Does my phone support eSIM? Check in one minute

The quickest way: Pinglo's phone checker

Choose your phone's brand and model, and you get the answer straight away, with instructions for your device.

Check my phone now

The *#06# code

Open the Phone app and dial *#06#. If the results include a number labelled EID, your phone supports eSIM. If not, it most likely doesn't.

On an iPhone

• iPhone XS, XR and later models usually support eSIM.
• Check in Settings → General → About and look for «Digital SIM» or «EID».
• Note: most iPhones sold in mainland China don't support eSIM.

On Android phones

• Samsung: most Galaxy S20 and later phones, the Z Fold and Z Flip series and some recent A-series models, though this can vary with the country the phone was sold in.
• Google Pixel: most Pixel 3 and later models.
• Check in Settings → Connections or Network → SIM manager, and look for an «Add eSIM» option.

Once you've checked: what next?

1. Choose the plan that fits your trip on the plans page.
2. Pay with mada, Visa, Mastercard or Apple Pay. The QR code reaches your e-mail within minutes and also appears on your order page.
3. Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before you fly. Validity starts from the first connection in Japan.

Can I use two SIMs at once?

Yes. Phones that support eSIM usually run two lines at once: your own SIM for calls and bank messages, and the Pinglo eSIM for the internet. In Settings you choose which line handles mobile data. On an iPhone you can also name the two lines, for example «Main» and «Japan», to tell them apart.

iPads and tablets

Some recent cellular iPads support eSIM, as do some other tablets. Check that your device supports it before you buy, or share your phone's connection with it as a hotspot.

What if my phone isn't in the checker?

The phone list is updated all the time, but some rare or regional models may not be in it yet. Try the *#06# code and look in the network settings for an «Add eSIM» option. If you're still not sure, send us your phone model before you buy and we'll tell you.

Phones locked to an operator

Even if your phone supports eSIM, a travel eSIM won't work if the phone is locked to one operator (common with phones bought on contract outside the Gulf). On an iPhone, go to Settings → General → About → «Carrier Lock». It should say «No SIM restrictions».

Frequently asked questions