Devices
Which phones support eSIM? Models and a quick device check
See which iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Motorola phones support eSIM and check your exact version.
In this guide
Most iPhones from the iPhone XS and XR onward support eSIM. On Android, eSIM is mainly available on recent Samsung Galaxy S and Z models, Google Pixels from the Pixel 4 onward, and selected devices from OPPO, Xiaomi, and Motorola. The model name alone is not enough: the sales region, model number, and carrier lock also determine whether you can add an eSIM.
Use the HolySim device checker for a quick check. Then confirm the result in your own phone's settings. That is the best verification before ordering a travel eSIM.
eSIM support by brand
This is the practical overview for phones sold in the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe:
- [Apple iPhone](/en/gidsen/iphone-models-with-esim/): iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and newer. Models from mainland China are an exception.
- [Samsung Galaxy](/en/gidsen/samsung-models-with-esim/): many Galaxy S20 through S26 models, the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series, the Note20 series, and selected FE and A models.
- [Google Pixel](/en/gidsen/google-pixel-esim/): every Pixel 4 model and newer. Pixel 3 and 3a have exceptions based on carrier and country of sale.
- [OPPO](/en/gidsen/oppo-models-with-esim/): selected Find X models, including European versions of the Find X8 Pro and Find X9 Pro. The Reno and A series do not support eSIM as standard.
- [Xiaomi](/en/gidsen/xiaomi-models-with-esim/): selected Xiaomi models, including the 12T series, 14T series, Xiaomi 15, and 15 Ultra. Not every Redmi or POCO model supports eSIM.
- [Motorola](/en/gidsen/motorola-models-with-esim/): selected Razr, Edge, and Moto G versions. The exact variant is particularly important here.
A series designation does not guarantee every device within that series. For example, the standard Galaxy S25 supports eSIM, but compatibility among more affordable Galaxy A models varies by generation and region.
Check it yourself on iPhone
Open Settings > Cellular. If you see Add eSIM, the iPhone has the correct eSIM feature. You can also open Settings > General > About and look for an EID. This identification number belongs to the built-in eSIM chip.
Apple lists the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR as the oldest compatible generations. A different list applies to a device from mainland China. Check the part number or original sales region if you have an imported iPhone.
Check it yourself on Android
The exact path varies by brand. Search Settings for eSIM, SIM manager, or download SIM.
- Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
- Google Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM.
- Xiaomi: Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > Use eSIM.
- Motorola: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs & mobile network.
- OPPO: open the mobile network settings and look for eSIM or Add SIM.
If the button is missing, first check the model number and install available system updates. Do not assume that a hidden menu will automatically appear after an update. A regional version without an eSIM chip cannot gain the feature through a software update alone.
Find the model number and sales region
Two phones with the same retail name can differ technically. Always find the full model number.
On iPhone, it is listed under Settings > General > About. On Android, you will usually find it under Settings > About phone. Compare that number with the European product specification or the manufacturer's support page.
Pay particular attention to:
- a phone purchased outside Europe;
- a refurbished or second-hand device without the original invoice;
- a carrier version from the United States, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, or China;
- a model name that also exists as a 4G, 5G, Lite, FE, or Pro version.
eSIM-compatible is not the same as carrier-unlocked
A phone can technically support eSIM and still reject a plan from another carrier. Also check that the device is carrier-unlocked. Phones bought separately in the Netherlands are often unlocked, but this is less certain with foreign carrier versions.
An eSIM menu confirms the hardware. It does not confirm that every carrier, transfer method, or regional profile will be accepted.
What you need for a travel eSIM
Four conditions must be met for HolySim:
- The exact phone version supports eSIM.
- The device is carrier-unlocked.
- You have Wi-Fi or another internet connection for downloading the profile.
- The travel eSIM covers the country where you want to use it.
After purchase, install the profile using the QR code or manual details. Follow the separate instructions for Samsung or Google Pixel; iPhone installation follows the same principle through Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
Sources and editorial review
The brand thresholds and exceptions were checked in current support and product specifications from Apple, Samsung, Google, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Motorola. Manufacturers release regional versions and may change their compatibility lists. When in doubt, always check the model number, sales region, and eSIM menu on the device itself. Last editorial review: July 15, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How can I be certain that my phone supports eSIM?
Look for Add eSIM in Settings and check whether the device shows an EID. Then compare the exact model number with the official product specification.
Does every 5G phone support eSIM?
No. 5G and eSIM are separate features. A phone can support 5G and still use only physical SIM cards.
Can an old phone get eSIM through an update?
Only if the required eSIM hardware is already present. Software cannot add a missing eSIM chip.
Can I keep using my regular SIM alongside a travel eSIM?
On many compatible devices, yes. Check which combination your model supports and deliberately configure the default line for calls, texts, and data.
Does an eSIM work on a carrier-locked phone?
Only with a carrier permitted by the lock. The device must be carrier-unlocked for a HolySim travel profile.
