Understanding e-SIM Profile Limits
e-SIM technology allows you to manage multiple carrier profiles on a single device, but there are important distinctions between how many profiles you can store versus how many can be active simultaneously.
Stored vs. Active Profiles
Stored Profiles are e-SIM profiles saved on your device’s memory that you can switch between as needed. Most modern smartphones can store multiple profiles:
- Some iPhones can store 8 or more profiles
- Samsung Galaxy devices can store up to 20 profiles
- The exact number depends on your device’s e-SIM chip memory capacity
Active Profiles are the e-SIM profiles currently operational for calls, texts, and data. This number is typically limited to 1-2 profiles simultaneously, depending on your device’s dual SIM capabilities.
Device-Specific Capabilities
Apple iPhones
- iPhone 13 and newer (including iPhone 14, 15, and 16 series): Support 2 active e-SIMs simultaneously
- iPhone XR through iPhone 12: Support 1 physical SIM + 1 active e-SIM
- U.S. iPhone 14 and later: e-SIM-only devices that still allow 2 active e-SIMs
Google Pixel Phones
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and later: Can use 2 e-SIM profiles simultaneously (carrier dependent)
- Pixel 3a and later models: Support 1 physical SIM + 1 e-SIM simultaneously
Samsung Galaxy Devices
- Galaxy S21, S22, S23 series and newer: Can support 2 active e-SIMs (varies by region)
- Other Samsung Galaxy models: Support 1 physical SIM + 1 e-SIM at a time
- Can download up to 20 e-SIM profiles total
- Only 1 e-SIM per carrier can be active at any given time
Managing Your e-SIM Profiles
Both iOS and Android provide user-friendly settings menus that allow you to easily switch between stored e-SIM profiles for calls, texts, and data without requiring an internet connection. This flexibility makes e-SIM technology particularly valuable for travelers and users who need separate lines for work and personal use.
The key takeaway is that while you can store many e-SIM profiles on your device, you’ll typically only be able to use 1-2 of them actively at any given time, depending on your specific device model and capabilities.