an eSIM for a SIM only plan with us, you'll be able to download your eSIM by logging in to EE. Simply follow the instructions in your confirmation email. If you're using the EE app, make sure you're using the latest version.
Or you can order a replacement SIM:
Yes, to activate an eSIM on iPhone you will need a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
Note, if you have an eSIM only iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro model and you don’t have a Wi-Fi network, Apple has a new solution to activate your eSIM. During the Set Up process, you can choose to continue without Wi-Fi. This allows you to setup your new eSIM without Wi-Fi — at no cost to you.
Your devices lock status is not impacted by the use of an eSIM. For information about EE lock policy, please visit EE Device Unlocking.
Go to Settings > General > About
Under Carrier Lock, you should see a message that says "No SIM restrictions." If you don't see that message, contact your carrier.
If you purchased an unlocked eSIM only iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro model, you can activate it on the EE network by taking out a SIM Only plan by selecting an eSIM as part from our Best SIM Only Deals and Pay Monthly SIM Contracts.
If your iPhone with an active eSIM, is lost or stolen, it’s important to contact us and report it straight away. For more information visit Lost or stolen mobile phone.
No worries, you can manually add the information contained within the QR code if it's damaged. When the Scan QR Code screen is open when you select Add Data Plan there is an option to Enter Details Manually.
To get your unique Activation Code and the address to input, log in to EE.
Please note: You'II also see a Confirmation Code field - this is not required and should be left blank
Yes, you can use your eSIM in the same way you would a physical SIM. You can check what is included or any roaming charges by visiting our roaming calculator.
Always check before you travel.
Initially all your contacts will be assigned to the line you chose as your default voice line during set up. If you want to change this, there is an indicator within each contact that gives you the option to change which line you use for that contact.
If you're just entering a phone number straight into the dialler, you'll be able to select which line you call that number from in the options on screen.
For incoming calls, there is an indicator to show which line you're receiving the call on. The indicator is the first letter of the name you assigned to each line - for example, if your labels are called Personal and Business, the call indicator would be a P or a B.
Yes, with iOS 13 and upwards both lines can be used for iMessage and Facetime. This can be managed in Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
If you're taking a call on the line that's not the same as your default data line then data won't work unless you turn on Mobile Data Switching.
This can be accessed through Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Switching and will automatically switch lines for mobile data when you're on a call.