Compatible devices, activation steps and which networks support digital SIMs.
Ask Our Team →An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device — no physical plastic card. Activate by scanning a QR code or via your network's app, typically in under 10 minutes. Dual SIM (one physical + one eSIM) is supported on most compatible devices, letting you have two numbers simultaneously.
| Network | eSIM | Activation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| O2 | ✓ Yes | My O2 app / QR | Apple Watch; satellite-compatible; 2026 extension |
| Three | ✓ Yes + PAYG | Three app / QR | PAYG eSIM — unique in UK |
| EE | ✓ Yes (widest) | My EE app / QR | Apple Watch, tablets, laptops — broadest device support |
| Vodafone | ✓ Yes | My Vodafone / QR | Galaxy Watch, tablets |
| Tesco Mobile | ✓ Yes | QR code by email | Pay Monthly plans |
| Sky Mobile | ✓ Yes | Sky Mobile app | All plan types |
| Lebara | Rolling out | QR code | From Oct 2025 — check device list first |
| iD Mobile | ✓ Yes | iD Mobile app | Rolling and 12-month plans |
iPhone XS/XR (2018) and later. iPhone Air (2025) and iPhone 15/16 (UK) are eSIM-only with no physical SIM slot. Dial *#06# — if an EID appears alongside your IMEI, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Galaxy S20 series and later. Z Fold and Z Flip series. Selected Galaxy A series. Check your specific model at samsung.com/uk.
Pixel 3 and all later models support eSIM.
Three is the only major UK network offering eSIM on PAYG plans — no physical SIM, no contract, no credit check. Ideal for testing the network before committing to a contract, secondary devices, or tablets.
Our team compares all eight major UK mobile networks against your specific postcode, usage and budget. No sales pressure, no affiliation with any operator.