With the launch of the iPhone 14, Apple began a bold shift toward eSIM-only devices. That change continued with the iPhone 15, and now, the iPhone 16 pushes the trend even further. But what does “eSIM-only” really mean for you? How does it affect everyday things like switching carriers, traveling, or setting up your phone for the first time?
In this article, we’ll cover these practical questions and go beyond. You’ll get clear answers, helpful tips, and real-world insights into how the iPhone 16’s eSIM-only design affects or benefits you.
Yes, the iPhone 16 is eSIM-Only
Does the iPhone 16 still use a physical SIM card? The short answer is: not in the U.S. Apple has fully embraced the eSIM-only design for U.S. models, continuing a shift that started with the iPhone 14. That means there’s no SIM card tray on the iPhone 16 sold in the United States. Instead, all cellular service is managed through eSIM, a digital SIM built directly into the phone.
So, what is an eSIM? Unlike traditional SIM cards that you physically insert into a device, an eSIM is embedded in the phone’s hardware and can be programmed digitally. You can activate the service by scanning a QR code from your carrier, using their app, or setting it up directly with them. It’s a more streamlined, flexible way to manage mobile service.
The iPhone 16 also supports dual eSIM, meaning you can have two active plans at the same time, which is handy for balancing work and personal numbers or using both local and international plans while traveling.
However, this eSIM-only setup applies mainly to U.S. models. In other parts of the world, the iPhone 16 may still include a physical SIM slot alongside eSIM support, depending on local carrier infrastructure and user needs.
Why Did Apple Drop the SIM Card?
With the iPhone 16, Apple made a bold move: completely removing the physical SIM card slot in the U.S. While it might seem like a small change, it is a big step toward the future of mobile connectivity. So why did Apple do it?
Getting rid of the SIM card tray opens up valuable space inside the phone. That space can be used for a bigger battery, better camera components, or simply to make the device more durable. Fewer holes in the body also mean fewer ways for dust and water to sneak in, something anyone who’s ever dropped their phone in water can appreciate.
One of the biggest advantages of eSIMs (embedded SIMs) is security. Physical SIM cards can be damaged or hacked, and scammers have used these vulnerabilities to trick phone companies into transferring your number to a new SIM card, a scam known as SIM swapping. With eSIMs, there’s no card to steal. The chip is built into the phone itself, and changes to your number or carrier require secure digital verification.
Apple also has integrated more sustainable practices into its design and production. Physical SIM cards require plastic, paper packaging, and shipping, none of which are great for the environment. By ditching them, Apple cuts down on plastic waste and lowers the carbon footprint of its devices. It’s a small change, but one that adds up when you consider the millions of iPhones sold each year.
eSIMs make it easier to change carriers or plans without needing to visit a store or wait for a new card in the mail. Everything can be done digitally. You can download a local or international data plan on the spot, without swapping anything out. And since iPhones now support multiple eSIM profiles, you can keep your main number and still add a travel plan when needed.
Ultimately, this move supports Apple’s larger goal: a more streamlined, flexible, and user-friendly mobile experience.
Photo by Igor Omilaev on Unsplash
What iPhone 16 Owners Say About Living Without a SIM Card
As Apple moves further into the eSIM-only future with the iPhone 16, users have shared a mix of good and bad experiences after switching to a phone that only uses eSIM. Some love the change, while others find it frustrating.
Many iPhone 16 users appreciate how seamless it is to activate a new phone with eSIM. One Reddit user, th3_d3v3lop3r, shared: “eSIMs are easier to move around now that it’s self-service, and I won’t use a physical SIM for security reasons. If the phone is on, it’ll ping a location.” For users concerned about both convenience and privacy, this shift feels like a step forward.
However, the ease of setup can depend heavily on carrier support. Another user, ohaiibuzzle, noted that while using multiple eSIMs is helpful, “changing phones when your carrier doesn’t support moving eSIM is pain.” That friction can turn a fast setup into a frustrating experience.
For frequent flyers, eSIM has real benefits. You can line up a local plan online before you even leave the airport. But cost and regional limitations are still big factors. As one user posted, “eSIM plans appear to be in the $20–30 range for a monthly plan. I just got a month-long plan in Thailand for $7. Hard to beat that.” So while eSIM can save time, it might cost more than grabbing a local physical SIM.
Another frustration comes from travelers heading to more remote destinations. One user quoted in The Sun explained, “It’s stupid … If you go to places like Cambodia, you might not be able to get an eSIM. Once you go off the beaten path a bit… You might not be able to get an eSIM.” Many parts of the world still don’t fully support eSIM, which can leave travelers disconnected or scrambling to find solutions.
A few users raised concerns about how eSIM shifts more control into the hands of carriers. On MacRumors, user JPack commented: “eSIM simply gives the carrier and Apple another opportunity to be a gatekeeper. They decide when and if you ought to transfer eSIMs.” Unlike physical SIMs that users can pop in and out, eSIMs often require backend approval and sometimes, long waits or customer support calls.
