- Deutsche Telekom is the first network operator in Europe to enable eSIM transfer between leading mobile operating systems
- Simple, flexible and secure: New feature makes eSIM usage even more convenient
- Lyca Mobile comment: it a major step toward greater consumer freedom, simplicity, and a fully digital, interoperable future for mobile connectivity.
- iPhones with the software version iOS 26 and the Google Pixel 10 devices will be supported at launch. More Android models will follow soon.
- The eSIM transfer is started directly in the settings of the new smartphone.
- The operating system recognizes the previous device and initiates the secure change.
- In the background, the Deutsche Telekom system checks whether the device, tariff and user are eligible and then approves the transfer.
- The existing mobile phone profile will be transferred – the phone number and tariff will remain the same.
Deutsche Telekom are the first network operator to market to enable their customers to easily and securely transfer their eSIM profile between Android and iOS devices – without an additional app or paperwork.
The eSIM is a digital SIM card that is permanently installed in the device. Instead of a physical chip, a profile is uploaded, and this makes switching to a new device particularly easy.
“With the new eSIM transfer, we are making it easier than ever for our customers to switch devices. Simple, flexible, and secure—that is our goal,” states Michael Hagspihl, Vice President Global Strategic Projects und Marketing Partnerships of Deutsche Telekom.
Cross-platform and easy: switching made easy
Until now, eSIM transfer was only possible between devices with the same operating system: since 2020 between iOS devices, and since 2023 also between Android devices.
Now, for the first time, it is also possible to switch between Android and iOS – and vice versa. The new function, Deutsche Telekom have conquered, makes it easier to switch to a new smartphone and makes using the eSIM even more convenient.
Here’s how it works
Safety and technology
The new function is based on the international GSMA standard TS.43 and on the entitlement server developed by Deutsche Telekom. This server checks the authorisations, controls the secure process and enables Deutsche Telekom to react quickly to new functions and innovations. The service will be available in other Deutsche Telekom national companies in the future.
“Anyone who changes their operating system wants to seamlessly transfer their connection. This is exactly what we are now enabling – quickly, securely and without additional effort,” Michael Hagspihl continues. “Our innovative system ensures that the switch works reliably and easily.”
Responding to the news, Kadams Radhakrishnan, Chief Technical Director, Lyca Mobile said: “The move to enable eSIM transfers between iPhone and Android devices is a real breakthrough for the industry. Until now, switching an eSIM across platforms has been one of the biggest pain points for consumers, often requiring carrier intervention or a full reactivation. By adopting the GSMA’s standardised eSIM transfer protocol, we are seeing what true interoperability should look like.”
Radhakrishnan continues:
“This isn’t just a technical improvement—it’s a major step toward giving customers genuine freedom of choice. Seamless eSIM transfers mean people can move between iOS and Android without friction, enjoy faster setups, and avoid unnecessary store visits. It’s also a clear signal that the industry is maturing toward a fully digital, device-agnostic future.”
“Lyca Mobile was one of the first major MVNOs in the UK to adopt eSIM technology because we saw the potential in it, not just for our customers but for the industry. If other operators follow suit, we could finally see eSIM deliver on its full promise: simpler connectivity, greater flexibility, and a better experience for consumers.”
