The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is Samsung’s most premium flagship from the 2023 lineup — and it remains widely used in India in 2026, particularly popular among power users who appreciate its S Pen, exceptional camera system, and robust build quality. Like all S23 series phones, the S23 Ultra fully supports eSIM technology.
eSIM on Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. What makes the S23 Ultra particularly interesting from an eSIM perspective is its position as a premium device designed for users who manage multiple numbers, travel frequently, and want maximum connectivity flexibility. The dual SIM setup — one physical nano-SIM plus one eSIM — gives S23 Ultra users exactly that flexibility.
This guide covers everything about using eSIM on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra — from confirming compatibility to activating with Jio, Airtel, and Vi, managing dual SIM settings, and using the S23 Ultra’s specific features alongside eSIM.
- Check now – How to Use an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy S23 in 2026
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra eSIM Specifications
| Feature | Galaxy S23 Ultra |
|---|---|
| Physical SIM | ✅ 1x nano-SIM |
| eSIM support | ✅ Yes |
| Dual eSIM | ❌ No (single eSIM) |
| Total active numbers | Up to 2 (1 physical + 1 eSIM) |
| One UI version | One UI 5.1 / 6.1 |
| Android version | Android 13/14 |
| S Pen | ✅ Built-in |
Note: Unlike the S24 Ultra, which supports dual eSIM (two simultaneous eSIMs), the S23 Ultra supports a single eSIM alongside one physical SIM — giving you two active numbers total. This is still more than sufficient for most use cases.
Does Your S23 Ultra Support eSIM?
All Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra units sold in India support eSIM. However, variant checking is important:
India variants (SM-S918B/DS): ✅ Full eSIM support
Global variants: ✅ Full eSIM support
China variants: ❌ eSIM not supported
Some US carrier-locked variants: ⚠️ Check EID
Confirm eSIM Support on S23 Ultra
Method 1 — Dial code:
Dial *#06# — if an EID number appears alongside IMEI numbers, eSIM is supported.
Method 2 — Settings check:
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → If the Add eSIM option appears, the phone is ready.
Indian Carriers Supporting eSIM on S23 Ultra
| Carrier | eSIM Support | Activation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Jio | ✅ Yes | MyJio app or SMS |
| Airtel | ✅ Yes | Airtel Thanks app or store |
| Vi (Vodafone Idea) | ✅ Yes | Vi app or store |
| BSNL | ⚠️ Limited | Store visit required |
Before You Activate eSIM on S23 Ultra
Checklist:
- ✅ Stable Wi-Fi — required during eSIM profile download
- ✅ One UI updated — Settings → Software Update → install all pending updates
- ✅ QR code ready — from carrier app, email, or store visit
- ✅ Phone unlocked — carrier-locked S23 Ultra may reject third-party eSIM profiles
- ✅ EID confirmed — dial *#06# to verify eSIM support
- ✅ Active physical SIM — OTP sent to registered number during activation
Where to Find SIM Manager on S23 Ultra (One UI 5.1/6.1)
One UI 6.1 (Android 14):
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
One UI 5.1 (Android 13):
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
The S23 Ultra received One UI 6.1 update — if you have installed it, the interface is identical to newer Galaxy models.
How to Activate eSIM on Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra — All Methods
Method 1: QR Code Activation (Recommended)
Standard method — works with all Indian carriers:
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections
- Tap SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Scan QR code
- Point the S23 Ultra camera at the carrier QR code
- Tap Confirm when profile details appear
- Wait 30–60 seconds for download and installation
- Tap Done
eSIM now appears in SIM Manager alongside physical SIM.
Method 2: Activation Code (Manual Entry)
Use when QR code sent to same device being activated:
- Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Enter activation code
- Type or paste code from carrier
- Confirm and wait for profile installation
Method 3: Jio eSIM on S23 Ultra
Via MyJio App:
- Open MyJio app
- My Account → Get eSIM
- Verify with OTP
- Follow in-app instructions
- eSIM profile pushed directly to S23 Ultra
Via SMS:
- Dial *#06# → note last 15 digits of EID
- Send “SIMCHG <15-digit EID>” to 199
- Reply 1 to confirm
- Receive QR code → scan using Method 1
Via Jio Store:
Visit with S23 Ultra and Aadhaar — activation in 10–15 minutes.
