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Move eSIM from iPhone to Samsung: Complete Migration Guide

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I’d been an iPhone user for years, but the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra finally convinced me to switch. The camera, the customization, the S Pen – I was ready to make the jump. I’d already moved my photos, contacts, and apps. The last step was transferring my eSIM from my iPhone to my new Samsung.

“This should be easy,” I thought. “Both phones support eSIM. I’ll just transfer it over.”

Three days later, after multiple failed transfer attempts, hours on customer support calls, and a temporary loss of phone service, I learned that moving eSIM between iPhone and Samsung is anything but straightforward. Unlike Apple’s seamless iPhone-to-iPhone eSIM transfer, crossing the iOS-Android divide requires carrier intervention, often a complete eSIM reactivation, and significantly more patience.

Here’s what I learned about moving eSIM from iPhone to Samsung – and the solutions that actually work.

Why You Can’t Just “Transfer” eSIM Between iPhone and Samsung

My biggest misconception was thinking eSIM transfer works like moving a physical SIM card from one phone to another.

The reality:

Apple has a built-in eSIM transfer feature that works between iPhones. It’s smooth, quick, and doesn’t require calling your carrier. But this feature only works within Apple’s ecosystem.

When moving from iPhone to Samsung (or any iPhone to Android), you’re crossing ecosystems. The phones can’t communicate directly to transfer eSIM profiles. Instead, you need to:

  1. Deactivate eSIM on the iPhone
  2. Get a new eSIM activation code from your carrier
  3. Install the new eSIM on the Samsung
  4. Old eSIM becomes invalid once new one activates

Think of it like this:

  • iPhone to iPhone = Moving your stuff from one apartment to another in the same building (quick, easy)
  • iPhone to Samsung = Moving to a different building (requires movers, new keys, more coordination)

There’s no “transfer” button. You’re essentially removing your eSIM from one device and doing a fresh installation on another.

Before You Start: Critical Preparation

Don’t deactivate your iPhone eSIM until you’ve completed these steps:

1. Verify Samsung Phone Supports eSIM

Not all Samsung phones support eSIM, and even those that do may vary by region.

Samsung phones with eSIM support:

  • Galaxy S24/S24+/S24 Ultra
  • Galaxy S23/S23+/S23 Ultra
  • Galaxy S22/S22+/S22 Ultra
  • Galaxy S21/S21+/S21 Ultra (some variants)
  • Galaxy Z Fold 5/4/3
  • Galaxy Z Flip 5/4/3

Important regional variations:

  • US models generally support eSIM
  • Some international models don’t support eSIM
  • Check exact model number, not just model name

How to verify:

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM manager
  2. Look for “Add eSIM” or “eSIM” options
  3. If you don’t see eSIM options, your phone may not support it
  4. Check Samsung’s website for your specific model number

I almost made the mistake of deactivating my iPhone eSIM before confirming my Samsung supported eSIM. That would have left me with no way to activate service on either phone.

2. Confirm Carrier Supports eSIM on Samsung

Even if your Samsung supports eSIM, your carrier might not support eSIM on Android devices.

Check carrier compatibility:

  1. Visit your carrier’s website
  2. Look for “eSIM compatible devices” or similar
  3. Verify your specific Samsung model is listed
  4. Check for Android-specific requirements

Carrier variations:

  • Some carriers support eSIM on iPhone but not Android
  • Some support it on newer Samsung models only
  • Some require in-store activation for Android eSIM
  • Some charge differently for eSIM on Android vs iPhone

Critical questions to ask carrier:

  1. “Do you support eSIM on Samsung Galaxy [your model]?”
  2. “Is the activation process different than iPhone?”
  3. “Can I get a new eSIM code remotely or must I visit a store?”
  4. “Will my plan and features remain the same on Android eSIM?”

