Most flagship smartphones released since 2018 support eSIM. Here's a comprehensive list by brand — check before you book your Africa trip.
Quick Compatibility Check
The easiest way to check: Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Add eSIM. If this option exists, your phone supports eSIM. For the complete interactive list, see safariesim.com/compatible-devices.
Apple iPhone
✓ eSIM Supported
- iPhone 16 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus
- iPhone 15 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus
- iPhone 14 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus
- iPhone 13 / Pro / Pro Max / mini
- iPhone 12 / Pro / Pro Max / mini
- iPhone 11 / Pro / Pro Max
- iPhone XS / XS Max / XR
- iPhone SE (2nd gen+, 2020+)
Notes
- • iPhone 14+ (US models) are eSIM-only — no physical SIM tray
- • iPhone XS/XR (2018) were the first iPhones with eSIM
- • iPhone must be unlocked from carrier to use Safari eSIM
- • iOS 17+ makes eSIM installation even simpler
Samsung Galaxy
| Series | Models with eSIM |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S series | S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 and all Pro/Ultra variants |
| Galaxy Z Fold | Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 — all support eSIM |
| Galaxy Z Flip | Z Flip 3, 4, 5, 6 — all support eSIM |
| Galaxy A series | A54, A55, A35 (2023+) — some models |
| Galaxy Note | Note 20, Note 20 Ultra |
| Older S models | S20 is the first Samsung with eSIM (2020) |
Note: Some Samsung models sold in certain regions (e.g. China) may not support eSIM. Check your specific model.
Google Pixel
Google Pixel 3 (2018) was one of the first Android phones with eSIM. All current Pixel models are compatible:
Other Brands
Motorola
Razr (foldable), Edge series (2022+), Moto G (select)
OnePlus
OnePlus 12, 11, 10 Pro — select markets
Huawei
P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro — limited eSIM support
Oppo / Find X
Find X5, X6 Pro — select models
Xiaomi
13 Pro, 14 Ultra — global models only
Sony Xperia
Xperia 1 IV, 5 IV and newer
Important: Carrier Lock
Even if your phone supports eSIM hardware, it must be carrier-unlocked to use a third-party eSIM. Phones bought directly from Apple, Google, or unlocked retailers are fine. Phones bought on a carrier contract may be locked.
To check: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock (iPhone). If it says "No SIM Restrictions" — you're good.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
iPhone XS (2018) and all models after. iPhone 14+ US models are eSIM-only with no physical SIM tray.
Which Samsung phones support eSIM?Samsung Galaxy S20 (2020) and all S series after. Also Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip from their first generation.
Does my phone need to be unlocked?Yes — your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use a third-party eSIM. Check Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock on iPhone.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM. If that option appears, your phone supports eSIM. Or check safariesim.com/compatible-devices.
Is Your Phone Compatible?
Check the full interactive list of 200+ eSIM-compatible devices.
Check Your Device