“How many eSIM can be used on iPhone?” is one of the most frequently asked questions by Apple users about eSIMs. With eSIM technology, Apple has advanced significantly, enabling physical SIM cards to stop and eSIM to work more. The latest iPhone models allow you to save multiple eSIM profiles and use one or two at a time. While you can store many eSIM profiles on your iPhone, only a limited number of eSIMs can be active simultaneously, depending on the model.

Newer models like iPhone 13, 14, and 15 offer dual eSIM support, meaning two eSIMs can be active simultaneously—this is known as dual eSIM or dual active eSIMs. For example, iPhone 13 and later models can support two active eSIMs at the same time, while the new iPhone 14 and 15 series also allow you to manage more eSIMs at a time, switching between them as needed. iPhone 14 and 15 models sold in the United States are eSIM-only and do not have a physical SIM tray.

In this blog, we will discuss how many eSIMs different iPhone models can support, how many eSIM profiles can be stored and how many can be active at once on newer models, how to activate eSIMs like Baztel, the benefits of using multiple eSIMs, and how to switch between them seamlessly for travel or work.

Introduction to eSIM

eSIM technology has transformed the way we connect to mobile networks, making it easier than ever to manage multiple lines, phone numbers, and cellular plans on a single device. With the ability to store multiple eSIM profiles, users can seamlessly switch between different mobile data plans, voice calls, and even local data plans when traveling abroad. This flexibility means you no longer need to physically swap SIM cards to change your number or carrier.

Instead, you can easily switch between many eSIMs stored on your device, optimizing your connectivity for work, travel, or personal use. Understanding how many eSIMs your iPhone can store and use at once is essential for anyone looking to take full advantage of multiple lines, manage data usage, or keep separate profiles for different purposes. As eSIM technology continues to evolve, knowing the number of eSIMs your device supports helps you make the most of your mobile experience.

iPhone Models with eSIM

Apple first introduced eSIM support with the iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS Max, bringing digital SIM technology to its lineup. These older models allow users to activate one eSIM profile at a time, providing the convenience of dual SIM functionality when paired with a physical SIM card. As Apple continued to innovate, newer iPhone models—such as the iPhone 13, 14, and 15 series—expanded eSIM capability even further. These later models support two active eSIMs simultaneously, letting you run two separate lines or data plans without needing a physical SIM.

The iPhone SE (2nd generation) and later also support eSIM technology, making it easier for users to store multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them as needed. While older models like the iPhone XS, XR, and XS Max are limited to only one active eSIM at a time, newer iPhones offer the flexibility of two active eSIMs simultaneously, making them ideal for anyone who needs to manage multiple numbers or data plans on the go.

Can You Use Multiple eSIMs on an iPhone?

Yes! The new iPhones are now supporting more eSIMs, making it easier to keep in touch than before. Instead of using a physical SIM card, you can activate multiple eSIM profiles directly on your device. The iPhone 13 series lets you save multiple eSIMs and have up to two eSIM active at the same time—this is known as dual eSIM support or dual active eSIMs. With dual active eSIMs, both lines can be active for calls, messages, and data, allowing you to receive calls on either line when both are active in dual SIM mode. This gives you the flexibility to manage work, personal, or travel numbers originally.

With providers like BazTel, you can either use an eSIM that supports multiple profiles or establish individual eSIM plans for each destination. This is useful for frequent passengers, as it removes the problem of exchanging SIMs at each airport. Everywhere you go online, you can access a variety of eSIM features, including strength and instant activations, as well as secure connections and international roaming for business.

How Many eSIM Can Be Used on iPhone? A detailed View:

How Many eSIMs Can Be Active at the Same Time

Most devices can store multiple profiles, but there is a limit to how many eSIMs can be active simultaneously. This means you can save several stored eSIM profiles for future use, but only a certain number can be connected to the network at the same time.

iPhone XS, XR, 11 series, SE 2 (2020), and 12 series

These previous models support a single eSIM active simultaneously, which means you can’t have two eSIMs active at the same time. You can still use dual SIM, but only with an eSIM and a physical SIM.

iPhone SE 3 (2022), iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16 series

Starting with iPhone SE 3 and iPhone 13, Apple introduced the ability to have two eSIMs active simultaneously. On these newer models, you can store multiple profiles—up to eight stored eSIM profiles—on your device. However, only two eSIMs can be active simultaneously. This flexibility allows you to manage how many eSIM profiles you keep on your device and switch between them as needed.

