Virtual SIM, eSIM or virtual number: which one do you actually need?
An eSIM is a carrier plan downloaded to a chip inside your phone. A virtual number is a phone number you use online with no SIM at all, often for one verification code. "Virtual SIM" can mean either. If you only need a code for a sign-up, you need a virtual number, not an eSIM.
Which kind of number do you need?
Four things people call a "virtual SIM", each drawn as what it physically is.
Physical SIM card
A plastic card from a mobile carrier with a phone number.
- Receives SMS codes
- Needs a slot in the phone
- Usually tied to your ID
- Yours to keep
eSIM
The same carrier plan, downloaded to a chip built into the phone instead of a card.
- Receives SMS codes if the plan has a number
- Several plans on one phone
- Usually tied to your ID
- Yours to keep
Virtual number for one code
A real mobile number you rent online; the code shows on a web page. No SIM at all.
- Receives one SMS code
- Works on any device
- No ID needed
- Released after the code
Permanent number
A number you rent for longer and keep receiving messages on.
- Receives codes again later
- Works on any device
- No SIM
- Some apps refuse VoIP numbers
How does an eSIM work?
The GSMA, the mobile industry's association, wrote the eSIM specification for remote SIM provisioning: instead of posting you a card, the carrier sends your phone a profile. Phones can store several operator profiles and switch between them.
Carrier prepares a profile
Your plan, packaged as a downloadable SIM profile.
You scan or approve
A QR code, the carrier's app, or a transfer from your old phone.
The phone downloads it
The profile is stored on the eSIM chip, next to any others.
You switch it on
The line works like a SIM card: calls, data, and SMS if the plan has a number.
How do you set up an eSIM on iPhone or Android?
iPhone
- Needs an iPhone XS, XS Max, XR or later and a carrier that supports eSIM.
- Activate with eSIM Quick Transfer, carrier activation or a QR code.
- Do it during setup or any time after.
- Apple says you can manage eight or more eSIMs.
Android (Pixel)
- Pixel 3a or later: one physical SIM and one eSIM at the same time.
- Pixel 7 or later: two eSIM profiles at once, if your carrier allows it.
- In the US, Pixel 10 phones except the Pro Fold are eSIM only.
- Other Android brands: check your phone maker's settings.
Can my eSIM receive SMS verification codes?
Answer two questions. The light on the chip turns green, amber or red.
Does your eSIM plan come with a phone number?
Is the number in the country the app expects, or does the app accept foreign numbers?
What do people ask about eSIM and virtual SIMs?
What is the difference between an eSIM and a virtual number?
An eSIM is a carrier plan stored on a chip inside your phone: it gives the phone a real line, usually with your identity behind it. A virtual number is a number you use online without any SIM, often for a single verification code. An eSIM needs a compatible phone; a virtual number works from any browser.
What is a virtual SIM card?
People use "virtual SIM" for two different things: an eSIM, which is a downloadable SIM profile from a carrier, and a virtual number, which is a phone number you use online without a SIM. If you need a code for one sign-up, you want a virtual number; if you want a full mobile plan without a plastic card, you want an eSIM.
Does an eSIM give you a SIM card?
No. An eSIM replaces the plastic card: the carrier's profile is downloaded to a chip built into the phone. Apple describes it as a digital SIM built into iPhone that removes the need for a physical card.
How do I set up an eSIM on Android?
On a Pixel 3a or later you can use one physical SIM and one eSIM at once; on a Pixel 7 or later you can run two eSIM profiles if your carrier allows it. Your carrier gives you the eSIM, usually through its app or a QR code, and you add it in the phone's network settings.
How do I install an eSIM on iPhone?
You need an iPhone XS, XS Max, XR or later and a carrier that supports eSIM. Apple lists eSIM Quick Transfer, carrier activation and a QR code among the ways to activate it, during setup or later.
Can an eSIM receive SMS verification codes?
Yes, if the eSIM plan includes a phone number: it then receives texts like any SIM. Many travel eSIMs are data-only and have no number, so they cannot receive SMS codes. For a single code without a plan, use a virtual number.
Sources: GSMA: What is eSIM; Apple: Set up eSIM on iPhone; Google: Dual SIMs on Pixel.
Only need one code?
Skip the plan. Rent a number for the app you are signing up for and read the code online.