How to Switch Between a Physical SIM Card and an eSIM Profile
Switching between a physical SIM card and an eSIM is a useful feature for people who want to use different numbers, switch networks, or travel while keeping their main SIM active. Modern smartphones allow users to switch between SIM profiles directly from the settings without needing to remove or insert a physical SIM card.
This guide will show you how to easily switch between a physical SIM and an eSIM on iPhone and Android.
Switching Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM on iPhone
If your iPhone has both a physical SIM and an eSIM installed, you can switch between them in your settings:
How to Switch Mobile Data Between SIMs
1⃣ Open Settings on your iPhone.
2⃣ Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
3⃣ Select the SIM or eSIM you want to use for mobile data. This can be your Physical SIM or your Firsty-eSIM.
💡 Only one SIM can be used for mobile data at a time.
How to Switch Between SIMs for the Default Line, iMessage and Facetime.
1⃣ Open Settings > Cellular.
2⃣ Under SIMs, tap the number you want to use.
3⃣ Toggle "Turn On This Line" if it is not already active.
📌 You can set one SIM for calls and another for data if needed.
How to Quickly Change Which SIM to Use for Calls
When dialing a number, tap the SIM label at the top of the screen and choose the SIM you want to use.
In Messages, you can select the sending number by tapping your contact’s name at the top and selecting your preferred SIM.
Switching Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM on Android
How to Switch Mobile Data Between SIMs
1⃣ Open Settings on your Android device.
2⃣ Tap Network & Internet (or Connections).
3⃣ Tap SIM Manager (or SIMs).
4⃣ Tap Mobile Data and select the SIM or eSIM you want to use.
💡 Only one SIM can be used for mobile data at a time.
How to Switch Between SIMs for Calls and Messages
1⃣ Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIM Manager.
2⃣ Under Call Preferences, select the SIM or eSIM you want to use for calls.
3⃣ Under Text Messages, select the SIM or eSIM you want to use for SMS.
📌 Android phones allow you to set a default SIM for calls, or you can choose which SIM to use each time you make a call.
FAQs About Switching Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM
Can I use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time?
✅ Yes, most modern smartphones allow you to use both a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously.
Do I need to restart my phone when switching SIMs?
❌ No, switching between SIMs does not require restarting your phone.
Can I use one SIM for calls and another for data?
✅ Yes, you can set one SIM for calls and messages while using another for mobile data.
How do I know which SIM is currently active?
On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular, and the active SIM will be listed.
On Android: Go to Settings > SIM Manager, where active SIMs will be displayed.
Final Thoughts
Switching between a physical SIM and an eSIM is easy and helps users manage multiple numbers, use different carriers, and avoid roaming charges while traveling. If you experience any issues, contact Firsty support for assistance.
