You’ve just wrapped up a fantastic trip using an eSIM to stay connected, no roaming fees, no hassle. But now that you’re home, what should you do with that eSIM? Delete it? Keep it installed? In this guide, we’ll explain what really happens when you delete an eSIM, how to recover it if needed, and why deleting might not always be the best move, especially if you're using a no-expiration eSIM like Eskimo.
What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) functions like a regular SIM card, but it’s built into your device. Instead of inserting a physical chip, you install a digital profile. This makes switching between data plans or phone numbers fast and seamless; ideal for frequent travelers, remote workers, or anyone who wants more flexibility.
Eskimo eSIM takes that flexibility further: once installed, it connects across 130+ countries and never expires. It supports data rollover, instant data transfer between Eskimo users, and our eSIMs don't expire.
What Happens if You Delete an eSIM?
Deleting an eSIM doesn’t erase the physical chip in your phone, but it removes the installed eSIM profile from your device’s memory. This means your phone no longer has access to the network settings or carrier information tied to that eSIM.
- No mobile data
- No calling or texting (if your eSIM supported it)
- No way to reinstall the same eSIM without help from your provider
The rest of your phone (apps, contacts, Wi-Fi) still works fine. But unless you have another eSIM or physical SIM ready, you’ll be offline.
But here’s the catch: once deleted, most eSIMs are gone for good unless your provider supports reactivation or offers a replacement profile. With most providers, that deletion is permanent. However, Eskimo eSIM gives you safety net features that others don’t:
- You can reinstall your eSIM iPhone or Android up to 5 times.
- If you’ve previously purchased a plan, our support team can issue a new eSIM just reach out via 24/7 in-app live chat.
- You never lose your plan due to accidental deletion.
Should You Delete Your eSIM?
In most cases, it’s better to deactivate an eSIM than delete it; especially with Eskimo. If you plan to travel again or want the option to share your leftover data with someone else, keeping the eSIM profile installed saves time and avoids the need to reinstall later.
Eskimo eSIM supports unlimited personal hotspot, cross-border connectivity, and easy top-ups. Delete only if you’re truly done with the device.
When to Delete Your eSIM?
You might choose to delete an eSIM if:
- You’re selling or giving away your device
- You're switching data providers
- You’re troubleshooting network issues
- You're transferring the eSIM from your iPhone or Android
- Your travel eSIMs have expired
- Your eSIM profile storage is full and you want to install a new one
Does Resetting iPhone and Android Delete eSIM?
It depends on the type of reset you perform. Smartphones usually offer several reset options, and not all of them remove your eSIM. Here's what you need to know:
Pro Tip: Manually remove your eSIM before doing a factory reset.
How to Delete an eSIM on iPhone
Deleting an eSIM on iPhone is straightforward. Before you delete, make sure you're no longer using the data plan or you’ve confirmed it can be reinstalled.
If you're using Eskimo eSIM, you don’t have to worry about permanent loss. You can reinstall your eSIM up to five times per device, or request a new one at any time if you've previously made a purchase.
Steps to delete an eSIM on iPhone:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).
- Select the eSIM plan you want to remove.
- Tap Delete eSIM, then confirm your choice.
Once removed, your iPhone will no longer connect using that eSIM. If you change your mind, just reinstall it on your iPhone through your Eskimo account using the Direct Installation method or the traditional way by using a QR code or an Activation code.
How to Delete an eSIM on Android
The process to delete an eSIM on Android varies slightly depending on your device brand and Android version, but the general steps are similar. Deleting the eSIM removes the profile and disconnects you from that mobile network.
You can reinstall it up to five times, and support is available 24/7 to help you recover or replace your eSIM if needed.
Steps to delete an eSIM on Android:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network & Internet or Connections, depending on your device.
- Select SIMs, SIM Manager, or Mobile Networks.
- Tap on the eSIM you want to delete.
- Choose Remove or Delete, and confirm.
Once deleted, your device won’t have access to the mobile plan linked to that eSIM. If you’re using Eskimo, reinstalling the eSIM on your Android phone is simple.
Can You Recover a Deleted eSIM?
That depends entirely on the provider. Some eSIMs are single-use only. Once you delete them, that’s it and you’ll need to purchase again. Others may allow reinstalling, but only under strict conditions (e.g., same device, same account, etc.).
With Eskimo eSIM, you’re covered:
- Reinstallable: You can reinstall the same eSIM up to 5 times per device.
- Transferable: Move your eSIM profile to a new phone with no extra charge (if you're within the reinstallation limits).
- Restorable: Lost your eSIM and have purchased our data plan? Contact support for a replacement even if you’ve deleted it or switched phones.
And best of all, your data might never expire. Unused data can be extended forever with new plan purchases.
Why Eskimo eSIM Makes It Simple (and Safe)
With Eskimo, deleting your eSIM isn’t the end of the world. In fact, our features are designed to make sure you never lose data or access, even if you delete by mistake:
- No Expiry: Data stays valid for 2 years. Keep it rolling with new plan purchases.
- Reinstallation: Up to 5 times per eSIM.
- Universal Coverage: One eSIM connects across multiple regions. No swapping.
- Affordable: Plans from $1.80/GB, with referral rewards, cashback, and no hidden fees.
New to Eskimo? Sign up and get 500MB global data free—no expiration, no strings attached.
FAQs
What happens to my data if I delete an eSIM?
If you’re using Eskimo, your data plan remains active even if you delete the eSIM. Just reinstall or request a new one to pick up where you left off.
Can I reinstall an eSIM on the same phone?
With Eskimo eSIM, yes. Up to 5 times across any eSIM compatible phones. Most other providers do not allow this.
Do I need to delete an eSIM before selling my phone?
Yes. If the phone is leaving your hands, delete your eSIM to protect your account and prevent unwanted use.
What if I deleted my eSIM and didn’t back it up?
If you used Eskimo, contact our 24/7 support in the app. We’ll help you restore access fast.