Do you own an Apple device and are considering activating an eSIM? You’ve come to the right place! With a compatible iPhone, adopting this technology is a breeze. In this article, we’ll help you understand Dual SIM, discover what it brings to your device, and learn how to easily activate an eSIM on iPhone.

What is Dual SIM technology?

Dual SIM technology allows you to combine multiple mobile lines (physical or virtual via eSIM) on a single device, so you can connect to two different networks simultaneously.

This way, you can easily manage a professional and a personal number, or effortlessly switch between different local plans when you travel.

In practice, some smartphones can accommodate two physical SIM cards. Others combine a traditional SIM card with an eSIM, while some more advanced models will even allow you to store multiple eSIMs at once. This flexibility offers true freedom, adapted to your lifestyle and professional needs.

Dual SIM on iPhone: how does it work?

Starting with iPhone XR, Apple integrated Dual SIM technology, allowing you to simultaneously use a physical SIM card and/or an eSIM (depending on local compatibility). Thanks to this feature, you can:

• Separate your voice and data usage: keep your main line for calls and texts and opt for an eSIM dedicated to mobile internet.
• Subscribe to a local plan when you travel without having to remove your main SIM.
• More easily manage personal and professional life by keeping a distinct number for each.

A small clarification: your iPhone must be unlocked to benefit from two plans from different operators. If it is locked, make sure your two offers come from the same provider to activate Dual SIM.

Is your iPhone compatible with eSIMs?

To activate an eSIM on your iPhone, you need at least an iPhone XR (running iOS 12 or later). Here’s how to quickly check if your device is compatible (note that these steps may vary depending on the iOS version):

1. Open Settings, click on « Cellular » or « Mobile Data ».
2. Select « Cellular Data ».
3. Look for the « Add eSIM » or « Add Cellular Plan » option.

If you see one of these options, your iPhone is eSIM-ready! Otherwise, check our full list of compatible devices.

Also keep in mind that some iPhone models do not support eSIM and that your iPhone must be unlocked to be able to use an eSIM from another operator.

How to activate an eSIM on iPhone?

Head to the Vostra store and explore our selection of data plans. Whether local, regional, or international, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your trip.

Once you’ve purchased your plan, you’ll receive an email detailing each installation step. For simplicity, we’ve also gathered them below.

eSIM installation

• Open the Vostra app on your iPhone
• Go to « My eSIMs »
• Select the desired eSIM and tap « Details »
• Tap « View Instructions »
• Select « Direct »
• Tap « Install eSIM »
• Tap « Next » to follow the steps one by one
• Tap « Continue » twice and wait a few minutes for activation
• Tap « Done ».

eSIM customization

• Add a label to identify your new eSIM:
  • Tap « Secondary »
  • Enter « Vostra » or another name of your choice
  • Tap « Done », then « Continue »
• Choose your primary line for calls and SMS, then tap « Continue »
• Select your primary line for iMessage & FaceTime, then tap « Continue »
• Choose your Vostra eSIM for cellular data
  • Make sure « Allow Cellular Data Switching » is off
  • Tap « Continue ».

Once these steps are finalized, the installation page will close automatically.

eSIM activation at destination

• Open « Settings »
• Tap « Cellular » or « Mobile »
• Select your eSIM
• Check that the eSIM is activated. If not, enable « Turn On This Line »
• Consult the Vostra app to see if you need to enable « Data Roaming »
• Enable or disable roaming according to the instructions.
• Go back to « Settings »
• Tap « Cellular Data » or « Mobile Data » and select your eSIM.

Your eSIM will then automatically connect to a compatible network. Enjoy a local connection as soon as you arrive and travel worry-free!

eSIM Troubleshooting

Having connection issues? Don’t panic, try these steps:

• Adjust roaming: check your eSIM guide to see if it needs to be enabled or disabled.
• Update your APN settings if necessary: a step-by-step tutorial is usually included in your installation instructions.
• Restart your phone.

And there you have it, you’re ready to fully enjoy your eSIM on iPhone and stay connected wherever you are.