Can I Convert My Physical SIM to eSIM? Globe, Smart, DITO and GOMO Steps for Filipinos (2026)
Filipinos can convert a Globe, Smart, DITO or GOMO physical SIM to eSIM in the carrier app or at a store, keeping the same number. Here are the steps, the phone check, and why you keep that line for OTPs when you travel.
Quick answer: Yes, a Filipino can convert a Globe, Smart, DITO or GOMO physical SIM to eSIM if the phone supports eSIM and the carrier allows the switch, keeping the same number. Check for an EID by dialing *#06# first, then use the carrier's own app or store, because the Convert to eSIM menu only appears when the carrier supports it (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
Key takeaways
- Phone first: dial *#06# and look for an EID number. Every iPhone from the XS, XS Max and XR onwards supports eSIM, while Android depends on the model and the country it was sold in (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
- Carrier second: the Convert to eSIM option comes from the carrier, not just the phone. If it is missing, the carrier can send the eSIM through its app or give a QR code (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
- Old SIM stops: once the eSIM is active the physical SIM no longer works, so keep it for a while but do not reuse it (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
- Travel angle: a travel eSIM is an extra data line beside your home number, and it works alongside a physical SIM too (SimOptions, 28 October 2026). Keep the Philippine line for bank OTPs and add data abroad.
You can convert a Globe, Smart, DITO or GOMO physical SIM to eSIM, but only if your phone has an EID and your carrier allows the switch. Dial *#06# first: if no EID appears, stop there and keep the plastic card (Source 4).
Can I convert my physical SIM to eSIM, or do I need a new number?
Yes, you can convert your Globe, Smart, DITO or GOMO physical SIM to an eSIM and keep the same number. The conversion is done in your phone's settings if your carrier supports it, as Android Authority explains (20 April 2025). SimOptions adds that the switch takes a few taps and your number stays with you (updated 28 October 2026).
If the Convert to eSIM option is missing, your carrier can still issue an eSIM. They either push it to your phone or give you a QR code to scan, per SimOptions. The physical SIM stops working once the eSIM is active, so keep the old card for a few days before discarding it.
Which phones sold in the Philippines can actually do the conversion?
Every iPhone from the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR onwards supports eSIM, according to SimOptions. On Android, support depends on the model and the country it was sold in. Dial *#06#: if you see an EID number, your phone has eSIM hardware.
For Samsung, the Galaxy S20 and newer, Note 20 and Z series support eSIM, per iRoamly (16 June 2025). Google Pixel 3 and newer also support it. Other brands like OnePlus, Oppo and Motorola may have eSIM, but you need to check the SIM settings for an Add eSIM or Convert to eSIM option.
| Phone | eSIM support | Source |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and newer | Yes | SimOptions, 28 Oct 2026 |
| Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Note 20, Z series | Yes | iRoamly, 16 Jun 2025 |
| Google Pixel 3 and newer | Yes | iRoamly, 16 Jun 2025 |
| Other Android brands | Check for EID via *#06# | SimOptions, 28 Oct 2026 |
How do I convert on an iPhone, step by step?
On iPhone, connect to Wi-Fi, open Settings, tap Cellular (or Mobile Service), then tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM. Choose the number that uses your physical SIM, tap Convert to eSIM, and confirm. These are Apple's own steps as listed by SimOptions.
Android Authority gives the same path: Settings > Cellular > Convert to eSIM > Convert Cellular Plan > Convert to eSIM. Once the process runs, your physical SIM deactivates and the eSIM takes over. Remove the physical SIM and restart your iPhone.
If you do not see Convert to eSIM, your carrier does not offer in-device conversion. Ask your carrier for an eSIM. They may send it straight to your iPhone (you get a notification) or give you a QR code to scan in Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code.
How do I convert on a Samsung or other Android phone?
On Samsung, go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager, select your SIM, and tap Convert to eSIM. Follow the on-screen instructions. This works on Galaxy S20 and newer, Note 20 and Z series, per iRoamly.
On Google Pixel and other Android phones, open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, select your SIM, scroll to the bottom and look for Convert to eSIM. Android Authority notes this option is not available on all devices, and some manufacturers add their own version.
If the option is missing, your carrier may not support in-device conversion. Contact your carrier and request an eSIM QR code. Scan it in Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM, then follow the prompts. Your physical SIM will stop working once the eSIM is active.
What happens to my physical SIM, my contacts and my OTPs after the switch?
Once the eSIM is active, your physical SIM stops working. Apple states that the physical SIM no longer works after conversion (Source 4). The eSIM keeps your number and carrier, so your Globe, Smart, DITO or GOMO line stays the same for calls and texts. OTPs continue to arrive on the eSIM because it is your line, not a new one.
Contacts saved on the SIM card itself do not move to the eSIM. On iPhone, copy them first: Settings > Apps > Contacts > Import SIM Contacts (Source 4). Contacts stored in your phone or Google account are not affected.
Keep the old plastic card for a while, but do not reuse it. Once the eSIM has signal and you can make a call, remove the SIM and restart the phone (Source 4).
Frequently asked questions
Do I keep my number when I convert to eSIM?
Yes. You keep the same number and carrier. The physical SIM stops working once the eSIM is active, so keep the old card for a while but do not reuse it (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
My phone does not show Convert to eSIM. What now?
The option comes from the carrier. Ask the carrier for an eSIM: they either push it to your phone or give a QR code to scan in Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
Can I convert on Android?
Sometimes. Android support is less uniform. On Samsung go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Convert to eSIM. On Pixel look under Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. If missing, ask the carrier (Android Authority, 20 April 2025).
What happens to contacts saved on the SIM?
They do not move to the eSIM. Copy them to the phone first. On iPhone go to Settings > Apps > Contacts > Import SIM Contacts (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
Can I go back to a physical SIM later?
Yes, ask your carrier for a new card. Phones without a SIM tray cannot switch back (SimOptions, 28 October 2026).
Keep your PH line, add data abroad
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Terms and conditions
- Information only. This article explains carrier conversion steps and travel data options. It is not legal, financial or telecom advice. Check with your carrier before changing your line.
- For readers in the United States. Information only, not an offer or sale, and not advice. Fizen is not offered to US Persons.
- Carrier steps change. Globe, Smart, DITO and GOMO can change their eSIM processes and requirements at any time. Confirm in the carrier app or store before you start.
- Travel eSIM is separate. A travel eSIM is a data line, not a replacement for your Philippine number. Keep your home line active for OTPs and calls.
Sources
- SimOptions, How to Convert Physical SIM to eSIM on iPhone and Android, updated 28 October 2026
- Android Authority, How to convert your SIM card to an eSIM, 20 April 2025
- iRoamly, How to Convert Physical SIM to eSIM: A Step-by-Step Guide, 16 June 2025
- GSMA Intelligence, Coverage Maps 2026
Facts were checked on 05 November 2026.