3. Back Up Everything on iPhone

Before removing eSIM from iPhone:

Complete backup:

  1. Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now
  2. Verify backup completed successfully
  3. Export any data not included in iCloud backup

Save important information:

  • Carrier account login credentials
  • Any two-factor authentication tied to phone number
  • Important text messages (can’t transfer to Android via iCloud)
  • Voicemail messages you want to keep

Take screenshots:

  • Current eSIM settings
  • Carrier account details
  • Phone number and account number
  • Any plan details or confirmation numbers

4. Have Backup Connectivity Plan

Don’t remove iPhone eSIM until:

  • You have Wi-Fi access for both phones
  • You have time to complete the process (allow 2-3 hours)
  • Carrier support is available if needed
  • You’re not traveling or in critical communication period

Backup options:

  • Keep old physical SIM if you have one
  • Another phone you can use temporarily
  • Wi-Fi calling enabled on iPhone before starting
  • Family member’s phone for emergency calls

Method 1: Get New eSIM Code from Carrier (Most Common)

This is the standard method for most carriers when moving eSIM between different phone ecosystems.

Step 1: Contact Your Carrier

Call your carrier before doing anything with your phones.

What to tell them:

“I’m switching from an iPhone to a Samsung Galaxy [model] and need to move my eSIM. Can you generate a new eSIM activation code for my Samsung phone?”

Information they’ll need:

  • Your account number and phone number
  • Current iPhone model
  • New Samsung model and IMEI number (Settings > About phone > IMEI)
  • Confirmation you want to deactivate iPhone eSIM

What they’ll do:

  1. Verify your account and device compatibility
  2. Generate a new eSIM activation code
  3. Send it via email, text, or make it available in their app
  4. Confirm the old iPhone eSIM will be deactivated
  5. Provide installation instructions

Typical timeline:

  • Good carriers: Immediate to 30 minutes
  • Average carriers: 1-4 hours
  • Slow carriers: 24-48 hours

Step 2: Prepare Both Phones

On your iPhone:

  • Keep it powered on and connected to Wi-Fi
  • Don’t remove eSIM yet
  • Leave it accessible in case you need to verify anything

On your Samsung:

  • Fully charge the battery (at least 50%)
  • Connect to strong, stable Wi-Fi
  • Complete initial phone setup if not done already
  • Ensure phone is unlocked (not carrier-locked)

Step 3: Install eSIM on Samsung

Once you receive the new activation code:

Using QR code:

  1. Display QR code on another device’s screen (computer, tablet, old iPhone)
  2. On Samsung, go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager
  3. Tap “Add eSIM”
  4. Tap “Scan QR code from service provider”
  5. Point camera at QR code
  6. Hold steady at 6-8 inches distance
  7. Wait for automatic detection
  8. Tap “Add” when prompted
  9. Wait for installation to complete

Using manual entry:

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM
  2. Tap “Enter activation code manually”
  3. Enter the SM-DP+ address exactly as provided
  4. Enter the activation code
  5. Tap “Add”
  6. Wait for installation

After installation starts:

  • Don’t interrupt the process
  • Keep Wi-Fi connected
  • Wait for “Installation complete” message
  • May take 1-10 minutes

Step 4: Configure eSIM Settings on Samsung

After eSIM installs:

Basic settings:

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM manager
  2. Tap your new eSIM
  3. Enable the eSIM if not already enabled
  4. Set as default for calls, texts, and data
  5. Name your eSIM (optional – like “Personal” or “Primary”)

Enable mobile data:

  1. Settings > Connections > Mobile networks
  2. Ensure mobile data is enabled
  3. Verify data roaming is set correctly (on if needed, off if not)

Restart your Samsung:

  1. Hold Power button
  2. Tap Restart
  3. Wait for complete reboot
  4. Check for signal bars and carrier name

Step 5: Verify Everything Works

Test all functionality:

  1. Make a test call to another number
  2. Send a test text message
  3. Verify you can receive calls and texts
  4. Test mobile data (disable Wi-Fi temporarily)
  5. Check voicemail is accessible
  6. Verify your phone number is correct (dial your own number)

If something doesn’t work:

  • Check APN settings (next section)
  • Verify eSIM is enabled and set as default
  • Restart phone again
  • Contact carrier support

Step 6: Remove eSIM from iPhone (After Samsung Works)

Only after Samsung eSIM is fully working:

  1. Open Settings on iPhone
  2. Tap Cellular
  3. Tap your eSIM plan
  4. Scroll down and tap “Remove Cellular Plan”
  5. Confirm removal
  6. eSIM is now deactivated on iPhone

Important: Once you remove it from iPhone, that eSIM profile is gone forever. Make sure Samsung is working first.

