Moving Your eSIM Acorn to a New Branch!
Getting a new Android phone? Some newer Android devices support eSIM Quick Transfer, which allows you to move your existing phone number to a new device without needing a physical SIM card.
It’s like moving your favorite acorn from one branch to another—quick, simple, and convenient!
Important: This feature requires compatible devices and carrier support. If Switch Mobile Quick Transfer isn’t available, our support team can help you activate a replacement eSIM.
Before You Begin
Make sure you’re ready for a smooth transfer:
- Check compatibility: Follow the instructions below to see if your phone supports eSIM and Quick Transfer.
- Charge both phones: Keep them powered on and nearby.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Make sure both devices have a stable connection.
- Enable Bluetooth: Turn on Bluetooth if prompted.
- Keep your old eSIM active: Don’t delete it until the transfer is complete.
How to Check eSIM Compatibility
Before transferring your Switch Mobile number, make sure your new phone supports eSIM technology.
Samsung Galaxy
- Open Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
- Look for Add eSIM.
- If this option appears, your phone generally supports eSIM.
- Tap Add eSIM and look for Transfer SIM from another device.
Other Android Phones
- Open Settings.
- Select Network & internet, Connections, or Mobile network.
- Look for SIMs, SIM manager, or eSIM.
- Check whether Add eSIM or Download a SIM is available.
- Look for an option to transfer a SIM from another device.
Another Way to Check: Find Your EID
Most eSIM-compatible phones have an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number.
- Open your phone’s Settings.
- Go to About phone → Status information or SIM status, depending on your device.
- Look for an EID number.
- You can also dial *#06# to check whether your phone displays an EID.
If you see an EID: Your phone has eSIM hardware.
If you don’t see an EID: Your phone may not support eSIM, or the information may be located elsewhere in your settings.
Important: Having an EID or an Add eSIM option does not guarantee that eSIM Quick Transfer is supported. Your device and Switch Mobile’s network must both support the transfer feature.
Option 1: Transfer During New Phone Setup (Recommended)
If you’re setting up a brand-new Android phone:
- Turn on your new Android phone.
- Follow the on-screen setup instructions.
- When prompted, select Set up using another device or Copy apps & data.
- Follow the instructions to connect your old and new phones.
- When you reach the mobile network setup screen, look for Transfer SIM or Transfer from another device.
- Select your Switch Mobile phone number, if available.
- Approve the transfer on your old phone.
- Follow the remaining instructions to complete activation.
Note: Copying apps and data does not automatically transfer your eSIM. You must complete the mobile service transfer separately when prompted.
Option 2: Transfer After Your New Phone Is Set Up
If you’ve already completed your phone’s initial setup, follow the instructions for your device.
Samsung Galaxy
- Open Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
- Select Add eSIM.
- Tap Transfer SIM from another device, if available.
- Follow the pairing instructions on both phones.
- Select your Switch Mobile number and confirm the transfer.
- Wait for activation to finish.
Other Android Phones
Menu names may vary depending on your manufacturer.
- Open Settings.
- Look for Network & internet, Connections, or Mobile network.
- Select SIMs, SIM manager, or eSIM.
- Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.
- Look for Transfer SIM from another device.
- If available, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer.
Can’t find the transfer option? Your device or carrier may not support direct eSIM transfer. Contact Switch Mobile Support for assistance.
After Your Transfer
Once your eSIM has landed safely on its new branch:
- Make a test call to confirm your number is working.
- Send a text message to verify messaging.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and test your mobile data connection.
- Set Switch Mobile as your preferred SIM for calls, texts, and mobile data if needed.
- Restart your phone if your service doesn’t appear immediately.
After a successful transfer, your previous eSIM should no longer provide service on your old device.
Important Things to Remember
- Device compatibility matters: Not all Android phones support eSIM Quick Transfer.
- Carrier support is required: The transfer option may not be available for every Switch Mobile device.
- Keep your old phone active: Don’t delete your existing eSIM before the transfer is complete.
- Switching between Android and iPhone: Cross-platform transfers require a separate supported process and may require a replacement eSIM.
- No physical SIM needed: When supported, the entire transfer happens digitally.
Need a Helping Paw?
If your eSIM doesn’t transfer or you don’t see the transfer option, contact Switch Mobile Support at 1-833-SWITCH-0.
We’ll help you get your service connected to your new device.
Same number. New phone. A fresh branch on the Switch Mobile tree!
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