Are you planning to get an eSIM for your trip to Glasgow 2026 but not sure if your phone is actually compatible with the technology?
This article will help you to understand exactly which devices support eSIM, how to check compatibility on your specific model in under 60 seconds, and what to do if your phone turns out not to support it. After developing a complete understanding, you can confirm whether a GleeSim UK eSIM will work for you before you spend a single penny.
eSIM compatibility: Your phone must have an embedded eSIM chip (hardware requirement) and the feature must not be locked or disabled by your original carrier (software requirement). Both conditions must be met for an eSIM to install successfully.
Most flagship smartphones sold after 2019 include the eSIM chip hardware. The carrier lock issue mainly affects phones bought directly through a mobile carrier on a payment plan rather than purchased outright or SIM-free.
| iPhone Model | eSIM Compatible |
| iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018) | Yes |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | Yes |
| iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) | Yes |
| iPhone 12 series | Yes |
| iPhone 13 series | Yes |
| iPhone 14 series | Yes (US models are eSIM-only) |
| iPhone 15 series | Yes |
| iPhone 16 series | Yes |
One important note for Indian iPhone users: Apple restricted eSIM activation on iPhones sold in India until the iPhone 13 series. If you purchased your iPhone in India, check that your model is iPhone 13 or newer before purchasing a GleeSim eSIM.
How to check on any iPhone: Go to Settings, tap General, tap About, and scroll down. If you see an EID number listed, your iPhone supports eSIM.
| Samsung Model | eSIM Compatible |
| Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra | Yes (select markets) |
| Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra | Yes |
| Galaxy S22 series | Yes |
| Galaxy S23 series | Yes |
| Galaxy S24 series | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Fold 3 onwards | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Flip 3 onwards | Yes |
| Galaxy A series | Mostly no (budget range) |
How to check on Samsung: Go to Settings, tap Connections, tap SIM Card Manager, and look for an option to Add Mobile Plan or Add eSIM. If it appears, your device supports eSIM.
| Pixel Model | eSIM Compatible |
| Pixel 3, 3a | Yes |
| Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL | Yes |
| Pixel 5, 5a | Yes |
| Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro | Yes |
| Pixel 7, 7a, 7 Pro | Yes |
| Pixel 8, 8a, 8 Pro | Yes |
| Pixel 9 series | Yes |
| Brand | eSIM Status |
| Huawei (post-2020 international models) | Some models, check Settings |
| OnePlus 12, 12R (international) | Select models, check Settings |
| Motorola Edge series (2021 onwards) | Yes on select models |
| Tecno, Infinix, Itel | Not currently supported |
| Nokia flagship models | Select models from 2022 |
Even if your phone has eSIM hardware, a carrier-locked device may refuse to install a GleeSim eSIM. This happens when your phone was purchased on a payment plan directly from your mobile carrier and they have locked the device to their own network.
How to check if your device is unlocked: Go to Settings and search for SIM or Carrier. If you see a message that says SIM Locked or Network Locked, contact your carrier to request an unlock before your trip. Most carriers unlock devices for free once the original contract term is complete.
If you are uncertain, message GleeSim directly on WhatsApp before purchasing and the team will confirm whether your exact model and carrier combination is compatible.
Not every phone will be compatible. If yours is not, you have two options for the Commonwealth Games.
First option: Buy a physical SIM card at Glasgow Airport on arrival. Expect a 20 to 45 minute queue at peak arrival times during the Games.
Second option: Check whether your carrier offers international roaming in the UK and compare the cost against a GleeSim UK eSIM plan for 11 days.
For the majority of visitors with a supported device, the GleeSim eSIM for Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 is the faster, simpler, and cheaper path. It activates in under 3 minutes using the full step-by-step guide, delivers your QR code on WhatsApp, and connects automatically when you land in Scotland.
Get your Glasgow 2026 bundle now and arrive connected.
