An e-SIM is a digital SIM that allows you to use cellular connectivity without being physically present on your phone. A lesser-known built-in feature of the iPhone will enable you to transfer eSIM between iPhones conveniently.
Though the feature of e-SIM transferring exists, it isn’t as simple as it might sound. Often, people drop down to the internet with queries on e-SIM transfer not working. If you’ve also found yourself on the wrong end of the issue, these tested tips will help you overcome the problem.
This blog will discuss:
- Causes of E-SIM transfer not working
- How to fix the issue
- What changes have been made in the latest version of the iPhone?
So, let’s jump straight to the content to resolve your issue without further delay.
Table of Contents
Causes of E-SIM Transfer Not Working.
iPhone offers three different ways to transfer eSIM to a new iPhone. You can share the eSIM via eSIM quick transfer during the setup process or via the settings app or Bluetooth after the device has been set up.
The transfer usually completes within a few minutes, but you might also receive a notification saying that the transfer cannot be completed now. This is the point where the real trouble begins with eSIM transfer.
Some possible reasons for eSIM transfer not working include:
- Outdated IOS version – The problem might occur due to an older iPhone version, and it might need an IOS update to transfer eSIM. When moving the SIM, make sure you have IOS or the latest version to transfer the SIM properly.
- Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Problem -E-SIM transfer requires Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to work. Faulting with any of them prevents eSIM from transferring. Before transferring eSIM, ensure you’ve Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functioning correctly.
- Bugs -The existing bugs in IOS may be preventing the eSIM from transferring. Apple regularly updates IOS to overcome the bugs, and you may try upgrading the IOS version to move the eSIM properly.
- There must be something wrong with your account, or the cellular plans aren’t set up correctly.
Interesting Read: eSIM vs Physical SIM Card – Everything you need to know
How to Fix E-SIM Transfer Not Working
If your eSIM isn’t transferring to a new phone, here are some methods to help you overcome the problem.
Check Essential Requirements
Whenever you encounter an e-SIM that didn’t transfer to a new phone, you need to check if you have essential requirements fulfilled. For example, you might want to check if you have permission to transfer your SIM or if you have the required IOS to share your SIM.
You must also have a passcode set to transfer eSIM, so ensure it is in place. To select a passcode, go to settings > Face ID/Touch ID & passcode to set it up.
Also, keep your phone unlocked while transferring your eSIM. To do so, go to settings, display & brightness> Auto lock screen and choose an option to prevent your phone from being locked automatically.
Place both devices closer so the eSIM transfers between the devices without interruptions.
Force Restart iPhone
Force restarting the iPhone is another valuable solution for most IOS-related issues, which cleans up temporary files and glitches. It is worth a try if you see that eSIM transfer is not working on your iPhone.
Turn on Bluetooth.
One common issue that can cause eSIM transfer problems is the status of your device’s Bluetooth. eSIM activation often relies on Bluetooth for a seamless transfer process.
To ensure it’s enabled:
- Swipe down from the top of your screen (Android) or the top right corner (iPhone) to access the control centre.
- Tap the Bluetooth icon to turn it on if it’s not already.
Turn on Wi-Fi/Mobile Data
Another essential component for eSIM transfer is a stable internet connection. Wi-Fi or mobile data lets your device communicate with the carrier for eSIM activation.
- Open your device settings.
- Tap on “Wi-Fi” or “Mobile Data.”
- Ensure the connection is active and stable.
You need a stable mobile data connection if you don’t have a Wi-Fi connection. Amongst other service providers, Talk Home Mobile has affordable data plans to help you stay connected. The program ranges from 1MB to 200 GB of data, meaning you can choose the one that suits you most.
Turn On/Off Airplane Mode
Airplane mode can disrupt wireless communication and hinder eSIM transfer. You can try turning it off and on to reestablish connectivity:
- Open your device settings.
- Tap on “Network & Internet” (Android) or “Cellular” (iPhone).
- Toggle the Airplane Mode switch off, wait a few seconds, and then toggle it on again.