Configure APN Settings on Samsung (Often Necessary)

Even after successful eSIM installation, data might not work without proper APN configuration.

What Are APN Settings?

APN (Access Point Name) settings tell your Samsung how to connect to your carrier’s mobile data network. iPhones often auto-configure these, but Android frequently requires manual entry.

Find Your Carrier’s APN Settings

Where to get them:

  • Carrier’s website (search “[carrier name] APN settings”)
  • Carrier customer support
  • Carrier’s app if they have one
  • Your carrier account online

Common US carrier APNs:

  • T-Mobile: fast.t-mobile.com
  • AT&T: phone or broadband
  • Verizon: vzwinternet
  • Mint Mobile: wholesale
  • Google Fi: h2g2

Enter APN Settings on Samsung

Steps:

  1. Settings > Connections > Mobile networks
  2. Tap “Access Point Names”
  3. Tap the “+” icon (top right) to add new APN
  4. Enter the following (example for T-Mobile):
    • Name: T-Mobile
    • APN: fast.t-mobile.com
    • Proxy: (leave blank)
    • Port: (leave blank)
    • Username: (leave blank)
    • Password: (leave blank)
    • Server: (leave blank)
    • MMSC: http://mms.msg.eng.t-mobile.com/mms/wapenc
    • MMS proxy: (leave blank)
    • MMS port: (leave blank)
    • MCC: 310
    • MNC: 260
    • Authentication type: (leave as default)
    • APN type: default,supl,mms
    • APN protocol: IPv4/IPv6
    • APN roaming protocol: IPv4/IPv6
    • Bearer: Unspecified
  5. Tap the three dots (top right) > Save
  6. Select the new APN by tapping its radio button
  7. Restart your Samsung

After entering APN:

  • Disable Wi-Fi
  • Try loading a webpage
  • Data should now work

My experience: My eSIM showed as active, had signal bars, but data wouldn’t work. The moment I entered T-Mobile’s APN settings and restarted, data worked perfectly.

Method 2: Use Carrier App (If Available)

Some carriers offer apps that handle eSIM installation more easily than QR codes.

Carriers with Good eSIM Apps

Best app-based activation:

  • T-Mobile (via T-Mobile app)
  • Verizon (via My Verizon app)
  • AT&T (via myAT&T app)
  • Google Fi (via Google Fi app)

Using Carrier App for eSIM Installation

General process:

  1. Download carrier’s app on Samsung from Google Play Store
  2. Sign in with your account credentials
  3. Navigate to device or eSIM settings
  4. Look for “Activate eSIM” or “Install eSIM” option
  5. Follow in-app prompts
  6. App handles installation automatically
  7. No QR code or manual entry needed

Advantages:

  • Often more reliable than QR codes
  • App can troubleshoot issues
  • Direct communication with carrier systems
  • Can generate new codes within app if needed

My recommendation: If your carrier has a good app with eSIM support, use this method instead of QR codes. It’s typically easier and more reliable.

Method 3: Physical SIM as Bridge (Safest Option)

If you want to ensure zero downtime during the switch, use a physical SIM as an intermediate step.