Method 4: Airtel eSIM on S23 Ultra
Via Airtel Thanks App:
- Open Airtel Thanks
- Account → My Plan → Switch to eSIM
- Verify OTP
- App detects S23 Ultra → pushes profile or provides QR
- Scan/confirm on S23 Ultra
Via Airtel Store:
Visit with S23 Ultra and valid ID — store activates on spot.
Method 5: Vi eSIM on S23 Ultra
Via Vi App:
- Open Vi app
- My Account → SIM Services → Get eSIM
- Verify OTP
- Complete in-app activation
Method 6: Store Activation
Visit a Jio, Airtel, or Vi store with:
- Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Aadhaar card
- Registered mobile number
- EID screenshot from *#06#
Setting Up Dual SIM on Galaxy S23 Ultra
S23 Ultra supports one physical nano-SIM + one eSIM simultaneously.
Configure After Activation
- Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Both SIMs appear — rename each:
- Physical SIM → “Jio Personal”
- eSIM → “Airtel Work”
Set Default SIM Preferences
Calls:
- Choose default call SIM
- Or Always ask — S23 Ultra prompts per call
SMS:
- Select primary messaging SIM
Mobile Data:
- Choose one SIM for internet
- Switch from quick settings panel or SIM Manager
Best Dual SIM Setups for S23 Ultra Indian Users
Setup 1 — Personal + Work (Most Common):
- Physical SIM: Jio personal number (calls + data)
- eSIM: Airtel work number
Setup 2 — Best Network Coverage:
- Physical SIM: Airtel (strong voice quality)
- eSIM: Jio (best 5G data speeds)
Setup 3 — Travel Setup:
- Physical SIM: Indian number (always active for OTPs and banking)
- eSIM: International travel plan (Airalo/Nomad)
Setup 4 — Data Optimization:
- Physical SIM: Primary number
- eSIM: Cheaper data-only plan for heavy internet use
S23 Ultra Specific eSIM Features
S Pen and eSIM Management
The S23 Ultra’s S Pen does not directly interact with eSIM settings — but power users can use S Pen to:
- Annotate QR codes on screen for easier scanning
- Take notes on EID numbers for carrier store visits
- Navigate SIM Manager settings precisely
S23 Ultra 5G and eSIM
The S23 Ultra supports 5G — both physical SIM and eSIM support 5G where available from Jio and Airtel. Only one SIM is active for data at a time, but both maintain voice registration simultaneously.
5G network mode:
Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network Mode → NR/LTE/3G/2G (Auto connect)
Samsung DeX + eSIM
When using S23 Ultra in Samsung DeX mode (desktop via USB-C or wireless):
- Both physical SIM and eSIM remain active
- Data connection from whichever SIM is set as default continues
- Incoming calls on both numbers are still received
- Full dual SIM functionality maintained in DeX mode
Samsung Knox + eSIM Security
The S23 Ultra runs Samsung Knox security platform — eSIM profiles are secured at hardware level. Knox-protected eSIM profiles cannot be accessed even if the device is compromised, providing enterprise-grade eSIM security.
One UI 6.1 eSIM Improvements
If your S23 Ultra has been updated to One UI 6.1:
- Improved SIM Manager interface — cleaner layout
- Faster eSIM profile switching
- Better network status display for both SIMs
- Galaxy AI features work across whichever SIM provides data
Managing eSIM Profiles on S23 Ultra
S23 Ultra stores multiple eSIM profiles but activates only one alongside the physical SIM.
Switch Between Stored Profiles
- Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap eSIM profiles
- Select profile to activate
- Tap Enable
- Confirm — wait 2 minutes for network registration
Delete eSIM Profile
- Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap the eSIM profile
- Tap Delete eSIM profile
- Confirm
Important: Deletion is permanent on the device. Contact carrier for re-issuance before deleting paid plans.
