Dual SIM cards support iPhone, XS Max, iPhone 11 and iPhone 12. This allows you to use two mobile networks at the same time and separate work and personal phones to avoid unwanted contacts or use a more favorable tariff from another operator.
But, if other smartphones that support two SIM cards have special traditional slots for SIM cards, then Apple smartphones can use 2 different types of SIM cards: nano-SIM and eSIM.
If you have any problems with network communication or the operation of the SIM card, you can contact the iLab service center to troubleshoot the problem.
Dual SIM or eSIM
Please note that there are two different concepts: Dual SIM is a phone in which you can actually use 2 SIM cards because they are inserted into a special slot; An eSIM phone with a digital SIM card that does not support a second mobile operator card. eSIM on iPhone is offered on most iPhone 11, XR and XS, XS Max models worldwide, except in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau because iPhone 11, XS XS Max and iPhone XR models there have dual SIM slots for nano-SIM cards (that is, they have Dual SIM technology)
You can also check the accessory to one of the types on the box of your device or in the settings.
What are the advantages of eSIM?
iPhone developers have provided a minimal (compared to nano-SIM) module size; it can be placed in any part of the smartphone. Owners of Apple smartphones receive clear benefits:
- the ability to use multiple SIM cards;
- ease of changing operators without having to visit retail outlets;
- savings for device manufacturers, which means a reduction in the final price.
Since there is no need for a special slot for a virtual SIM card, there is no extra hole in the device’s body, which reduces the risk of moisture and dust getting in. Production costs are also reduced.
What is eSIM and how is it better than a regular SIM?
First, let's figure out the differences between eSIM and the regular SIM card that we are used to using. So, we know the second option very well: a small card that is inserted into a special slot, has a chip and gives us access to the mobile network of a certain operator.
What about eSIM?
eSIM technology is a non-removable chip built into new iPhone models (in fact, a regular SIM card in the new iPhone). When this chip is activated, it works exactly the same as a physical SIM card. An added bonus is that you can create multiple eSIMs, although you can only use one at a time.
For Android devices such as the Google Pixel 2 and Nuu Mobile X5, this is not a new technology at all, and Apple has used it in some devices such as the Apple Watch 3 and the iPad Pro. But the whole catch of the iPhone is this: on the device, in addition to the eSIM, there is also a standard SIM slot, which automatically made the iPhone a two-card smartphone.
Which iPhone to buy in 2022?
Now let's move on to the best iPhones you can buy in early 2022.
- iPhone 12. Yes, it was the basic version that became the leader in terms of price-quality ratio. ...
- iPhone 12 mini. Without exaggeration, we can say that fans of the brand have been waiting for this model for years. ...
- iPhone 12 Pro Max. ...
- iPhone 11 Pro.
9 Feb.
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How to create an eSIM on iPhone
Firstly, you will need the iPhone device itself with support for dual SIM card technology, and secondly, you must update to iOS 12.1 or later, which includes eSIM support in devices.
Please note that your iPhone should not be registered with a specific mobile network provider, then you will be able to use plans from different operators at the same time.
In Ukraine, eSIM has been launched so far only in Lifecell. Kyivstar and Vodafone have been trying to introduce it for about a year now, but for some reason they haven’t decided to take this step.
How to open the tray and where to insert the SIM card
It would seem that such an action as changing a SIM card causes difficulties for beginners. There are few options, but even here, inexperienced users manage to break the slot or install the card incorrectly. To open a SIM card on an iPhone, you will need 5 minutes of time, a metal Apple clip, or at worst a suitable tool at hand. The developers have simplified the task: insert a paperclip into the hole and press lightly, the place under the SIM will immediately come out of the case. When removing it, be careful; the slot is metal, but thin; it will break if you force it.
Multiple eSIM support
By default, you can only use two cellular plans at a time. But when making calls, using the mobile Internet or sending messages, you can only activate one mobile network, just like with eSIM.
But the advantage of electronic SIM cards is that you can have more than one plan in eSIM, that is, use several numbers, but only one can be included. This means that other plans won't be used at all until you manually switch between your current eSIM plan and another eSIM plan on your iPhone.
Do I need to activate eSIM on my iPhone?
Setting up eSIM is done using a voucher issued by a specific operator upon connection. It shows a QR code that must be scanned through the operator's application.
First you need to check whether your smartphone is connected to the Internet. Then:
- In your iPhone settings, start installing a virtual card profile.
- Scan the QR code from the voucher and add a new number.
- Wait for the card activation process to complete for a few seconds.
After this, the eSIM is activated and ready to use. You can check it - call or go on the mobile Internet.
How to use two electronic SIM cards on iPhone
Chances are, you probably already have a basic cellular plan on your iPhone 11 with a nano-SIM, for example. So to add an additional plan, such as: a work account, a local plan in another country (while traveling), a standalone plan, etc., you need to scan your carrier's QR code, use the provider's app, or enter the information manually.
However, before going any further, we recommend that you contact your carrier to transfer your current nano-SIM account to an eSIM to make it easier to connect your nano-SIM while traveling. If this doesn't matter to you, then you can simply activate the second or third line on the eSIM.
