Samsung Galaxy devices already support eSIM transfer, conversion

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Google is preparing to add an eSIM transfer feature to Android. But before it could get around to implementing the feature, Samsung has quietly developed its own solution and rolled it out to Galaxy devices. Spotted by renowned Android expert Mishaal Rahman, Samsung’s One UI 5.1 now supports device-to-device eSIM transfer as well as pSIM-to-eSIM (physical SIM to an eSIM) conversion.

How to transfer eSIM from one Samsung Galaxy to another?

It’s not clear when Samsung added this feature to One UI, but if you have compatible Galaxy devices (full list of supported models below), you can transfer your eSIM from one to the other following a few easy steps. Note that both models must be running One UI 5.1 or newer and support the feature.

Firstly, open the Settings app on the phone you want to transfer your eSIM to. Now go to Connections > SIM Manager and tap on “add eSIM,” followed by “other ways to connect to a mobile network.” You should now see an option to “transfer SIM from another device.” Tap on it and go to your old phone, which must have a secure lock screen and be close to your new phone. Unlock your old phone and tap on “Transfer” to confirm.

You’ll see a pop-up warning stating that you will no longer be able to use the eSIM on your old device. Tap OK to proceed. Your old phone will then ask you to select your country and service provider/carrier. Once done, you’ll need to enter a 6-digit verification code shown on your new phone’s screen on the old phone. Now select your carrier on the new phone, tap on “Transfer” on your new phone, and then on the old phone to complete the process.

How to convert a physical SIM to eSIM on Galaxy devices?

Converting a physical SIM to an eSIM on supported Galaxy devices is a breeze. Here are the easy steps. Open the Settings app and go to Connections > SIM Manager. Tap on settings for the physical SIM that you want to convert to an eSIM. Tap on “convert to eSIM” and confirm your choice in the pop-up menu. Finally, tap on “Add” and you’re done.

As far as supported Galaxy models are concerned, here’s the full list: Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 series, Galaxy S20 series, Galaxy Note 20 series, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Flip 5G, Galaxy Z Flip, and Galaxy Fold. The official list doesn’t mention the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, but the latest foldables should support the feature too. They ran One UI 5.1.1 out of the box.

It’s worth noting that an eSIM transfer and a physical SIM to an eSIM conversion may not work with every service provider in your region. Samsung has provided a list of supported carriers for each supported country here. If you’re having problems, you can check out these troubleshooting methods.

2023-09-05 15:08:02