Determine Your iPhone's SIM Card Type: eSIM or Physical

Step by step

1. 10 sec

   Open the Settings app

   Locate and tap the 'Settings' icon on your iPhone's Home Screen. This is the icon that resembles interconnected gears.

2. 10 sec

   Tap 'Cellular'

   Within the Settings menu, scroll down and select 'Cellular'. This option manages your mobile data and phone number settings.

3. 30 sec

   Check for 'SIMs' or 'Cellular Plans'

   Observe the options presented under the 'Cellular' menu. The presence and naming of these options indicate your SIM configuration.

4. 20 sec

   Look for 'eSIM' or 'Cellular Plans'

   If you see an option labeled 'Cellular Plans' or directly mentioning 'eSIM', your iPhone is using or supports eSIM. You may see a list of your active eSIM profiles.

   Note: This typically indicates your primary or a secondary line is managed via eSIM.
5. 20 sec

   Look for 'SIM Card' or 'Physical SIM'

   If you see an option explicitly labeled 'SIM Card' or 'Physical SIM', your iPhone is using a traditional physical SIM card. This section may display the carrier name and number associated with it.

   Note: Some iPhones may display both eSIM and Physical SIM options if both are configured.
6. 1 min

   Physically inspect the SIM tray

   If unsure, power off your iPhone. Locate the SIM tray on the side of the device. Use a SIM ejector tool or a small paperclip to gently push the pinhole and eject the tray. A physical SIM card will be seated in this tray. If there is no tray slot or it is empty, your device primarily uses eSIM.

   Note: Ensure your iPhone is powered off before attempting to eject the SIM tray to prevent data corruption.