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Dual SIM Devices and eSIMs

Many modern smartphones allow you to use two SIMs simultaneously, enabling flexibility for work and personal numbers, domestic and international plans, or data and voice separation. Here’s everything you need to know about how dual SIM works, tips to optimize usage, and how it interacts with eSIMs.

 

What Is Dual SIM?

A dual SIM phone can hold two mobile numbers on a single device. This is achieved in one of two ways:

  1. Physical Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) – Two physical SIM cards are inserted into the phone.

  2. Hybrid Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) – One slot is for a physical SIM, and the second number is supported digitally via an eSIM (embedded SIM).

  3. Slight differences on iPhone - If you're using an iPhone, your device can contain 1 physical SIM and up to 20 eSIMs. Though multiple eSIMs can be stored on your device, only two can be active at a time.
 
Key Things to Be Aware Of

  • Primary vs. Secondary Line: Phones typically let you choose a default line for calls, texts, and mobile data. The secondary line is usually used only when specified.

  • Network Compatibility: RedPocket supports dual SIM use on all networks. The GSMA network is the only RedPocket network that supports international roaming. 

  • Data Usage: Only one SIM can typically use cellular data at a time. You can switch between lines in your settings.

  • Call and SMS Behavior:

    • Incoming calls on one SIM may temporarily block calls on the other.

    • Texts are sent from the selected default line.

  • Roaming: If you are using a GSMA RedPocket SIM abroad, ensure roaming is enabled for that line. Roaming charges may apply.

 

How Dual SIM Works With eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your phone that allows activation without a physical card. When combined with a physical SIM, it enables a hybrid dual SIM setup:

  • You can have one physical SIM and one eSIM active simultaneously.

  • Both numbers can receive calls and texts independently, but only one can use cellular data at a time.

  • Switching the default data line is done through your phone’s settings.

  • eSIMs are ideal for temporary travel plans or additional numbers without needing a second SIM card.

 
Setting Up Dual SIM (General Steps)

On iPhone:

  1. Insert your physical SIM and scan your eSIM QR code (or manually enter activation info).

  2. Go to Settings > Cellular / Mobile Data.

  3. Assign labels (e.g., Personal, Work) for each line.

  4. Choose a default line for voice, messaging, and data.

  5. Switch data line anytime via Settings > Cellular / Mobile Data > Cellular Data.

    Note: Restart your phone after switching SIMs to refresh network connections.

 

On Android:

  1. Insert your physical SIM and set up your eSIM via Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier.

  2. Assign preferred names for each SIM.

  3. Select a default SIM for calls, texts, and data.

  4. Switch data line or enable SIM switching as needed.

  5. Note: Restart your phone after switching SIMs to refresh network connections.

 

Dual SIM phones provide great flexibility for managing multiple numbers, but only one SIM can use data at a time. eSIM makes it easy to add or switch numbers without physical cards, ideal for travelers or extra lines. Visit redpocket.com/plans to purchase a physical SIM card or eSIM.