Can I use one eSIM on multiple devices?

No, you generally cannot use one eSIM on multiple devices at the same time. An eSIM is designed to function similarly to a physical SIM card, meaning it can be activated and used on only one device at a time. Once an eSIM is activated on a device, it is tied to that specific device and cannot be shared across multiple devices simultaneously.

Here’s why you can’t use the same eSIM on multiple devices simultaneously:

  1. Device-Specific Activation:
    • An eSIM is tied to the unique identification of the device (such as the IMEI number) during the activation process. Once it’s activated on a device, it’s locked to that device until deactivated or removed.
  2. Carrier Restrictions:
    • Most carriers allow only one active instance of an eSIM per device. This means that even though you might have the ability to transfer an eSIM to a new device, you can’t use the same eSIM profile on two devices at once.

Transferring an eSIM Between Devices:

If you want to use your eSIM on a different device, you will need to deactivate it from the first device and then activate it on the new one. Here’s how you can transfer an eSIM:

On iPhone or Android Devices:

  1. Remove the eSIM from the Current Device:
    • On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Select your eSIM > Remove Cellular Plan.
    • On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Select the eSIM > Remove.
  2. Activate the eSIM on the New Device:
    • Follow the usual process to add an eSIM on the new device (scanning a QR code or entering activation details manually).
    • Some carriers allow you to manage the transfer via their app or website, while others may require you to contact them for reactivation.

Alternative: Sharing Data Across Devices

If you need to share data between multiple devices, such as a tablet and a smartphone, here are alternatives:

  • Tethering/Hotspot: You can use one device as a mobile hotspot and share the eSIM data with other devices via Wi-Fi.
  • Separate eSIMs: If you frequently use multiple devices, you may consider getting a separate eSIM for each device from your carrier or eSIM provider.