Editor’s Note: Roami is a US‑based eSIM provider. This guide focuses specifically on the iPhone XR – one of the first iPhones with eSIM support. All information is verified as of August 2026 based on Apple’s official documentation and real‑world activation data.
10‑Second Quick Diagnosis – iPhone XR eSIM Scenarios
Find your situation below and get your instant answer.
| Your Situation | eSIM Support | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Global model (bought outside China) | ✅ Yes | You’re good to go. Activate now. |
| Mainland China model (model ends with CH/A) | ❌ No | No eSIM hardware – use physical SIM only. See alternatives. |
| Hong Kong/Macau model | ⚠️ Partial | Some models have eSIM, some don’t. Check with *#06#. |
| Not sure where it’s from | 🤔 Unknown | Dial *#06# – if EID appears = ✅, if only IMEI = ❌. |
| Buying a used XR | ✅ (if global) | Use the buying checklist first. |
| You have an iPhone 8 or iPhone X | ❌ No | These models have no eSIM hardware. See compatible alternatives. |
For a complete list of eSIM compatible phones across all brands, see our full compatibility guide.
Complete iPhone XR Journey – From Verification to Activation
Here’s the path most owners follow when setting up eSIM.
| Step | What You’re Doing | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check your region | Is your XR from mainland China? | Quick answer |
2. Verify with *#06# |
Look for EID (not just IMEI). | How to verify |
| 3. Update iOS | Need iOS 12.1 or later. | Settings > General > Software Update |
| 4. Buy a plan | Travel eSIM or carrier eSIM. | Activation steps |
| 5. Scan and activate | QR code → Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. | Activation steps |
| 6. Set up dual SIM | Physical + eSIM together. | Dual SIM on iPhone XR |
| 7. Troubleshoot if needed | No signal? “Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added”? | Troubleshooting |
Quick Answer: iPhone XR eSIM Support Explained
Yes – the iPhone XR fully supports eSIM. Released in 2018, it was one of the first iPhones to include eSIM technology alongside the XS and XS Max.
Here’s what you need to know in 10 seconds:
- Check your region: All global models work. Mainland China versions have no eSIM. Hong Kong/Macau models have partial support (one physical SIM + one eSIM).
- Verify with
*#06#: Dial this code. If a 32‑digit EID appears, your device is ready. - Activate in minutes: Scan a QR code from any provider before you travel. Turn on Data Roaming upon landing.
Pro tip: Even though the XR is older, its eSIM works exactly like the latest iPhones – no speed or feature limitations (except 5G, which the XR doesn’t have anyway). For more details on other models, see our full compatibility guide.
iPhone XR eSIM Compatible – At a Glance
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| eSIM support | ✅ Yes (global models) |
| Dual SIM (physical nano‑SIM + eSIM) | ✅ Yes |
| Number of stored profiles | Up to 8+ (only one active at a time) |
| Number of active lines | 1 physical + 1 eSIM (dual standby) |
| 5G support on eSIM | ❌ No – iPhone XR is 4G LTE only |
| Mainland China version | ❌ No eSIM – dual physical SIM only |
| Hong Kong / Macau version | ⚠️ Limited – check with *#06# |
The XR supports eSIM on iOS 12.1 or later. If you haven’t updated your software in years, go to Settings > General > Software Update first. For the best experience, we recommend iOS 16 or later.
Hardware Background – Why the China Model Has No eSIM
This device contains a physical chip called the eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card), which enables eSIM functionality. However, Apple physically removes this chip or disables it on iPhones sold in mainland China to comply with local regulations requiring dual physical SIM slots.
This is not a software limitation – it’s hardware. No iOS update can add eSIM to a China‑model XR. If you buy a used one from an unknown source, always check for the EID before purchasing. The Chinese government requires all phones sold in mainland China to have dual physical SIM slots, so Apple simply removes the eSIM hardware from those models.
