Introduction

In the same way that the development of smartphones marked a major shift in phone models, the latest smartphone brands are now moving away from physical SIM slots. This seemingly minor change in design opens brand new doors for how telecommunications providers work with phone manufacturers.

Apple has been spearheading the technological advancements of smartphones for years, but last year’s release of the iPhone Air made a shift away from physical SIMs to eSIMs. In the not-too-distant future, buying a DITO eSIM for modern iPhones will become mandatory instead, as eSIMs have become more accessible and integrated into eSIM-only phones.

If you want to know if your iPhone is ready to face this technological shift, this article can help you check if it is compatible or if you should consider buying an upgrade.

Why Are iPhones Investing in eSIM-Only Models?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, functions as a standardized digital chip installed in phones instead of requiring an external card. Installing an eSIM for an iPhone is not a new technological development. In fact, many phone brands besides Apple are already embracing this shift. But these digital SIMs have made a significant shift in the design and approach to smartphones’ development moving forward.

Here are some of the key reasons iPhones are letting go of physical SIMs and embracing eSIMs:

Carrier Flexibility

By having eSIM-only phones, Apple is allowing mobile phone users to have multi-SIM setups. For Filipinos, it is a necessity for some to have multiple SIMs or a second phone as a backup. With eSIMs, you can subscribe to more than two providers without having to buy a new handset or worry about swapping SIM cards from one phone to another.

Device Transfers

One of the most underrated benefits of committing to eSIM technology is the convenience of device transfers. As smartphone owners go through the lifespan of their mobile devices, it is inevitable to upgrade their phones after a few good years. Besides transferring all the account information of their online profiles, it is also necessary to swap physical SIMs manually.

The tedious process of removing a delicate physical SIM from one phone to another can be a stressful experience. Especially if you are traveling abroad to swap your original SIM for a local SIM from your destination country. eSIMs allow smooth transitions from one phone to another, without being at risk of damaging or losing a physical SIM.

Phone Design Optimization

As phone designs become sleeker and more compact, it is no surprise that the iPhone has lost several hardware components, like its audio jack, in favor of a Type-C plug. As mobile phone developers embrace eSIM technology, losing the physical SIM slot opens the potential of adding more battery space, improved camera specs, better touch screen resolutions, and more. This software change creates an impactful design shift as well for phone manufacturers.

How to Check if Your iPhone is eSIM Compatible

Essentially, all iPhone models released since 2018 should support eSIM, but you can confirm the compatibility of your phone in different ways. Here are several ways to check if your iPhone is compatible with an eSIM:

Check for eSIM in iPhone Settings

First, go to your iPhone’s Settings and check Cellular or Mobile Data. Look for options such as “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan.” Depending on your iOS version, the menu labels may vary, but these tabs should display the same option to digitally add a mobile plan. This is a clear marker that your iPhone supports eSIM activation.

Verify Your iPhone Model

Another Setting you can check on your iPhone is to find your phone’s Model. This is important for mobile users who are using a pre-owned phone.

If you are using an iPhone featured in this list, you are most likely able to use an eSIM. If you plan to switch to a different phone brand, you can also check our list of eSIM-compatible phone brands and models.

Check for Carrier Lock Status

Even if your iPhone supports eSIMs, your specific phone may have carrier restrictions that may affect eSIM activation. This applies to secondhand phones, handset bundle packages, or iPhones bought abroad.

First, check your phone’s Settings and navigate your way to the About section. Under Carrier Lock, check if it displays No SIM restrictions. If this is so, your device is unlocked and can be activated with supported carriers.

If the iPhone is carrier-locked, you will need to contact your current carrier to request unlocking before switching or adding a new eSIM to your device.

How a DITO eSIM Helps You Stay Updated with Digital Innovations

With a DITO eSIM for your iPhone, you unlock a whole world of potential by having access to stronger mobile data connections, affordable prepaid and postpaid promos, and a generous loyalty program that rewards you with every top-up.

Here are some of the innovative features offered by a DITO eSIM:

5G Network Access

DITO eSIM owners gain access to DITO’s wide coverage for 5G network connections, leading to lower latency, faster upload and download speeds, and smoother online experiences.

Versatile Promos

DITO eSIM holders can register for a wide variety of promos catered to different mobile lifestyles that focus on using socials, mobile games, video streaming, and more. For example, you can register for prepaid promos that offer unlimited 5G access for up to 30 days.

Loyalty Rewards Program

As a DITO eSIM owner, you gain access to a loyalty program that rewards you by simply using the DITO App for prepaid top-ups and postpaid bill payments. By accumulating enough DITO Rewards Points, you gain access to a wide variety of redeemable vouchers, from restaurants to grocery stores.

Conclusion

Apple’s announcement of retiring physical SIM slots for iPhone Air models is a bold choice, steering the world forward to a plastic SIM-less future. Although other iPhone models will still have physical SIM slots, many brands are looking at Apple’s developments and seeing if the public will be as receptive to these changes. To avoid facing any transition difficulties in the future, it is important for mobile users to be adaptable to changes in their digital lifestyle.

If you want a reliable eSIM provider to help you match Apple’s moves for technological innovation, DITO is here for you. Besides giving DITO eSIM owners a hassle-free experience with registration, DITO eSIM holders also get access to a wide selection of prepaid and postpaid promos to match different lifestyles. Download the DITO App today and register a powerful eSIM for your brand-new iPhone.