How to Remove an ESIM From Your iPhone

 

If you’re switching between iPhones or simply altering plans, finding the best way to transition can be challenging. An eSIM could be your solution as it replaces traditional SIM card trays in devices.

Electronic SIMs (eSIMs) offer an easier, safer method of connecting phones to networks than physical SIM cards.

Activation

Activating an eSIM usually only requires turning on your new iPhone and following on-screen instructions; however, some carriers require additional steps.

Dependent upon the carrier you select, activation can either occur via eSIM Carrier Activation or Quick Transfer; alternatively you could scan a QR code sent from them directly.

As soon as your eSIM is activated, your phone will display the message “Cellular Plan Ready to Install,” giving you the option of continuing with setup process by tapping Continue.

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan faster and more securely without using physical SIMs.

If you are switching networks, deactivate your eSIM and switch back to physical SIMs. However, be mindful that deactivating an eSIM could leave you disconnected from your mobile network, rendering calls, text messages and data unavailable until reinstated.

Delete

Under certain conditions, you may wish to remove an eSIM from your iPhone. For example, switching carriers or selling your device are two instances in which this could prove beneficial – freeing up more space for another line of service.

Start by opening the Settings app, tapping cellular or mobile data (depending on where you live) and scrolling down until you find the number or plan you wish to delete.

Once prompted to confirm, it’s advisable only when certain of your storage and backup capacity supports this step. Check with your carrier for the best deal on an upgrade or new SIM card; an eSIM shouldn’t be confused with an active standby SIM that’s ready when needed – instead it allows instant connectivity while supporting multiple lines of service simultaneously.

Transfer

Since the release of iPhone XS and XS Max phones in 2018, eSIMs have made life simpler for iPhone users. By eliminating the need for physical SIM card slots, they allow for quick connection by simply swiping in your network connection to connect.

An electronic SIM makes using your phone simpler while making it harder for thieves to steal it by using your cellular number to commit identity theft or other crimes. Furthermore, an eSIM offers more security than its physical counterpart as thieves won’t be able to remove it and gain access to texts or calls without your knowledge.

Even with all this security in place, there may still be instances in which it’s beneficial to remove an eSIM from an iPhone; for instance if selling it or moving its cellular plan onto another device.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is the practice of identifying, planning, and solving software or computer system-related errors or faults through investigation or trial of potential solutions.

Establishing the best solution is central to successful troubleshooting, and can be achieved by first addressing its most likely causes.

An effective starting point in finding the optimal solution is reading manufacturer documentation or an online troubleshooting guide, which should provide comprehensive details on identifying, repairing, and restoring optimal working condition to the issue at hand.

Once you have decided on the most effective solution to address your problem, test it on less critical devices or applications to make sure it works before signing off on it. Document your findings just in case the problem reoccurs later on.