iPhone 12 and eSIM
Every iPhone 12 model supports eSIM, except units made for the markets listed below. Here is what that means for a travel plan.
Yes โ supports eSIM
- eSIMs stored
- 8 or more
- Active at once
- 1
- Physical SIM
- Yes
- 5G phone
- Yes
- Released
- 2020
The first iPhone generation with 5G. Still one active eSIM at a time: the second line is either the physical SIM or an eSIM, not two eSIMs.
Checked October 4, 2026 ยท source
Models in this series
| Model | eSIM | Stored | Active | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 mini | Yes | 8+ | 1 | Yes |
| iPhone 12 | Yes | 8+ | 1 | Yes |
| iPhone 12 Pro | Yes | 8+ | 1 | Yes |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | Yes | 8+ | 1 | Yes |
Mainland China. iPhones sold in mainland China have no eSIM; they use two physical nano-SIMs instead.
Hong Kong and Macau. The dual-SIM iPhone 12 and 12 Pro Max sold in Hong Kong and Macau have two nano-SIM slots and no eSIM; the 12 mini and 12 Pro there have eSIM.
How to install a travel eSIM on iPhone
Pick a destination below; the QR code arrives by email in a minute.
Settings โ Cellular โ Add eSIM โ Use QR code.
Keep your home line for calls and SMS.
Set the travel line as mobile data and enable data roaming for it.
Where to find eSIM in settings: Settings โ Cellular (Mobile Data) โ Add eSIM
Questions: iPhone 12
Can I keep my home number while using a travel eSIM on iPhone 12?
Yes. Your own SIM or eSIM stays active for calls and SMS; the travel eSIM carries data only. You choose which line is used for data in settings.
How many eSIMs can be installed on iPhone 12 at the same time?
Several profiles can be stored and two lines can be active at once. Switching between stored eSIMs takes a tap in Settings โ Cellular.
Can I move the eSIM from iPhone 12 to another phone?
Usually an eSIM installs once. Delete it from one phone and it cannot be reinstalled on another without a new activation, so decide which phone carries it before you install.
