eSimGuide
2026 Guide

Does the iPhone 12 Support eSIM?

Find out if your Apple iPhone 12 supports eSIM technology and learn how to set it up.

eSIM Supported
EG
eSIM Guide Team
Updated January 2026

Yes, the iPhone 12 fully supports eSIM technology, enabling you to activate cellular plans digitally without needing a physical SIM card. This Apple device offers dual SIM capability, allowing you to seamlessly use both an eSIM and a physical SIM together for ultimate flexibility in managing your mobile connections.

The iPhone 12 proudly offers Yes support for eSIM technology, enabling users to ditch traditional physical SIM cards for a more streamlined and flexible mobile experience. This innovative feature allows the iPhone 12 to support Dual SIM with eSIM, meaning you can have two active cellular plans simultaneously – one using a physical nano-SIM and the other utilizing an eSIM. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who manage separate work and personal numbers, or for frequent travelers who want to maintain their home number while also using a local data plan. The iPhone 12 also allows for multiple eSIM profiles to be stored on the device, though only one eSIM can be active at a time alongside a physical SIM.

Activating an eSIM on your iPhone 12 is a straightforward process. Most carriers that support eSIM will offer one of two primary activation methods. First, you might receive a QR code from your carrier; simply go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and then use your iPhone 12's camera to scan the QR code. The second common method involves activating through a carrier's app or by manually entering activation details provided by your carrier.

  • Scanning a QR Code:

    • Navigate to Settings on your iPhone 12.
    • Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).
    • Select Add Cellular Plan.
    • Position your iPhone 12 to scan the QR code provided by your carrier.
    • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation.
  • Manual Entry or Carrier App:

    • If your carrier provides activation details manually, navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and choose "Enter Details Manually."
    • Follow your carrier's instructions to input the SM-DP+ Address, Activation Code, and Confirmation Code if required.
    • Alternatively, some carriers streamline the process through their dedicated mobile applications.

The eSIM capabilities of the iPhone 12 offer substantial advantages, especially for global travelers in 2025. Instead of the hassle of sourcing and swapping physical SIM cards in different countries, users can simply activate a local eSIM data plan upon arrival through a compatible provider. This eliminates the risk of losing small physical SIMs and offers increased security, as an eSIM cannot be physically removed if your device is lost or stolen. Furthermore, it provides the convenience of maintaining your primary phone number for calls and texts while using a separate, often more affordable, local data plan, ensuring continuous connectivity without incurring expensive roaming charges.

iPhone 12 eSIM FAQ

Yes, the iPhone 12 fully supports eSIM technology. This allows you to use a digital SIM provided by your carrier without needing a physical nano-SIM card.

Absolutely! The iPhone 12 supports Dual SIM with one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM. This means you can have two separate phone numbers and plans active on the same device simultaneously.

Activating an eSIM on your iPhone 12 is a straightforward process. You typically receive an activation code or QR code from your cellular provider, which you will then use to set it up:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
  • Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or enter the details manually.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation.

Using an eSIM on your iPhone 12 offers several advantages. It allows for easier switching between carriers or plans, especially when traveling, as you don't need to physically swap SIM cards. It also can be more secure, as there's no physical card to lose or steal.

In 2025, using an eSIM on your iPhone 12 remains very common and generally without major limitations. The primary consideration is ensuring your chosen carrier supports eSIM activation and services for the iPhone 12, as worldwide adoption can vary. Always confirm compatibility with your provider before setting up a new eSIM.

Other Apple Phones with eSIM

The Apple iPhone 12, even in 2025, continues to offer robust eSIM support, providing users with the convenience and flexibility of digital cellular plans. This allows for seamless management of multiple lines, whether for international travel, business, or personal use, without the need for physical SIM cards.

If you're an iPhone 12 owner, now is the perfect time to explore the benefits of eSIM.

  • Conveniently switch carriers or plans: Activate new services digitally without visiting a store.
  • Enjoy dual SIM functionality: Use two different numbers on one device simultaneously.
  • Travel smarter: Easily activate local data plans while abroad.

Ready to make the switch or add an eSIM?

  • Check with your current mobile provider to see if they offer eSIM services.
  • Explore international eSIM providers for cost-effective data plans while traveling.
  • Follow your provider's instructions to digitally activate your new eSIM profile.