Think of it this way: It’s like buying a car that doesn’t have a sunroof. You can’t just “update” the car to add a sunroof – it’s a hardware feature that was either included or not. Same with eSIM.
How to Verify Your iPhone XR Supports eSIM
Three methods – the first is the most reliable.
Method 1: The EID Code (Fastest and Most Reliable)
- Open your Phone app (dialer).
- Enter
*#06#and press call. - Look at the screen:
- EID (32 digits) appears → your device supports eSIM. ✅
- Only IMEI numbers appear → no eSIM (likely a China model). ❌
What are you looking for?
- IMEI (15 digits) – identifies your phone hardware. Every phone has this.
- EID (32 digits) – identifies your eSIM chip. Only eSIM‑capable phones have this.
If you see EID, your phone has the hardware. If you don’t, it’s physically impossible to use eSIM.
Method 2: Check in Settings
Go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down to the “Available SIM” or “Digital SIM” section. If you see an EID listed, your device is ready.
Method 3: Try Adding a Plan
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If the option is grayed out or missing, your device does not support eSIM. If you can tap it, you’re good to go.
Buying a Used iPhone XR for eSIM Travel – Checklist
If you’re buying a used XR specifically for eSIM, use this checklist in person:
| Step | What to Check |
|---|---|
| 1 | Settings > General > About > Model Number – avoid if it ends with CH/A (China model). |
| 2 | Dial *#06# – confirm EID appears (not just IMEI). |
| 3 | Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock – must say “No SIM restrictions”. If it says “SIM locked”, you cannot use other carriers’ eSIMs. |
| 4 | Settings > Cellular – look for “Add Cellular Plan” – should be tappable, not grayed out. |
| 5 | Ask for the original receipt – helps verify the phone isn’t stolen or still under contract. |
| 6 | Test with a free trial – if the seller allows, install a free eSIM (like Roami’s) to confirm activation works. |
Red Flags When Buying Used
| Red Flag | Why |
|---|---|
No EID on *#06# |
China model – no eSIM hardware. |
| Carrier Lock says “SIM locked” | You won’t be able to use travel eSIMs. |
| Seller says “just update iOS to get eSIM” | False – eSIM is hardware, not software. |
| No physical SIM tray visible | The XR has a SIM tray – if missing, it’s not an XR. |
| iCloud locked | Phone is basically a brick – don’t buy. |
iPhone XR Model Numbers – Quick Reference
| Model Number | Region | eSIM Support |
|---|---|---|
| A2105 | Global (US, Canada, Japan, etc.) | ✅ Yes |
| A2106 | Global | ✅ Yes |
| A2107 | Global | ✅ Yes |
| A2108 | Mainland China | ❌ No eSIM |
| A2109 | Japan (carrier) | ⚠️ May be carrier‑locked |
How to find your model number: Settings > General > About > Model Number. Tap the number to switch between “AXXXX” and “MNXXXXX/A” format.
How to Activate eSIM on iPhone XR
Activation takes less than 2 minutes. Do it before you fly – you only need Wi‑Fi. For detailed instructions on all iPhone models, check our iPhone eSIM activation guide.
Step‑by‑Step Activation
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Buy an eSIM plan – for travel, choose any provider. A free trial is also available from Roami. |
| 2 | Open Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. |
| 3 | Scan the QR code sent to your email. (If you have a manual activation code, tap “Enter Details Manually”.) |
| 4 | Label your plan – e.g., “Travel”, “Work”, “UK Data”. |
| 5 | Choose default line – decide which line will be used for Cellular Data, Voice, and SMS. |
| 6 | Critical step: After you land at your destination, go to Settings > Cellular > [your plan] and toggle Data Roaming ON. Without this, it won’t connect. |
APN Settings (If No Data Connection Appears)
If after activation no data network is available, APN settings may need adjustment:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network.
- Fill in the APN fields – check your provider’s website for correct values.
