How to Delete an eSIM

Switching to an eSIM makes managing business communication more flexible than ever. Whether you’re upgrading your phone, switching carriers, or just reorganizing your team’s devices, knowing how to delete an eSIM can save you time and hassle.

In this guide, we’ll break down the why and how of removing an eSIM – plus a few tips to make the process as smooth as possible.

What is an eSIM, and why should businesses use it?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of inserting a physical SIM, you activate your mobile plan remotely.

For businesses, eSIMs have a lot of advantages:

• Switching networks is quick when you use eSIM, with no need to wait for a physical SIM card to arrive in the post.
• With eSIM, you can use multiple numbers on one phone and keep work and personal calls separate.
• eSIMs allow for easier international roaming, so you can swap to a local provider in minutes.

They’re ideal for business owners and teams who need a flexible, easy-to-manage mobile setup. But sometimes, you’ll need to remove an eSIM – and that’s what we’ll cover next.

Why delete an eSIM?

There are a few reasons you might need to remove an eSIM from a device:

1. Upgrading to a new phone. If you’re switching devices, you may need to delete the old eSIM before setting up a new one.
2. Changing carriers. If you’re moving to a new provider, you’ll need to remove your current eSIM before activating a new plan.
3. Fixing activation issues. Sometimes, deleting and reinstalling an eSIM can resolve connection problems.
4. Managing business devices. If you’re reassigning a work phone to a new employee, deleting the old eSIM ensures a fresh setup for its next owner.
5. Lost or sold devices. Removing an eSIM helps keep your business number secure.

Before you hit delete, check with your carrier – some providers require extra steps for reactivation after removing an eSIM.

How to delete an eSIM on different devices

The process varies slightly depending on whether you’re using an Android or iPhone, but it’s generally quick and easy.

How to delete an eSIM on Android (Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or other Android models)

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Connections (or Network & Internet).
3. Tap Mobile Network or SIM Card Manager.
4. Select the eSIM you want to remove.
5. Tap Delete or Remove, then confirm.

Top tip: Some Android phones need a restart after deleting an eSIM to refresh network settings.

How to delete an eSIM on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
3. Find the eSIM under Cellular Plans or Mobile Plans.
4. Tap the plan you want to remove.
5. Select Remove Cellular Plan (or Delete Plan), then confirm.

Top tip: If you’re transferring your eSIM to another iPhone, check with your carrier before deleting it – you might need a reactivation code.

Other eSIM-compatible devices

For tablets, smartwatches, and other devices, the steps might be a little different. Your best bet is to:

• Check the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.
• Look up your carrier’s support page for guidance on deleting and reinstalling eSIMs.
• If you’re still unable to remove the eSIM, a quick call to your provider’s customer support team may be all you need to get it sorted.

Tips for a hassle-free eSIM deletion

Before deleting an eSIM, keep these best practices in mind:

• Backup your data. Make sure all business contacts, apps, and settings are synced.
• Check with your carrier. Some networks charge a small reactivation fee if you need to set up a new eSIM.
• Test your connection first. If you use dual SIMs, make sure your other plan is working before deleting one.
• Factory reset before selling a phone. Deleting an eSIM isn’t necessarily enough to keep your private information safe and secure. Always erase all data if you’re selling or passing on a device.

Common issues and how to avoid them

Accidentally deleting the wrong eSIM

Some devices support multiple eSIM profiles. Double-check before removing one!

Losing connection unexpectedly

If you’re switching carriers, activate the new eSIM first before deleting the old one to avoid unintentional service gaps.

Trouble deleting the eSIM?

Try these quick fixes:

• Restart your phone and try again.
• Update your software – some eSIM issues are fixed in new updates.
• Contact your carrier if you’re still stuck.

US carriers AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile all support eSIMs, but reactivation rules vary. Some carriers charge a reactivation fee if you’re transferring your eSIM to a new device. If your phone is carrier-locked, make sure it’s unlocked before deleting and switching networks.

Managing eSIMs for business efficiency

Deleting an eSIM is quick and easy, but it’s important to follow the right steps to avoid service disruptions. Whether you’re switching devices, changing networks, or managing work phones for your team, knowing how to remove an eSIM safely will help keep your business communication seamless.

Stay connected with YourBusinessNumber

Managing business numbers shouldn’t be a hassle. With the right approach, you can delete, transfer, and switch eSIMs smoothly – keeping your team online without interruptions.

And we’ve got some exciting news: YourBusinessNumber’s eSIM solution is on the way! Designed for business owners, it’ll make activation, switching, and management easier than ever.

Not quite ready to switch to eSIM yet? No problem. Our virtual number for WhatsApp Business is a simple way to separate work and personal messages – no second phone needed. Take the first step towards streamlining your business communication today!