Why This Method Is Safer

Advantages:

  • Guarantees continuous service
  • Can take your time setting up Samsung
  • Easy to switch back if Samsung setup fails
  • No risk of losing service during transition

How to Use Physical SIM Bridge

Step 1: Request physical SIM from carrier

  1. Contact carrier and request physical SIM card
  2. Many will mail it free or for small fee ($5-10)
  3. Or pick up at carrier store same day
  4. Specify it’s for your same phone number/account

Step 2: Insert physical SIM in Samsung

  1. Use SIM ejector tool on Samsung
  2. Insert physical SIM in tray
  3. Power on Samsung
  4. SIM should activate automatically
  5. Test that everything works

Step 3: Remove eSIM from iPhone

  1. Once Samsung works with physical SIM
  2. Settings > Cellular > Remove Cellular Plan on iPhone
  3. iPhone eSIM is now deactivated
  4. Samsung has working service via physical SIM

Step 4: Convert to eSIM on Samsung (optional)

  1. Once comfortable with Samsung
  2. Request eSIM activation code from carrier
  3. Install eSIM on Samsung (now have both)
  4. Test eSIM works
  5. Remove physical SIM
  6. Return physical SIM to carrier or keep as backup

Timeline:

  • 2-7 days if physical SIM needs to be mailed
  • Same day if picking up at store
  • Extra step but guarantees no service gap

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: eSIM Won’t Install on Samsung

Symptoms:

  • QR code won’t scan
  • “Invalid activation code” errors
  • Installation starts but fails

Solutions:

  1. Try manual entry instead of QR scanning:
    • QR scanning is finicky on Samsung
    • Manual entry often more reliable
    • Double-check every character in codes
  2. Ensure strong Wi-Fi connection:
    • eSIM installation requires internet
    • Weak Wi-Fi causes failures
    • Use home network, not public Wi-Fi
  3. Restart Samsung and try again:
    • Power off completely
    • Wait 30 seconds
    • Power on and retry
  4. Request new activation code:
    • Contact carrier
    • Original code may have expired or been corrupted
    • Get fresh code and try again
  5. Check for Samsung software updates:
    • Settings > Software update
    • Install any available updates
    • Outdated software can cause eSIM issues

Issue 2: eSIM Installs But No Service

Symptoms:

  • eSIM shows in settings
  • Phone shows “No service” or “Searching”
  • Can’t make calls or use data

Solutions:

  1. Configure APN settings manually:
    • This is the most common cause
    • See APN section above for details
    • Restart after configuring
  2. Enable data roaming:
    • Settings > Connections > Mobile networks
    • Enable “Data roaming”
    • Some carriers require this even for domestic service
  3. Manually select network:
    • Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators
    • Turn off “Select automatically”
    • Wait for networks to appear
    • Select your carrier’s network
  4. Verify eSIM is enabled:
    • Settings > Connections > SIM manager
    • Tap your eSIM
    • Ensure it’s toggled ON
    • Set as default for calls/texts/data
  5. Wait longer:
    • Activation can take 1-2 hours on Samsung
    • Keep phone on and connected to Wi-Fi
    • Try restart after 2 hours if still no service
  6. Contact carrier to verify activation:
    • Ask if they see your Samsung as activated
    • Request they push activation from their end
    • Verify no account-level issues

Issue 3: Data Works But Calls/Texts Don’t

Symptoms:

  • Mobile data functions properly
  • Can’t make or receive calls
  • Texts don’t send/receive

Solutions:

  1. Check VoLTE settings:
    • Settings > Connections > Mobile networks
    • Enable “VoLTE calls” or “Enhanced LTE”
    • Modern carriers require VoLTE for voice
  2. Verify phone number in settings:
    • Settings > About phone > Status
    • Check “My phone number” is correct
    • If wrong, contact carrier
  3. Test in different location:
    • Go outside or to area with known good coverage
    • Building materials can block voice signals
  4. Contact carrier about voice provisioning:
    • Data and voice are separate activations
    • Voice services may need manual provisioning

Issue 4: Old iPhone Won’t Let You Remove eSIM

Symptoms:

  • “Remove Cellular Plan” option grayed out
  • Can’t delete eSIM from iPhone
  • Error messages when trying to remove

Solutions:

