Travel eSIM for South Africa

An eSIM, or embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is a virtual SIM card integrated into devices like smartphones and smartwatches. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs are programmed remotely, enabling easy network switching and activation without needing physical swaps. They offer flexibility for changing carriers and plans, convenient international travel connectivity, and the management of multiple numbers on one device. While not universally supported, eSIM technology reduces the reliance on physical cards and simplifies the user experience by allowing remote provisioning of cellular services.

To activate an eSIM on an iPhone, follow these general steps. Remember that the exact process might vary slightly depending on your carrier and iOS version. These are the steps you would typically follow:

1. Check Compatibility: Ensure your carrier supports eSIM activation and your iPhone model is compatible with eSIM technology.
2. Obtain an eSIM QR Code: Contact your carrier and request an eSIM activation QR code or activation details.
3. Connect to Wi-Fi or Cellular Data: Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data, as you'll need an internet connection for the activation process.
4. Access Settings: Open your iPhone's "Settings" app.
5. Cellular (or Mobile) > Add Cellular Plan: Navigate to "Cellular" (or "Mobile" in some regions) and tap on "Add Cellular Plan."
6. Scan the QR Code: If you received a QR code, use your iPhone's camera to scan the QR code provided by your carrier. Enter the necessary information manually if you received activation details without a QR code.
7. Confirm and Activate: Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the details and activate the eSIM. You might be asked to restart your iPhone after activation.

To check if an eSIM is activated on an iPhone, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings: Go to your iPhone's "Settings" app.
2. Cellular (or Mobile) > Cellular Plans: Scroll down and tap on "Cellular" (or "Mobile" in some regions), then select "Cellular Plans."
3. Check for Active Plans: Under the "Cellular Plans" section, you will see a list of active plans. If your eSIM is activated and functional, you should see the eSIM plan listed along with any physical SIM cards you have inserted.
4. Primary Line (Dual SIM iPhones): If you have a dual SIM iPhone, you can also see which line is set as the primary line for making calls and sending texts.
5. Data Usage (Optional): Some iPhones might show data usage statistics for each plan if available. This can help you keep track of data usage on your eSIM plan.
6. Labeling Plans (Optional): You might also have the option to label your plans based on their carriers or purposes for easier identification.

If you see your eSIM plan listed among the active plans, it means that the eSIM is successfully activated and functioning on your iPhone. If you're experiencing issues or not seeing the eSIM listed, double-check the activation process or contact your carrier's customer support for assistance. Remember that the steps and options might vary slightly depending on your iOS version and carrier.

Apple's iPhone 14 can hold up to eight eSIMs and dual active eSIMs. This means that you can have up to eight different eSIMs on your iPhone and use two simultaneously for calls, messages, and data.

Yes, the iPhone 11 has eSIM support. Apple introduced eSIM functionality with the iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, and subsequent models, including the iPhone 11. This means that the iPhone 11 can use a physical SIM card and an eSIM, allowing users to have dual SIM functionality. With dual SIM support, you can have two active phone numbers on the same device, making it convenient for travellers, people with work and personal lines, or those who want to use different carriers or plans simultaneously.