If your phone is dual SIM compatible, you can have an eSIM and a physical SIM card. This allows you to enjoy the added benefit of having two numbers on the same device that you can easily switch between.
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a virtual SIM that’s been built into devices like smartphones, tablets and smartwatches. As eSIMs are already pre-installed in your mobile device, it lets you activate your mobile data plan without the need to insert a physical SIM.
How do eSIMs work?
eSIMs allow you to connect to your chosen mobile network, much like a regular SIM, with a few key differences. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, your provider will give you a QR code which you can scan to activate your eSIM. Once activated, it will work in the same way as a traditional SIM, allowing you to browse the internet or take calls via your provider’s network. Unlike standard SIMs, eSIMs also give you the freedom to have more than one number and use multiple providers.
The benefits of eSIM technology
Getting started is faster
No need to wait for a SIM card to arrive, you can set your new phone up in seconds with an eSIM. It’s win-win.
Dual SIM functionality
With room for a physical SIM card, you can have 2 numbers on 1 phone. Perfect for business and travel use.
eSIMs are greener
No physical SIM card means no plastic, plus there’s no need for any postage and packaging.
Does your device support an eSIM?
eSIM technology is becoming more common, but not every device can currently support an eSIM.
To check if your device is eSIM compatible, simply select your manufacturer from the options below, then pick your device and check the SIM type in the specifications tab.
If you don’t own an Apple, Samsung or Google device, head to our device support page. Browse by manufacturer, choose your specific device, and review the specifications.
How to get an eSIM
You can get an eSIM by taking on one of our Three Your Way plans and choosing an eSIM compatible phone, tablet, smartwatch or SIM Only plan.
Explore our range of deals by product type below and get connected with your eSIM today.
eSIM support
Need a little more information? Take a look at our eSIM support page and find all the information you need on eSIMs and eSIM technology.
Why choose Three?
eSIM frequently asked questions
The main advantage of an eSIM is the quick and easy set-up process. Say goodbye to waiting for a SIM to arrive in the post – with eSIM, you can activate your new SIM straight away. The flexibility of eSIMs also makes it easier for you to switch providers. What’s more, they require no plastic or packaging, meaning they help to reduce emissions and save resources.
Yes, all of our SIMs, including eSIMs, get access to our 5G network as long as your phone is 5G compatible.
You can easily find out if your phone is eSIM compatible by visiting our device support page. Select your manufacturer, choose your specific phone model and review the specifications to see if it supports eSIM.
With Three, you can switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM if you are on one of our Three Your Way plans. You can check if you are on one of these plans by checking your My3 account. To swap your SIM, you’ll need to call our contact centre or visit one of our stores.
To activate an eSIM, simply scan the QR code and enter the confirmation code that we send to you via email. Check out our eSIM support page to find out more details on how to activate an eSIM on your device.