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My Personal Experience with iPhone XR SIM

Hi, I’m Anna, a frequent traveler and tech enthusiast who has used the iPhone XR SIM setup extensively since 2018. Many people still ask: “Does the iPhone XR use a physical SIM or eSIM?”

Here’s the quick answer: The iPhone XR supports one nano-SIM + one eSIM, except for Chinese versions which use dual nano-SIM.

In this article, I’ll share my hands-on review of using iPhone XR with both SIM types, explain how to install an eSIM, and recommend the best travel eSIM providers you can use today.

👉 Looking for a quick solution? Click here to get your travel eSIM now.

Does the iPhone XR Support eSIM?

Yes. Since its launch in 2018, the iPhone XR has been one of Apple’s first models to support dual SIM functionality:

• One nano-SIM slot (physical card)

• One digital eSIM (embedded SIM you can download)

⚠️ Note: The Chinese variant only has dual nano-SIM and no eSIM support.

How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone XR

Setting up an eSIM on iPhone XR is quick and user-friendly:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.

2. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.

3. Label your plans (e.g., “Home” and “Travel”).

4. Choose which SIM handles data, calls, or SMS.

💡 Pro tip: I usually keep my nano-SIM as my main number and activate eSIM for travel data. This way, I don’t lose access to important calls while abroad.

Why Use eSIM on iPhone XR?

Using eSIM on your iPhone XR offers several advantages, especially if you travel often:

• 🌍 Instant connectivity – Buy online, activate anywhere, no need for physical SIM cards.

• 💰 Save roaming costs – Local rates are much cheaper than international roaming.

• 📱 Dual SIM convenience – Keep your home number active while using travel data.

• 🔄 Flexible switching – Easily switch between carriers without changing SIM cards.

My Real Travel Experience with eSIM on iPhone XR

As someone who has traveled across Europe, Asia, and North America, I can confidently say that eSIM changed the way I use mobile data abroad.

Instead of wasting time at the airport buying SIM cards, I now download an eSIM in advance. For example, when I visited Italy last year, I bought a data plan from Airalo. Within 5 minutes of landing, I was connected—no long queues, no language barrier.

👉 Check Airalo eSIM plans here.

Best eSIM Providers for iPhone XR (2025 Edition)

Here’s a list of trusted eSIM providers I’ve tested or reviewed. Each works smoothly with iPhone XR:

iPhone XR SIM vs. eSIM – Pros and Cons

Nano-SIM (Physical)
✅ Works everywhere
✅ Easy to swap between phones
❌ Requires visiting a store
❌ Risk of losing/misplacing

eSIM (Digital)
✅ Instant activation online
✅ Perfect for travel
✅ No physical risk
❌ Not supported by every carrier
❌ Some plans are data-only

Mid-Content Personal Note

As someone who has personally used over 10 eSIMs on my iPhone XR, I’ve realized that speed and reliability matter more than just low cost. Some cheaper providers gave me unstable connections, while others like Nomad and Airalo kept me online without a hitch.

FAQs – iPhone XR SIM & eSIM

Q: Does iPhone XR have eSIM?
A: Yes, except for the Chinese version.

Q: Can I use two SIM cards in iPhone XR?
A: Yes – one nano-SIM + one eSIM.

Q: Which eSIM works best with iPhone XR?
A: Airalo, Nomad, and Ubigi are popular choices for travelers.

Final Thoughts – Should You Use eSIM on iPhone XR?

In 2025, the iPhone XR SIM setup is still highly practical thanks to its dual SIM (nano + eSIM) support. For travelers like me, eSIM is the ultimate game-changer: instant, flexible, and budget-friendly.

I’m Anna, and I’ve shared my honest review to help you make the right choice. If you’re planning your next trip, I recommend trying one of these trusted eSIM providers.

👉 Click here to browse the best eSIMs for iPhone XR.

Safe travels and happy browsing! 🌍📱

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