List of eSIM-Compatible Phones | October 2024 Update
In 2024, eSIM technology in Japan is becoming increasingly popular, providing travelers and residents with flexible mobile solutions. With eSIM, users can manage mobile services without the hassle of inserting a physical SIM card. This digital option allows for easy switching between carriers, setting up international plans, and maintaining multiple numbers on one device. However, not all phones support eSIM technology, so it's crucial to know which devices are eSIM-compatible phones in Japan. This guide explores the best eSIM phones for 2024, how to check eSIM compatibility, and the advantages of using eSIM in Japan.
What is eSIM technology?
eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built directly into the hardware of smartphones. This eliminates the need for a physical SIM card, making it easier to activate mobile plans. With eSIM technology, users can quickly switch mobile carriers, activate international plans, or manage multiple numbers, all without physically changing a SIM card. This is especially beneficial in Japan, where eSIM plans from leading carriers allow users to take advantage of faster, more flexible mobile services.
Ubigi  |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly |
| Get it now (official site) |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly. | Get it now (official site) |
Popular eSIM-compatible phones in Japan (2024)
In Japan, several popular smartphones now support eSIM technology, making it easier for users to take advantage of this cutting-edge feature. Below is a list of the most popular eSIM-compatible phones in Japan for 2024:
Apple iPhones
- iPhone 16 series (including all models)
- iPhone 15 series (including all models)
- iPhone 14 series (including all models)
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
Google Pixel Phones
- Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 5
- Pixel 4 series
Samsung Galaxy Phones
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy S22 series
- Galaxy S21 series
- Galaxy S20 series
- Galaxy Z Fold 3 and newer
- Galaxy Z Flip 3 and newer
Other eSIM-Compatible Phones
- Huawei P40, P50 series
- OPPO Find X3 and newer
- Sony Xperia 10 IV, Xperia 1 IV and newer
- Motorola Razr 2022
How to check if a phone supports eSIM
To find out whether a phone supports eSIM, users can check their phone’s settings. For iPhone, navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If this option is available, the device is eSIM-compatible. For Android phones, such as the Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy, the process is similar. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager, where an option for eSIM should appear if the phone supports it.
Non-compatible phones (2024)
While eSIM technology is becoming more common, better than searching for the compatible devices it could be easier and faster to directly have a look on the non compatibles devices lists,some older and budget smartphones do not yet support it. Here are some non-compatible phones for eSIM in Japan as of 2024:
Apple iPhones
- iPhone 6 and earlier models
- iPhone 6s and 6s Plus
- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X and iPhone X Plus
Samsung Galaxy Phones
- Galaxy S10 and older models
- Galaxy A series (most budget models)
Other Non-Compatible Phones
- Google Pixel 3 and earlier
- Huawei P30 and older models
- OPPO Reno series (up to Reno 4)
- Sony Xperia models older than Xperia 10 III
Advantages of using eSIM in Japan
Ubigi |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly |
| Get it now (official site) |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly. | Get it now (official site) |
- Convenient activation: With eSIM plans in Japan, users can activate a mobile plan remotely, eliminating the need to visit a store or wait for a physical SIM card.
- Multiple profiles: eSIM phones allow users to maintain multiple profiles (e.g., work and personal numbers) on the same device, which is perfect for international travelers in Japan or those managing different numbers.
- Space-saving design: Because eSIM is embedded in the phone’s hardware, it saves space that would otherwise be used for a SIM card slot, offering manufacturers more room for other features.
- Easy carrier switching: With eSIM technology, switching between different mobile carriers in Japan is seamless, allowing users to adjust their plans without needing to swap physical SIM cards.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my phone doesn’t support eSIM?
If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, you’ll need to continue using a physical SIM card. Physical SIMs are still widely available, but more smartphones are expected to become eSIM-compatible as technology advances.
Can an eSIM phone handle multiple numbers?
Yes, eSIM-compatible phones allow for multiple profiles, meaning you can easily manage separate work and personal numbers or switch between domestic and international plans when traveling to Japan.
Ubigi |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly |
| Get it now (official site) |
| Prepare for your trip to Japan, buy an eSIM, and receive it instantly. | Get it now (official site) |
Do all carriers in Japan support eSIM?
In Japan, major carriers such as NTT Docomo, AU, and SoftBank offer eSIM support. Additionally, several MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) offer affordable eSIM plans for both residents and travelers.
As eSIM technology continues to evolve in 2024, it offers greater convenience for mobile users in Japan. Whether you’re a traveler looking for flexible eSIM plans or a local resident, knowing which phones support eSIM can save you time and provide greater flexibility. Be sure to check if your device is eSIM-compatible and explore the best eSIM phones for 2024 in Japan to make the most of this innovative technology. If you plan to come visit Japan soon, please be sure to check out article about the differents data plan Best sim plan in Japan October 2024
