O2 is one of a growing number of mobile networks that lets you use an eSIM (also known as an embedded SIM) rather than a removable SIM card.
There are lots of advantages to eSIMs, including them taking up less space in your device (which also makes them ideal for smartwatches), and being much more difficult to lose or damage.
How do I get an O2 eSIM?
If you’re a Pay Monthly phone customer on O2 then you can get an eSIM. That means you’ll be eligible if you have a phone on contract or a SIM Only plan, or if you’re a business customer – though in all cases you will also need a compatible phone. However, Pay As You Go customers can’t currently get O2 eSIMs.
If you’re eligible, then you can get an O2 eSIM by following these two simple steps:
Step 1 - Order or switch to eSIM
If you are a new customer you can sign up for an O2 phone deal or an O2 SIM Only deal and select the eSIM option during checkout.
O2 SIM Deal
40GB Data
Unlimited Mins
Unlimited Texts
£8.00 a month12 month contract
O2 SIM Deal
10GB Data
Unlimited Mins
Unlimited Texts
£10.00 a month1 month contract
O2 SIM Deal
80GB Data
Unlimited Mins
Unlimited Texts
£10.00 a month12 month contract
Alternatively, existing O2 customers can request a switch to an eSIM via their My O2 account online. To do this, head to ‘Phones, SIMs and devices’, followed by ‘Manage my device’, and then ‘Replace your SIM’, and select ‘eSIM’.
Step 2 - Activate eSIM
If you’ve ordered a new phone and are new to O2, then wait for your new phone to arrive, switch it on, and simply follow the onscreen instructions. It's a good idea to keep your old phone nearby if you wish to transfer over apps and content.
For a SIM Only plan, you can head to the My O2 app and tap ‘You have an esim profile ready for installation’ under the ‘Account’ section, then tap ‘install now’ and follow the on-screen instructions.
Or, alternatively head to the My O2 site (on a different device) and tap ‘Install my eSIM profile’ followed by ‘Install eSIM profile’, after which a QR code will appear on your screen. Then, on your phone head to ‘Settings’ > ‘Network and Internet’ > ‘SIMs’ followed by ‘Download a new eSIM’, then scan the QR code and tap ‘Download’. Note that some of those section names might differ a bit depending on your device.
If you’re an existing customer switching to eSIM, simply follow the instructions you’re given after selecting ‘Replace your SIM’ in step one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which devices support eSIMs on O2?
O2 eSIMs work with any device that has eSIM capabilities. This includes all iPhones from the iPhone XS and newer, so that includes the latest models like the iPhone 17 range and iPhone Air.
Numerous Android phones also support eSIM, including the Samsung Galaxy S25 range and Google Pixel 10 range, as well as a large number of other phones. Check out our dedicated eSIM guide for a more complete list.
Which O2 plans support eSIM?
O2’s Pay Monthly phone and SIM Only plans support eSIMs, and eSIMs are also available to business customers. However at the time of writing you can’t use an eSIM with an O2 Pay As You Go plan.
Can I switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM or vice versa?
Yes, simply request the type of SIM card you want from O2, using the ‘Replace your SIM’ section of your account on O2’s website.
Can eSIMs be used abroad?
Yes, in use an eSIM is just like a conventional SIM card, so you can use it abroad too, under the same terms. On O2 that means you can roam freely across the EU, up to a 25GB fair usage limit. Some plans also let you roam further afield.
Can I access 5G with an eSIM?
Yes, if you have a 5G phone then you’ll also be able to use 5G with an eSIM.
Which other networks offer eSIMs?
O2 isn’t the only network that offers eSIMs. You can also get them with EE, Three, Vodafone, Lyca Mobile, Giffgaff, Honest Mobile, iD Mobile, ParentShield, Sky Mobile, Spusu, Tesco Mobile, and VOXI.
What happens if I erase my eSIM?
Just give O2 a call to get a replacement. You can also head to an O2 store with your driving license or passport and request a new eSIM.