- Save and restart your iPhone.
| Provider | APN | Username | Password |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roami | internet | (blank) | (blank) |
| Airalo | globaldata | (blank) | (blank) |
| Holafly | hola | (blank) | (blank) |
| Nomad | nbdata | (blank) | (blank) |
| Google Fi | h2g2 | (blank) | (blank) |
| Verizon | vzwinternet | (blank) | (blank) |
| T‑Mobile (US) | fast.t-mobile.com | (blank) | (blank) |
| AT&T | nxgen | (blank) | (blank) |
| Orange (France) | orange.fr | (blank) | (blank) |
| Vodafone (global) | internet | (blank) | (blank) |
Pro Tip: If the APN field is grayed out, your carrier has locked the APN settings – you can’t change it manually. Contact your provider for assistance.
Using Physical SIM and eSIM Together
The iPhone XR supports dual SIM dual standby (DSDS) – you can have one physical SIM and one eSIM active at the same time.
What “Dual Standby” Means
| Feature | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Both lines active | Your phone is connected to both networks simultaneously |
| During a call | The other line shows “No Service” – this is normal (dual standby, not dual active) |
| Data | You choose which line provides cellular data |
| Calls/SMS | You choose which line is the default voice line |
Recommended Settings for Travel
| Setting | Recommended Value | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Default Voice Line | Home physical SIM | Keep receiving calls on your home number |
| Cellular Data | Travel eSIM | Use local data plan, not expensive roaming |
| Data Roaming (Home SIM) | OFF | Prevent accidental roaming charges |
| Data Roaming (Travel eSIM) | ON | Required for travel eSIM to work |
How Many eSIM Profiles Can iPhone XR Store?
The XR can store up to 8 eSIM profiles, but only one eSIM can be active at a time alongside your physical SIM.
To delete unused profiles:
- Settings > Cellular > tap the plan you want to remove.
- Scroll down and tap Remove Cellular Plan.
- This frees up storage for new profiles.
To switch between stored profiles:
- Settings > Cellular > tap the desired plan.
- Toggle Turn On This Line.
Which Carriers Work with iPhone XR eSIM?
This device works with every eSIM provider worldwide – as long as your phone is unlocked (Carrier Lock = “No SIM restrictions”).
US Carriers
| Provider | Compatible? | Activation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Roami | ✅ Yes | QR code or app |
| Airalo | ✅ Yes | QR code or app |
| Visible | ✅ Yes | Requires iOS 15+ (update your XR!) |
| Google Fi | ✅ Yes | Google Fi app |
| Verizon | ✅ Yes | My Verizon app or QR code |
| US Mobile | ✅ Yes | US Mobile app |
| T‑Mobile (US) | ✅ Yes | T‑Mobile app or QR code |
| AT&T | ✅ Yes | AT&T app or QR code |
| Mint Mobile | ✅ Yes | Mint app |
| Boost Mobile | ✅ Yes | Boost app |
| Cricket Wireless | ✅ Yes | Cricket app |
International Carriers
| Provider | Compatible? | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Orange (France) | ✅ Yes | France / Europe |
| Free Mobile (France) | ✅ Yes | France |
| SFR (France) | ✅ Yes | France |
| Bouygues (France) | ✅ Yes | France |
| O2 (UK) | ✅ Yes | UK |
| EE (UK) | ✅ Yes | UK |
| Vodafone | ✅ Yes | Global |
| Deutsche Telekom | ✅ Yes | Germany / Europe |
| Jio (India) | ✅ Yes | India (visit store for QR) |
| Airtel (India) | ✅ Yes | India (via app) |
| NTT Docomo (Japan) | ✅ Yes | Japan |
| Telstra (Australia) | ✅ Yes | Australia |
| Optus (Australia) | ✅ Yes | Australia |
Note: For Verizon, it works as long as the device is unlocked or was purchased from Verizon. French carriers including Orange, SFR, Free Mobile, and Bouygues are fully compatible.
