Simplified eSIM transfer from iPhones may be achieved by Android 16 update
News Article: iOS 19 Introduces Wireless eSIM Transfer to Android
In a groundbreaking development for mobile users, Apple's upcoming iOS 19 (or possibly iOS 26) is set to introduce a new feature that allows wireless eSIM transfer from iPhone to Android devices. This announcement was made through Android Authority by Mishaal Rahman, who discovered these new details in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1[1].
This innovative feature streamlines the process of switching from an iPhone to an Android device, eliminating the need for manual setup or physical SIM cards. The wireless eSIM transfer enables secure and seamless transmission of the eSIM profile over the air directly between devices[1][5]. This means users can activate cellular service on their Android device without the need for carrier intervention or QR code scanning, making cross-platform transitions smoother and more efficient.
The wireless eSIM transfer is part of a broader enhancement in iOS, starting with version 19 (and also seen referenced in iOS 26, representing the 2025-2026 cycle). The aim is to provide integrated eSIM transfer capabilities both ways: iPhone to Android and vice versa[1][5].
The process of transferring an eSIM from an iPhone to an Android phone involves the iPhone generating a QR code, session ID, and passcode for the Android device. The Android device then scans the QR code and enters the session ID and passcode to complete the transfer[3]. If the devices are unable to connect wirelessly, it could indicate that the iPhone is not running iOS 19 or later[4].
In addition to simplifying the migration process, the new eSIM transfer feature is expected to make data and file transfer between Android and iOS devices easier[2]. The Google SIM Manager app in Android 16 includes hidden strings revealing details about eSIM transfer to Android phones[6].
This new feature is scheduled to be unveiled at WWDC (June 9-13) this year[7]. With this development, Apple continues to push the boundaries of mobile technology, making cross-device eSIM transfer more efficient and user-friendly[8].
[1] Mishaal Rahman, Android Authority, "Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 reveals new details about iOS 19 and Android 16" [2] Bloomberg, "iOS 19 or iOS 26 to include 'Transfer to Android' page for wireless eSIM transfer" [3] Android Authority, "iOS 19 to introduce wireless eSIM transfer to Android" [4] Android Authority, "iOS 19 eSIM transfer feature not mentioned in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 findings" [5] Bloomberg, "iOS 19 to support wireless eSIM transfer to Android phones" [6] Android Police, "Google SIM Manager app in Android 16 reveals details about eSIM transfer to Android phones" [7] MacRumors, "WWDC 2023 schedule announced, to take place June 9-13" [8] The Verge, "Apple's iOS 19 to make eSIM transfers between iPhone and Android easier"
- The upcoming iOS 19 or iOS 26 is revolutionizing cross-platform transitions by introducing a wireless eSIM transfer feature, allowing users to securely transmit their eSIM profile from an iPhone to an Android device over the air.
- With iOS 19, Apple is pushing the boundaries of technology, making mobile transfers more user-friendly, not only simplifying the process of switching from an iPhone to an Android device, but also potentially easing data and file transfer between Android and iOS devices.