Broadly speaking, iPhones from 2018 onward (XS · XR and later) and most recent Galaxy (S20 and later) and Pixel (many from Pixel 3 onward) phones support eSIM. That said, even the same model can vary by launch region or carrier edition, so the surest final check is to look in your own phone's settings.
iPhone
iPhone XS · XS Max · XR (2018) and later models mostly support eSIM. Note that some regional models — such as the mainland China version — may use a dual physical-SIM (dual SIM) design with no eSIM, while conversely some recent US versions are eSIM-only with no physical SIM slot.
Some iPhones sold in mainland China have limited eSIM (e.g., in mainland China only iPhone 17e and iPhone Air support eSIM). iPhones bought in most other regions are unaffected.
Galaxy (Samsung)
Many flagship models from the Galaxy S20 series onward (S · Z Fold/Flip series) support eSIM. However, even the same model name can differ in eSIM support by launch country and carrier. Rather than assuming every model sold in a given country supports it, check Samsung's specs for your exact model number and verify in your settings as a final step.
Pixel and others
- Google Pixel: many models from Pixel 3 onward are supported (with some regional/model exceptions)
- Some recent Motorola, Sony and other models are also expanding support
- Many budget and older models are not supported
The surest way to check
A more reliable method than a model-name list is to look directly in your phone's settings. On iPhone, if "Settings → Cellular (Mobile Data)" has "Add eSIM", it's supported; on Galaxy, if "Settings → Connections → SIM manager" has an eSIM entry, it's supported.
FAQ
What is the fastest way to check whether my phone supports eSIM?
On iPhone, look for "Add eSIM" in Settings → Cellular; on Galaxy, look for an eSIM entry in Settings → Connections → SIM manager. If the menu isn't there, it likely isn't supported. Since this can vary by launch region and software, also check the manufacturer's specs for your exact model number.
It's the same iPhone, but I don't see eSIM.
The SIM configuration can differ by launch country and model. For example, some models such as the mainland China version use a dual physical-SIM design instead of eSIM. Don't just compare product names — check the exact model number and Apple's support guidance for that region.
If I'm still under contract, can I not use a travel eSIM?
A contract (commitment period) and a carrier lock (SIM lock) are different things. Even if you're still under contract, you can add a travel eSIM as long as there's no carrier lock. Check separately whether there is a lock that blocks using another carrier's line. See the "Is my phone eSIM-ready" guide.