  1. Ensure Find My iPhone is disabled:
    • Settings > [Your Name] > Find My
    • Turn off “Find My iPhone”
    • Now try removing eSIM
  2. Remove device from Apple ID:
    • Settings > [Your Name]
    • Scroll to device list at bottom
    • Remove the iPhone
    • Then try removing eSIM
  3. Use carrier’s website/app:
    • Log into carrier account
    • Deactivate eSIM from carrier’s end
    • iPhone will show eSIM as inactive
  4. Contact carrier to deactivate remotely:
    • They can deactivate from their system
    • iPhone eSIM becomes invalid
    • Physical removal not needed once deactivated

What About Number Porting?

If you’re also switching carriers during the iPhone to Samsung move:

The Added Complexity

Moving eSIM + changing carriers simultaneously:

  • Significantly more complex
  • More potential failure points
  • Longer activation time
  • Higher chance of service interruption

Recommended Approach

Option 1: Transfer carrier first, then switch carriers

  1. Move eSIM from iPhone to Samsung with same carrier
  2. Get everything working properly
  3. Then port number to new carrier
  4. Less risk of complications

Option 2: Port to new carrier with physical SIM, then convert to eSIM

  1. Port number to new carrier with physical SIM on Samsung
  2. Verify port completes and everything works
  3. Then convert physical to eSIM if desired
  4. Reduces risk during porting process

Avoid: Porting number AND converting iPhone eSIM to Samsung eSIM simultaneously. Too many variables.

Carrier-Specific Guidance

Different carriers handle iPhone to Samsung eSIM moves differently:

T-Mobile

Process:

  • Can generate new eSIM code via app or website
  • Usually instant or within 30 minutes
  • Good support for Samsung eSIM
  • APN: fast.t-mobile.com (usually required)

Best method: Use T-Mobile app for installation

Verizon

Process:

  • Can generate via My Verizon app
  • Sometimes requires calling customer service
  • Generally reliable for Samsung eSIM
  • APN: vzwinternet (may auto-configure)

Best method: My Verizon app or customer service call

AT&T

Process:

  • Can use myAT&T app
  • May require calling for Android eSIM
  • Some reports of longer activation times
  • APN: phone or broadband (usually auto-configures)

Best method: Call customer service for smoothest process

Google Fi

Process:

  • Very good app-based activation
  • Designed to work seamlessly across iOS and Android
  • Usually quick and reliable
  • APN: h2g2 (usually auto-configures)

Best method: Google Fi app

MVNOs (Mint, Visible, etc.)

Process:

  • More variable and less mature eSIM support
  • May require extended activation times
  • Some don’t support Android eSIM at all
  • Often require manual APN configuration

Best method: Verify Android eSIM support first, consider physical SIM

Time and Effort Expectations

Set realistic expectations for this process:

Minimum time (everything goes smoothly):

  • 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Immediate eSIM code from carrier
  • QR code scans perfectly
  • Auto-configures without issues

Typical time:

  • 2-3 hours total
  • 30 min – 2 hours waiting for eSIM code
  • 30 minutes installation and setup
  • 30 minutes troubleshooting and testing

Maximum time (complications):

  • 1-3 days
  • Carrier delays generating code
  • Multiple failed installation attempts
  • Need to request new codes
  • Extensive troubleshooting required

My experience: Start to finish took about 4 hours. 2 hours waiting for T-Mobile to generate the code, 30 minutes for installation, 1.5 hours troubleshooting why data wouldn’t work (needed APN settings).

