Which Galaxy phones support an eSIM?

A wide range of Galaxy smartphones support eSIM, including the Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra, S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and S25 Edge; the Galaxy S24, S23, S22, S21, and S20 series (including their + and Ultra variants); the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip lines from the original models through to the Z Fold7 and Z Flip7; and the Galaxy S23 FE, S24 FE, and S25 FE. Select Galaxy A series handsets also support eSIM, such as the A57, A56, A55, A54, A37, A36, and A35, though availability on A series models may be limited to certain regions including Europe, North America, and Korea. For the full list, see Samsung's eSIM compatible Galaxy smartphones .

Which Galaxy tablets support an eSIM?

Several Galaxy Tab models support eSIM, including the Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, S10, S10+, S10 Ultra, S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra, as well as the Tab S10 FE, S10 FE+, S9 FE, and S9 FE+. The Galaxy Tab Active5 and Active5 Pro also support eSIM. Note that Wi-Fi only tablet models do not support eSIM functionality, and availability may vary depending on the country of origin. See the full list of eSIM compatible Galaxy devices .

How to transfer an eSIM to a new phone?

Samsung's eSIM Instant Transfer feature lets you move your SIM profile and phone number from your old Galaxy device to a new one without contacting your carrier. On your new device, go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM, then tap "Transfer SIM from another device". A popup will appear on your old device — tap Transfer, then enter the six-digit verification code shown on your new device. Select the phone number you wish to transfer, confirm on both devices, and the eSIM will be automatically downloaded and activated on your new handset. Your new device must be unlocked for the transfer to work. In the UK, this feature is supported by O2, Spusu, and EE. For full instructions, see Samsung's guide to using an eSIM with your Galaxy device .

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

eSIM technology offers a more flexible alternative to traditional SIM cards, quickly changing how we connect to mobile networks. But what really is an eSIM and why has it become so popular?

While SIM cards might bring to mind frustrating images of dealing with small plastic cards, users can now switch networks, manage multiple numbers, and set up mobile plans entirely digitally. This makes smartphones especially convenient for users who travel frequently or juggle devices for work and personal use.

As eSIMs become more and more prevalent, it’s key to understand how an eSIM works, whether your device supports it, and how eSIMs compare to physical SIMs.

What Is an eSIM?

eSIM is short for embedded SIM. Unlike a traditional SIM card, an eSIM is built directly into your device and is not removable. Information about your carrier and network is stored here automatically rather than needing to swap out a physical card. This is a far more flexible and modern way to connect your device to a mobile network.

You’ll find eSIMs already prevalent in a range of devices – not just smartphones, but tablets, smartwatches, and laptops too.

How Does an eSIM Work?

While the technology might be new to you, the process of using an eSIM is very straightforward. Rather than inserting the SIM card yourself, as you may be used to, this is no longer necessary with the digital version. Typically, you’ll need to follow the below steps:

1. You download a mobile carrier profile onto your device.
2. This profile contains your network credentials.
3. Your phone uses this information to connect to the carrier.

To activate your eSIM, you’ll usually need the carrier app, a QR code, or another more manual setup sent by your provider. Once you have installed your eSIM, you can store multiple carrier profiles, switch networks, and use dual SIM functionality with ease in your network settings. Our support guide takes you through how to use an eSIM with your Galaxy phone.

eSIM vs Physical SIM: What’s the Difference?

See below the main differences between an eSIM and a physical SIM card, which ultimately come down to flexibility and convenience.


Feature	eSIM	Physical SIM
Format	Embedded chip	Removable card
Setup	Digital download	Insert card manually
Switching networks	Instant via settings	Requires swapping SIM
Dual SIM use	Multiple profiles stored	Limited by slots
Travel use	Very convenient	Requires new SIM purchase

Are eSIMs Better Than Physical SIM Cards?

Whether or not an eSIM is the best option for you is totally down to your preferences. Find some pros and cons of eSIMs below to help you make your decision.

Pros of eSIMs:

• No physical card to lose or damage.
• Easier switching between networks for the best deals.
• Multiple profiles stored on one device to switch seamlessly, between work and personal for example.
• More convenient for travelling to other countries to use their local provider networks.

Cons of eSIMs:

• Some devices are not yet compatible with eSIMs.
• Some network switch instructions or switching eSIMs between phones may involve a few extra steps.
• Not all carriers support eSIM.

Ready to explore your options? Browse Samsung's pay monthly contracts to find eSIM-compatible plans from leading UK carriers.

Are eSIMs Safe?

A common question users have around eSIMs is around their safety and security, as it removes this physical element that users are accustomed to.

You can rest assured that eSIMs use the same security standards as traditional SIM cards, with carrier data stored and encrypted on your device. This helps to protect not only your personal data but your connection too. In some ways, the embedded nature of an eSIM means that it cannot be physically removed from your phone should it be lost or stolen.

Is My Phone eSIM Compatible?

Not all smartphones currently support eSIM technology but most newer models will. Dual SIM functionality, which combines an eSIM with a physical SIM card, is common across modern devices. Several newer Samsung Galaxy models include eSIM support alongside a physical SIM slot, making it easier to switch between networks or manage personal and work lines in one place.

On Samsung Galaxy devices, you can very quickly check your eSIM compatibility by going to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. You’ll then be able to manage your SIM cards and eSIMs.

Embedded SIMs are rapidly becoming the new standard for mobile connectivity, breaking free of traditional SIM cards. For many users, especially those who travel frequently or manage multiple phone numbers, eSIMs offer clear advantages when comparing eSIM vs physical SIM options. They simplify how we stay connected, making it easier to switch networks and reducing the need for physical components.

If you’re ready to make the switch, now is a great time to take advantage of a more streamlined mobile experience with Samsung pay monthly contracts. Browse our eSIM-ready smartphones today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Galaxy phones support an eSIM?

A wide range of Galaxy smartphones support eSIM, including the Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra, S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and S25 Edge; the Galaxy S24, S23, S22, S21, and S20 series (including their + and Ultra variants); the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip lines from the original models through to the Z Fold7 and Z Flip7; and the Galaxy S23 FE, S24 FE, and S25 FE. Select Galaxy A series handsets also support eSIM, such as the A57, A56, A55, A54, A37, A36, and A35, though availability on A series models may be limited to certain regions including Europe, North America, and Korea. For the full list, see Samsung's eSIM compatible Galaxy smartphones.
Which Galaxy tablets support an eSIM?

Several Galaxy Tab models support eSIM, including the Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Ultra, S10, S10+, S10 Ultra, S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra, as well as the Tab S10 FE, S10 FE+, S9 FE, and S9 FE+. The Galaxy Tab Active5 and Active5 Pro also support eSIM. Note that Wi-Fi only tablet models do not support eSIM functionality, and availability may vary depending on the country of origin. See the full list of eSIM compatible Galaxy devices.
How to transfer an eSIM to a new phone?

Samsung's eSIM Instant Transfer feature lets you move your SIM profile and phone number from your old Galaxy device to a new one without contacting your carrier. On your new device, go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM, then tap "Transfer SIM from another device". A popup will appear on your old device — tap Transfer, then enter the six-digit verification code shown on your new device. Select the phone number you wish to transfer, confirm on both devices, and the eSIM will be automatically downloaded and activated on your new handset. Your new device must be unlocked for the transfer to work. In the UK, this feature is supported by O2, Spusu, and EE. For full instructions, see Samsung's guide to using an eSIM with your Galaxy device.