In Kenya, many modern smartphones now support eSIM (embedded SIM) technology, allowing users to activate a cellular plan without using a physical SIM card.
This feature is convenient for switching between networks, managing multiple numbers, and traveling internationally. Here’s a list of phones in Kenya that accept eSIMs:
- Apple iPhones
Apple was one of the first companies to adopt eSIM technology in their devices. The following iPhones support eSIM:
iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020) and SE (3rd generation, 2022)
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
- Samsung Galaxy Phones
Samsung has also integrated eSIM into some of its flagship models. The following Samsung phones in Kenya support eSIM:
Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Fold 4, Z Fold 3
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 3
- Google Pixel Phones
Google Pixel phones are also known for supporting eSIM technology. The following Pixel models are available in Kenya:
Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro
Google Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
Google Pixel 5
Google Pixel 4, 4a
- Huawei Phones
Huawei has introduced eSIM support in some of its high-end models, but its availability might be more limited in Kenya:
Huawei P40, P40 Pro
Huawei Mate 40 Pro
- Other Brands
Some other phone brands are slowly introducing eSIM technology, though availability in Kenya may vary:
Oppo Find X3 Pro
Motorola Razr (2019, 5G models)
Kenyan Mobile Network Providers Supporting eSIM
In Kenya, Safaricom and Airtel is the leading providers that supports eSIM services for compatible phones. Users can activate an eSIM by visiting a Airtel and Safaricom shops, where they can scan a QR code to set up the eSIM on their devices.
Does Faiba JTL have eSim
Yes, Faiba JTL offers eSIM services in Kenya. To get the Faiba eSIM, you need to visit a Faiba shop where you can either purchase a new eSIM profile or swap your current physical SIM for an eSIM. New customers pay KES 300, while existing customers pay KES 150. Once you get the eSIM profile, you will activate it by scanning a QR code provided by the shop.
Benefits of Using eSIM in Kenya
Convenience: Easily switch between multiple numbers or networks.
Travel: Use local network plans when traveling abroad without changing physical SIM cards.
Environmentally Friendly: Reduces the need for physical SIM cards, decreasing electronic waste.
If you are considering switching to an eSIM, ensure that your phone is compatible and that your network provider in Kenya offers eSIM services.