To use an iPhone with two SIM cards, you must have an eSIM and activate it in the “Cellular” option, located in your smartphone’s settings app. It is possible to register a digital chip on iPhone models compatible with eSIM, either using the QR Code provided by the operator or manually, using the SM-DP+ information. Find out more below.
- Open your device’s settings to set up an e-SIM on your iPhone;
- Select “Cellular” from the options;
- Tap the option to add an e-SIM card to your iPhone;
- The main method for adding an e-SIM is via a QR Code, which will be provided by the operator via a physical card or over the internet;
- Scan the QR Code to configure the e-SIM on your device. From there, just follow the steps to finish setting up your eSIM
Other ways to configure the virtual chip on the iPhone
There are other ways to configure the eSIM on the iPhone. See details.
1. Enter SM-DP+ information manually
In addition to the QR Code, the operator can also provide the eSIM for the iPhone through SM-DP+. In this case, you must manually enter the address with the activation code and a confirmation code, when applicable.
SM-DP+ is a standard established by the GSMA that adds IMSI information to the eSIM, the same identity present in conventional SIM Cards. Once this is done, the device already provisions the operator’s line and allows the customer to use the service.
2. Use an application to register the eSIM on the iPhone
Another way to add eSIM to your iPhone is through the operator’s app.
Which iPhone models are dual SIM?
It is possible to use two SIMs on the iPhone in the following models:
- iPhone SE (2020 and 2022);
- iPhone XR;
- iPhone XS;
- iPhone 11;
- iPhone 12;
- iPhone 13;
- iPhone 14;
- iPhone 15 and later.
The Mini, Pro, Pro Max and Plus versions of each model also support the use of virtual SIM.
Can I use two physical chips on the iPhone?
Yes, you can use two physical chips on the iPhone, but only on certain models. The iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 all support dual SIM functionality, which means you can use two physical SIM cards or one physical SIM card and one eSIM.
How does the iPhone’s eSIM work?
The eSIM works as a digital replacement for the conventional chip. One of the main advantages of eSIM is security, as the eSIM cannot be removed if the iPhone is stolen or lost.
Furthermore, with eSIM you have the possibility of changing operator directly from the device, without having to go to a store or buy a SIM online. Another positive point is in relation to contracting international travel plans, thus avoiding paying expensive roaming fees.
How many eSIM can I have on iPhone?
You can register eight or more eSIMs on your iPhone, but you can only use two active lines at the same time.
It is possible to have a physical SIM and a virtual SIM in the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and iPhone 14 and later (purchased outside the US).
iPhone 13, iPhone SE (3rd generation) and later allow you to use two eSIMs simultaneously.
