Does my phone support eSIM for use in the Philippines?
Most iPhones from the XS and XR onward, Google Pixel 3 and later, and recent Samsung Galaxy S and Note flagships support eSIM. Many mid-range and older Android handsets do not. Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked. Check in your phone settings before buying — an eSIM cannot be transferred to another device.
Checked 26 Jul 2026·3 plans cited·2 verified from provider·1 third-party·How we check this
How to check in 30 seconds
- iPhone — Settings › General › About. If there is an "Available SIM" or EID entry, you have eSIM.
- Android — Settings › Network & Internet › SIMs, and look for an option to add an eSIM or download a SIM.
- Either — dial *#06# and look for an EID number alongside the IMEI. An EID means eSIM support.
Carrier locking
A phone still locked to your home carrier will not accept another operator's eSIM, whatever the hardware supports. Phones bought outright are usually unlocked; phones bought on a carrier contract often are not until the contract completes. Ask your carrier to unlock it before you travel — this can take days.
If your phone does not support eSIM
Buy a physical SIM on arrival. Smart, Globe, and DITO all have booths at NAIA, and local prepaid is cheaper than travel eSIMs anyway. You lose the convenience of landing already connected, not much else.
Answer last reviewed 26 Jul 2026. How we check our data.