Alternative: Keep iPhone Active Longer

Consider keeping both phones active temporarily:

Dual Phone Strategy

Benefits:

  • Zero service interruption
  • Time to fully test Samsung
  • Can switch back to iPhone if Samsung doesn’t work out
  • Less pressure during setup

How to do it:

  1. Don’t remove eSIM from iPhone yet
  2. Get new eSIM or physical SIM for Samsung
  3. Could be same number (check if carrier allows dual active)
  4. Or temporary different number on Samsung
  5. Use both phones for 1-2 weeks
  6. Once confident in Samsung, deactivate iPhone

Cost consideration:

  • Some carriers allow temporary dual active for free
  • Others may charge for second line temporarily
  • Usually worth it for peace of mind

What I’d Do Differently Next Time

Looking back, here’s my ideal process:

My recommended sequence:

  1. Research thoroughly first:
    • Verify Samsung model supports eSIM
    • Confirm carrier supports Samsung eSIM
    • Get APN settings in advance
    • Read recent experiences online
  2. Contact carrier before touching anything:
    • Confirm process for iPhone to Samsung move
    • Get clear timeline for eSIM code generation
    • Ask about any known issues
    • Request code generation but don’t deactivate iPhone yet
  3. Use physical SIM as bridge:
    • Request physical SIM mailed in advance
    • No rush, no pressure
    • Activate Samsung with physical SIM first
    • Once everything works perfectly, convert to eSIM
  4. Save eSIM conversion for later:
    • Get Samsung fully set up with physical SIM
    • Use it for a week to ensure satisfied
    • Then convert to eSIM when convenient
    • Less risk, less stress

What I actually did: Deactivated iPhone eSIM immediately, waited hours for new code, struggled with installation, discovered APN settings issue, spent evening troubleshooting. Got it working but much more stressful than necessary.

Quick Reference: Step-by-Step Checklist

Before starting:

  • [ ] Verify Samsung supports eSIM
  • [ ] Confirm carrier supports eSIM on Samsung
  • [ ] Back up iPhone completely
  • [ ] Have Samsung fully charged
  • [ ] Have strong Wi-Fi access
  • [ ] Have carrier account login ready
  • [ ] Get carrier APN settings in advance
  • [ ] Allow 2-3 hours for process

The move:

  • [ ] Contact carrier for new eSIM code
  • [ ] Wait for code delivery (15 min – 24 hours)
  • [ ] Install eSIM on Samsung (QR code or manual entry)
  • [ ] Configure APN settings on Samsung
  • [ ] Restart Samsung
  • [ ] Test calls, texts, and data
  • [ ] Verify everything works properly
  • [ ] Only then remove eSIM from iPhone

After move:

  • [ ] Test all Samsung functions thoroughly
  • [ ] Set up voicemail
  • [ ] Configure messaging apps
  • [ ] Verify contacts synced
  • [ ] Test in different locations
  • [ ] Keep iPhone handy for a few days just in case

The Bottom Line

Moving eSIM from iPhone to Samsung isn’t a simple “transfer” – it’s a complete eSIM deactivation on iPhone and fresh installation on Samsung. Unlike iPhone-to-iPhone transfers that are seamless, crossing ecosystems requires carrier intervention and more effort.

Key takeaways:

  1. Plan ahead – This isn’t instant, allow 2-3 hours minimum
  2. Contact carrier first – Don’t deactivate iPhone until you have Samsung code
  3. Physical SIM is safest – Use as bridge if you want zero downtime
  4. APN settings are critical – Samsung often requires manual configuration
  5. Test thoroughly – Verify everything works before removing iPhone eSIM

My experience: The move took 4 hours start to finish with some frustrating moments. But once completed, my Samsung works perfectly with eSIM. Was it worth the hassle? Yes, because I wanted to switch to Samsung. But it definitely wasn’t the simple process I expected.

My recommendation: If you’re in no rush, use a physical SIM card as a bridge. Get it activated on Samsung first, make sure everything works, then convert to eSIM when convenient. This adds a week to the process but eliminates stress and risk of service interruption.

But if you want to go straight to eSIM, follow this guide carefully, have APN settings ready, and don’t deactivate your iPhone until the Samsung is fully working. With proper preparation and the right expectations, the move is definitely doable – just not as simple as Apple makes iPhone-to-iPhone transfers.

That seamless eSIM transfer feature on iPhone? It spoiled me. Moving to Samsung reminded me that crossing ecosystems always adds friction. But with patience and the right steps, you’ll get there.