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Switching to a new smartphone used to be as simple as removing your SIM card and inserting it into the new device. But with eSIM (embedded SIM), the process is digital—and while it offers convenience, it requires a bit more care to avoid service disruptions.
Whether you’re using an iPhone, Samsung, Android, Google Pixel, or other eSIM-compatible device, this guide explains how to safely transfer your eSIM to a new phone without losing your number or mobile service.
TJ News Nigeria reports that eSIM users must follow specific procedures when switching devices to avoid permanent SIM deactivation or reactivation delays—especially in regions like Nigeria, the UK, US, India, or Canada, where mobile carriers apply strict profile controls.
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This guide explains how to transfer eSIM to a new phone, including:
- From iPhone to iPhone
- From iPhone to Android
- From Samsung to Samsung
- How to move a smart eSIM to another device
What You Should Know Before Transferring Your eSIM
- eSIM profiles are linked to your device’s IMEI number.
- You can’t simply “move” an eSIM like a physical SIM—it needs to be deactivated from the old device and re-downloaded or reissued on the new one.
- Some carriers allow self-service eSIM transfer; others require a visit to a store or service centre.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer eSIM to a New Phone
🔁 Option 1: Using Your Carrier’s App or Website
Some major carriers (like MTN, Airtel, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, EE, Vodafone, Jio, etc.) allow self-service eSIM transfers through their apps.
Steps:
- Install your mobile network provider’s app on your new phone.
- Log in using your phone number/account credentials.
- Go to the “Transfer eSIM” or “Move to New Device” option.
- Follow the prompts to deactivate the eSIM from your old device.
- Download or scan the new QR code on the new phone.
- Complete activation and confirm network connection.
⚠️ This method only works if your carrier supports eSIM re-provisioning remotely.
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🔁 Option 2: Manually Request a New eSIM QR Code from Your Carrier
If your carrier doesn’t allow remote transfers, you’ll need to get a new QR code or activation details.
Steps:
- Back up important data from your old phone.
- Visit a nearby service centre (MTN, Airtel, 9mobile, etc.)
- Request eSIM transfer or reactivation on your new device.
- Provide a valid means of identification (NIN, passport, etc.)
- You’ll receive a new QR code or digital activation email.
- On your new device, go to:
- iPhone: Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Use QR Code
- Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards > Add eSIM
- Scan the code and wait for activation.
📵 The old phone’s eSIM will stop working once reactivated on the new device.
🔁 Option 3: Apple Quick Transfer (For iPhone Users Only)
Apple offers a built-in eSIM Quick Transfer when setting up a new iPhone.
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Steps:
- Place your old and new iPhones side by side.
- During setup, select “Transfer SIM” when prompted.
- The eSIM profile will be securely copied to the new phone.
- Confirm and activate via cellular settings.
No need for a QR code. Works for iPhones on iOS 16 and newer.
Important Notes to Avoid Losing Service
- Do NOT erase or reset your old phone before transferring the eSIM.
- Don’t delete your eSIM profile manually—this may prevent recovery if anything goes wrong.
- Always ensure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi or data during the process.
- If you use dual SIM (eSIM + physical SIM), know which one carries your main number.
Is My eSIM Transfer Secure?
Yes. eSIM transfers are encrypted and tied to your identity, but follow these precautions:
- Only scan QR codes from trusted carrier sources.
- Never share your eSIM activation details online.
- Use a screen lock and enable Find My Device on your new phone.
Carrier-Specific eSIM Transfer Notes
| Carrier | Transfer Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MTN (NG) | In-store/QR re-issue | Visit service centre for eSIM swap |
| Airtel (NG) | QR re-issue/manual | Requires identification |
| T-Mobile (US) | App-based or QR | My T-Mobile app supports self-service |
| Verizon (US) | Manual via support | May need assistance or QR re-issue |
| Jio (India) | QR + Customer Care | App or store-based reactivation |
| Vodafone (UK) | QR/Online | Use Vodafone app or visit store |
Devices That Support eSIM Transfer
Most modern iPhones and Androids allow eSIM transfers. Examples include:
- iPhone XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 series
- Samsung S21, S22, S23, S24, Z Flip, Z Fold
- Google Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 series
- Tecno Phantom X2 Pro, Camon 20 Premier (select models)
Transfer eSIM to New Phone iPhone
If you’re upgrading from one iPhone to another (e.g. iPhone 12 to iPhone 15), you can use Apple’s built-in Quick Transfer feature or scan a new QR code from your carrier.
