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Apple might make transferring eSIMs from iPhone to Android simpler with iOS 19. Proof discovered within the newest Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 means that Apple and Google are working intently to realize this.
At the moment, it’s not doable to straight transfer an eSIM from an iPhone to Android.
iOS 19 might clear up a typical ache level with eSIMs
Apple has gone all-in on eSIM within the U.S., ditching the bodily SIM slot utterly on newer iPhones bought within the area. Whereas it’s simple to maneuver eSIMs between iPhones, issues get sophisticated whenever you carry an Android telephone into the image. Transferring an eSIM from an iPhone to an Android system usually entails a number of steps. Extra importantly, it requires service assist, making the complete course of time-consuming.
Android Authority discovered strings within the SIM supervisor of the most recent Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 indicating Apple will add assist for eSIM switch to Android telephones in iOS 19. The “Switch to Android” choice will probably be situated beneath Settings > Basic > Switch or Reset iPhone. Google can even seemingly replace its setup course of in Android 16 to make importing eSIMs from iPhones simpler.
Apparently, Apple and Google will supply a seamless eSIM switch methodology. Nevertheless, as a fallback, they can even present a QR-based choice. This may require scanning the QR code displayed on the iPhone out of your new Android telephone. As a part of the switch, customers can even have to enter a “session ID” and a “passcode,” probably generated by the iPhone.
eSIM transfers shouldn’t be this sophisticated in 2025
Apple and Google would each have to collaborate on such a characteristic. So, it is smart that leaks about this seamless eSIM switch software are coming from an Android 16 construct.
Apple might discuss this enchancment to its eSIM switch software whereas unveiling iOS 19 at WWDC25 subsequent month. Or it might solely skip speaking about this enhancement because it pertains to Android.
Whereas it’s encouraging to see Apple and Google collaborating on an answer for eSIM transfers, this effort feels lengthy overdue. The transfer ought to assist additional enhance eSIM adoption, particularly exterior the U.S.