For a broader look at other brands – including Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei – see our full eSIM compatibility guide.
iPhone XR vs iPhone 11 vs iPhone SE for eSIM – Which Should You Choose?
If you’re buying a used iPhone specifically for eSIM travel, here’s how the XR compares to other budget eSIM iPhones:
| Feature | iPhone XR | iPhone 11 | iPhone SE (3rd gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 5G | ❌ No (4G LTE) | ❌ No (4G LTE) | ✅ Yes |
| Physical + eSIM | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Dual eSIM (no physical) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Battery life | Good | Better | Good |
| Camera | Single lens | Dual lens | Single lens |
| Approx. used price | $100–150 | $150–250 | $200–280 |
| Best for | Cheapest eSIM iPhone | Better camera + battery | 5G + future‑proof |
Recommendation:
- Go with the XR if you want the absolute cheapest eSIM iPhone.
- Go with the 11 if you want better camera and battery for a slightly higher price.
- Go with the SE (3rd gen) if you want 5G and plan to keep the phone for 3+ years.
Which iPhones Support eSIM? – Full List
| iPhone Model | eSIM Support | Dual SIM Type |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XR, XS, XS Max | ✅ Yes | Physical + eSIM |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | ✅ Yes | Physical + eSIM |
| iPhone SE (2020, 2022) | ✅ Yes | Physical + eSIM |
| iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max | ✅ Yes | Physical + eSIM |
| iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max | ✅ Yes | Physical + eSIM OR dual eSIM |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | ✅ Yes | US: eSIM only; global: physical + eSIM |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | ✅ Yes | US: eSIM only; global: physical + eSIM |
| iPhone 16, 17 series | ✅ Yes | eSIM only in some regions |
Important: iPhones sold in mainland China have no eSIM (except iPhone 16 which has eSIM in China). iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and iPhone X do NOT support eSIM – they are physical SIM only.
If you’re looking for alternatives, the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE are excellent upgrades. See our detailed guides for iPhone 11 eSIM compatibility and iPhone SE eSIM compatibility.
What If Your iPhone XR Does NOT Show an EID?
The only scenario where an XR lacks eSIM is if it was purchased in mainland China (including some Hong Kong models sold through Chinese channels).
What Can You Do?
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Use a physical travel SIM | Many providers still offer physical SIM cards shipped worldwide – you’re not completely stuck. |
| Upgrade to a newer iPhone | The iPhone 11, iPhone SE, or any later model will give you eSIM. See our iPhone 11 eSIM guide and iPhone SE eSIM guide for details. |
| Switch to an Android device | The Samsung S20 (international Exynos version) or Google Pixel 6 are great alternatives. |
| Check if you actually have a Hong Kong model | Some Hong Kong iPhones support dual SIM (physical + eSIM). Try *#06# again. If you see an EID, you’re fine. |
How to Identify a China Model
| Indicator | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Settings > General > About > Model Number. If it ends with CH/A, it’s a mainland China model. |
*#06# |
No EID appears – only IMEI numbers. |
| Settings | Settings > Cellular > “Add Cellular Plan” is missing or grayed out. |
Troubleshooting iPhone XR eSIM Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| “Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added” | Too many stored profiles | Delete unused profiles (Settings > Cellular > Remove Cellular Plan) |
| Installed but no data | Data Roaming is off | Turn on Data Roaming for that line |
| “Your eSIM is Not Supported” | Outdated iOS or incompatible profile | Update to iOS 16+; contact provider |
| “No SIM” after activation | Corrupted profile | Delete and re‑install |
| QR code says “Invalid” | QR expired or already used | Request new QR from provider |
| Shows “Searching” for long time | Out of coverage | Try manual network selection (Settings > Cellular > [plan] > Network Selection) |
| Calls go to voicemail on eSIM line | Default Voice Line set incorrectly | Settings > Cellular > Default Voice Line – choose the correct line |
| During a call, other line says No Service | Normal dual‑standby behavior | Nothing to fix – this is how it works |
For more advanced troubleshooting, see our eSIM Deep Troubleshooting Guide 2026 .