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Apple eSIM Quick Transfer
- Turn on your new iPhone and place it near the old iPhone.
- During setup, select “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” when prompted.
- Choose the eSIM line you want to transfer.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the move.
- Your old iPhone will deactivate the eSIM after successful setup.
⚠️ Works only on iPhones with iOS 16 or later and supported carriers.
Manual QR Code Setup
If Quick Transfer fails or is unavailable:
- Request a new eSIM activation QR code from your carrier.
- On your new iPhone, go to:
- Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM
- Tap Use QR Code and scan it.
- Wait for the activation to complete.
How to Transfer eSIM to New Phone (Any Device)
No matter the device, here’s a universal approach to eSIM transfer:
- Do NOT delete your current eSIM profile until the transfer is complete.
- Back up your device data if needed.
- Contact your mobile network provider to:
- Deactivate eSIM on the old phone
- Issue a new QR code or carrier profile
- On your new phone:
- Navigate to eSIM setup or mobile network settings
- Select “Add eSIM” or “Scan QR Code”
- Complete activation and confirm service.
This method works globally and applies to networks like MTN, Airtel, Verizon, T-Mobile, Vodafone, Jio, etc.
How to Transfer Smart eSIM to Another Phone
“Smart eSIM” often refers to programmable or cloud-based eSIM services (offered by travel SIM apps or digital carriers). These profiles are more flexible.
Steps:
- Open the app used to purchase or manage your eSIM (e.g., Airalo, MTX Connect, Ubigi).
- Log into your account on the new phone.
- Go to the “My eSIMs” section.
- Select Transfer to new device or request reinstallation.
- Download the eSIM or scan the new QR code.
Not all providers allow multi-device use. You may need to delete the eSIM from the old phone first.
Transfer eSIM to New Phone Android Samsung
Most newer Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM transfer via the SIM manager.
Steps for Samsung to Samsung:
- On your old Samsung phone, go to:
- Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
- Tap your eSIM > Remove/Deactivate
- On your new Samsung phone:
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
- Tap Add mobile plan > Scan QR code or Download SIM
- Enter activation details or scan QR code provided by carrier.
Make sure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi.
Transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android
Switching from iPhone to Android (e.g., Samsung or Pixel) requires reactivation of the eSIM from your mobile provider. Apple’s Quick Transfer doesn’t support Android.
Steps:
- Do NOT erase your iPhone until transfer is complete.
- Request a new QR code or eSIM profile from your carrier (MTN, Airtel, Verizon, etc.).
- On your Android device, go to:
- Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards > Add eSIM
- Scan the new QR code or enter manual activation details.
- Wait for setup confirmation, then test call/data.
Once activated on Android, your iPhone’s eSIM will no longer work.
⚠️ Common eSIM Transfer Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| QR code expired | Request a new one from your carrier |
| “No SIM found” after transfer | Restart phone and check settings |
| eSIM not detected on new phone | Ensure it’s eSIM-compatible and unlocked |
| Number not working after switch | Contact carrier to confirm IMEI registration |
FAQs About eSIM Transfers
Q: Can I use the same eSIM profile on two phones?
A: No. eSIM can only be active on one device at a time.
Q: Will I lose my phone number when transferring?
A: No. Your phone number remains the same after transfer.
Q: How long does activation take?
A: Usually less than 10 minutes, depending on the carrier.
Q: Do I need internet to complete the transfer?
A: Yes. Wi-Fi or mobile data is required during activation.
Final Checklist: eSIM Transfer Without Losing Service
✔ Back up your old phone
✔ Don’t delete your eSIM profile until new phone is ready
✔ Use carrier app or get a fresh QR code
✔ Ensure both devices have internet
✔ Confirm activation before wiping the old device
🔁 Related Articles
- 👉 What Is eSIM and How It Works in Nigeria (Complete Guide)
- 👉 How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM
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