EID number: what it is and how to find it

The EID number identifies the eSIM chip itself, which the GSMA standard calls the eUICC. It is the foundation of eSIM technology: thanks to it, a carrier can remotely send an eSIM profile to the right device, and to no other. Whether you use a SIM or an eSIM, your mobile service works the same way; only the installation method changes.

In practice, the EID number is used to:

• activate the eSIM: during eSIM activation, the carrier links your mobile plan and your mobile data to the chip in your phone;
• store several eSIM profiles: all the plans installed on your device share the same EID;
• check compatibility: a phone that displays an EID supports eSIM (every device that supports eSIM has one);
• transfer a line to a new phone, when your carrier asks for it;
• manage your eSIM profiles: when traveling, you keep your physical SIM card for calls and add an eSIM for internet access abroad, without swapping chips.

Why should you know your EID number? Most of the time, you'll never need it: the QR code or your provider's app passes the information along in the background. But some carriers ask for your EID number for a manual activation, a phone switch, troubleshooting or a help center request. Writing it down once and for all, in a secure note, saves you time the day someone asks for it, especially when you're traveling abroad.

With voilà eSIM, you don't have to share it: you buy your data plan for your destination, tap “Install eSIM” in the app and the eSIM downloads on its own, or you scan the QR code sent by email. No subscription, no technical setup, and you keep your hotspot working just like with your usual plan. voilà eSIM offers excellent value for money, an easy-to-install eSIM, an easy-to-use app, and 24/7 human customer support if anything goes wrong.

How do you find your EID? The fastest way to get your full number: open the Phone app and dial the **code *#06#**, which works on iPhone as well as on Android devices. On most eSIM-compatible smartphones, the screen shows the IMEI and, just below it, the EID number. If nothing appears, follow the steps for your brand below: each manufacturer puts this information in its own menus.

On iPhone: find your iPhone's EID number

1. Open “Settings”.
2. Tap “General”, then “About”.
3. Scroll down to the “EID” line.
4. Touch and hold the number to copy it, and check the EID before sending it to your carrier.

Every eSIM-compatible iPhone, from the iPhone XS and XR onward, shows this line.

On Android: find the EID number on a Samsung

1. Open “Settings”.
2. Tap “About phone”.
3. Tap “Status information” (or “IMEI information”, depending on the model).
4. Look for the “EID” line.

This is the most common path to locate the EID on a recent Samsung Galaxy. On some Galaxy models, the EID is under “SIM card status”. It is also printed on the box label.

Find the EID number on a Google Pixel

1. Open “Settings”.
2. Tap “About phone”.
3. Tap “SIM status”.
4. Read the “EID” line.

Google also states that the EID number is printed on the Pixel's box.

Find the EID number on a OnePlus

1. Open “Settings”.
2. Tap “Wi-Fi & network”, then “SIM & network”.
3. Open the “eSIM settings”.
4. Look for the EID in the eSIM details or under “Advanced”.

Menus vary depending on the OxygenOS version. If you can't find the EID on Android, type “EID” in the Settings search bar and press Enter.

Find the EID number on a Motorola

1. Open “Settings”.
2. Tap “About phone”.
3. Open the “EID”, “eSIM status” or “Device details” entry, depending on the model.
4. Read the number under the “EID” line.

On other mobile devices

• iPad or cellular tablet: “Settings” > “General” > “About”, EID line.
• Any brand: the Settings search bar almost always finds the “EID” line.
• Without turning the device on: the EID is on the barcode of the original packaging. For an iPhone, Finder on a Mac and your Apple Account (account.apple.com, Devices section) also show it.

A watch with a cellular option has its own eSIM chip, and therefore its own EID number, different from your phone's. Handy to know: this is the number the carrier uses to connect the watch to your main line.

Find the EID number on an Apple Watch

• On the watch: “Settings” > “General” > “About”, then scroll down to the EID.
• From your iPhone: open the “Watch” app, then “My Watch” > “General” > “About”.

Find the EID number on a Samsung Galaxy Watch

• On the watch: “Settings” > “About watch”, then the device section where the EID number is shown.
• From your phone: open the “Galaxy Wearable” app, then “Watch settings” > “About watch”.

Find the EID number on a Google Pixel Watch

• On the watch: “Settings” > “Connectivity” > “Mobile”, then the SIM status.
• The exact label depends on the Wear OS version: if in doubt, check the box label too.

Your EID number doesn't appear? A missing EID is rarely a serious error and almost always comes down to one of these causes, each with its fix:

1. Your phone isn't eSIM compatible. No eSIM chip, no EID. That's the case for iPhones older than the XS and XR and for many entry-level Android phones. Check the list of eSIM-compatible devices.
2. It's a specific variant of a model. Some models sold in mainland China have no eSIM, even if the international version does.
3. Your system isn't up to date. Run the software update, then restart: software issues can hide the EID line.
4. The eSIM module isn't enabled. On some phones sold by a carrier, the eSIM feature may be disabled: contact the carrier that sold you the device to confirm.
5. You're looking in the wrong place. Type “EID” in the Settings search, or turn the box over.

If your phone does show an EID but the eSIM won't install, or an error message appears, follow our help to install an eSIM on iPhone or on Android, step by step. At voilà eSIM, human support also answers you on WhatsApp, 24/7: a real person, available even in the middle of the night on the other side of the world.

Your EID number isn't top secret, but it's not something to post publicly either. Here's what you need to know to stay safe:

• The EID only identifies the eSIM chip. On its own, it gives no access to your line, your data or your carrier account.
• Installing an eSIM also requires an activation code issued by the carrier, and the profile download is encrypted and authenticated according to the GSMA standard. Knowing your EID is therefore not enough to clone your line.
• Only share it with your carrier or your eSIM provider, through their official channels. An unknown text message or email asking for it is suspicious.
• The thing you really need to protect is your eSIM's QR code: the first person who scans it can install the plan on their phone. Don't share it and don't post it as a screenshot.

With voilà eSIM, you install your eSIM directly from the app, without sending your EID number to anyone. And if you use the QR code sent by email, keep it to yourself.

EID, IMEI, SIM cards: people often mix them up, and it's a frustrating experience when a carrier asks for the wrong number. Three numbers, three roles. The EID number identifies the eSIM chip, the IMEI identifies the phone, and the ICCID (the SIM card number) identifies your line.

Key takeaway: you can install and delete as many eSIM profiles as you like, and the EID number stays the same, even when you reset the phone. To learn more about how the chip works, read what an eSIM is.