There are several options to choose from : Primary, Secondary, Personal, Business, Travel or Cellular Data
, but you can also enter your own label. After that, click "Done" to complete the setup. And there is always the option to change this later.
Once you've marked your new iPhone dual SIM line, you'll need to choose how the two plans will work together. To do this, by selecting “Default Line” you can configure one with these parameters:
- Use "[First Plan Name]" in the default line.
“[Supporting Name]” will be available for phone and SMS. This means that your first plan, being the primary one, will be configured by default for voice, SMS, data, iMessage and FaceTime calls. The second plan will be for voice and SMS only. - Use "[Supporting Name]" as the default string.
"[First name]" will be available for phone and SMS. This means that your secondary plan, being your primary one, will be set up by default for voice, SMS, data, iMessage and FaceTime calls. The first plan is for voice and SMS only. - Use "[Secondary Name]" for cellular data only.
"[First Plan Name]" will become your default string. This means your second plan will be set up exclusively for data (which is a good option when you're traveling), and your first plan will default to voice, SMS, data, iMessage, and FaceTime.
Now that your Dual SIM iPhone 12, XS, XS Max or XR is set up.
In the Contacts app, you can assign your SIM account to specific contacts, so it will always use that account for each person. When making calls, you can change the default line used for iMessages and texts, or you can switch when composing a new message. And this is just the beginning. iPhone chips iPhone chips
Activation problems
Such situations are rare, but possible. Operators today make it easier to connect and make it automatic. What will go wrong:
- To activate the tariff package, connect to the Wi-Fi network and go through identification.
- If the previous option is not feasible, connect your iPhone to your computer and turn on iTunes. The program will perform activation.
If you were unable to activate the SIM card, restore your iPhone via iTunes. All information, third-party and malicious applications will be deleted from the device. Re-register online. Another option to fix the problem is to call the operator from another mobile phone and clarify the information.
Loss of a slot also occurs due to careless handling or the use of great force. In this case, you cannot use the iPhone. The problem is solved by purchasing a new slot; the cost of the part does not exceed 150 rubles. The element is available in technical centers or services.
Another common problem is mechanical. If you apply too much pressure, the opening hole moves or breaks off. The only help here is going to a service center and replacing the slot cover.
Additional Information
iPhone users should be aware of other nuances. On the official Apple website there is a section “Contacting Support”. If you have any difficulties or questions, you can use the online connection with a specialist. In the search bar, enter “esim support” and find the topic of interest. Next, the site will offer you to choose one of two feedback methods: by phone or chat.
Is it true that eSIM drains iPhone faster?
Several factors influence how quickly your iPhone battery drains. For example, enabled geolocation, automatic brightness increase, or Siri assistant.
Connecting a virtual SIM card and using it does not affect battery performance. Only long calls or being on the Internet will contribute to rapid discharge, as is the case with a regular SIM card.
Built-in Apple SIM (iPad only)
In 2016, the Apple company for the first time released a tablet with a built-in proprietary Apple SIM (previously it could be used optionally in a regular tray). Apple SIM is not tied to any specific operator, the user can connect to any service provider anywhere in the world simply through the settings menu. At the same time, in parallel with the Apple SIM, the tablets from the list below have a regular tray for a Nano-SIM card.
We talked in more detail about the operation of Apple SIM and the support of this technology in Russia in this article.
Support:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation (Wi-Fi + Cellular);
- iPad Pro 10.5 inches (Wi-Fi + Cellular);
- iPad Pro 9.7 inches (Wi-Fi + Cellular).
After the release of these tablets, Apple switched to using eSIM.
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How to remove a SIM card from an iPhone?
On an iPhone, the SIM card tray is located on the side or top of the device, depending on the model. The process of removing the SIM card in both cases is the same - the user needs to press a regular paper clip or a special tool to remove the SIM card on the hole responsible for holding the tray.
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Micro-SIM
The most popular format, gradually being replaced by nano-SIM cards, has the same chip size as the Mini-SIM, but a much more compact plastic base, overall dimensions - 15 × 12 × 0.76 mm.
Support:
- iPhone 4;
- iPhone 4S;
- First iPad;
- iPad 2;
- iPad (3rd generation);
- iPad (4th generation).
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What to do if the kit does not include a paperclip to open the tray
A common problem for Yabloko. Usually the factory key is lost during use. Most relevant for those who purchase a used, incomplete iPhone: the key is missing.
In this case, you need to use a homemade analogue of a standard tool. This may include:
- thin needle;
- paper clip.
Before use, the paper clip must be straightened and when installing the module, work with the sharp end. In this case, the diameter of the paper clip should fit into the tray cylinder. It's the same with the needle. At the same time, a handicraft tool should not be brittle, because a metal fragment stuck in the hole of the tray can lead to an expensive call to a specialized service.
Quickly change your cell phone plan
- Go to Settings > Cellular
- Tap Cellular Data
- Click on the number you want to use cellular data
- Switch to cellular data to automatically switch cellular data lines when you're on a call
Read also: An Overview of the Pros and Cons of eSIM for Travelers in 2022
When you enable cellular data switching and receive a voice call on your voice number, that number automatically switches to voice and data usage. This way you use both voice and data during a call.
If you turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching when you are using a voice number that is not your assigned cellular number, cellular data will not work while you are on that call.
