Mobile connectivity has evolved from full-sized SIM cards to micro and nano SIMs and now to the advanced eSIM (embedded SIM). Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is a built-in digital SIM that can be activated remotely. Vodafone Idea, also known as Vi, offers eSIM services in India to provide customers with a seamless, flexible and secure mobile experience.
This comprehensive blog explains everything about Vodafone eSIM (Vi eSIM), including its benefits, activation methods, device compatibility, smartwatch integration, transfer process, FAQs and important points to keep in mind.
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What is Vodafone eSIM (Vi eSIM)?
Before switching, it is important to understand what Vodafone eSIM actually is and how it works.
A Vodafone eSIM or Vi eSIM, is a digital version of the traditional SIM card, integrated directly into the device. Instead of inserting a physical chip, users can activate the Vi SIM profile digitally through their device settings. Once activated, the eSIM functions like a normal SIM, allowing voice calls, SMS and data usage without the need for a removable card.
Benefits of Switching to Vodafone eSIM
Vodafone eSIM offers more than just convenience. Here are the major advantages of moving to this digital solution.
- No physical SIM required, eliminating the hassle of inserting or replacing SIMs
- Quick and easy activation without visiting a store
- Dual SIM convenience with one physical SIM and one eSIM
- Enhanced security through encrypted digital profiles
- Eco-friendly solution that reduces plastic usage
- Better integration with smartwatches and tablets
- Support for slimmer and lighter device designs
- Step by Step to Activate Vodafone eSIM
Vodafone Idea makes it easy to activate your eSIM. You can do this using the Vi App or via SMS.
Activation via Vi App
This is the simplest way to request and activate your eSIM using the official Vi App.
- Open the Vi App, log in and go to Help > Raise a Service Request > Activate eSIM
- Enter your 32-digit EID from device settings. Double-check accuracy to avoid errors
- Confirm your request with the OTP sent to your registered Vi number
- Within 15 minutes, download your eSIM profile from the notification on your phone or scan the QR code sent to your registered email
- Connect to Wi-Fi, install the profile, and restart your device after removing the physical SIM if necessary
Activation via SMS
If you prefer, you can also activate your eSIM quickly using an SMS from your Vi number.
- Locate your 32-digit EID by checking device settings or by dialing *#06#
- Ensure your registered email ID is active and correct, as the activation QR code will be sent there
- Send an SMS from your Vi number in the following format:
eSIM <Space> EID <Space> Device Type <Space> Email ID
- For Device Type: Use 1 for iOS and 2 for Android
- Example for iOS: eSIM 89049032000001012345678912345678 1 myemail@example.com
- Example for Android: eSIM 89049032000001012345678912345678 2 user@example.com
- After sending the SMS, you will receive a confirmation message. Reply with eSIMY to 199 to proceed
- Once verified, you will receive an activation QR code on your registered email. Scan this QR code to install and activate your Vodafone eSIM
Important Points Remmeber During Activation
There are some important details you should know before and after activating your Vodafone eSIM.
- Your registered email ID must be updated and active before starting the process
- Do not delete the eSIM profile after installation
- SMS services, including OTPs are restricted for 24 hours after activation as per government guidelines. On iPhones, iMessage and FaceTime are also restricted during this period
- Never share your QR code with anyone else
- Your existing Vodafone Idea prepaid or postpaid plan continues after activation with no extra charges
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List of Vi eSIM Compatible Devices
Not all devices support eSIM. Here is a complete list of smartphones, tablets and smartwatches that work with Vodafone eSIM.
Smartphones
| Brand | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, SE (2nd & 3rd Gen), iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 to S24 series, Galaxy Note 20 series, Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series |
| Pixel 3 and above, including Pixel Fold | |
| Motorola | Edge 40, Edge 40 Neo, Razr series |
| OnePlus | OnePlus Open |
| Oppo | Find N2 Flip, Find N3, Find N3 Flip |
| Vivo | X30, X90 Pro, X90 Pro Plus, X100 Pro |
| Xiaomi | 14, 14 Pro, 14 Ultra |
| Nokia | G60, X30 |
| Honor | Honor 90 series |
Tablets
Vodafone eSIM also works with selected Apple tablets.
| Brand | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Apple | iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad Mini (latest eSIM-ready models) |
Smartwatches
Vodafone eSIM can be used with smartwatches for added convenience.
| Brand | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch | Series 3 and newer (GPS + Cellular) |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch | LTE variants |
Note: Vodafone eSIM services are not available in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, North East and Assam circles.
