Short answer: older iPhones and many region-specific iPhone models do not support eSIM.
Usually not supported
- iPhone models older than iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.
- Any iPhone that does not show an EID in Settings.
- Mainland China iPhone models other than iPhone Air.
- Hong Kong and Macao iPhone models before iPhone 17 generation.
Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao models
| Purchase region | Supports 4S eSIM | Does not support 4S eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland China | iPhone Air | All other Mainland China iPhone models. |
| Hong Kong and Macao | iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air | Hong Kong and Macao iPhone models before iPhone 17 generation are dual physical SIM models and do not support eSIM. |
How to check
- Open Settings.
- Tap General > About.
- Look for EID.
- Then open Settings > Cellular or Mobile Service and look for Add eSIM.
How to read the result
- If you see both EID and Add eSIM, your iPhone should support eSIM.
- If you cannot find an EID, your iPhone likely does not support eSIM.
- If your iPhone was bought in Mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macao and is not listed as supported above, do not buy a 4S eSIM for that device.