Is my iPhone compatible with eSIM?
Most iPhones from 2018 onwards (iPhone XS, XR, and newer) support eSIM. To check, go to Settings > Cellular. If you see "Add eSIM," your device is compatible.
Note: Some iPhones purchased in Mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macao do not support eSIM. Some carrier-locked iPhones may also be incompatible — see the next question.
How do I know if my iPhone is unlocked?
Go to Settings > General > About and look for "Carrier Lock." If it says "No SIM restrictions" you're good to go. If it shows a carrier name, contact that carrier to unlock your device before installing an eSIM.
Step-by-step: How to activate eSIM on my iPhone?
You'll need a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to install. We recommend doing this before your trip.
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Tap "Use QR Code" and scan the QR code from your email, or enter the activation code manually
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- When asked to label the plan, we suggest calling it "Travel" or "Truecaller" so it's easy to refer to later
Once installed, your eSIM is ready. It will activate automatically when you connect to data in your destination country.
What if the QR code is on the same phone I'm installing the eSIM on?
Long-press the QR code image and tap "Install eSIM" when it appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Do I need an internet connection to install the eSIM?
Yes. Your phone needs to be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data to download and install the eSIM profile. This is why we recommend installing before you travel — once you land, you may not have a connection until the eSIM is already set up.
How long does installation take?
Just a few minutes. Tap "Install eSIM" in the Truecaller app and it'll open the relevant Settings screen. A few taps later, you're done.
Can I buy a plan now and install the eSIM later?
Yes, you can buy the eSIM in advance and activate it later. However, we highly recommend that you install the eSIM before your trip as you need internet connectivity to install it. If you install it after you land, you'll have to search for free Wi-Fi to install the eSIM. But if you've already installed it before landing at your destination, you'll just need to turn on the internet after you land and you'll have internet access from the start of your trip.
Can I install multiple eSIMs on one device?
iPhones: You can install 8 eSIMs at one time on a single iPhone. However, only one eSIM can be active at a time.
Android: The maximum number of eSIMs on an Android phone varies by manufacturer, with most brands allowing 5-7 eSIM profiles at a time. Some high-end phones can support 20+ eSIMs. A few models allow you to have two active eSIMs at the same time.
How to install eSIM on iPad?
Installing the eSIM on an iPad is pretty similar to installing it on an iPhone. We recommend that you scan the QR code you receive using the iPad’s Camera app and follow the instructions on the screen. Make sure your iPad supports cellular data, otherwise the eSIM cannot be installed on the iPad.