eSIM and carrier locks: what changes and what doesn't
6 minute read · beginner
An eSIM is a SIM chip built into the phone that downloads carrier profiles instead of taking a plastic card. It doesn't get around a carrier lock. A locked phone will refuse another carrier's eSIM just as it refuses their physical SIM. Once the phone is unlocked, eSIM makes it easy to keep more than one line on one phone.
What an eSIM is
An eSIM (embedded SIM, or eUICC) is a programmable SIM chip soldered into the phone. You add a carrier's profile by scanning a QR code, typing an activation code, or using the carrier's app. You don't insert a card.
Some iPhones sold in the US, starting with the iPhone 14, have no physical SIM slot at all. On those phones eSIM is the only option.
How a carrier lock shows up with eSIM
The carrier lock applies to the phone itself, whether you use a plastic SIM or an eSIM.
On a locked phone, adding another network's eSIM fails. You may see an error such as Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added, saying the phone can only use plans from your current carrier. On some phones the option to add an eSIM is hidden.
With a physical SIM on a locked phone, you'd see SIM Not Supported or a prompt for an unlock code instead.
Unlocking an eSIM phone
The process is the same as for a physical-SIM phone. The carrier that locked the phone has to approve the unlock, and you request it through that carrier's official portal or app. There is no eSIM-specific shortcut.
Managing several eSIM profiles
Once the phone is unlocked, it can store several eSIM profiles at once, for example your home carrier and a travel data plan. You switch between them under Settings > Cellular on iPhone, or the SIM manager under Settings > Connections on Samsung and similar phones.
Unlocking doesn't give you unlimited profiles. Manufacturers cap how many a phone can store.
Be careful deleting an eSIM profile. Some carriers only reissue a QR code through support, which can leave you without service until they do.
Treat an eSIM QR code or activation code like a password. It can be single-use and tied to your line. Never post it, forward it casually, or include it in a question on a forum. Hide QR codes, transfer PINs, account numbers and IMEIs before you ask anyone for help.
Stop and get help when
- The phone says it can only use plans from your current carrier. You need a carrier unlock, not a different eSIM.
- Anyone asks you to send them your eSIM QR code or activation code.
Official route
The carrier that locked the phone for the unlock, and the carrier issuing the eSIM for a replacement QR code or activation.
Who this is for: You must be the account holder on the line whose eSIM you are installing or moving.