Deleting an eSIM from an iPhone is a five-step process.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular. In some regions, this may be labelled Mobile Service or Mobile.
- If you have one cellular plan, tap Delete eSIM.
- If you have multiple plans, tap the plan you want to remove, then tap Delete Plan.
- Confirm the deletion.
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| You have one eSIM | Go to Settings > Cellular > Delete eSIM |
| You have multiple eSIMs | Select the plan, then tap Delete Plan |
| You are selling or giving away the iPhone | Delete the eSIM while resetting the iPhone |
| You want to stop paying for the plan | Contact your mobile carrier |
| You are troubleshooting a connection problem | Do not delete the eSIM unless your carrier tells you to |
What Happens When You Delete an eSIM?
Deleting an eSIM removes that cellular plan from your iPhone. To use the phone number or plan again, you may need a replacement eSIM from your carrier.
Deleting the eSIM does not necessarily cancel the mobile plan or stop billing. Contact your carrier to cancel the service or confirm that billing has ended.
Should You Delete the eSIM Before Selling Your iPhone?
Yes. If you are selling, trading in or giving away your iPhone, delete the eSIM during the reset process.
Go to:
Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings
When prompted, choose Delete eSIM and Erase Data. Apple also lets you keep the eSIM if you are resetting the iPhone for your own use.
Should You Delete the eSIM to Fix a Connection Problem?
No. Contact your carrier before deleting the eSIM if your iPhone has no service, mobile data is not working or calls are failing.
Apple says a deleted eSIM may require a new carrier-issued eSIM before the service works again.
Sources
- Apple Support: How to erase an eSIM from your iPhone
- Apple Support: How to reset your iPhone