How to Transfer an eSIM Between Two Working iPhones
An eSIM can be transferred between two working iPhones through Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer when both iPhones support the feature and the carrier allows it. Keep both iPhones nearby, connected to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and signed in as required. The transfer moves the cellular plan and phone number from the old iPhone to the new iPhone.
🤔Note:
eSIM Quick Transfer requires compatible iPhones, a supported iOS version, and carrier support. If the option is unavailable, a carrier QR code, carrier app, or customer service activation may be required.
Steps
- Update both iPhones to a supported iOS version. Connect both devices to Wi-Fi, turn on Bluetooth, and keep both devices charged.
- Open Settings > Cellular on the new iPhone. Select Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, then choose Transfer From Nearby iPhone.
- Select the phone number shown for transfer. Approve the request on the old iPhone and enter a verification code if Apple or the carrier requests one.
- Wait for cellular activation on the new iPhone. Test calls, text messages, and mobile data before erasing or trading in the old iPhone.
Common Issues and Fixes
- Quick Transfer does not appear: The carrier or iOS version may not support eSIM Quick Transfer. Update both iPhones or request a carrier QR code or activation through the carrier app.
- The new iPhone cannot detect the old iPhone: Bluetooth may be disabled, the devices may be too far apart, or one iPhone may be locked. Turn on Bluetooth, unlock both iPhones, and place the devices nearby.
- The phone number remains inactive: Carrier activation may still be processing, or the cellular plan may require manual approval. Restart the new iPhone and contact the carrier if activation does not complete.
- Transfer fails after changing carriers: Carrier restrictions or an unpaid account balance may block activation. Confirm account status and eSIM transfer eligibility with the carrier.
- Calls work but mobile data does not: Cellular data settings may not have completed correctly. Check Settings > Cellular, select the transferred line, and confirm cellular data is enabled.
💡Protip:
Keep the old iPhone active until calls, messages, and mobile data work on the new iPhone. Do not erase the old iPhone before confirming that the eSIM transfer is complete.
Quick Tips
- Keep the old iPhone active until calls, messages, and mobile data work on the new iPhone.
- Do not erase the old iPhone before confirming that the eSIM transfer is complete. Erasing the device can remove access to carrier activation details.
- A carrier QR code or carrier app may be required for prepaid plans, business lines, international plans, or unsupported regions.
- Moving a phone number to a new iPhone may deactivate the old eSIM automatically. The old iPhone may lose cellular service after successful activation.
Related Questions
Does eSIM Quick Transfer move the phone number to a new iPhone?
Yes. A successful eSIM Quick Transfer moves the eligible cellular plan and associated phone number to the new iPhone. The old eSIM usually becomes inactive after activation.
Can an eSIM transfer work without the old iPhone?
Usually, no. Without the old iPhone, carrier support through a QR code, carrier app, or customer service may be required to activate the eSIM on another iPhone.
