If you’ve recently upgraded your iPhone, one of the key things you’ll want to bring over is your eSIM, your digital SIM card that connects you to mobile networks without a physical card. Apple makes it fairly easy with its Quick Transfer feature between iPhones, but there’s a catch: not all eSIMs can be transferred using the built-in method.
The most surefire way is by manually removing your eSIM and installing it on your new device. Once you understand the mechanism, I'd guarantee that you know how to transfer any eSIM from any brand.
Let’s dive in.
Can You Transfer Any eSIM Between iPhones?
Yes, and you can also transfer your eSIM from an iOS device to an Android device.
However, kindly note that not all carriers or eSIM providers support the direct transfer method. Most eSIMs need to be reinstalled manually.
For example, Eskimo eSIMs cannot be transferred using the Quick Transfer feature. Learning how to remove the eSIM manually and installing it on a new device is more useful, as this is the most widely adopted installation method as of this writing.
Step-by-Step: Transfer Eskimo eSIM From One iPhone to Another
Important: eSIMs, like physical SIM cards, can only be used on one device at any time.
Therefore, the first step is to remove your eSIM from your old device.
Removing eSIMs from Your iPhone
It's quick and easy! Stable internet connection is required. Follow these steps:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Mobile Service, Cellular or Mobile Data
- Click on Eskimo eSIM or labelled otherwise (usually Travel or Business. Look for a no-number eSIM)
- Check and ensure that header says Eskimo or Singtel
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Delete eSIM
- Once confirmed, the eSIM will now show No SIM
- Click on the No SIM eSIM profile -> Update Contacts
Do Not Remove eSIM Via Factory Reset
All data will be erased when your device goes through a factory reset. When you boot up your device again, any trace of eSIM will disappear as if it were never there in the first place.
A stable internet connection is required because your device needs to inform the servers that the eSIM profile is being removed from your phone. The servers confirm it and safely store your profile back in the cloud.
Factory resetting your device means your eSIM has no chance of being re-uploaded to the cloud. When this happens, your eSIM is as good as gone and you need to get an eSIM replacement.
eSIM profile creation comes at a cost. However, with Eskimo, we can replace your eSIM once per paid data plan that you own.
Reinstalling eSIM on iPhone
Once you have manually removed your eSIM from your previous device, you can reinstall it as you did on your new iPhone by using our Direct Installation, QR code or Manual Activation.
Reinstalling eSIM on Android
Just like with eSIM reinstallation for iOS, you can also do the same for your Android device.
Troubleshooting eSIM Transfer Issues
There are a few common iOS installation issues that you might encounter. Here's a brief run-down of what could happen and what you need to do.
- eSIM Cannot be Added: There are multiple reasons for this error.
- Stuck at Activating: Nothing can be done here - all you have to do is wait until the eSIM is activated and installed automatically.
- Not Connected: You will need to select Eskimo as your Mobile Data option and ensure that Data Roaming is turned on.
Should you need further assistance, you can get in touch with us via our in-app live chat or email us at support@eskimo.travel.
Eskimo's Multiple Reinstallations
Some eSIM providers only allow a one-time eSIM installation. We offer reinstallations up to 5 times. This way, you can transfer your eSIM from your device without having to contact us for any eSIM replacement.