Helium Mobile works with either a physical SIM or an eSIM. Before you port your number from your current carrier, please be sure to confirm which one your phone supports so you don’t lose service while waiting for a physical SIM to arrive.
eSIM support is set by your device manufacturer and can vary by region and model, especially on Android. Your phone must also be unlocked.
iPhone
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and newer models support eSIM. iPhones sold in the US from iPhone 14 onward are eSIM only, so they have no physical SIM tray.
To check your iPhone:
Go to Settings > General > About
Scroll to the Available SIM or Digital SIM section
If you see an EID number, your iPhone supports eSIM
You can also go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Service) and look for Add eSIM. If it’s there, your iPhone supports eSIM.
To confirm your iPhone is unlocked, check Carrier Lock on the same About screen. It should say No SIM restrictions.
Android
eSIM support varies by brand, model, and region, so check your exact device.
Google Pixel
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
Tap the + icon
If you see Download a SIM instead?, your device supports eSIM
Samsung and other Android devices
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
If you see Add eSIM, your device supports eSIM
Quick Check for Any Phone
Open your phone’s dialer and enter *#06#. If an EID number appears alongside your IMEI, your phone supports eSIM.
Still not sure? Check your exact model’s specs on the manufacturer’s website, or contact the manufacturer or your current carrier.
FAQs
My current carrier is blocking me from adding an eSIM. What should I do?
Contact your current carrier to troubleshoot. Your phone must be unlocked to use Helium Mobile, so you won’t be able to purchase a plan while it’s locked to another carrier.
Do I need an eSIM or a physical SIM?
It depends on your phone, and you can choose either when you sign up. Not sure which to pick? SeeChoosing Your SIM.
Can I use multiple SIMs on my phone?
Only some models support more than one eSIM. Check your manufacturer’s documentation for your phone’s dual SIM compatibility.
How do I switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM?
Reach out to Support through Live Chat or email [email protected] and we’ll help.
How do I transfer my contacts to my eSIM?
Most phones save contacts to device storage or the cloud, not the SIM. If you have contacts on another SIM, import them before switching to Helium Mobile.
What happens if I get a new number?
You’ll lose your voicemail and call history. Unless you’re also changing phones, your contacts stay put when you install your SIM.