Frequently Asked Questions
Is iPhone XR eSIM compatible with all carriers? Yes – any carrier that offers eSIM (postpaid, prepaid, or travel eSIM) will work, as long as your device is unlocked.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time? Yes. You can have one active eSIM + one active physical SIM simultaneously – this is a true dual SIM dual standby setup.
Does the iPhone XR support 5G eSIM? No – the iPhone XR only supports 4G LTE. eSIM works perfectly on LTE, but you won’t get 5G speeds.
My device shows “Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added” – what’s wrong? This usually happens if you have too many stored profiles. Go to Settings > Cellular and remove any old or unused profiles. Then restart and try again. The XR can store about 8 profiles.
Does iPhone XR eSIM work in Europe? Yes – but be aware that UK‑based local eSIMs now charge daily EU roaming fees after Brexit. For multi‑country trips, buy a Regional Europe eSIM instead.
Does iPhone X (iPhone 10) support eSIM? No. The iPhone X (released 2017) does not have eSIM hardware. The first iPhones with eSIM are XR, XS, and XS Max.
Does iPhone 8 or 8 Plus support eSIM? No. iPhone 8 and 8 Plus are physical SIM only. They do not support eSIM.
How many eSIM profiles can my iPhone XR store? It can store up to 8 profiles, but only one can be active at a time alongside your physical SIM.
Can I use two eSIMs at once on iPhone XR? No – the XR only supports one active eSIM at a time (plus one physical SIM). Dual eSIM (two active eSIMs) started with iPhone 13.
What’s the cheapest iPhone with eSIM? The iPhone XR (used) is the cheapest eSIM‑capable iPhone at around $100–150. The iPhone SE (3rd gen) is the cheapest new eSIM iPhone.
How do I check if my iPhone XR is carrier‑locked? Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock. If it says “No SIM restrictions”, your iPhone is unlocked. If it says “SIM locked”, contact your carrier for an unlock.
Can I use T‑Mobile eSIM on iPhone XR? Yes. T‑Mobile supports eSIM on the XR. You can activate through the T‑Mobile app or with a QR code from T‑Mobile.
Can I use Verizon eSIM on iPhone XR? Yes. Verizon supports eSIM on the XR. Activate through the My Verizon app or with a QR code from Verizon.
What is the best eSIM for iPhone XR travel? The best option depends on your destination. For US travel, Roami (multi‑network) or Airalo (single‑network) both work. For Europe, Roami Europe or Airalo Europe are good options. Look for multi‑network plans if you want the best coverage.
Does the iPhone XR have a physical SIM tray? Yes – unlike US iPhone 14 and later models, the XR has a physical nano‑SIM tray alongside eSIM support.
Can I convert my physical SIM to eSIM on iPhone XR? Yes – on iOS 16+, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan > “Convert from physical SIM”. This transfers your physical SIM to an eSIM on the same device.
Why does my iPhone XR say “No Service” on one line during a call on the other line? This is normal behavior. The XR is dual standby, not dual active – only one line can maintain a cellular connection at a time. When the call ends, both lines reconnect automatically.
What about other phone brands? Is my Samsung / Xiaomi / Huawei eSIM compatible? Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, Xiaomi 11T Pro, and Huawei P30 Pro support eSIM depending on the region and model. For a complete list, see our full eSIM compatibility guide .
Still Unsure? Try a Free eSIM
The best way to confirm compatibility is to install a free trial eSIM. It costs nothing, takes 2 minutes, and if it installs successfully, your phone is 100% ready.
👉 Get your free eSIM now – works on iPhone XR (except China models).
Based on Apple official documentation, GSMA standards, and carrier information as of August 2026.