Why Won’t My ESIM Transfer?
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If you’ve recently upgraded your phone and the option to transfer your eSIM from your old device doesn’t appear, here are a few things you can try:
eSIM technology is an efficient way to set up cellular service on a new smartphone. However, not all carriers support this feature, so you may have to reach out in order to activate your eSIM.
1. Your carrier doesnג€™t support eSIM
Embedded SIM (eSIM) is a technology that replaces the physical SIM card already embedded in your phone, offering convenience to both cellular carriers and consumers by eliminating the need to exchange pieces of plastic when switching plans or purchasing a new phone.
eSIMs are an excellent way to save money on roaming charges when traveling abroad, as they make switching networks and providers effortless. Furthermore, eSIMs free up space on your device by eliminating the need for a SIM card slot.
Unfortunately, not all wireless carriers support eSIMs. A recent report revealed that 60% of MVNOs don’t offer this service at all – an issue for travelers planning to travel overseas.
2. Your device isnג€™t compatible with eSIM
eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is an embedded subscriber identity module found in compatible mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches. It uniquely identifies your device to establish a remote network connection and permits switching between carriers without needing to replace your physical SIM card.
At present, many flagship smartphones sold in North America and Europe support eSIM cards. Furthermore, LTE-equipped smartwatches such as the Apple Watch utilize this technology.
However, not every phone maker supports eSIM or all cellular networks. To be certain, check the specifications page for your device to see if it supports it.
If your device does not support eSIM, you can still add more carriers and plans by switching between physical SIMs and adding profiles to the eSIM card. Simply activate these profiles through your phone’s settings menu or contact your carrier to request a new profile.
3. Your device is locked
If your device is locked to a carrier, it won’t transfer to another network unless it’s unlocked. Unfortunately, this process may not always be straightforward and depends on your network’s policy.
Some carriers will unlock your phone once all payments have been made, while others won’t release it until a certain period has elapsed during your contract term. Regardless, it is always wise to ensure your device is unlocked before taking it elsewhere, so that you can use it with any provider if desired.
Test to see if your phone is unlocked using a SIM card from another network. If you have friends or family with different providers, they could lend one of their SIMs and pop it into your phone to see if there’s any signal available.
4. Your device is damaged
If your device has been subjected to daily abuse, it’s likely your eSIM has too. Drops or bumps aren’t uncommon and that’s why it’s essential that the eSIM remains in perfect condition and its original packaging. A broken eSIM could spell disaster on your next mobile adventure; additionally, upgrading may require you to a faster model.
If your device needs some TLC, our T-Mobile mobile experts are available to assist. Alternatively, you can purchase a replacement phone from our online store or one of our many retail locations. We’ll assist in selecting the ideal phone for your lifestyle and budget; plus, if there have been problems with your screen for too long, you may even qualify for free screen replacement! For more information, check out our helpful FAQs on mobile technology.