This makes new iPhones ideal for travelers, letting you keep many national plans, a task line, and a personal number on a device without swapping SIM cards.

iPhone Model	eSIM Capability
iPhone XS series	Single active eSIM
iPhone XR	Single active eSIM
iPhone 11 series	Single active eSIM
iPhone SE 2 (2020)	Single active eSIM
iPhone 12 series	Single active eSIM
iPhone SE 3 (2022)	Two active eSIMs; stores up to 8
iPhone 13 series	Two active eSIMs; stores up to 8
iPhone 14 series	Two active eSIMs; stores up to 8
iPhone 15 series	Two active eSIMs; stores up to 8
iPhone 16 series	Two active eSIMs; stores up to 8

You can view and switch between your stored plans by navigating to Settings > Cellular, but only two lines can be active at any time.

eSIM Profiles

eSIM profiles are digital versions of traditional SIM cards, allowing you to store multiple cellular plans and phone numbers directly on your device. Most modern smartphones, including iPhones and Google Pixel devices, can store multiple eSIM profiles—often up to eight or more, depending on the model. This means you can have several profiles ready for different purposes, such as a primary phone number, a work line, and a local data plan for travel.

Switching between these profiles is simple and can be done directly from your phone’s settings, eliminating the need to physically swap SIM cards. With multiple eSIM profiles, you can easily manage your data plans, keep track of different phone numbers, and adapt your connectivity to suit your needs, whether you’re at home, at work, or abroad. This flexibility is especially valuable for frequent travelers, business professionals, and anyone who wants to keep their personal and work lines separate on the same device.

Regional Differences in eSIM Support

eSIM support on iPhone models can vary significantly depending on the region and specific device configuration. In some countries, such as the United States, newer iPhone models like the iPhone 14 and 15 are available in eSIM-only versions, meaning there is no physical SIM card slot at all. In other regions, iPhones may still include a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM support, allowing users to choose between a physical SIM and eSIM or use both for dual SIM functionality.

For example, while the iPhone 15 series sold in China does not support eSIM technology, models sold in Hong Kong and Macau do offer eSIM support. This makes it important for users who travel frequently or manage multiple phone numbers and cellular plans across different countries to check the specific eSIM capabilities of their device.

Additionally, other popular smartphones like the Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy series also support eSIM technology, but the availability and features can differ based on the region and model. Understanding these regional differences ensures you can make the most of your device’s connectivity options, whether you rely on a physical SIM card, eSIM, or both.

iPhones with Dual SIM

Dual SIM functionality on iPhones makes it easier to manage two numbers or plans at the same time. Depending on the model, the iPhone can either use:

1. One Physical SIM + One eSIM (Dual SIM Mode)

Supported by: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, SE 2 (2020), iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series
Best for: Keeping your main carrier active while adding a local SIM when traveling abroad. In this dual sim mode, you can use a sim and one esim together—meaning one physical sim and one eSIM are active at the same time. This setup allows you to support dual sim functionality, so you can avoid high roaming fees while still receiving calls and texts on your primary number and use the other line for local data or calls. These models have a sim tray for the physical nano sim, and regional differences may apply.

Note: Most iPhones from mainland China do not support eSIM technology and are equipped with a dual physical nano-SIM tray.

2. Two Active eSIMs (Dual eSIM / Dual Active eSIMs)

Supported by: iPhone SE 3 (2022), iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16 series
Best for: Going completely digital without physical SIM cards. These models offer dual esim support, allowing you to have dual active esims—two eSIM plans running at once. This is ideal for business and personal lines or two country-specific data plans, providing flexibility and convenience for users who need multiple active lines.

Why Dual SIM is Useful

Dual SIM iPhones are perfect for frequent travelers and professionals. You can easily separate work and individual numbers, enjoy cost-effective local plans, and keep in touch around the world without the exchange of SIM cards.

How to Activate a BazTel eSIM on iPhone (iOS 17 and above)

It is a fast and easy process to install a BazTel eSIM on an iPhone, so you don’t have to deal with the physical SIM card. Just download the app, select your plan, and see and install eSIM. In a short time you will be connected. It saves time, ends waiting time in stores, and provides you with a comfortable service whether you are traveling or working anywhere.

Go to BazTel website

Go to Google and search “BazTel” or directly go to website https://baztel.co

Tap Log in if you already have an account, or choose Sign up if you’re new. For convenience, select Continue with Apple for a faster setup process. This account lets you manage, purchase, and activate eSIM plans.

Select Your eSIM Plan

Inside the online portal, browse a list of available travel data schemes that fit different destinations. Review details such as price, coverage, data state and duration. Once you have found a plan that matches the best of your needs, press to select it.

Complete the Payment

Continue to the payment page and select your preferred method, such as Apple Pay, credit card, or debit card. Confirm the payment securely within the app. Once approved, you will instantly receive confirmation, and your purchased plan will be saved to your BazTel account for activation.

Install the eSIM

You will receive a QR code where simply the user needs to scan the code and follow the prompts to install the eSIM. There is no need to insert or remove a physical SIM card; it will all be completed digitally. If you also want to activate eSIM on your Apple Watch, BazTel provides a detailed guide.

Update Network Settings

Once installation is complete, go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans on your iPhone. Locate the recently installed BazTel eSIM profile you have just configured and set it as the primary or the secondary data line. Follow any prompts to run updates on your cellular settings. This step will ensure that your phone correctly routes calls, messages, and data through BazTel.

