A comprehensive reference guide to smartphones and tablets that support eSIM technology for European travel.
eSIM support has become a standard feature across the premium and mid-range smartphone market. As of 2025, the vast majority of flagship devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other major manufacturers include eSIM capability. However, compatibility can vary by region, carrier lock status, and specific model variant.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of eSIM-compatible devices, organized by manufacturer. For the most current information, always verify with your device manufacturer or carrier, as regional variants may differ.
Apple was among the first major manufacturers to adopt eSIM technology, introducing it with the iPhone XS in 2018. Since iPhone 14, Apple has moved to eSIM-only models in the United States, while international models retain physical SIM slots alongside eSIM capability.
| Model | Year | eSIM Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Series | 2024 | Yes | Dual eSIM + physical SIM (international) |
| iPhone 15 Series | 2023 | Yes | Dual eSIM + physical SIM (international) |
| iPhone 14 Series | 2022 | Yes | eSIM-only (US), Dual SIM (international) |
| iPhone 13 Series | 2021 | Yes | Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM) |
| iPhone 12 Series | 2020 | Yes | Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM) |
| iPhone 11 Series | 2019 | Yes | Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM) |
| iPhone XS / XS Max / XR | 2018 | Yes | First iPhones with eSIM |
| iPhone X and earlier | 2017– | No | Physical SIM only |
Samsung introduced eSIM support with the Galaxy S20 series in 2020 and has since expanded compatibility across its flagship and mid-range lineup. Note that some Samsung models sold in certain markets (particularly China) may not include eSIM support even if the global variant does.
| Model | Year | eSIM Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 Series | 2025 | Yes | Dual SIM + eSIM |
| Galaxy S24 Series | 2024 | Yes | Dual SIM + eSIM |
| Galaxy S23 Series | 2023 | Yes | Dual SIM + eSIM |
| Galaxy Z Fold / Flip Series | 2020– | Yes | All foldable models |
| Galaxy S22 Series | 2022 | Yes | Dual SIM + eSIM |
| Galaxy S21 Series | 2021 | Yes | Select markets only |
| Galaxy S20 Series | 2020 | Yes | First Samsung eSIM models |
Google has supported eSIM since the Pixel 3 and has been a consistent advocate for the technology. Pixel devices are particularly well-suited for eSIM use due to their clean Android implementation and reliable network switching behavior.
| Model | Year | eSIM Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel 9 Series | 2024 | Yes | Dual eSIM support |
| Pixel 8 Series | 2023 | Yes | Dual eSIM support |
| Pixel 7 Series | 2022 | Yes | eSIM + physical SIM |
| Pixel 6 Series | 2021 | Yes | eSIM + physical SIM |
| Pixel 3 – Pixel 5 | 2018–2020 | Yes | eSIM + physical SIM |
eSIM adoption among other Android manufacturers has been more selective, often limited to flagship or premium models. Always verify the specific model variant for your region before assuming eSIM compatibility.
Tablets are increasingly popular among digital nomads and business travelers. Many cellular-enabled tablets now support eSIM, making them excellent travel companions.
iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad mini (5th gen+), iPad (7th gen+)
eSIM CompatibleGalaxy Tab S8 Series, Tab S9 Series, Tab S10 Series (LTE models)
eSIM CompatibleSurface Pro X, Surface Pro 9 (5G), Surface Go 3 (LTE)
Select ModelsOn iPhone, go to Settings → General → About and look for "Digital SIM" or "EID" number. On Android, go to Settings → About Phone and look for an EID (eSIM ID). If you see an EID, your device supports eSIM.
Contact your carrier and request an unlock. In many countries, carriers are legally required to unlock devices after the contract period. Once unlocked, your device can use any eSIM profile from any compatible provider.
Generally yes, provided the device is unlocked and the hardware supports eSIM. Some regional variants of the same model may have eSIM disabled by the manufacturer for specific markets. Check the device specifications for your exact model number.
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