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What happens if I delete my eSIM?

February 24, 2025

deleting esim

An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM, is a type of SIM card that is built into a phone or device. eSIMs work fundamentally like a traditional SIM card does but with the added enhancement of not having a physical card, meaning it can also be programmed from a distance.

Table of content 

Understanding the Basics and functionality of eSIM 
The Instant Effect of Removing an eSIM
Loss of Network Connection and Mobile Services
Keeping Your Cellular Plan After Deleting an eSIM
Reminders before deleting an eSIM
How do you remove an eSIM from your iPhone?
Retrieving a lost eSIM: is it possible?
Effects of factory reset on eSIMs
Smart Management of Your eSIMs
In Conclusion  
FAQ’s

Understanding the Basics and Functionality of eSIM 

Although eSIMs are installed in the device, users still need to activate them and link the device to an appropriate credit plan. They can now use their mobile phone without the need to order a physical SIM card, as they can download and activate mobile plans directly from the supported carrier’s website. Since there is no actual SIM card available, switching between mobile carriers or plans is simple and quick because there is no need to change SIMs. eSIMs are also remotely manageable, which is very useful for people who travel a lot or use their phones frequently. 

Users can connect with up to ten service providers on a single phone, creating a more connected system and allowing the use of multiple eSIMs. Because of this, it is more convenient to switch networks while traveling since users will not have to bring along numerous physical SIM cards.

The Instant Effect of Removing an eSIM

It is important to note that the deletion of an eSIM does not correspond to the physical removal of the embedded chip from your device, or removal of any sort with the device itself. Rather, it pertains to the deletion of the eSIM profile that uniquely identifies your mobile network.

During the installation of your device, it is able to automatically download crucial data such as SIM card details, network authorization codes and specialized configuration data from the eSIM cellular network. This extremely useful information is safely kept on your device’s internal memory for easy access even without a physical SIM card.

When you decide to delete an eSIM, all this stored data linked to this particular profile is irrevocably destroyed. Consequently, your phone is no longer able to connect to the network with that particular eSIM until you either reinstall or activate a new eSIM. Unlike physically removing a SIM card, this allows you to manage it more conveniently.

Loss of Network Connection and Mobile Services

The deletion of an eSIM from a mobile device leads to the instant and complete loss of mobile services as the device can no longer connect to any network. Therefore, making or receiving calls, texting, and using data for internet browsing is no longer possible. eSIMs work in the same way as traditional SIM cards, which is to say, removing the eSIM profile effectively terminates your connection to the mobile network.

That said, deleting an eSIM does not change anything else for your device. Files, settings, contacts and installed apps will remain untouched. The only thing that changes is that the phone will no longer have an active mobile network until the user installs a new eSIM or changes the SIM. If the eSIM is the only option for connectivity, one must ensure to have a backup network option to maintain mobile service supply before deleting it.

Keeping Your Cellular Plan After Deleting an eSIM

With TravelSim’s offer, you can rest assured that you won’t lose your eSIM. To restore your plan, simply scan your QR code and you will have your cellular plan back in action within minutes! There is no need to buy a new eSIM, as you can now reactivate your eSIM.  

Your QR code can easily be accessed in two different places, including your email which will be sent after the purchase of the eSIM, or in the My Account section of our website. In order to get your QR code, scan it from your device’s eSIM settings and it’s as simple as that. All that’s left is to follow the on-screen prompts within minutes, your eSIM profile will be loaded

This makes it easier to restore mobile services while on the go. In case you face issues while attempting to restore the eSIM, our support team is available to help you round the clock.

Reminders before deleting an eSIM

Here are a few pointers you should note before erasing your eSIM:

Secure your data: Secure your data, including network account details, eSIM configuration settings, and backup files.

Additional SIM card: When your eSIM is erased, your phone will no longer be capable of making phone calls, sending SMS, or using the mobile data assigned to your SIM card. You might want to keep an additional eSIM handy in case you wish to continue using the same mobile plan.If you want to continue using your mobile plan, an additional SIM card will be required.