Start Using Your Plan

Finally, turn on mobile data in your iPhone settings and confirm the connection by opening a browser or app. In a few moments, you should have stable internet access powered by BazTel eSIM so you can use simple communication, surfing and apps for another who comes to the destination.

Benefits of Using Multiple eSIMs

Why Apple Supports So Many Stored eSIM Profiles

Utilizing several eSIMs (or a single eSIM with multiple profiles) provides additional flexibility and control over your mobile connectivity. Below is an in-depth outline of the benefits:

Convenience

Many eSIMs are connected while traveling extremely easily. You can immediately switch to the local carrier and avoid expensive international roaming costs. Activate a plan in minutes without going to the store or handling the physical SIM card.

Cost Savings

Many eSIMs allow you to compare and select the cheapest data or conversation plan for each country, when visiting Jamaica. Pay-as-you-go options or prepaid packages help you manage expenses effectively and ensure that you only use what you actually use.

Better Coverage

You can choose carriers with strong signals in areas where your primary network can be weakened. Many eSIMs ensure reliable conditions in cities, rural areas and remote destinations, providing uninterrupted service wherever you go.

Separate Work and Personal Plans

Keep your professional and individual lines separate on the same iPhone. This provides better management of invoicing, contact and use without a mix of accounts. Making it easier to organize work and personal communication.

Special Deals

eSIM providers often offer exclusive promotions, discounts or country-specific schemes. Using several eSIMs, you can use these seasonal or regional suggestions immediately, save money and get added value while traveling.

Hassle-Free Switching

Switching between the networks is simpler and more direct than the iPhone settings. Now you do not need to remove or carry more cards or worry about losing them, making the connection comfortable and stress-free.

Can You Switch Between eSIMs on iPhone?

This is right! The iPhone lets you switch between different eSIM profiles whenever you want, so you can choose which line to use for calls, messages and mobile data. This is perfect for managing a work line, personal line, or travel line without changing physical SIM cards.

Settings> Mobile Data> Go to Mobile Service:Open the iPhone settings, navigate to mobile data, and tap Mobile Service to view all eSIM profiles currently stored on your device.
Select ESIM you want to use for data and calls: Select the profile you want to activate. Your iPhone will immediately convert all mobile data, vote and messages to the selected eSIM.
Perfect for passengers and multi-line users: This feature is extremely useful for passengers who want to choose between the local carriers for better coverage, low roaming costs or fast data rates. You can easily separate work and individual lines from the same iPhone without any problems.

Is It Safe to Use an eSIM on an iPhone?

Absolutely. Because the eSIM chip is non-removable as it exists in your iPhone, you are provided with an underlying security that your mobile line has the added advantage of having a level of security in replacing your SIM. This allows you to easily adjust or switch between different eSIM profiles, which is especially useful for travel or multiple-line services.

Conclusion

“How many eSIM can be used on iPhone?” is a common question asked by many Apple users, especially those with a few numbers to manage, either as frequent passengers or professionals. With modern iPhones, it is now easier to stay connected; with the ability to have multiple eSIM profiles, the newest models allow for two active eSIMs at a time and store up to eight eSIM profiles. You can manage and switch eSIMs right from your device by utilizing services like BazTel and even eliminate the need for physical SIM cards.

Many eSIMs provide suitability, cost savings, better coverage and safe connections using eSIMs for work, travel or individual purposes. Whether you want to separate work and personal lines, look at local apps while traveling internationally, or get a business number that is not connected to your personal one, eSIM technology means that you can easily connect to the iPhone without the need for a SIM.

Once you understand how many esims -are that can be configured on the iPhone and how to navigate them well, you can use it for clear, flexible and secure communication anywhere around the world.

FAQ

1. How many eSIMs can an iPhone store?

The new iPhones (series 13, 14, 15 and 16) can store multiple profiles—up to eight stored eSIM profiles—on the device. However, only one or two eSIMs can be active simultaneously, depending on the model. For most older iPhones (XS, XR, 11 and 12), you can store multiple profiles but only one eSIM can be active at a time.

2. Can I use two ESIMs on an iPhone without a physical SIM?

Yes! The iPhone SE 3 (2022) and the iPhone 13-16 series allow two active eSIMs, so you can stop using the physical SIM card completely.

3. What activates the BazTel eSIM?

4. Can I switch between many eSIMs on the iPhone?

Yes. Settings > Mobile Data > Go to Mobile Service, and then select the eSIM you want to use for calls or data.

5. Is it safe to use eSIM instead of a physical sim?

Yes. The eSIM is built into the iPhone, making it safer than a physical SIM. They cannot be removed, lost or easily stolen.

6. Can I use an esim while traveling internationally?

Absolutely. With eSIMs like BazTel, you can buy local data schemes in different countries without the need for more physical SIM cards.