Transfer an eSIM From an iPhone To an Android

Transitioning from the polished world of iOS to the flexible universe of Android is an exciting adventure, but it comes with a unique digital hurdle: the eSIM. Because Android and iPhone “speak” different languages, you can’t simply tap them together to move your number.

Instead, think of this process as a digital relocation. You must officially “check out” of your iPhone before you can “move in” to your new Android. Here is how to navigate the switch like a pro.

Pre-Transfer Checklist: The Essentials

To avoid getting stuck in “No Service” limbo, verify these four things first:

✔ Carrier Unlock: Ensure your iPhone is fully paid off and unlocked. Most carriers won’t release an eSIM profile if the device is still under contract.
✔ The EID Number: Your new Android has a unique 32-digit identifier called an EID. You can usually find it in Settings > About Phone > Status, or by dialing *#06#. You may need this for Method 2.
✔ Update Everything: Ensure your iPhone is on the latest iOS and your Android is running at least Android 14 (or the brand-new Android 16 for the fastest transfer tools).
✔ Wi-Fi is Non-Negotiable: Your Android needs an active internet connection to download your carrier’s digital profile.

Check out: How To Unlock Your Phone

Method 1: The New “Cross-Platform” Tool

Best for: Users with the latest flagship devices (Pixel 9/10, Samsung S25) and major carriers.

Thanks to new industry standards, some major carriers now support a direct “handshake” during the initial Android setup.

1. Power on your new Android and begin the setup process.
2. When asked to connect to a mobile network, select “Transfer SIM from another device.”
3. On your iPhone, a pop-up should appear asking to “Confirm SIM Transfer.”
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to verify your identity (usually via a text code or biometrics).
5. Wait for the “Activation Complete” message on your Android before turning off your iPhone.

Method 2: The Carrier Portal / App Method

Best for: Most users on international networks.

1. On your iPhone: Do NOT delete your plan yet!
2. On a computer or the new Android: Log into your carrier’s website or “My Carrier” app.
3. Look for “Switch Devices” or “Update Device IMEI/EID.”
4. Enter the EID and IMEI of your new Android phone.
5. The carrier will then generate a new QR code or send a “Push” notification to your Android to install the plan.

Method 3: The “Clean Slate” QR Code

Best for: Travel eSIMs or smaller regional carriers.

1. Delete on iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular, tap your plan, and select Delete eSIM. (This tells the carrier the “slot” is now empty).
2. Request New Code: Ask your carrier for a fresh activation QR code.
3. Scan on Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM.
4. Select “Download a SIM instead?” and scan the code provided.

The “Post-Switch” Pro-Tip: Fix Your Texts

The most common “bug” when moving from iPhone to Android is missing text messages. Because Apple’s iMessage “claims” your phone number, you must deregister it so that messages from other iPhone users come through as standard texts (SMS) on your Android.

The Fix: Go to Settings > Messages on your iPhone and toggle iMessage to OFF before you finish the transfer. If you’ve already sold the iPhone, use Apple’s online deregistration tool.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Why does it say ‘EID not supported’?

This usually means your carrier hasn’t whitelisted that specific Android model yet. You may need to call their tech support to manually add your EID to their system.

I have signal bars but no data.

You might need to update your APN (Access Point Name) settings. Search your carrier’s name + “APN settings” and enter them manually in your Android’s Network settings.