Check Nomad compatible devices →
Key takeaways
- Two checks decide everything: the exact model must support eSIM, and the phone must be carrier-unlocked.
- iPhone: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock should say "No SIM restrictions".
- Regional model variants matter — verify your exact model in Nomad's device checker, not a similar name.
- Nomad eSIMs are single-use and non-transferable: change handsets before buying a plan.
- Your normal SIM stays installed; Nomad is added alongside it as a separate profile.
The two checks before buying
1. eSIM support
Use Nomad's device checker and search the exact model. Nomad lists compatible phones, tablets and laptops across Apple, Google, Samsung and other manufacturers. If your model is missing, ask Nomad or the manufacturer instead of guessing from a similar model name.
2. Carrier unlock
Nomad says compatibility can depend on the manufacturer or local carrier. A phone tied to a carrier contract can be locked and unable to use an eSIM. On iPhone, check Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock; "No SIM restrictions" is the helpful result. On Android, your carrier is the safest place to confirm the unlock status.
Device checks out? Use ESIMDUDE15 for 15% off eligible plans.
iPhone and Android settings signs
On an iPhone, look for Add eSIM under Mobile Service/Cellular. On Android, look in Network & internet > SIMs, or Samsung Connections > SIM manager. These are good signs, but Nomad's compatibility page is the better final check.
Nomad says iOS can download up to 10 eSIM profiles, though only one profile can be active at a time. Storage and active-profile limits vary by device, so clear old travel eSIMs only when you no longer need them.
Watch: three ways to check eSIM support on iPhone
This one-minute screen recording shows all three iPhone checks described above — Carrier Lock status, searching Settings for "eSIM", and the Add eSIM button under Cellular.
Video summary: On a real iPhone the video checks Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock (should say "No SIM restrictions"), searches Settings for "eSIM", and confirms an Add eSIM option under Settings > Cellular. It covers iPhone only — for Android, use the settings paths above plus the *#06# EID check, and always confirm your exact model on Nomad's own device checker before paying.
Quick compatibility signal table
Use this table as a fast pre-check, then confirm the exact model on Nomad's device checker before paying.
| What you see on the phone | What it means | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone: "Add eSIM" under Mobile Service/Cellular | Hardware supports eSIM | Check Carrier Lock says "No SIM restrictions" |
| iPhone: Carrier Lock shows a carrier name | Phone is likely locked | Ask your carrier to unlock before buying any eSIM |
| Android: "Add eSIM" / "Download a SIM instead?" option | Hardware supports eSIM | Confirm the exact model on Nomad's checker (regional variants differ) |
| No eSIM option anywhere in SIM settings | Model or regional variant likely lacks eSIM | Do not buy — verify with the manufacturer first |
Keep your normal SIM
Adding Nomad does not remove an existing SIM. You can keep the home line for calls/texts and use Nomad for data. Disable automatic data switching so your home line cannot become the data backup and create roaming charges. See our full setup steps in How to Use Nomad eSIM.
Nomad eSIMs are single-use and cannot be transferred to a different phone. If you are changing handsets soon, do that before buying the plan.
Coupon: Once your device checks out, use
ESIMDUDE15for 15% off eligible plans at checkout.
FAQ
Does Nomad work on Android?
Yes, on compatible, unlocked Android phones. Nomad says most Android devices can work if they support eSIM; check the exact model first.
Can I use Nomad with my physical SIM?
Yes. Choose Nomad for mobile data and leave the physical SIM active for calls/texts if needed. See Nomad calls and texts for details.
Can I move a Nomad eSIM to a new phone?
Nomad says its eSIMs are single-use and non-transferable. Contact support if you lose or replace a phone.
Bottom line
Exact model, carrier unlock, and eSIM storage are the checks that matter. Do them before payment; it is faster than discovering a locked phone at boarding.
Alex Carter
Checked against Nomad's compatible devices page, Android guidance, multiple eSIM help and single-use policy.