Switching to an eSIM is all about convenience. But sometimes, technology needs a little nudge. If you’ve ever been asked for your phone’s ‘EID number’ during a manual eSIM setup, you might have been left scratching your head. What is it, and more importantly, where do you find it?
Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds. This guide will show you exactly how to locate your EID on any iPhone or Android device. While Yoho Mobile offers a super-simple one-click installation for iOS users, knowing your EID is great for troubleshooting or manual setups. Ready to get connected seamlessly? Check out Yoho Mobile’s flexible eSIM plans today!
What Exactly is an EID Number?
An EID, which stands for Embedded Identity Document, is a unique 32-digit number that identifies your phone’s embedded SIM (eSIM) chip. Think of it as the serial number for your phone’s digital SIM card hardware. Just as a physical SIM card has a unique number (the ICCID), the eSIM chip inside your phone has an EID.
This number allows mobile carriers to remotely send an eSIM profile to your specific device, which is crucial for the manual activation process.
Why You Might Need Your Phone’s EID
While most eSIM activations are smooth and automatic, there are a few scenarios where your EID becomes essential:
- Manual eSIM Activation: This is the most common reason. If activating your eSIM via a QR code fails, your carrier’s support team will likely ask for your EID to push the service to your phone directly.
- Troubleshooting: If you’re having issues with your eSIM service, a support agent might request the EID to diagnose the problem.
- Device Management: In some corporate environments, IT departments use the EID to manage and deploy cellular plans to company devices.
How to Find the EID Number on Your iPhone
Apple makes it very simple to find your EID. Just follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app from your home screen.
- Tap on General.
- Tap on About.
- Scroll down the page. You’ll find the EID listed under the section for your digital SIM. It’s a long number, but you can tap and hold it to copy.
How to Find the EID Number on Your Android Phone
The steps for Android devices can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer (like Samsung, Google, or others), but the general path is very similar.
Here’s the most common way to find your EID:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on About phone.
- Look for and tap on Status or Status information.
- You should see the EID listed here. On some devices, you might need to tap SIM card status to reveal it.
For example, on a Samsung Galaxy, the path is typically Settings > About phone > Status information. On a Google Pixel, you can often find it directly under Settings > About phone. Before you start, it’s always a good idea to ensure your device is on our eSIM compatible devices list.
EID vs. IMEI: Understanding the Difference
It’s easy to confuse the EID with another important number, the IMEI. While both are unique identifiers for your phone, they serve very different purposes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | EID (Embedded Identity Document) | IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Identifies the physical eSIM chip inside your phone. | Identifies the entire phone hardware (the device itself). |
| Uniqueness | Unique to the eSIM hardware. | Unique to the mobile device. |
| Usage | Used for managing and activating eSIM profiles. | Used by carriers to track or block a lost or stolen phone. |
| Format | 32-digit number. | 15-digit number. |
Experience Seamless Connectivity with Yoho Mobile
Found your EID? Great! While it’s useful for the rare manual activation, you might not even need it with Yoho Mobile. Our iOS users enjoy a revolutionary one-click installation that gets you connected in under a minute—no QR codes, no hunting for numbers, no hassle. It’s global connectivity made simple.
Curious to see how easy it is? Try our free eSIM trial and get a taste of effortless global data before your next trip!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do after finding my EID number for eSIM activation?
Once you have your EID, you typically provide it to your carrier through their app or website when prompted for manual activation. They use this number to securely send the eSIM profile to your device. With Yoho Mobile, this is usually just a backup method, as our automated process is much faster.
Is the EID the same as a SIM card number (ICCID)?
No. The EID identifies the embedded eSIM chip itself, which is part of your phone’s hardware. The ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is the unique serial number for a specific mobile plan or profile, whether it’s on a physical SIM or an eSIM profile downloaded to the chip.
Can I find my EID on the phone’s original box?
In many cases, yes. Manufacturers like Apple often print the EID on a sticker on the original box, usually near the IMEI and serial number. This is a great alternative if you cannot access your phone’s settings menu.
Does every phone that supports eSIM have an EID number?
Yes. The EID is the fundamental identifier for the eSIM hardware. If your phone is eSIM-compatible, it is guaranteed to have an EID number.
Conclusion
Locating your phone’s EID is a straightforward process on both iPhone and Android, and it’s a key piece of information for managing your digital connectivity. Now that you know exactly how to find this important phone identity number, you’re fully equipped to handle any eSIM activation scenario.
Ready to unlock the power of eSIM technology? Ditch expensive roaming fees and stay connected effortlessly in over 200 countries and regions. Explore Yoho Mobile’s affordable data plans and travel smarter on your next adventure!