Apple has supported eSIM since the iPhone XS in 2018, and newer models can store eight or more eSIM profiles at once.
Installing a travel eSIM on an iPhone is a short process that rarely takes more than a few minutes.
- Open Settings, tap Cellular, then tap Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code your provider emailed you, or enter the activation code manually.
- Label the new plan so you can tell it apart from your home line, such as “Japan Trip”.
- Choose which line handles data, and keep your home number as the default for calls.
- Turn data roaming on for the new eSIM only, then restart the phone if prompted.
- Keep your home line active for calls while the eSIM carries all data.
- If the QR code will not scan, entering the activation code manually works just as well.
Once the profile shows a signal, you are ready to use local data. Keep your home line switched off for data to avoid accidental roaming charges.
With the profile installed, you can forget about SIM trays and focus on the trip itself.