An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical SIM, you download and activate a network profile electronically. This means you can switch networks — or add a second number — without ever handling a physical card.
eSIM technology is now standard on most flagship smartphones sold in the UK, including all iPhone models from the iPhone XS onwards, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and most recent mid-range Android handsets.
Yes — most numbers available from VIP Numbers can be delivered and activated as an eSIM. The process is:
For technical specifications, supported handsets and full setup instructions, see our dedicated eSIM page. For a full guide to running two numbers on one phone, see Dual SIM Phones and eSIM — How to Run Two Numbers on One Phone.
We can activate VIP numbers as eSIMs on O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three. Specify your preferred network when you request eSIM activation and we will set it up on the right one.
As of September 2026:
| eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|
| No card to lose or damage | Works on any compatible handset (including older phones) |
| Activated remotely — no waiting for post | Easier to transfer physically between handsets |
| Ideal for dual-number setups | Simpler for buyers unfamiliar with eSIM setup |
| Same-day activation (9am–9pm UK time) | Same-day PAC code; network activation by end of working day |
One of the biggest benefits of eSIM is dual-SIM functionality. You can keep your existing number on a physical SIM and add your VIP number as an eSIM — or vice versa. Your phone rings for both numbers; you choose which one to call from. This is ideal for separating business and personal calls on a single device.
An eSIM is not a standalone mobile contract or tariff — it is a method of activating a number you already own. It does not replace your existing physical SIM unless you set it up to do so. It is not available on all handsets: most phones released before 2018, feature phones, and many budget Android models do not support eSIM at all. An eSIM profile is also network-specific — if you want to move your number to a different network later, you request a new PAC code and re-activate on the new network.
eSIM activation is completed between 9am and 9pm UK time, seven days a week. In most cases your number is live the same day you purchase. If you have a specific time requirement, note it when requesting eSIM activation and we will do our best to accommodate it.