WHAT'S AN eSIM, ANYWAY? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW.

By Boost Mobile

Published August 28, 2025

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of your SIM card built into your device that allows your carrier to connect you to the network remotely, making setup faster and more convenient, especially while traveling.

Before switching to an eSIM plan, make sure your device has the latest software updates and a secure Wi-Fi connection for a smooth setup. While most new phones support eSIM, you can check specific device compatibility by reviewing the list of supported phones below.

Pros and Cons of eSIM vs. Physical SIM

	eSIM	Physical SIM
Setup	Activated digitally; no physical hardware needed. Setup can be more technical than a physical SIM	Requires manual insertion and setup. May require you to visit an in-person location
Carrier Switching	Easy to switch plans or carriers remotely	Must replace SIM or visit a store to switch carriers
Multiple Profiles	Supports multiple profiles on one device (e.g., personal + travel line)	One SIM per slot; dual-SIM phones needed for multiple profiles
Travel Convenience	Can download local data plans before or during travel	Must buy and insert a local SIM manually
Device Compatibility	Requires eSIM-supported devices (most phones made within the last 5 years)	Universally supported across most mobile devices
Physical Access Needed	No, useful if SIM tray is inaccessible or damaged	Yes, requires SIM tray and proper handling
Security	Harder to steal or clone; remotely manageable	Can be lost, stolen, or tampered with
Replacement Process	Can be re-downloaded (with carrier support)	Requires a new physical card if lost or damaged
Troubleshooting	Can be more technical and less intuitive for some users, but can be completed at home	While not very technical, you may need to visit a store to test SIM cards

eSIM vs. Physical SIM: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics: a SIM card or SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) is a small, yet mighty, piece of plastic that holds your phone number, plan and carrier info, and a bunch of other technical stuff that gives you secure access to a mobile network. Think of it as your phone’s VIP pass to the wireless world.

Enter: the eSIM. Short for embedded SIM, it does everything a physical SIM does, but it’s built directly into your phone — meaning no tray, no little card to lose, and a quicker, more secure activation.

How Does an eSIM Work?

With eSIMs, you can download your cellular plan over Wi-Fi or by scanning a QR code, and boom! — you’re up and running. You can also switch carriers or plans without needing to wait for a physical SIM card to arrive.

The Benefits of eSIMs

Here’s why eSIMs are a game-changer:

1. They Simplify Connecting to a Network

No need to wait for a SIM card in the mail or hunt down a SIM vendor. Activate your eSIM instantly from your phone — no tools, no stress. Just make sure you’ve got a solid Wi-Fi connection.

2. You Can Have Two Numbers on One Device

Most phones that support eSIM also support Dual-SIM setups. That means you can run two lines — like a personal and a work line — on a single phone. No more swapping phones at happy hour!

3. Easier Lifesaver When Traveling Internationally

With eSIM, you can grab a local data plan when you’re abroad right from your hotel Wi-Fi. No more outrageous international roaming fees or sketchy airport SIM-card hustles.

4. Added Security

Lose your phone? Your eSIM can be disabled remotely, making it way harder for someone to hijack your phone number or personal info. Plus, eSIMs eliminate the ability to SIM-swap, one of the most common phone scams.

5. Good for the Planet

Nearly five billion physical SIM cards are produced annually. While SIMs might be small, they still have a massive environmental impact. Simply put, eSIMs are better for the environment. No plastic SIM means less waste. It’s good for your conscience and the planet. Mother Earth approves.

Which Phones Are eSIM Compatible?

Almost all of the latest smartphones are eSIM compatible, including most iPhones, from the iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel devices from the Pixel 3 onward, and select Samsung Galaxy models such as the Galaxy S20, S21, S22, and newer. You can confirm if your specific phone offers eSIM compatibility in your device settings or by checking the manufacturer’s website.

Apple eSIM compatible phones: iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, iPhone 14, and newer (including models with no SIM tray)

Samsung eSIM compatible phones: Galaxy S20 and up, Galaxy Note 20, Z Flip, and Z Fold series

Motorola: razr (2020) and newer

Other phones that support eSIM: Google Pixel, some Nokia and Sony models, and more

Shop eSIM-compatible devices

How to Activate an eSIM with Boost Mobile

We made it super easy to activate your eSIM. Here’s how:

Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM.
Connect to Wi-Fi.
Scan the QR, sign in to your Boost Mobile account, and follow the on-screen instructions to download your eSIM.

4. Boom! You’re connected. How’s that for easy?

Currently using the device you’re trying to activate? Set up with eSIM here.

Need extra help getting your eSIM set up? Give us a call, we've got your back.

Why You Should Switch to an eSIM

Whether you’re juggling multiple numbers, traveling internationally, or just want a greener mobile life, eSIMs are the move. Ditch the tray, embrace the future, and get yourself an eSIM plan that does the most.

Ready to make the switch to eSIM?

Check out Boost’s selection of the best eSIM compatible phones

Using eSIMs While Traveling

Instead of hunting down a local SIM card or dealing with roaming fees, you can simply download an international data plan directly to your device, all before even leaving the airport.

With eSIM, switching between local carriers is simple, allowing you to compare prices, avoid unexpected charges, and keep your primary number active while using a local line for data or calls. It's a more flexible, cost-effective solution for staying online wherever you go.

eSIM Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a physical SIM for eSIM?

Boost Mobile requires an eSIM compatible device and a stable wifi connection. The eSIM is embedded directly into your device and can be activated digitally through your carrier or a QR code.

Is eSIM good for international travel?

Yes, eSIM is great for travel since you can instantly download local data plans without swapping SIM cards, helping you avoid roaming fees or slow network connections.

How do I get a Boost Mobile eSIM?

Boost Mobile requires an eSIM compatible device and a stable wifi connection. Download the My Boost Mobile app and log into your account.

If you haven’t already, purchase a Boost Mobile plan that supports eSIM.

Scan this QR code and follow the on-screen instructions to set up eSIM on your Boost Mobile device.

You can also use our Boost Mobile eSIM setup tool to activate your device using the ICCID number on your current SIM card.

Can I use multiple eSIM profiles on one phone?

Yes, most modern smartphones allow you to store multiple eSIM profiles on a single device. While only one or two profiles can be active at a time (depending on your phone), you can easily switch between them in your device settings without needing to reinstall or reactivate. This makes switching between local carriers easier than ever before while traveling!

How do I switch between multiple eSIMs while traveling internationally?

To switch between multiple eSIMs while traveling, go to your phone’s settings, find the mobile or cellular data section, then deactivate the existing eSIM profile. Now scan your new country’s QR code or select the eSIM profile you want to activate.

You can easily toggle between profiles as you bounce between countries, just keep in mind that only one or two can be active at the same time, depending on your device..

Can I reinstall an eSIM if I deleted it?

Yes, you can usually reinstall an eSIM if you deleted it, but you’ll need to get a new activation QR code or download link from your carrier or eSIM provider to reactivate the plan.

How do I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?

To transfer your eSIM to a new phone, you typically need to deactivate the eSIM on your old device and then scan a new QR code or download the profile on your new phone.