With the iPhone 14 going eSIM-only in the US, eSIM has returned to the spotlight. eSIM support was present on many phones before this move, but it was always paired with a physical SIM, giving users a valuable choice. As Apple moves towards eSIM, Android needs to catch up and ensure its users have everything they need for eSIM, or it may be left behind in the iOS vs Android battle. Similar to how iPhones can convert your physical SIM to an eSIM, Pixel devices will soon support eSIM conversion.
The latest Android 14 QPR 2 Beta software includes the foundation for this new “Convert to eSIM” tool. It sits inactive in the SIM settings menu for now. But Google is laying the groundwork to allow Pixel phones to quickly and easily switch an existing physical SIM over to the eSIM format with one tap. No need to call your carrier or hunt for instructions – the smartphone will handle it automatically through simple on-device controls.
Unlike iPhones that can only convert SIMs during initial setup, Pixels and other Android phones let you change eSIM/physical choices anytime since both slots are available. The Pixel 8 also already moves eSIM profiles between new and old Pixels for T-Mobile and Deutsche Telekom customers abroad. Look for even better cross-carrier eSIM migration help as soon as Android catches up to Apple on this digital SIM functionality. Converting to eSIM from your current physical SIM could be as straightforward on Pixels as on iPhones in the near future!