So, is it worth it? The switch to an eSIM-only iPhone has undeniably streamlined the activation experience for many. However, the transition also exposes weak spots in global carrier infrastructure and raises questions about user control. For now, it seems the benefits of eSIM shine brightest in well-supported environments. For rural users, global travelers, or those frequently switching devices, the eSIM-only future still comes with a few caveats.
Buying an iPhone 16? What You MUST Check Before You Travel
If you’re planning to travel internationally with an iPhone 16, especially the U.S. version, which only supports eSIM (and has no physical SIM card slot), there are a few crucial things you need to know before you leave home. Missing even one of these steps could leave you disconnected and frustrated in a foreign country.
Does Your Destination Support eSIM?
Not every country or mobile carrier supports eSIM technology yet. This is especially important because the U.S. iPhone 16 doesn’t have a SIM card tray, so you can’t just pop in a local SIM card anymore.
Before you travel:
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Research the country you’re visiting: Search online or check on travel forums to see if eSIM is widely supported.
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Look up local mobile carriers: Find out if mobile carriers offer eSIMs, and whether they’re available to tourists. Some countries only allow eSIMs for citizens or require in-person registration with a national ID.
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Confirm the plan type: Not all eSIM plans are prepaid. Some carriers only allow eSIMs for long-term (postpaid) customers, which may require a contract.
If your destination doesn’t support eSIM or if tourist access is limited, you may struggle to get any mobile service unless you have a backup plan.
Is Your Home Carrier Compatible with International eSIM Use?
Even if you plan to use a local eSIM abroad, your current carrier still plays a big role. Here’s what to check with your home provider:
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Does it support eSIM on iPhone 16? While most major carriers do, not all allow full functionality across all plans.
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Can you have more than one eSIM installed or active? iPhones can store multiple eSIMs, but not all carriers support switching between them freely.
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Does it allow international roaming via eSIM? Some carriers offer roaming packages that work automatically through eSIM. Others may not allow roaming unless you activate it before departure.
If your provider doesn’t support eSIM roaming, you won’t be able to use your regular number for texts or calls abroad, unless you install a second eSIM for travel use.
Final Setup Tips Before You Leave
To make sure everything goes well during your trip:
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Install a trusted carrier app before your flight. These apps are essential for scanning eSIM QR codes, selecting a data plan, and managing your settings while abroad. For example, Yoho Mobile offers a user-friendly app that lets you browse travel data packages, activate your eSIM instantly, and monitor usage.
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Activate your eSIM before you travel if possible. Some eSIM providers let you activate and test your plan in advance. That way, you won’t be stuck troubleshooting at the airport.
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Learn how to manage your eSIMs on your iPhone. Practice switching between plans if you’re using more than one. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM to see how it works.
eSIM Isn’t the Future — It’s the Now
eSIM technology isn’t something waiting around the corner. It’s already here. With devices like the iPhone 16 going fully eSIM-only, understanding how eSIM works is more important than ever. It will help you stay connected smoothly in a world that’s moving faster and more digital every day.
If you’re ready to get started with eSIM risk-free, try a free eSIM from Yoho Mobile. It gives you instant access to mobile data in most countries. No SIM card, no contracts, just a quick setup, and you’re online in minutes. And when you’re ready to get an eSIM plan, use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
FAQs
Can I move my eSIM to a new iPhone 16 easily?
Absolutely! You can transfer your eSIM digitally through your iPhone’s settings or your carrier’s app. Some carriers also provide QR codes or activation codes for quick setup on your new iPhone 16. Just remember, each carrier’s process may differ, so it’s a good idea to check their instructions or contact support for a smooth switch.
What happens if I reset my iPhone 16?
Resetting your iPhone can erase your eSIM profiles unless they’re backed up to your Apple ID or protected with your carrier’s eSIM restore feature. Check if ‘Erase eSIM’ is enabled before you reset. After a reset, you’ll need to reactivate your eSIM by scanning your original QR code, using your carrier’s app, or contacting them for a new activation. Some carriers let you download your eSIM profile again online, so it’s smart to save any activation info before resetting.
Can I have multiple eSIMs for different countries on my iPhone 16?
Yes. The iPhone 16 supports multiple eSIM profiles, so you can store plans from different countries all in one device. Switch between profiles easily when you travel. Just note: only one eSIM can be active for cellular data, though multiple can be active for calls and texts, depending on your carrier. Make sure your device is unlocked and carriers support eSIM where you’re traveling.
What if I lose my phone? How do I recover my eSIM?
If your iPhone 16 is lost, contact your carrier to get a new eSIM. They can send a new QR code or push the eSIM remotely to your replacement phone. You can also check your carrier’s app or website for “manage eSIM” or “transfer eSIM” options. After resetting or getting a new phone, just go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and scan the QR code to activate. To avoid losing your eSIM during resets, see if it’s linked to your Apple ID under Settings > Cellular, and disable “Erase eSIM” if possible before resetting.