How to Switch Between eSIM and Physical SIM on iPhone

This page provides step-by-step instructions for switching between an eSIM and a physical SIM on iPhone devices.
It covers iOS system settings and behaviour only, without referencing carriers, plans, or countries.
This page exists to guide configuration actions, not to explain eSIM concepts or recommend connectivity options.

Before You Begin

Ensure that both your eSIM and physical SIM are already installed on your iPhone.

These steps apply to modern versions of iOS, though menu names may vary slightly.

Open Cellular Settings

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.

View Installed SIMs

Your iPhone will display all active lines, including:

  • The physical SIM
  • The installed eSIM

Each line may be labelled (for example, “Primary” or “Secondary”).

Switch Mobile Data to a Different SIM

  1. Tap Cellular Data.
  2. Select the line you want to use for mobile data.
  3. Confirm the selection if prompted.

Data connectivity will switch to the selected line.

Switch Calls and Messages

  1. Return to the Cellular menu.
  2. Select Default Voice Line.
  3. Choose the line you want to use for outgoing calls.

iMessage and FaceTime may continue to use previously selected numbers unless changed separately.

Turn a Line On or Off

To temporarily disable a SIM without removing it:

  1. Select the eSIM or physical SIM from the list.
  2. Toggle Turn On This Line off.

This can help prevent unintended usage.

Troubleshooting

If the switch does not apply correctly:

  • Restart the iPhone after changing line settings.
  • Ensure Cellular Data is enabled.
  • Confirm the selected line is turned on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I use both eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?

Answer: Yes. iPhones that support dual SIM allow both lines to be active, with one used for data at a time.

Question: Will switching lines delete my eSIM?

Answer: No. Switching only changes which line is active and does not remove the eSIM profile.

Question: Do I need to restart my iPhone?

Answer: A restart is not usually required, but it can help if the change does not apply immediately.

Question: Can I rename my SIM lines?

Answer: Yes. iOS allows custom labels for each line.

Question: Does switching lines affect apps or data?

Answer: No. Switching lines does not affect installed apps or stored data.

Question: Are these steps the same on all iPhones?

Answer: The steps are similar across supported iPhones, but wording may vary by iOS version.

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