Your iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 is still a fantastic, powerful device in 2025. It has a great camera, a fast processor, and a design that holds up. But are you using it to its full potential when you travel? If you’re still hunting for local SIM cards or dreading expensive roaming bills, it’s time for an upgrade—not for your phone, but for your connectivity.
Enter the eSIM. This digital SIM card is built right into your iPhone, ready to connect you to local networks in minutes, wherever you go. With Yoho Mobile, activating an eSIM on your older iPhone is simpler than you think, unlocking a world of affordable, hassle-free data.
Ready to transform your travel experience? Explore Yoho Mobile’s flexible eSIM plans today and see how easy it is to get connected.
Why an eSIM is a Game-Changer for Your iPhone 12 or 13
If you’re wondering why you should switch from the physical SIM you’ve always used, the benefits are clear, especially for travelers. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of that tiny plastic chip. Because your iPhone 12 or 13 has this technology built-in, it gains some powerful new tricks.
- Instant Connectivity: Purchase and install a data plan from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection. No more searching for a store after a long flight to Japan or navigating a language barrier to buy a local SIM in Spain.
- Keep Your Home Number: Using an eSIM for data allows you to keep your primary physical SIM active for calls and texts from home. This is the magic of dual SIM capability—the best of both worlds without needing two phones.
- Greater Security: An embedded SIM can’t be physically lost or stolen like a traditional SIM card, adding a layer of security to your travels.
- Flexibility: Easily switch between different data plans. You can have multiple eSIMs stored on your device, making it perfect for multi-country trips. Heading on a European tour? You can have a plan ready for France and another for Italy.
First Things First: Does Your iPhone 12 or 13 Support eSIM?
Yes, absolutely! The great news is that every model in the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 series supports eSIM technology. This includes:
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
There’s just one crucial requirement: your iPhone must be carrier-unlocked. This means it isn’t tied to a specific mobile provider’s contract. If you bought your phone directly from Apple, it’s likely unlocked. If you got it through a carrier, you can contact them to ask about its lock status. An unlocked phone is essential for using any third-party eSIM, including Yoho Mobile. You can check our full list of supported devices on our eSIM compatibility page.
Step-by-Step: How to Activate Your Yoho Mobile eSIM on iPhone 12 & 13 (The Easy Way)
Forget complicated instructions and QR codes. Yoho Mobile leverages the seamless integration of eSIMs on iOS to make setup incredibly simple. You can be ready to go in about a minute.
Step 1: Choose and Purchase Your Yoho Mobile Plan
First, visit the Yoho Mobile website and browse our wide range of data plans. You can filter by country, region, or even select a global plan. Whether you need 5GB for a week-long trip to Thailand or 20GB for a month working remotely in Portugal, you can find a plan that fits your needs. Our flexible plans mean you only pay for the data and duration you require.
Step 2: Check Your Email and Get Ready to Install
Once your purchase is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email from us. This email contains the details of your plan and the magic button to get started. Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection for this next step.
Step 3: Install Your eSIM with a Single Tap (No QR Code Needed!)
This is where Yoho Mobile and iOS shine. Open your confirmation email on your iPhone 12 or 13.
- Simply tap the “Install eSIM” button.
- Your iPhone will automatically open the cellular setup screen.
- Follow the on-screen prompts. It will take less than a minute for your phone to download and install the eSIM profile.
That’s it! Unlike other providers that may require you to scan a QR code or manually enter activation details, the process for iOS users is streamlined for maximum convenience.
Step 4: Configure Your Cellular Settings
After installation, your iPhone will prompt you to label your new cellular plan. It’s a good practice to name it something clear like “Yoho Travel” or “International Data” to easily distinguish it from your primary line.
Next, you’ll choose how you want to use your two lines. For most travelers, the best setup is:
- Default Line for Calls/Messages: Set to your “Primary” number.
- Cellular Data: Set to your new “Yoho Travel” eSIM.
This ensures you’re not accidentally using your home plan for expensive data roaming. We have a more detailed guide on how to install an eSIM on iOS devices if you need more information.
Pro Tips for International Travel with Dual SIM on iPhone
Now that you know how to install your eSIM on an iPhone 12 or 13, let’s optimize its use for international travel. The dual SIM capability is your secret weapon against roaming charges.
- Turn Off Data Roaming on Your Primary Line: Go to Settings > Cellular > [Your Primary Line] and make sure the Data Roaming toggle is OFF. This is the most important step to avoid surprise bills from your home carrier.
- Manage Your Contacts: You can assign a preferred line for each contact. For example, you can set your family at home to always use your primary number.
- Stay Connected, Worry-Free: Even if you use up all your high-speed data, Yoho Care has your back. Our service ensures you’re never completely disconnected, providing a basic connection for essential tasks like messaging and maps until you can top up. Learn more about the peace of mind offered by Yoho Care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a Yoho Mobile eSIM on my iPhone 12 Pro while keeping my home SIM active?
Yes, you can! This is a core feature of using dual SIM with an eSIM. You can keep your physical SIM from your home carrier in the phone for receiving calls and texts on your regular number, while using the Yoho Mobile eSIM exclusively for affordable mobile data abroad.
What should I do if my eSIM is not activating on my iPhone 13 Mini?
First, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection during the installation process. Second, confirm that your iPhone 13 Mini is carrier-unlocked. If it’s still not working, try restarting your device. For further assistance, our support team is always ready to help you troubleshoot any eSIM activation issues.
Is it difficult to set up an eSIM on an older iPhone model like the 12?
Not at all. The process for setting up an eSIM on an iPhone 12 is identical to the newest models. Thanks to Apple’s streamlined iOS integration, the Yoho Mobile installation is as simple as tapping a button in your email and following the on-screen prompts. It’s designed to be user-friendly for everyone.
Can I try Yoho Mobile before committing to a big plan?
Of course! We believe in our service, which is why we offer a free eSIM trial. This is a perfect way to test our network and see how easy the setup process is on your iPhone before you travel. Get started with our risk-free eSIM trial guide.
Conclusion: Modernize Your iPhone 12/13 for Travel
Your iPhone 12 or 13 is more than capable of handling the demands of modern travel—it just needs the right connection. By embracing eSIM technology with Yoho Mobile, you’re not just getting affordable data; you’re getting convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind.
The days of juggling physical SIMs and paying for outrageous international roaming are over. With a simple, one-tap installation process, you can equip your trusted iPhone with a powerful travel tool that keeps you connected effortlessly.
Ready to unlock the full travel potential of your iPhone? Browse Yoho Mobile’s eSIM plans now and get connected for your next adventure.