To remove an eSIM from an iPhone 13, open Settings and tap Cellular. If you have a single cellular plan, tap Delete eSIM; if you have multiple plans, first tap the plan you want to erase, then tap Delete Plan. This is the only correct method, as an eSIM is a software profile deleted through the phone’s settings, not a physical card you take out of the SIM tray.
How to remove eSIM from iPhone 13
Follow these exact steps in the Settings app to delete an eSIM profile from your iPhone 13:
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular.
- If you have only one cellular plan, tap Delete eSIM.
- If you have multiple plans, tap the specific plan you want to remove, then tap Delete Plan.
- Confirm the deletion when prompted.
This process works for all iPhone 13 models: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. The exact button label, Delete eSIM or Delete Plan, depends on whether your phone has one plan or multiple plans active. Do not attempt to open the SIM tray or use a SIM eject tool; that method is for removing a physical SIM card, not for deleting an eSIM profile. A paperclip can serve as a makeshift SIM eject tool for a physical SIM, but you must not use it or any tool on the tray for eSIM removal. If you have ever needed to take SIM card out of Android, note that eSIM removal on iPhone 13 is entirely software-based and does not involve accessing any tray.
What happens after you delete an eSIM
Erasing an eSIM profile from your iPhone 13 does not cancel your cellular plan or account with your carrier. The plan remains active on your carrier’s side unless you contact them separately to terminate service. Deleting the eSIM simply removes the digital profile from your device, which stops your iPhone from using that particular line for calls, texts, or data. If you later want to use that plan again, you will need to re-add the eSIM using a QR code or carrier app.
iPhone 13 Dual eSIM support explained
All iPhone 13 models support Dual eSIM, meaning you can have two active eSIM profiles on the device at the same time without needing a physical SIM card. This lets you manage two separate cellular plans, for example, one for personal use and one for business, or a local plan while traveling. When you have multiple plans in Settings > Cellular, you can see each plan listed under “CELLULAR PLANS.” Tap a plan to view its details, including the phone number and carrier, to identify which one you want to delete. If you also have a physical SIM card installed, you can combine it with one eSIM for dual‑SIM use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will removing an eSIM from my iPhone 13 affect my warranty?
No, removing an eSIM profile through Settings is a standard software function and does not affect your device’s warranty. It is designed to be deleted and re-added without impacting the hardware or coverage.
Can I reinsert an eSIM after removing it from my iPhone 13?
Yes, you can re-add the same eSIM profile after deleting it. You will need the eSIM details provided by your carrier, typically a QR code or activation code, to set it up again through Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
What should I do before deleting an eSIM from my iPhone 13?
Before deleting an eSIM, back up your device to prevent data loss and ensure you have a physical SIM card and the necessary PIN to activate it. Also, confirm you have a way to stay connected, such as a physical SIM card or another eSIM plan, because deleting the profile will remove cellular service from that line immediately.
Does erasing all content and settings remove my eSIM?
When you erase all content and settings on your iPhone 13, you can choose to erase your eSIM or keep it. If you plan to sell or give away the phone, select the option to erase the eSIM to remove your cellular plan from the device.
Will deleting an eSIM cancel my carrier plan?
No, deleting the eSIM profile only removes it from your iPhone 13. Your carrier plan remains active unless you contact your carrier separately to cancel service. You may continue to be billed until you formally terminate the plan.
