eSIM on an iPhone in Kenya: What It Is and How to Set It Up
Many iPhones sold today have no physical SIM tray. Here is what an eSIM is and how you get your line onto it.
An eSIM is a SIM card built into the phone. Instead of sliding a plastic card into a tray, your network installs your line digitally. Many iPhones sold in recent years work this way, and some imported units have eSIM only, so it is worth understanding before you buy.
Why phones use eSIM
There is nothing to lose, bend or swap by accident, and a phone with no tray is harder for water to get into. You can also keep more than one line on the phone.
How to get your line onto an eSIM
Visit your nearest Safaricom or Airtel shop with your ID and the phone. They install the eSIM for you, so your existing number moves onto the phone. You do not need to do this at home.
How many lines can it hold?
An iPhone can store several eSIM lines, but only two are active at any one time. You choose which two in Settings, and you can switch whenever you like.
Before you buy an eSIM phone
- Confirm whether the phone is eSIM only or also has a physical SIM tray.
- Make sure the phone is not locked to another network.
- Plan a quick visit to your network shop after you collect the phone.
Not sure which model suits you? See our refurbished phones or ask us on WhatsApp.
