Apple Introduces Cross-Platform eSIM Transfers with iOS 26—No Carrier Longer Required?

Apple is finally adding eSIM transfer between iPhone and Android with the release of iOS 26. The much-anticipated feature is meant to make the frequently annoying process of transferring your mobile number to a different operating system easier, without the necessity of calling your carrier.

Transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android

Apple Introduces Cross-Platform eSIM Transfers with iOS 26—No Carrier Required

One of the most important aspects of iOS 26's new features is a way to transfer an eSIM from iPhone to Android directly within system settings. Previously, this transfer needed to happen through a manual process with your carrier and QR code. Now, Apple makes the change easier for users to transfer between ecosystems.

Reddit testers of iOS 26 say they've seen a "Transfer to Android" option in cellular settings. Although this option doesn't show up for all eSIM plans currently, it's already guaranteed to work with US Mobile's Dark Star eSIM, providing a glimpse at more widespread rollout possibilities.

Apple and Google Collaborate for Smooth Integration

Surprisingly, this isn't a single-sided Apple innovation. Google's Android 16 beta already teased this cross-platform eSIM feature with its own "Transfer to Android" hints, indicating a collaborative effort on the part of the technology giants to make this feature possible.

When adding a new eSIM to an iPhone on iOS 26, users now see a "Transfer From Android" option. By tapping it, the device generates a QR code that an Android phone can scan to start the transfer process, showing the workflow of moving data in the opposite direction.

According to MacRumors, this two-way compatibility between Android and iOS 26 devices is a game-changer for users who constantly switch platforms or need to test different ecosystems without administrator barriers.

Cross-Platform eSIM Support is the Future

So far, transferring your number from iPhone to Android has been a painful process with customer support calls and physical or emailed QR codes. Apple's previous ability to support iPhone-to-iPhone eSIM transfers simplified things within its own network, but it left Android adopters in the dark.

And now, thanks to iOS 26's eSIM transfer functionality, users are freer. No matter if you're trying out a Google Pixel, converting to a Samsung Galaxy, or simply trying Android for the first time, you can take your number with you without a problem.

With that being said, the Cupertino tech giant's decision to add Android eSIM transfer compatibility in iOS 26 is part of a larger trend toward user-first design. It's not necessarily about trapping people in an ecosystem. When you think about it, it's about providing fluid alternatives that maximize flexibility.

With the feature in initial testing and not yet live with all eSIM plans, expect to see ongoing improvements until the complete public release. At last, cross-platform eSIM transfers are no longer a dream. Apple knows that in the long run, this would be the future of mobile connectivity.