How Many eSIMs Can You Have in an iPhone 16? A Quiet Upgrade With Big Travel Benefits

Handy Guide

How many eSIMs can iPhone 16 have? If you travel often, Apple’s latest release finally solves common problems like roaming fees, SIM swaps, and unreliable network access abroad.

Key Takeaways

The iPhone 16 can store up to 10 eSIM profiles.
Two eSIMs can be active at the same time.
US models are fully eSIM-only; no physical SIM slot is included.
ZIM eSIMs let you stay connected in over 100 countries with no roaming fees.
Ideal for digital nomads, business travelers, and frequent flyers.

What Is an eSIM, and Why Should You Use One?

If you’ve ever searched “sim vs esim” or “how to activate eSIM,” the iPhone 16 is your opportunity to finally ditch the hassle of physical SIM cards. An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative built into your device, allowing you to activate a mobile plan without needing to insert anything.

ZIM Connections allows travelers to select a plan, activate it instantly, and connect to high-speed data anywhere in the world—no airport kiosks, no unexpected charges.

How Many eSIMs Can the iPhone 16 Hold?

The iPhone 16 can store up to 10 eSIM profiles at once.
Two eSIMs can be active simultaneously, enabling dual-line usage.
All iPhone 16 models sold in the US are eSIM-only, meaning they do not have a physical SIM slot.

These capabilities make the iPhone 16 a top choice for anyone managing multiple lines, traveling across borders, or switching between personal and work numbers.

Why This Matters for International Travelers

If you’re wondering “is my phone eSIM compatible,” any iPhone model from the XS onward is likely eligible. But with the iPhone 16, Apple removes nearly all remaining barriers for international travelers.

Challenge	iPhone 16 eSIM Solution	ZIM Advantage
Roaming fees	Avoided with eSIM use	Transparent prepaid pricing
Airport SIM swap	No physical SIM needed	Activate before your flight
SIM card loss or damage	Not a risk with eSIM	Fully digital plans
Multiple destinations	10 eSIMs stored	One plan works across countries
Managing personal and work numbers	Two active eSIMs	Use both at once

With ZIM, users can switch between eSIM profiles for different regions or carriers without needing to remove or replace physical cards.

Stats That Most People Overlook

Here are some lesser-known but important figures that highlight why the iPhone 16’s eSIM capabilities are a big deal:

Over 70% of international travelers use more than one SIM plan each year.
Dual-eSIM functionality on the iPhone 16 allows full separation of personal and business lines, improving productivity and privacy.
Global travelers using ZIM eSIMs in multiple countries report saving up to 65% on mobile data costs compared to traditional roaming.
In a 2024 ZIM user study, 89% of customers said having multiple eSIM profiles made trip planning easier, especially for multi-country travel.

How to Use and Manage eSIMs on iPhone 16

Check Compatibility
Go to Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock
If it reads “No SIM restrictions,” your phone is unlocked and ready.
Install ZIM App
Search for “ZIM” in the App Store and download the app.
Select your destination and data plan, then follow the guided steps to activate your eSIM.
Activate and Label
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
Scan the QR code or use the ZIM app’s direct installation process.
Label each eSIM—for example, “Europe,” “Work,” or “Backup”—to keep things organized.
Switch Profiles as Needed
You can toggle between eSIMs directly in Settings > Cellular.
Only two can be active at once, but switching takes seconds.

Need help setting up your eSIM? Check out our step-by-step ZIM eSIM guide.

Conclusion

The iPhone 16’s eSIM capability is one of its most practical and overlooked features. With storage for 10 profiles and dual active eSIM support, it’s a major win for global travelers who need seamless, reliable mobile connectivity.

Combined with ZIM’s global eSIM coverage, affordable data plans, and instant activation, there’s no reason to settle for roaming charges or SIM-swapping ever again.

Download the ZIM app today to get started. Your next international trip just got a whole lot easier.