Apple iPhone
Does the iPhone 16 Plus support eSIM?
Yes, the iPhone 16 Plus supports eSIM.
You can install a travel eSIM on your iPhone 16 Plus and get mobile data abroad without a physical SIM card, as long as the phone is carrier-unlocked.
How to check eSIM on your iPhone 16 Plus
- 1Open Settings → General → About.
- 2Scroll down: if you see “EID” or “Digital SIM”, your iPhone 16 Plus supports eSIM.
How to install a travel eSIM on the iPhone 16 Plus
- 1Connect to Wi-Fi and open Settings → Cellular (Mobile Data) → Add eSIM.
- 2Choose “Use QR Code” and scan the QR code from your order email.
- 3Label the new line (for example “Travel”) and keep your main line for calls and messages.
- 4When you land, select the eSIM for Cellular Data and turn on Data Roaming for it.
Is your iPhone 16 Plus carrier-unlocked?
Phones bought on contract from a carrier may be locked to that carrier and cannot use other eSIMs. If you are not sure, ask your carrier to unlock your iPhone 16 Plus before you travel.
Good to know
- iPhone models sold in mainland China usually use two physical SIM slots and do not support eSIM.
- US models of this iPhone have no physical SIM tray at all, so eSIM is the only way to add a travel plan.
iPhone 16 Plus eSIM FAQ
Can the iPhone 16 Plus use two SIMs at the same time?
Yes. With eSIM, the iPhone 16 Plus can keep your regular number active for calls and texts while a travel eSIM handles mobile data.
How many eSIMs can I store on the iPhone 16 Plus?
Modern phones can store several eSIM profiles and let you switch between them in settings; usually one or two lines can be active at the same time.
Do I need an internet connection to install an eSIM on the iPhone 16 Plus?
Yes. The eSIM profile is downloaded when you scan the QR code, so connect to Wi-Fi first. We recommend installing it at home before your trip.
Will my iPhone 16 Plus work with a travel eSIM in every country?
Yes, as long as it is carrier-unlocked. Choose a plan for your destination, or a regional plan if you visit several countries.
How do I use the travel eSIM only for data on the iPhone 16 Plus?
Open Settings › Cellular › Cellular Data and choose the travel eSIM, then turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching". Keep your main line for calls and SMS, and turn on Data Roaming for the travel line when you arrive.
Can I share the travel eSIM's data from the iPhone 16 Plus (hotspot)?
Yes. Personal hotspot works with our plans, so you can connect a laptop or tablet. Everything the connected devices use counts against your plan.
Does the iPhone 16 Plus have a SIM card slot?
The US model of the iPhone 16 Plus has no physical SIM tray and works with eSIM only, which makes a travel eSIM the natural choice. Models sold in other countries may still have a SIM tray.
Does a iPhone 16 Plus bought in mainland China support eSIM?
Usually not. iPhones sold in mainland China use two physical SIM slots instead of eSIM, except some recent models. Check Settings › Cellular: if there is no "Add eSIM" option, the phone doesn't support it.
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