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iPhone XR and eSIM

Every iPhone XR 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
No
Released
2018

Same eSIM setup as the XS: nano-SIM plus one eSIM, no 5G. Still common as a second or hand-me-down phone.

Checked October 4, 2026 ยท source

Models in this series

ModeleSIMStoredActivePhysical SIM
iPhone XRYes8+1Yes
Where eSIM is missing

Mainland China. iPhones sold in mainland China have no eSIM; they use two physical nano-SIMs instead.

Hong Kong and Macau. The dual-SIM version sold in Hong Kong and Macau has two nano-SIM slots and no eSIM.

How to install a travel eSIM on iPhone

1Buy a plan

Pick a destination below; the QR code arrives by email in a minute.

2Scan the QR

Settings โ†’ Cellular โ†’ Add eSIM โ†’ Use QR code.

3Label it โ€œTravelโ€

Keep your home line for calls and SMS.

4Turn on at landing

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 XR

Can I keep my home number while using a travel eSIM on iPhone XR?

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 XR 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 XR 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.

Get BeeSim before your next trip

Mobile data in every country you fly to, installed in a minute.