How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM (Step-by-Step Guide)

• Written by Gerda Volkovs
• 3. November, 2025.
• 3 minutes

Why eSIM Compatibility Matters

Before buying a travel eSIM, you need to make sure your smartphone supports it. Not all phones — especially older or carrier-locked ones — are eSIM-compatible.

The good news? Checking takes less than a minute. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, confirming compatibility ensures you can use your eSIM Latvia plan without any setup issues.

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1. Check Your Phone Settings

The Fastest Way to Verify

You don’t need to visit a store or call your operator — it’s already in your phone’s settings.

For iPhone users:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular).
2. Tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan.
3. If you see that option — congratulations, your iPhone supports eSIM!

For Android users:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet.
2. Tap SIMs or Mobile Network.
3. Look for an option like Add eSIM or Download a SIM instead.

If you see these options, your device is ready for eSIM activation.

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2. Verify Your Model on the Official eSIM List

Apple, Samsung, and Google Compatibility

Here’s a quick summary of devices that support eSIM as of 2025:

Apple:

• iPhone XR, XS, XS Max and later (all iPhone 11–16 models fully support eSIM)
• iPad Pro (3rd gen and later), iPad Air (2020+), iPad mini (6th gen)

Samsung:

• Galaxy S20 series and later
• Galaxy Note 20, Z Fold, Z Flip, S24 series

Google:

• Pixel 3 and later
• Pixel Fold and Pixel 8/8 Pro

Other brands:

• Huawei P60 Pro (EU models)
• Xiaomi 14 Pro, Motorola Edge 50, OnePlus 12, Fairphone 5

Check Apple’s official eSIM support list or your phone manufacturer’s website for updates.

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3. Make Sure Your Device Is Unlocked

Why Unlocking Is Important

Even if your phone supports eSIM, it must be unlocked to use esim.lv’s international data plans.

To check:

• Insert a SIM card from another carrier.
• If it works, your phone is unlocked.
• If you see “SIM locked” — contact your operator to unlock it before traveling.

Unlocked devices allow you to install any eSIM — including prepaid global plans from esim.lv.

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4. Test with a Free or Demo eSIM

Try Before You Travel

Some phones show eSIM compatibility but still face restrictions due to software versions or carriers.

You can test compatibility using a free test eSIM (if available from your provider) or by purchasing a low-cost plan like eSIM Turkey or eSIM United Kingdom.

If installation and data activation work — you’re eSIM-ready.

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5. Keep Your Software Updated

eSIM Support Improves With Updates

Manufacturers regularly add new eSIM features through system updates. Before traveling:

• Install the latest iOS or Android version.
• Restart your device.
• Check again under “Add eSIM” — it may appear after an update.

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6. Bonus Tip: Dual SIM + eSIM Setup

Use Two Numbers at Once

If your phone supports Dual SIM + eSIM, you can keep your Latvian number active for calls while using eSIM Latvia for data abroad.

Read our detailed guide:
👉 Dual SIM & eSIM Setup Guide: Two Numbers, One Phone

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7. When Your Phone Doesn’t Support eSIM

Upgrade or Use a Hotspot Device

If your current device doesn’t support eSIM, you still have options:

• Upgrade to a compatible smartphone (see our list of Best Smartphones for eSIM in 2025).
• Use a travel hotspot that supports eSIMs — great for teams or families.

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Conclusion: Check Once, Connect Everywhere

Verifying your phone’s eSIM compatibility takes minutes — and saves hours of stress on the road. Once your device is ready, you can enjoy instant, prepaid, global data with esim.lv.

Discover compatible eSIM plans at esim.lv — no SIM card, no paperwork, and instant setup for your next trip.