iPhone 14 eSIM – What Changes For You
With the latest launch event, Apple has now announced the newest flagship product – the iPhone 14 & iPhone 14 Pro. The most noticeable difference this year is probably the new SIM Card tray – or the lack of it!
In the US, the iPhone 14 will ship as an eSIM-only smartphone – but what exactly does this mean now for you? How can you make the change from a physical SIM Card to the eSIM? What about US travelers going abroad?
eSIMs In The USA
First of all, eSIMs are simply a replacement of the SIM Card, but rather in a physical form, eSIMs are electronic. The biggest advantage: you can install your eSIMs simply via a QR Code instead of having to go to a physical store to purchase a physical SIM Card.
Most major internet service providers in the USA, such as AT&T, Verizon & T-Mobile, already support eSIMs. T-Mobile has been anticipating the launch of the new iPhone 14 & iPhone 14 Pro and has been extensively testing the network in regards to their eSIM capabilities. If you are already a customer with one of those providers that support eSIMs, you do not have to worry about the change.
On the other hand, if your carrier does not support eSIMs, you either have to make the change or you should not buy the iPhone 14 yet (at least if you are in the USA – the iPhone 14 & iPhone 14 Pro does support physical SIM Cards outside of the USA).
The eSIM functionality has been available on iPhones for a long time already. The first time Apple has released an eSIM-compatible iPhone was in late 2018 with the iPhone XR / XS series. Any iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later with iOS 12.1 or later supports eSIMs.
What is the significance of the eSIM-only iPhone 14 & iPhone 14 Pro for US travelers going abroad?
Just like in the USA, most major carriers in other countries already offer eSIMs to their customers. Some even offer special data plans for inbound travelers. The ability of having an eSIM iPhone 14 is perfect for frequent travelers going abroad.
There is no need to hassle down any local shop at the airport or city center and try to purchase a SIM Card so that you can avoid the expensive roaming charges. Instead, you can conveniently browse travel eSIMs offers from home before you even went abroad.
Install eSIM on the iPhone 14 / 14 Pro
- Open the Camera app and scan the eSIM QR code provided to you
- When the notification Cellular Plan Detected pops up, tap on it.
- Tap on Continue at the bottom of your screen
- Add Cellular Plan
If you wish to continue reading more into detail how to install an eSIM on the iPhone, read our detailed guide.
How To Purchase a Travel eSIM
- Select your travel destination
- Select your preferred eSIM data plan
- Fill out personal & billing information
- Pay for the eSIM
- After your purchase, you will receive your eSIM via email or a dedicated application
- Install the eSIM via the QR Code or the activation code
- Assign the travel eSIM as your preferred eSIM once you arrive at your destination
- You are done! The eSIM has been activated and is ready to use abroad!
This process is so quick & convenient, it does not take you any longer than 10 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the release date of the iPhone 14 series?
The iPhone 14 will released for sale on 16th September 2022 and you can start to preorder on September 9. The iPhone 14 Plus will be released on the 7th October 2022. (Note from editor: The iPhone 14 has been officially released and is now available for purchase.)
How much does the iPhone 14 cost?
The iPhone 14 series has a starting price of US$799 / 999€.
Can I use my iPhone 14 abroad?
Yes, you can use it abroad! Simply find a suitable eSIM data plan from a local carrier at your travel destination
Popular eSIM Data Plans
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SimOptions is one of the biggest marketplace for Prepaid SIM Cards & eSIMs. SimOptions helps international travelers to save 100% of roaming charges by using local Prepaid SIM Card - now offering its own eSIM for Europe. The Europe eSIM from SimOptions is the perfect choice to stay connected to family and friends at home. |
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