Understanding eSIM Profiles: How Multiple Plans Work on One Device
What is an eSIM profile?
An eSIM profile is a digital carrier configuration stored on your device's embedded SIM chip. Each profile contains authentication credentials and network settings for a specific carrier. When you download a Vsimer eSIM plan, you are downloading an eSIM profile.
How many profiles can a phone hold?
This varies by device:
- iPhone 13 and earlier: Up to 8 eSIM profiles stored, 1 active at a time (plus physical SIM)
- iPhone 14 and later (US): Up to 8 profiles, 2 eSIMs active simultaneously
- iPhone 15 and later: Dual active eSIM support, 8+ profiles stored
- Samsung Galaxy (recent): 5–10 profiles depending on model
- Google Pixel: Multiple profiles with dual-SIM active support
Switching between profiles
On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [select plan] → Turn On This Line
On Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → [select plan] → Enable
On Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → [select plan]
Switching is instant and does not require a restart on modern devices.
Managing multiple travel plans
A practical strategy for frequent travellers is to keep previously used plans on the device even after the trip. If you return to Europe, you can simply reactivate the European eSIM and top up — no re-installation needed. Check that the plan is still valid before relying on this.
When to delete a profile
Delete old profiles when your device is running low on profile storage, or when you are certain you will not need a plan again. Once deleted, a profile cannot be recovered — you would need to purchase a new plan.