Deleting an eSIM is very straightforward, so you can erase it on a smartphone or device that you wish to sell or give away.

How do you remove an eSIM from your iPhone?

Please follow the instructions below if you’d like to know how to remove an eSIM from an iPhone.

  • First, open Settings.
  • Tap on Mobile Service.
  • Select the plan or eSIM connection that you wish to remove from your device.
  • Then press delete eSIM.

Retrieving a Lost eSIM: Is It Possible?

Recovering a deleted eSIM is possible depending on a variety of factors. Below is a compilation of factors to bear in mind.

Act quick: If you deleted your eSIM by mistake, there is little time to waste. Your profiles might be lost, so check your device to see if there is a way to revert or undo. A few devices do allow certain changes to be reverted within the grace period so make use of that.

Reach out to your provider: Being a Travel SIM customer allows you to access the QR code received during the initial purchase of your eSIM. You can find your code on our website under My Account.

Backup device: If you take regular backups of your device, there is a chance that the eSIM configuration is part of the backup, so restoring a previous version of your device may work. Be sure to check backup options available to your device and restore from a time prior to deletion of the eSIM. 

Manufacturer’s support: Consider reaching out directly to the manufacturer and seek their support. They may have additional recommendations to assist you in recovering deleted profiles of the eSIM.

Effects of factory reset on eSIMs

While troubleshooting, a factory reset can be an effective step to take when there are issues relating to software, but it will set the smartphone back to its original settings. This means that all data and tailored settings on your device will be deleted.

When a device is reset, there will be a prompt asking whether eSIM profiles should be kept or not. If the eSIMs are retained then all eSIM profiles will remain post factory reset, but the other data in the device will be wiped clean.

In case the phone is lost or resold, the user should switch eSIM off. By doing so, the user can conveniently protect all personal settings stored within the device and tailored settings on the device will be cleared.

Smart Management of Your eSIMs

Before erasing or turning off your eSIM, remember to save relevant files or configurations and be prepared to restore it back in case the need arises. Also, it is a good idea to contact your mobile network provider and the device manufacturer for any guidance around deleting or deactivating your eSIM since they might have some recommendations worth noting.

Consider using descriptive names for your eSIM profiles to avoid confusion when deleting unnecessary ones. Learn how to delete old and unused eSIM profiles to simplify managing your active eSIMs.

Connected On the Go with eSIMCards UK

eSIMCards UK makes it easier to stay mobile with no need for a SIM card. With our eSIM, you will have access to fast 5G internet, a reliable calling plan, and even the ability to act as a hotspot. You can stay connected while at home or even traveling through Europe. You may change networks without missing any calls. Activation only takes two minutes. With our low pricing and money-back guarantee, you can be sure we have your mobile needs covered. For a smarter, more flexible mobile experience, switch to eSIMCards UK eSIMs today.

In Conclusion  

The moment the eSIM gets disabled, all network connections associated with your device will be terminated immediately. Calling, SMS, and data transfer functions will also be stopped. While some eSIMs can be reactivated with an old QR code, there are times you will have to contact your service provider. To avoid challenges, ensure you back up your eSIM and set up new connections before deleting or changing the airline plan. For frequent travelers, airline eSIMs are especially useful because they keep them connected and enhance their travel experience.

FAQ’s

Q1.What happens when I remove an eSIM from my phone?

Ans. When you delete an eSIM from your phone, you lose access to cellular data, voice, and SMS services associated with that eSIM. 

Q2. Will deleting an eSIM erase my data?

Ans. Yes, deleting an eSIM will erase the data.

Q3. Can I reactivate my deleted eSIM?

Ans. Yes, you can reactivate a deleted eSIM .

Q4. Can I retrieve a lost or deleted eSIM?

Ans. No, you generally cannot directly retrieve a lost or deleted eSIM on your own.

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