Unable to transfer eSIM from iPhone 13 Pro to iPhone 16

Trying to load my new iPhone 16 from an iPhone 13 Pro no problem with data but I’m getting a message that the Sim and my old phone does not support eSIM transfer. Already did updates no help.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 16, iOS 18

Posted on Sep 21, 2024 12:46 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 29, 2024 02:37 AM

This is a fairly common issue, especially if the eSIM configuration or carrier settings don’t fully support device-to-device transfers. Let’s walk through a few steps to help resolve the issue.

1. Verify Carrier Support for eSIM Transfers

Start by confirming that your carrier allows eSIM transfers between devices. Not all carriers support this directly, and they might require a new eSIM activation on the new phone. Check your carrier’s website or contact their support for guidance.

For more troubleshooting issues, you can refer to detailed guide here: Apple Guide - Unable to transfer eSIM to iPhone 16

2. Restart Both Devices

Before taking further steps, restart both your iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 16. Sometimes a simple reboot can refresh the network settings and resolve minor transfer issues.


3. Try Transferring Using a QR Code or Carrier App

If your carrier supports it, try using a QR code or the carrier’s app to set up the eSIM on your iPhone 16. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan on the new iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions to scan a QR code or use the app for activation.


4. Update Carrier Settings

Ensure that both phones are running the latest iOS and carrier settings. Sometimes, outdated carrier settings can block the eSIM transfer. You can check for updates by going to Settings > General > About on your iPhone 16. If an update is available, you'll be prompted to install it.


5. Contact Your Carrier for Assistance

If the steps above don’t work, it’s best to reach out to your carrier. They can issue a new eSIM or help with the transfer process to make sure it works with your new iPhone 16.


For more detailed steps on setting up an eSIM, you can refer to Apple’s official guide here: Apple Support – Set up an eSIM

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 29, 2024 02:37 AM in response to stand4kids

This is a fairly common issue, especially if the eSIM configuration or carrier settings don’t fully support device-to-device transfers. Let’s walk through a few steps to help resolve the issue.

1. Verify Carrier Support for eSIM Transfers

Start by confirming that your carrier allows eSIM transfers between devices. Not all carriers support this directly, and they might require a new eSIM activation on the new phone. Check your carrier’s website or contact their support for guidance.

For more troubleshooting issues, you can refer to detailed guide here: Apple Guide - Unable to transfer eSIM to iPhone 16

2. Restart Both Devices

Before taking further steps, restart both your iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 16. Sometimes a simple reboot can refresh the network settings and resolve minor transfer issues.


3. Try Transferring Using a QR Code or Carrier App

If your carrier supports it, try using a QR code or the carrier’s app to set up the eSIM on your iPhone 16. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan on the new iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions to scan a QR code or use the app for activation.


4. Update Carrier Settings

Ensure that both phones are running the latest iOS and carrier settings. Sometimes, outdated carrier settings can block the eSIM transfer. You can check for updates by going to Settings > General > About on your iPhone 16. If an update is available, you'll be prompted to install it.


5. Contact Your Carrier for Assistance

If the steps above don’t work, it’s best to reach out to your carrier. They can issue a new eSIM or help with the transfer process to make sure it works with your new iPhone 16.


For more detailed steps on setting up an eSIM, you can refer to Apple’s official guide here: Apple Support – Set up an eSIM

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Unable to transfer eSIM from iPhone 13 Pro to iPhone 16

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