Proper Guide on How to Transfer eSIM to New iPhone

Does eSIM transfer to a new iPhone? I recently upgraded to the latest model, and I’m worried about losing my cellular plan since I rely on an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card. I don’t want to go through the hassle of contacting my carrier if there’s an easier way. Can anyone guide me through the correct steps to move my eSIM to my new iPhone smoothly? Thanks in advance!

Have you already switched to an eSIM on your iPhone? If so, you must already be enjoying the convenience of a digital SIM. But if you plan to upgrade your device, how would you transfer your eSIM without complications? The good news is that Apple has developed official methods, allowing you to perform the process smoothly, whether to transfer eSIM during or after setup.

The question is, how exactly do you transfer an eSIM to your new iPhone with the correct process? Please sit back as we break down the official and most reliable strategies for transferring your eSIM to a new device seamlessly. After all, you won’t have problems with complex procedures, especially with the step-by-step directions provided for each method.

Part 1. Transfer eSIM to New iPhone

When upgrading your device, transferring your eSIM is just as crucial as transferring your data, as it is your lifeline to making calls, sending texts, and accessing mobile data. Hence, here are the transfer methods, along with detailed steps, to transition your digital SIM card between iPhones effortlessly. Please carefully follow the prepared instructions for a high success rate.

Method 1. Transfer eSIM During Initial Setup

Apple's built-in eSIM transfer feature during initial setup offers the simplest way to transfer phone number to a new iPhone. Developers specifically designed it to help iOS device users ensure their network service remains active without requiring a physical SIM. Additionally, the process requires minimal setup, which means your iPhones must be nearby, connected to WiFi, and signed in to the same Apple ID. You don’t even have to access any of your iPhone settings, as the transfer will occur during the initial setup. The device will then prompt you to initiate the transfer process; simply pick the correct options to finish the transfer successfully.

Yield to the straightforward operation below to transfer eSIM to a new iPhone during initial setup:

Step 1Turn on your new iPhone and perform the on-screen prompts until you reach the Set Up Cellular screen. If your carrier supports eSIM transfer, you’ll see the option to Transfer From Nearby iPhone. Thus, you must select it to proceed.

Step 2When your older iPhone’s eSIM appears, choose it. Then, keep both iPhones close together and connected to Wi-Fi until the transfer is complete. Afterward, your eSIM will activate automatically on the new device, and you can continue the rest of the setup.

What if you have already managed your new iPhone’s initial setup? You may think you'll need to restart the initial setup, making it a hassle, but no worries. You may rely on the upcoming method instead, as it allows you to transfer your eSIM after the initial setup is complete.

Method 2. Transfer eSIM on iPhone Settings

For users who have already completed their new iPhone setup, the Settings app provides a straightforward way to transfer your eSIM without needing to reset your device. This built-in iOS feature offers a convenient alternative when you miss the initial setup transfer option, maintaining the same reliability and security as Apple's initial setup solution. Meanwhile, like the last method, it is necessary to keep both your old and new iPhones powered on and connected to WiFi, with Bluetooth enabled. This way, you won’t face any unwanted problems during the transfer. After all, Settings’ interface features a direct design that facilitates a smooth process.

Emulate the painless process below to grasp how to transfer eSIM to a new iPhone on Settings:

Step 1Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM on your new iPhone, then select Transfer From Nearby iPhone. Please note that both devices must run iOS 16 or later, and they should remain close together during this process.

Step 2Verify the transfer on your old iPhone by tapping Transfer or entering the on-screen code. Once activated, your old SIM card will be automatically deactivated. Hence, follow any prompts to complete the setup if needed.

In addition to transferring your eSIM to your new iPhone, consider transferring your contacts as well. Unfortunately, even if your eSIM is convenient, if some of your contacts or other types of data aren’t on it, you may need to transfer them manually from your old iPhone to the new one. In this case, we highly recommend the following transfer tool, as it can assist you in such situations.

Part 2. Bonus Tip - Transfer Contacts to Your iPhone

FoneTrans for iOS stands out as an exceptional solution for seamlessly transferring contacts and other data to your iPhone. This versatile program eliminates the hassle of manual transfers, offering a straightforward way to transfer your desired contacts from one iPhone to another with only a few clicks. If you're switching from an old iPhone, this program ensures a smooth and efficient transfer process for your contacts to the new iPhone.

Meanwhile, what makes FoneTrans for iOS more valuable is that you can even transfer your chosen contacts to the computer if needed. This way, you will have an extra backup in case they suddenly get deleted from your devices. That’s not all. Beyond contact transfers, this transfer tool offers additional useful features. It also allows you to transfer videos, music, photos, and messages between your devices. Hence, let it be your solution when transferring your data.

Recognize the worry-free steps underneath as a pattern for transferring contacts to your iPhone with FoneTrans for iOS:

Step 1To get started, head to FoneTrans for iOS and select the Free Download option. The installer will automatically save to your Downloads directory. Open it when the file is ready to start installing the transfer program. Then, once the tool is installed and ready, launch it on your computer’s desktop by selecting the Start option that appears on the screen.

Step 2With the program now running, attach your iPhones to the transfer program using a working Apple Lightning cable. The interface will automatically exhibit your device details upon successful connection. Hence, click the tab above and choose your sending iPhone from the list of connected devices. After that, choose Contacts in the left column.

Step 3After your iPhone contacts load on screen, simply check the boxes beside the items you want to move. Then, pick the box above with the device symbol before choosing the name of your receiving iPhone. Later, your selected contacts will be on the iPhone.

Part 3. FAQs about Transferring eSIM to New iPhone

The recommendations above will lead you in transferring your eSIM to the new iPhone smoothly. Navigate the procedures of each effective method correctly for success.