eSIM
Which UK networks support eSIM?
An eSIM is built into your phone — you download it instead of waiting for a SIM card. Here is which UK networks offer it, and how to set it up.
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Does my phone support eSIM?
Most iPhones from the XS onwards and most recent Pixel and Galaxy flagships do. Check your phone’s settings for “Add eSIM”.
Can I have two numbers on one phone?
Yes — most eSIM phones can run an eSIM alongside a physical SIM, or two eSIMs.
What if I change phone?
You transfer the eSIM in your phone settings or the network’s app; some networks send a new QR code.
No price rise- Runs on Three
- 30-day rolling plan
- Credit check applies
- Roaming in 50 countries, 30 GB
£6 a month
Get this dealiD Mobile review →The cheapest 30-day SIM with 10GB+ on a network that offers eSIM.
eSIM by network
| Network | eSIM | Wi-Fi Calling | Masts |
|---|---|---|---|
| EE | Yes | Yes | Own masts |
| O2 | Yes | Yes | Own masts |
| Vodafone | Yes | Yes | Own masts |
| Three | Yes | Yes | Own masts |
| giffgaff | Yes | Yes | O2 |
| SMARTY | Yes | Yes | Three |
| Lebara | Yes | Yes | Vodafone |
| Lycamobile | Yes | Yes | EE |
| VOXI | Yes | Yes | Vodafone |
| iD Mobile | Yes | Yes | Three |
| Talkmobile | Yes | Yes | Vodafone (plus Three) |
| Tesco Mobile | No | No | O2 |
| Sky Mobile | Yes | Yes | O2 |
| Asda Mobile | No | No | Vodafone |
How to set up an eSIM
- Choose an eSIM planPick eSIM when you order; most networks in the table offer it on SIM only.
- Scan the QR code or use the appThe network sends a QR code or activates the eSIM in its app.
- Move your numberText PAC to 65075 on your old network and give the code to the new one.
Updated 26 October 2026 · bemobiles editorial team · How we compare
eSIM in brief
- An eSIM is a SIM built into your phone; you download the profile instead of inserting a card.
- Most UK networks offer it: EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, giffgaff, SMARTY, Lebara, Lycamobile, VOXI, iD Mobile, Talkmobile and Sky Mobile.
- Our latest check found Tesco Mobile and Asda Mobile don’t list eSIM.
- You keep your number the usual way: text PAC to 65075.
eSIM vs physical SIM
| eSIM | Physical SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Minutes, by QR code or app | Wait for a card in the post |
| Switching phones | Transfer in settings or the network’s app | Move the card |
| Two numbers | Run alongside a physical SIM, or two eSIMs | Needs a dual-SIM tray |
| Lost or stolen phone | Can’t be removed and reused in another phone | Card can be taken out |
| Works in any phone | Only eSIM-capable phones | Yes |
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most iPhones from the iPhone XS onwards, and most recent Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy flagships, support eSIM. On an iPhone look for “Add eSIM” under Mobile Data (Mobile Service on newer iOS versions); on Android look under Network & internet or Connections. Some budget phones still use physical SIMs only — check the phone’s page before you order.
Using eSIM when you travel
An eSIM-capable phone can hold more than one profile, so you can add a local or travel eSIM abroad while keeping your UK number active for calls and texts on the other line. Compare that with your network’s own roaming — several UK networks include EU roaming, others charge by the day. See SIM only with EU roaming.
Moving an eSIM to a new phone
Recent iPhones and Android phones can transfer an eSIM during setup or from settings; some networks send a new QR code instead, through their app or customer service. Keep your old phone until the new one shows signal.
Good to know
- Most networks don’t charge for an eSIM on a new plan; some charge to replace one later.
- An eSIM can’t be lent to another phone by swapping a card — useful against theft, less handy if your phone breaks.
- Pay as you go and 30-day plans work the same way on eSIM as on a card.
Compare eSIM deals on every network.
FAQ
Common questions
Is eSIM free?
Most networks don’t charge for an eSIM on a new plan. Some charge to replace one later.
Does Tesco Mobile do eSIM?
Our latest check found Tesco Mobile doesn’t list eSIM; check its website for updates.
Is eSIM good for travel?
Yes — you can add a local or travel eSIM abroad while keeping your UK number on the other line.