Your SIM Is Not Supported eSIM Transfer on iPhone 16/15/14? Fix Now!

Part 1. What Is eSIM Transfer

eSIM transfer refers to the process of moving an embedded SIM (eSIM) from one iPhone to another. Unlike traditional SIM cards that require physical swapping, eSIMs are digital and can be activated remotely. This capability allows users to switch devices without needing a new SIM card or visiting a carrier store.

The transfer process is designed to be straightforward: during the setup of a new iPhone, users can select the option to transfer their eSIM from their old device, typically through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections. The eSIM transfer feature is available on iPhone XS and later models.

Part 2. Why Does It Say Your SIM Is Not Supported eSIM Transfer

When attempting to transfer an eSIM from your old iPhone to a new one, you might encounter the message stating that "the SIM in your old phone doesn't support eSIM transfer". This issue can arise for several reasons, primarily related to carrier restrictions, device compatibility, and the specifics of your eSIM setup. Understanding these factors can help you troubleshoot the problem effectively.

• Carrier Restrictions: Not all carriers support eSIM transfers between devices. If your carrier does not offer this feature, you will need to obtain a new eSIM or revert to using a physical SIM card.
• Device Compatibility: The old and new iPhones must both support eSIM technology. If your old device is an earlier model that does not fully support eSIM functionality, it may lead to this error.
• Outdated Software: Both devices should be running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can create compatibility issues during the transfer process.
• Activation Method: Some carriers require specific methods for activating or transferring eSIMs. If you attempt to use an unsupported method, you may receive this error message.
• Account Issues: Problems with your cellular account, such as unpaid bills or restrictions on your plan, can prevent successful eSIM transfers.
• Incorrect Settings: If the settings on either device are not configured correctly (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is disabled), it can hinder the transfer process.

Part 3. How to Fix the SIM in Your Old Phone Doesn't Support eSIM Transfer

If you encounter the error message "your SIM is not supported eSIM transfer" when trying to move your verizon eSIM to a new iPhone 16/15/14 , don't worry - there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue.

1. Verify Carrier Support

First, check with your carrier to ensure they support eSIM transfers. Some carriers may have specific requirements or restrictions that could prevent the transfer from occurring smoothly.

2. Update iOS

This eSIM transfer not working iPhone issue often arises due to compatibility problems between the software versions of your old and new devices. By ensuring that both iPhones are running the latest version of iOS, you can resolve many potential glitches and enhance the chances of a successful eSIM transfer.

• Tap on the "Settings" icon on your home screen.
• Scroll down and select "General".
• Tap on "Software Update". Your device will check for available updates.
• If an update is available, tap "Download and Install".

Related read: Fix iOS 18 Preparing Update Stuck on iPhone

3. Check Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connections

During the eSIM transfer process, the old and new iPhones communicate with each other via Bluetooth to securely share the eSIM data. If Bluetooth is not turned on or is experiencing connectivity issues, the transfer will fail, leading to the error your SIM is not supported eSIM transfer message.

A strong Wi-Fi signal ensures that both devices can communicate with your carrier's servers to activate the eSIM on the new iPhone. Without a stable internet connection, the eSIM activation process may not complete.

4. Reset Network Settings

This iPhone eSIM transfer not supported error also stems from network-related issues that can disrupt the eSIM transfer process. By resetting your network settings, you can clear any glitches and restore the default network configurations, which may help facilitate a successful transfer.

• Tap on the "Settings" app on your home screen. Scroll down and select "General".
• Scroll to the bottom and tap on "Reset". Tap on "Reset Network Settings".
• If prompted, enter your device passcode. Confirm that you want to reset your network settings when prompted.

5. Force Restart iPhone

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve underlying issues, like your SIM is not supported this phone number can't be transferred. To force restart your iPhone, quickly press and release the volume up button, then the volume down button, and finally press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo.

Related read: Unable to Transfer Phone Number eSIM

6. Try Manual Activation

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues. To force restart your iPhone, press and quickly release the volume up button, then press and quickly release the volume down button, and finally press and hold the side button until you see the Apple logo.

7. Manually Activate eSIM

If the automatic eSIM transfer process fails and you encounter the error message "your SIM is not supported eSIM transfer", manually activating your eSIM can be an effective solution. This method allows you to bypass any potential issues with the automatic transfer and directly activate your eSIM on the new device.

• Reach out to your carrier's customer support and inform them that you need to manually activate your eSIM on a new iPhone. They may provide you with a QR code or activation details.
• Open Settings on Your New iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
• If your carrier provided a QR code, use your iPhone's camera to scan it. Alternatively, manually enter the activation details they provided.
• Your iPhone will prompt you to follow the on-screen instructions to complete the eSIM activation process.
• Once the process is complete, go to Settings > Cellular to ensure your eSIM is active and functioning properly on your new iPhone.

Related read: Fix iPhone 16 SIM Not Supported

8. Contact Carrier Support

If all else fails, reach out to your carrier's customer support for assistance. They may need to verify your account settings or provide additional instructions specific to their service.

Part 4: How to Transfer Data from Old Phone to New iPhone 16/15/14

After addressing the issue of "your SIM is not supported eSIM transfer", it's essential to ensure that all your important data is transferred seamlessly to your new iPhone. This is where Tenorshare iCareFone comes into play. This powerful tool simplifies the process of transferring data between iPhone/iPad and PC/Mac.

With its user-friendly interface, you can easily transfer a variety of data types — including photos, contacts, messages, and app data — without losing any important information. Additionally, iCareFone supports a wide range of iOS devices, including the latest iPhone 16 series, ensuring compatibility for most users.

• Comprehensive Data Transfer: Easily move contacts, messages, photos, videos, and more between iOS devices.
• User-Friendly Interface: Accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy.
• Selective Data Transfer: Choose specific files or types of data rather than migrating everything at once.
• Backup and Restore Options: Back up old iPhone before transferring data and restore it when needed.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Support various operating systems and iOS devices.

How to Transfer Data from Old iPhone to New iPhone 16

• Download the Tenorshare iCareFone on your computer, and install and launch it. Connect your old iPhone to the computer using the lightning cable, and if prompted, enter the passcode on your iPhone screen and select “Trust this Computer”.

• On the main interface of iCareFone, open up the Backup & Restore tab from the left side of the window. Here you can select the data you want to transfer to your iPhone 16.

  

• Once you have selected the data you want to transfer, click on Backup. After completed, you can select to view backup data.

  

• When the backup process is successfully completed, it’s time to connect your new iPhone 16 to move all the backed-up files.

  

Conclusion

If your old phone's SIM doesn't support eSIM transfer, there are effective solutions to address this issue. Also, consider using Tenorshare iCareFone to seamlessly transfer data from old phone to new iPhone 16, 15, or 14. This software simplifies the process, ensuring that your important files, contacts, and settings move over without hassle. With these steps, you can enjoy your new iPhone without missing a beat.

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