Activating Vodafone eSIM on Smartwatches
Apart from smartphones and tablets, Vodafone eSIM can also be activated on select smartwatches.
Apple Watch (GPS + Cellular)
Vodafone supports Apple Watch Cellular for postpaid customers.
- Available for Vi postpaid customers only
- Requires Apple Watch Series 3 or later paired with iPhone 6s or later
- The Apple Watch shares the same Vi postpaid number as the iPhone
- Works across India but does not support international roaming
- No additional charges are included in Vi Max postpaid plans
Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE
Samsung smartwatch users can also benefit from Vodafone eSIM services.
- Requires the Galaxy Wearable App for setup
- Pair your watch with your phone, grant permissions and enable Vi eSIM under mobile services
- The smartwatch uses the same number as your smartphone
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Transfer Vodafone eSIM to a New Device
Upgrading to a new phone does not mean losing your eSIM. Vodafone makes transferring simple.
- Request eSIM activation on the new device following the same steps as before
- Provide the new device’s EID and confirm with OTP
- Once the new eSIM is activated, the old eSIM is automatically deactivated
- If moving eSIM to eSIM, delete the profile from the old device before activating the new one
Global Trends & Alternatives to Vodafone eSIM
eSIM adoption is growing rapidly across the globe.
Apple has been at the forefront of eSIM technology. With the upcoming iPhone 17 series expected in 2025, Apple is driving the eSIM revolution worldwide. You can read more in our detailed article on Apple’s iPhone 17 Series with eSIM in 2025.
If you are also considering alternatives to Vodafone eSIM, Reliance Jio offers strong eSIM services across India. Explore our complete Jio eSIM guide to compare activation steps, supported devices and benefits.
Jio eSIM vs Vi eSIM: A Quick Comparison
Both Jio and Vodafone Idea (Vi) offer eSIM services in India, but they differ in availability, activation process and device compatibility. The table below highlights the key differences between Jio eSIM and Vi eSIM to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
| Feature | Jio eSIM | Vodafone eSIM (Vi eSIM) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Available across all telecom circles in India | Not available in Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Odisha, North East and Assam |
| Supported Users | Prepaid and Postpaid | Prepaid and Postpaid |
| Activation Methods | SMS (GETESIM <EID> <IMEI> to 199), QR code via email, Jio Store, MyJio app | Vi App (service request) or SMS (eSIM <EID> <Device Type> <Email> to 199) |
| Activation Time | Immediately after scanning the QR code | 15-30 minutes; SMS services barred for 24 hours post activation |
| Device Compatibility | iPhones (XS and newer, SE 2nd Gen+), Samsung Galaxy (S20+), Google Pixel (3+), iPads, Apple Watch, Samsung Watch LTE | iPhones (XR and newer, SE 2nd Gen+), Samsung Galaxy (S20+), Google Pixel (3+), Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi, Nokia, Honor, iPads, Apple Watch, Samsung Watch LTE |
| Smartwatch Support | Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE | Apple Watch (postpaid only), Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE |
| Transfer Process | iPhone: Nearby transfer, Android: MyJio app | Reactivate on a new device with a new EID, old eSIM deactivated |
| Extra Cost | No additional charges | No additional charges |
Choose Jio eSIM if you need pan-India coverage, stronger smartwatch support and a smoother transfer process. Opt for Vodafone eSIM (Vi eSIM) if you prefer wider smartphone compatibility and easy app-based activation, provided you are not in a restricted circle.
Conclusion
The Vodafone eSIM, also known as Vi eSIM, is a modern and efficient alternative to physical SIM cards. It offers instant activation, improved security, dual SIM convenience and smartwatch integration. With compatibility across a wide range of smartphones, tablets and wearables, Vodafone eSIM is the right choice for users who want eco-friendly, secure and seamless digital connectivity.
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