eSIM
eSIM
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM built into your device, eliminating the need for a physical SIM. It allows you to activate a new cellular plan or transfer an existing plan digitally.
Many compatible devices can store multiple eSIMs and use two phone numbers at the same time. An eSIM also offers added security because it cannot be physically removed if your device is lost or stolen.
Not all phones support eSIM. While most newer smartphones have this technology, not all eSIM-compatible devices work with PureTalk's eSIM. If your phone isn't supported, you can still use PureTalk service with a physical SIM. Visit our eSIM page to check if your device is compatible with PureTalk’s eSIM.
A Dual SIM device can use two active SIMs, allowing you to have two phone numbers on the same device. Depending on the device, it may use two eSIMs or one eSIM and one physical SIM.
You can manage both lines through your device settings and choose which number to use for calls, text messages, and cellular data. PureTalk currently supports Dual SIM functionality on iPhone 13 and newer models and select Samsung devices.
PureTalk currently supports two active eSIMs at the same time on iPhone 13 and newer models.
With eSIM, switching to a new carrier is easier and faster. You can instantly activate your eSIM with PureTalk right after receiving the email confirmation your eSIM is ready, eliminating the wait for a physical SIM to be shipped.
eSIMs can support up to 5 programmed carriers, but you’ll only ever need PureTalk!
Switching carriers is straightforward with eSIMs since their data can be reprogrammed or, in some cases, downloaded onto another slot. Physical SIMs cannot be reprogrammed, so eSIM makes your switch to PureTalk nearly instantaneous.
A Dual SIM device can hold two SIMs (either two eSIMs or one eSIM and one physical SIM), allowing you to use two phone numbers on one device. This is ideal for business owners who want both a personal and a business line without carrying two phones.
eSIMs are enhancing future devices by eliminating the need for a SIM tray, leading to thinner and lighter phones, tablets, laptops, and wearables. Many believe eSIMs are the future, with physical SIMs likely becoming obsolete.
Absolutely! If you have a device compatible with PureTalk's eSIM, you can certainly switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM. Contact our Customer Support department by dialing 611 from your PureTalk phone or by calling (877) 820-7873. If possible, please call using a different phone, since some steps in the process may require your device to be turned off or restarted, which could end your call.
Follow the eSIM installation instructions sent to you by email. If you purchased a new device from PureTalk, the instructions will also be included in the device packaging.
For assistance, call Customer Support at (877) 820-7873. If possible, call from a different phone because you may need to turn off or restart the device receiving the eSIM during activation.
Please contact our Customer Support department by dialing 611 from your PureTalk phone or by calling (877) 820-7873 for assistance. If possible, please call using a different phone, since some steps in the process may require your device to be turned off or restarted, which could end your call.
Back up your iPhone before continuing. A factory reset will erase your personal content and settings.
Open Settings.
Select General.
Select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Select Erase All Content and Settings.
Select Continue.
Select Keep eSIM and Erase Data.
Enter your device passcode or Apple Account password, if prompted, and follow the remaining instructions.
Do not select Delete eSIM and Erase Data. Deleting your eSIM will require you to contact PureTalk to reactivate your cellular plan.
iPhone
Open Settings.
Select Cellular.
Select the eSIM line under SIMs.
Switch Turn On This Line on or off.
Samsung Galaxy
Open Settings.
Select Connections.
Select SIM Manager.
Turn the switch beside the eSIM profile on or off.
Android menu options may vary by manufacturer, model, and software version. Disabling an eSIM profile temporarily turns off the line but does not delete the eSIM.
Having trouble? Contact Customer Support by calling (877) 820-7873. If possible, please call using a different phone, since some steps in the process may require your device to be turned off or restarted, which could end your call.
First, make sure your phone is eSIM compatible. If your phone is eSIM compatible, choose a plan, and select the eSIM option when prompted. Once your order is complete, follow the eSIM activation steps provided after checkout.
No. Activating an eSIM does not affect your phone’s lock status. PureTalk does not lock phones to its network, and all phones purchased from PureTalk are sold unlocked.
Please contact our Customer Support department at (877) 820-7873 and one of our agents will assist you with replacing your eSIM. If possible, please call using a different phone, since some steps in the process may require your device to be turned off or restarted, which could end your call.
Yes! You can use your PureTalk eSIM for roaming when travelling internationally to countries supporting roaming. Visit our International Roaming page to learn more.
Dual SIM indicates your device can use two SIMs which means you can have two phone numbers on the same device. Depending on your device, this could be two eSIMs or an eSIM and a physical SIM. At this time, PureTalk supports Dual SIM functionality on iPhone 13 or newer models and certain Samsung devices.