More and more devices now come with eSIM support, especially since Apple made the US-released iPhone 14 eSIM-only. That move set the tone for newer iPhone models. So it’s useful to know how many eSIMs your iPhone can hold and how many you can actively use - especially if you travel often or juggle multiple numbers.
iPhone eSIM Compatibility by Model (2025)
eSIM on China iPhones
None of the iPhones sold in mainland China support eSIM. Keep this in mind when reviewing the list below.
eSIM on Hong Kong and Macau iPhones
iPhones sold in Hong Kong and Macau generally do not support eSIM, except for the iPhone 16e, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and iPhone XS. These exceptions are highlighted individually below.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 16?
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
You can store 8 or more eSIM profiles, and have 2 active at the same time. US models are eSIM-only, while international versions typically retain a physical SIM tray. No eSIM support in China, Hong Kong, or Macau.
iPhone 16e
This model shares the same dual eSIM capability - 8+ stored, 2 active. US versions have no SIM tray, while international ones usually do.
It’s also the only model in the iPhone 16 series with eSIM support in Hong Kong and Macau. China versions do not support eSIM.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 15?
All iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max also allow you to store 8 or more profiles and use 2 simultaneously. US units are eSIM-only; other regions keep the SIM slot. China, Hong Kong, and Macau units do not support eSIM.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 14?
Up to 8 eSIM profiles stored, with 2 active at a time for all iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. US versions have no physical SIM slot, while devices sold in China, Hong Kong, and Macau don’t support eSIM at all.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 13?
iPhone 13, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max
Up to 8 or more can be stored in these models. One cool tidbit - the iPhone 13 series was the first to utilise Dual eSIM feature. Units sold in China, Hong Kong, and Macau lack eSIM support.
iPhone 13 Mini
Same functionality as its siblings - dual active eSIMs supported - but it’s the only one in the series with eSIM support in Hong Kong and Macau. China units remain incompatible.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 12?
iPhone 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max
These models can store up to 8 profiles, though only 1 eSIM can be active at a time, used alongside a physical SIM. No eSIM support in China, Hong Kong, or Macau.
iPhone 12 mini
Same 8-profile storage, but the only 12-series model that works with eSIM in Hong Kong and Macau. China models are not compatible.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone 11?
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone11 Pro Max all support up to 8 stored profiles, with 1 active eSIM and 1 physical SIM. Units from China, Hong Kong, and Macau do not support eSIM.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd Gen)?
- 2nd Gen: Store up to 8 profiles, with 1 active at a time.
- 3rd Gen: Supports 8 or more profiles and allows 2 to be active at once.
Both versions work with eSIM in Hong Kong and Macau, but not in China.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone XR and XS Max?
You can store up to 8 profiles, but only 1 can be active. These phones support dual SIM mode via 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM. China models exclude eSIM.
How many eSIMs can you have on iPhone XS?
Same as the XR and XS Max - 8 profiles stored, 1 active at a time, with dual SIM through physical SIM + eSIM. Interestingly, eSIM is supported in Hong Kong and Macau on this model only. China variants do not support eSIM.
Switching & Managing eSIMs
- Go to Settings > Cellular to toggle between eSIMs
- Label each plan (e.g. work, travel, personal)
- Add or remove eSIMs without needing a SIM ejector
Future of eSIM Technology
As more manufacturers and carriers go all-in on eSIM, users can expect:
- Easier switching between carriers
- Less plastic waste
- Instant activation from the cloud
- Better international roaming options
- No more SIM trays or ejector tools
Final Thoughts
Apple’s move toward eSIM-only iPhones could shift the rest of the industry, just like it did with removing charging adapters. If you travel frequently or need multiple lines, managing them via eSIM makes life much easier - and a lot less cluttered.
Tip: Always confirm eSIM support with your carrier, especially before switching networks or traveling internationally.
FAQ
Which iPhones support eSIM in Hong Kong or China?
Only a few models offer eSIM support in these regions: iPhone 16e, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and iPhone XS (Hong Kong/Macau only). All China mainland iPhones do not support eSIM.
Can I use two eSIMs at once on iPhone?
Yes. iPhones from the 13 series onward support two active eSIMs simultaneously. Older models typically allow one active eSIM and one physical SIM.
Is eSIM better than a physical SIM for travel?
In most cases, yes. eSIMs make it easier to switch carriers or activate a data plan without needing a store visit or SIM card. They’re ideal for frequent travelers.
Do all carriers support eSIM?
No. While many major carriers do, support varies by country and operator. Always check with your carrier before switching.
Can I store multiple eSIMs and switch between them?
Yes. Many iPhones let you store several eSIM profiles, even if only one or two can be active at a time. You can switch between them in Settings without deleting profiles.