Hard Reset Your Phone
A hard reset is often the go-to solution when you encounter persistent issues with your smartphone, and it can be beneficial when dealing with ESIM transfer problems.
Here’s how you can perform a hard reset on some popular smartphones:
For iPhone
- Press and release the volume up button.
- Press and release the volume down button.
- Press and hold the side button (or power button) until you see the Apple logo on the screen.
For Android (Samsung Galaxy)
- Press and hold the volume down button and the power button simultaneously.
- Continue holding both buttons until the device restarts.
- Remember that the button combinations may vary depending on your device’s make and model. Refer to your phone’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions.
Reset Network Settings
Issues related to ESIM transfer can sometimes be resolved by resetting your phone’s network settings. This step helps clear any network-related glitches and improve your eSIM functionality. Here’s how you can reset network settings on both iPhone and Android devices:
For iPhone
- Go to “Settings.”
- Scroll down and tap on “General.”
- Scroll to the bottom and select “Reset.”
- Tap on “Reset Network Settings.”
- Enter your device passcode if prompted.
- Confirm the reset when prompted.
For Android (Samsung Galaxy)
- Go to “Settings.”
- Scroll down and tap on “General management.”
- Tap “Reset.”
- Select “Reset network settings.”
- Confirm the reset when prompted.
This process will erase your Wi-Fi networks, mobile data, and Bluetooth connections. Make sure to have your Wi-Fi passwords on hand after the reset.
Update Software
Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues with your ESIM. Ensuring your device is running the latest software can often resolve these problems. Here’s how you can update your phone’s software:
For iPhone
- Go to “Settings.”
- Scroll down and tap “General.”
- Select “Software Update.”
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
For Android (Samsung Galaxy)
- Go to “Settings.”
- Scroll down and tap “Software update.”
- Select “Download and install.”
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Remember that software updates may take some time to download and install, so having a stable Wi-Fi connection and sufficient battery life is a good idea.
eSIM Transfer not Working: Troubleshooting the issue
| Method | Effectiveness | Difficulty |
| Check Essential Requirements | Ensures necessary permissions, passcode, and conditions for eSIM transfer are met. | Very Easy |
| Force Restart iPhone | Fixes most iOS-related issues and clears temporary files and glitches. | Easy |
| Turn on Bluetooth | Enables seamless wireless communication for eSIM activation. | Very Easy |
| Turn on Wi-Fi/Mobile Data | Ensures stable internet connection for communication with carrier during eSIM transfer. | Easy |
| Turn On/Off Airplane Mode | Helps reestablish wireless connectivity for eSIM transfer. | Easy |
| Hard Reset Phone | Resets the device to resolve persistent eSIM transfer issues. | Moderate |
| Reset Network Settings | Clears network-related glitches and improves eSIM functionality. | Moderate |
| Update Software | Fixes compatibility issues by ensuring the latest software is installed. | Easy |
Bottom Line
ESIM technology offers a more flexible and efficient way to manage mobile connections. However, if you encounter eSIM transfer issues, it’s essential to troubleshoot using the steps outlined above. By ensuring that Bluetooth, Wi-Fi/mobile data, and other settings are correctly configured, you can quickly resolve eSIM transfer not working problems and enjoy the benefits of this innovative technology.
Remember, having a passcode for your iPhone also adds an extra layer of security, protecting your eSIM and personal data. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to fixing eSIM transfer not working issues and enjoying seamless connectivity.
FAQs
How do I know if my eSIM transfer worked?
Go to settings and choose cellular; if the eSIM appears, the transfer is completed successfully, and you can start using your data plan. If the screen doesn’t appear, your transfer wasn’t successful.
How do I transfer eSIM from a dead phone?
Contact your service provider to transfer eSIM from a dead phone. You will inform your service provider that you need to transfer your eSIM to a new phone. They will guide you through the process and may require some information from you.
Will eSIM get deleted on factory reset?
When you reset the phone, it asks if you want to keep the eSIM. If you choose to erase data, your eSIM will be deleted from the phone. If you choose to erase data and keep eSIM, you will continue to work.
