eSIM Discount - Blog Details

19 Apr 2025

Using eSIMs Alongside Your Regular Carrier Plan: How It Works

Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can use an eSIM without replacing your current carrier, the answer is yes!
Modern smartphones let you keep your existing SIM active for calls and texts while adding an eSIM for travel or local data.

“This means you can stay connected on your regular number while enjoying affordable international data through eSIMDiscount. ”

What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM (short for “embedded SIM”) is a digital version of the physical SIM card.
Instead of swapping tiny plastic cards, you simply scan a QR code and activate your new plan instantly.

How eSIMs Work with Your Regular Carrier

Think of eSIMs as a second SIM slot built right into your phone.
You can assign one SIM for calls and another for data — or switch between them with a tap.

Example setup:

Line 1: AT&T (calls and texts)
Line 2: eSIMDiscount Travel Plan (data only)

You’ll receive calls and texts as usual while your eSIM provides fast, local internet wherever you travel.

How Many eSIMs Can My Phone Hold?

Device Type Active Lines Stored eSIM Profiles Notes

iPhone (XS and newer) 2 active Up to 8 stored iPhone 15+ supports multiple active eSIMs

Samsung Galaxy (S20–S25 series) 2 active Varies Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) supported

Google Pixel (4 and newer) 2 active Varies Supports eSIM + physical SIM or dual eSIM on newer models

Other Android Devices 1–2 active Varies Check your manufacturer’s specs

💡 Tip: You can switch between stored eSIMs at any time — no need to delete them.

When eSIMs Might Not Work

Some devices have limitations based on region or carrier:

📵 Carrier-locked phones may block outside eSIMs until unlocked.
🚫 China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan variants of certain models disable eSIM entirely.
⚙️ Older models (before 2018) often lack eSIM hardware.

Always confirm your phone is unlocked and eSIM-ready before purchasing a plan.

Benefits of Using an eSIM with Your Existing SIM

Stay reachable on your main number while abroad.
Avoid roaming fees by using local or regional data plans.
Instant setup — no need to visit a store or wait for a SIM card.
Environmentally friendly — no plastic, no shipping, no waste.

Pro Tip from eSIMDiscount

You don’t have to choose between your carrier and your travel plan — you can use both.
Simply:

Keep your main SIM active for calls/texts.
Set your eSIMDiscount plan as your primary data line in Settings.

You’ll get the best of both worlds — connection at home and abroad, no hassle.

Final Thoughts

eSIM technology gives you the flexibility to stay connected anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re traveling for business, exploring new destinations, or just want a backup data plan, eSIMDiscount makes it simple to connect instantly.

Ready to get started?
Visit our Connection Lab to choose your destination and find the perfect plan.