eSIM Compatibility Guide

  • Updated

eSIM Compatibility Guide

A device will only have an EID (Embedded Identity Document) if it supports eSIM. The EID is a unique serial number used for eSIM activation and is typically printed on the device box. You can also find your EID:

  • Smartphones: Dial *#06#
  • Tablets: Go to Settings > About

General Compatibility

Most devices released after 2020 support eSIM. However, if the device was purchased overseas, the eSIM may not work in Australia due to regional restrictions. Always check your device’s compatibility on the manufacturer’s website.

Device Requirements for eSIM Activation

To activate an eSIM, ensure your device meets the following criteria:

  1. eSIM Support: The device must support eSIM and run an operating system version that enables eSIM functionality.
  2. Model-Specific Support: Some manufacturers (e.g., Apple) have specific models that support eSIM. For iPads, only Cellular models support eSIM.
  3. Unlocked Device: The device must be unlocked to accept eSIMs from any provider. Devices locked to the Telstra Retail network should work with Telstra Wholesale, and thus work with Telair Mobile.
  4. Camera Access: A camera is required to scan the QR code for activation.
  5. Network Compatibility: The device must support Australian network frequencies.

Important Notes on Tablets and Laptops

  • Not all iPads and tablets support eSIM.
  • Telair Mobile does not support MEWS-based activation.
  • Devices using MEWS (Mobile Entitlement WebSheet) may not work with Telair Mobile eSIMs.

For laptop compatibility, refer to this third-party resource:
🔗 List of Laptops with eSIM Support

Will eSIM Work on My Device?

Activation Method Smartphone Laptop Tablet Smartwatch
QR Code Activation ✅ Yes ✅ Yes* ✅ Yes* ❌ No
MEWS Activation ❌ No ❌ No ❌ No ✅ Yes

*Laptop and tablet support depends on whether the device supports cellular and does not default to MEWS (e.g., some iPads and Surface Pro models).

What is MEWS?

MEWS is an entitlement server used by Apple, Samsung (watches), and Google (watches). It hosts the activation websheet and verifies the user.

  • The eSIM profile is downloaded to a primary device
  • Then transferred via Bluetooth to a secondary device
  • Note: activation won’t work for tablets/laptops using MEWS.

QR Code Activation Methods

  1. Standard QR Code
    • Contains IP address + activation code
    • Fetches profile from server
  2. Manual Entry (Fallback)
    • Mobile Virtual Network Operator provides IP + activation code
    • Used only if QR code fails
  3. App-Based Activation
    • App retrieves IP + activation code from Mobile Virtual Network Operator backend
    • Connects and activates via app

All three methods are reliable for smartphones.

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