You can switch carriers on an eSIM-only iPhone by confirming the phone is unlocked, checking that the new carrier supports eSIM for your exact iPhone model and plan, arranging any number transfer with the new carrier, and activating the carrier’s eSIM. The activation method and number-transfer requirements vary by carrier and region.
1. Check whether your iPhone is unlocked
On the iPhone, open Settings > General > About and find the carrier or network lock field. If it says No SIM restrictions, Apple identifies the iPhone as unlocked.
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If it is locked, ask your current carrier to unlock it before switching. Apple says, “Apple can’t unlock your iPhone for use with a different network provider.” The current carrier handles the request, and processing may take a few days. See Apple’s iPhone unlock instructions.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2. Confirm the new carrier supports your iPhone and plan
Before signing up or requesting a transfer, ask the prospective carrier to confirm eSIM support for your specific iPhone model, plan, and country or region. eSIM availability and features vary by carrier, device, and location. Apple’s carrier support list and eSIM setup guide can help you check, but the carrier should confirm that your particular plan is eligible.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- When you receive the phone, insert a SIM card from a compatible carrier. Then, turn it on, connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on screen prompts to activate service.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
3. Arrange to keep your number, if you want to
If you want to keep your current phone number, ask the new carrier for its number-transfer instructions before activating service. Porting requirements, account information, and timing depend on the carrier and jurisdiction; there is no single set of steps that applies everywhere. Follow the new carrier’s directions and wait for it to confirm that the transfer is complete.
4. Add and activate the new eSIM
The carrier determines which activation method is available. It may assign an eSIM directly to your iPhone, offer eSIM Quick Transfer where supported, or provide a QR code, carrier app, link, or manual activation details. Follow the instructions the carrier provides rather than expecting one universal setup route.
Rank #2
- This device is locked to AT&T only and not compatible with any other carrier.
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- When you receive the phone, insert a SIM card from a compatible carrier. Then, turn it on, connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on screen prompts to activate service.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
- Connect the iPhone to the internet. Apple says an internet connection is generally needed for eSIM setup, with limited regional exceptions.
- For a carrier-assigned eSIM, follow the activation notification or on-screen prompts.
- If the carrier provides another method, open Settings > Cellular > Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, then select the option that matches the carrier’s instructions.
- Complete the carrier’s activation steps and use its confirmation to check that the new line is active.
Apple describes the available methods and setup steps in its eSIM setup guide.
5. Check what happens to the old line
For Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer between iPhones, the transferred phone number stops working on the previous iPhone once the transfer is complete. Do not assume that both iPhones will stay active with the same number. That specific behavior should not be generalized to every carrier’s number-porting workflow; ask the new carrier what to expect for your transfer.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Universal Carrier Compatibility: This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.)
- Carrier Verification Required: Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility
- Simple Activation Process: When you receive the phone, insert a SIM card from a compatible carrier. Then, turn it on, connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on screen prompts to activate service
- Package Contents: The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable
- Battery Health Guarantee: Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%
Rank #4
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- When you receive the phone, insert a SIM card from a compatible carrier. Then, turn it on, connect to Wi-Fi, and follow the on screen prompts to activate service.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
Rank #3
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
- Accessories will not be original, but will be compatible and fully functional. Product may come in generic Box.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
If the new eSIM will not activate
- A different-carrier eSIM is rejected: Recheck the lock field at Settings > General > About. If the iPhone is locked, contact the current carrier about unlocking it.
- No activation option matches your instructions: Ask the new carrier which method it supports for your model and region. Carriers do not all offer the same activation methods.
- You are moving from a non-Apple phone: Contact the carrier for transfer instructions. eSIM transfer methods from non-Apple devices vary.
- You are considering deleting an existing eSIM: Do not delete it as a troubleshooting shortcut unless the carrier tells you to. Confirm the next step with the carrier first.
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