Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about PikaSim and eSIMs

Device Compatibility

Check Your Device Compatibility

Not sure if your device supports eSIM? Use our compatibility checker below:

Note: All iPhone models since iPhone XS (released in 2018) and iPhone XR support eSIM technology. This includes iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 series. All new iPhones released after September 2018 are compatible with eSIM.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM card. It's built into your device and can be activated by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code.

Benefits of eSIM include:

  • No physical SIM card needed
  • Easy to switch between carriers or plans
  • You can have multiple phone numbers on one device
  • Convenient for international travel
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?

Most recent smartphone models support eSIM technology. You can use our compatibility checker above to see if your specific device is compatible.

Generally, these devices support eSIM:

  • iPhone XS, XR, and newer (all iPhones since 2018)
  • Google Pixel 3 and newer
  • Samsung Galaxy S20, Note 20, and newer models
  • Many recent models from Motorola, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and other manufacturers

You can also check your phone's settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile. If you see "Add Cellular Plan" or "Add eSIM," your device supports eSIM.

Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?

Yes, most devices that support eSIM allow you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously. This is called Dual SIM functionality, which gives you two phone numbers on one device.

This is particularly useful for:

  • Separating personal and business lines
  • Using a local data plan while traveling while keeping your home number
  • Having plans from two different carriers for better coverage

Note that some newer iPhone models (iPhone 14 models sold in the US and iPhone 15/16 models) are eSIM-only and do not have a physical SIM slot.

Using Your eSIM

How do I activate my PikaSim eSIM?

Activating your PikaSim eSIM is simple:

  1. Purchase a PikaSim eSIM package from our website
  2. You'll receive an email with a QR code and activation instructions
  3. On your device, go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile > Add Cellular Plan
  4. Scan the QR code from our email
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete activation
  6. Label your eSIM (e.g., "PikaSim Travel")

The eSIM will be active immediately once the QR code is scanned and setup is complete. Make sure you're connected to WiFi during the activation process.

How long is my eSIM valid?

The validity period depends on the package you purchase. Each package clearly states its duration (e.g., 7 days, 30 days) on the product page.

The validity period begins from the moment you first connect to a mobile network after activating the eSIM, not from the date of purchase. This means you can buy an eSIM in advance of your trip and it will only start counting down when you arrive and connect.