Set up and use eSIM

The eSIM is your digital SIM card. Learn how the eSIM works and how to order and set it up.

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

  • The eSIM replaces the physical SIM card and allows you to easily use multiple phone numbers with the same smartphone.

  • An eSIM chip is permanently integrated into your device and receives all the information you need from your eSIM profile.

  • All Sunrise mobile subscriptions and prepaid products are available with eSIM.

What are the advantages of an eSIM?

  • Ready to go: Activate or switch your eSIM digitally at any time. No waiting time for postal dispatch or collection.

  • Total flexibility: Use multiple numbers and plans on one device. Easily switch profiles if necessary.

  • Maximum security: Your eSIM is stored digitally and can’t be lost or stolen.

  • Always fits: No more searching for the correct SIM card format, no more switching SIM cards.

  • Environmentally friendly: No plastic, no packaging, no transport – simply sustainable.

Compatible devices

Almost all new smartphones, watches, and tablets with cellular connectivity come with an eSIM. This includes the following models:

  • iPhone 11 series and newer, as well as Apple iPhone XS & XR and iPhone SE 2022

  • Apple Watch Series 3 and newer

  • Apple iPad 2018 Cellular and newer

  • Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer, as well as all Galaxy Z Flip and Fold

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Cellular and newer

  • Google Pixel 4 and newer

Some new models no longer include a SIM card slot. This makes devices slimmer or frees up space for larger batteries and other useful components.

Dual eSIM

Dual SIM means that a smartphone can use two phone numbers or two different plans at the same time. Depending on the brand and model, different combinations are possible, for example two eSIMs, one eSIM with a classic SIM card, or two SIM cards.

The following devices support two eSIM profiles at the same time (= Dual eSIM):

  • Apple iPhone 13 series and newer

  • Samsung Galaxy S24 series and newer

  • Google Pixel 7 and newer

Good to know
On newer models, it is often possible to store five or more different eSIM profiles. This makes it easy to switch between different plans, even though a maximum of two can be active at the same time.

Order the eSIM

Already a Sunrise customer?

Then you can easily convert your SIM card to an eSIM — either directly on your current device or when switching to a new device.

Additionally, you can conveniently order a new eSIM via My Sunrise:

Are you about to become a Sunrise customer?

When you order online or in the Sunrise Shop, select the eSIM option.

Set up your eSIM

a) With an eSIM profile without QR code

With an eSIM profile without QR code (eSIM linked to the device), you will automatically receive a message on your mobile phone and can easily install your eSIM profile. You can find detailed instructions here:

b) With an eSIM profile as a QR code

Scan the QR code on your digital or physical voucher to set up your eSIM profile.

Scan QR code

You will receive a printed voucher in the shop.

If you request your eSIM profile online, you will find the QR code in My Sunrise.

Here you will find the appropriate instructions for your mobile phone on how to activate the eSIM with a QR code:

How to easily transfer your SIM to your new mobile phone with eSIM

Requirements

Problems with eSIM

Here you will find solutions to familiar problems with the eSIM.

You can download your eSIM profile again on the same device for free.

If you have an eSIM profile as a QR code, you can display the activation code (QR code) in My Sunrise again and then scan it.

If you have an eSIM profile without QR code (eSIM linked to the device), you can request the eSIM profile once again in My Sunrise. You will then receive a message on your mobile and can easily reinstall your eSIM profile.

Go to My Sunrise immediately to block the SIM and eSIM profiles you use on the device in question and request a new eSIM profile. You will receive a new eSIM profile by mail.

If the device with the activated eSIM profile is no longer functional, you can request a new eSIM profile here. You will receive a new eSIM profile by mail.

Questions and answers

Normally, yes. An exception applies to Apple devices that support only eSIM. These connect during eSIM installation via a special over-the-air service.

The QR code can only be linked to one device. To use the eSIM on another device, the eSIM must be transferred from the old to the new device or a new eSIM must be requested via My Sunrise. In both cases, a new eSIM profile is created. The old eSIM profile is deactivated after activation on the new device.

Many manufacturers and models support an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously in Dual SIM mode. It is recommended to check the manufacturer’s specifications for this purpose.

WhatsApp works with an eSIM just like with a conventional SIM card. However, WhatsApp supports only one phone number per device.
Tip: The second number can be used with WhatsApp Business or other messaging apps.

Yes, Mobile ID is also available for eSIM.

By default, the PIN lock is disabled. However, it can be activated via the device settings. The original PIN code can be found in My Sunrise.

Before handing over the device, it is generally recommended to perform a full factory reset. This also detaches the eSIM profiles from the device.