Common eSIM Problems on Galaxy S23 Ultra and Fixes
“Add eSIM” option not visible
Fix 1: Update One UI — Settings → Software Update.
Fix 2: Dial *#06# — confirm EID appears. No EID = variant may not support eSIM.
Fix 3: Phone may be carrier-locked — contact original seller or carrier to unlock.
QR code scan failing on S23 Ultra
Fix: Clean rear camera lens. Increase brightness on device showing QR code. Move to better lighting. Use manual activation code as alternative.
eSIM downloaded but shows “Not activated”
Fix: Restart S23 Ultra after installation. SIM Manager → tap eSIM → toggle off and on. Wait 3 minutes for network registration.
Mobile data not working after eSIM activation.
Fix: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Mobile Data → confirm correct SIM selected. Check APN settings — carrier app usually configures automatically.
Manual APN for Jio:
Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Access Point Names → Add:
- APN: jionet
- APN Type: default,supl,mms
- Protocol: IPv4/IPv6
Manual APN for Airtel:
- APN: airtelgprs.com
- APN Type: default,supl,mms
- Protocol: IPv4
OTP not received during activation
Fix: Physical SIM must have an active signal. OTP goes to registered number via physical SIM — ensure strong signal before starting.
eSIM showing “No service” after activation
Fix: Toggle Airplane Mode on and off. Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network operators → Search manually → select carrier.
S23 Ultra overheating during eSIM download
Fix: Normal during profile download — keep phone still on good Wi-Fi. If too hot, wait 5 minutes and retry.
S23 Ultra vs S24 Ultra — eSIM Differences
| Feature | S23 Ultra | S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Physical SIM | ✅ 1x nano | ✅ 1x nano |
| eSIM slots | 1 | 2 (dual eSIM) |
| Total active numbers | 2 | 3 |
| One UI | 5.1/6.1 | 6.1/7 |
| Galaxy AI | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Full |
Key difference: S24 Ultra supports dual eSIM (two simultaneous eSIM profiles + physical SIM = 3 active numbers). S23 Ultra supports single eSIM + physical SIM = 2 active numbers.
For most Indian users, 2 active numbers is completely sufficient — the S23 Ultra’s eSIM implementation covers all practical dual SIM needs.
eSIM Transfer — Moving to S23 Ultra from Another Device
From another Samsung:
- Note S23 Ultra’s EID from *#06#
- Contact carrier — inform switching to Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Carrier deactivates old device eSIM
- Generates new QR code for S23 Ultra’s EID
- Scan QR using Method 1
From iPhone to S23 Ultra:
Same process — carrier re-issues eSIM for new device EID regardless of previous device brand.
Your number, plan, and balance remain unchanged throughout.
International Travel with S23 Ultra eSIM
One of the strongest S23 Ultra eSIM use cases is international travel:
Before travel:
- Purchase travel eSIM from Airalo, Nomad, or Holafly
- Download profile to S23 Ultra — stored alongside Indian eSIM/physical SIM
- Keep Indian physical SIM active for OTPs and banking
After landing abroad:
- SIM Manager → tap travel eSIM → Enable
- Set travel eSIM as default data SIM
- Indian SIM remains active for incoming calls and SMS
Returning to India:
- SIM Manager → disable travel eSIM
- Re-enable Indian eSIM or set physical SIM as default data
- Travel eSIM profile stored — reactivate next trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM simultaneously on S23 Ultra?
Yes — S23 Ultra supports one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM active simultaneously. Both receive calls and SMS — one handles data at a time.
Does S23 Ultra support dual eSIM like S24 Ultra?
No — S23 Ultra supports single eSIM plus physical SIM (2 active numbers total). S24 Ultra introduced dual eSIM support (3 active numbers). For most Indian users, 2 numbers is sufficient.
Will my existing Jio or Airtel number transfer to S23 Ultra eSIM?
Yes. Both Jio and Airtel support converting existing numbers from physical SIM to eSIM on the S23 Ultra. Your number, plan, and balance transfer completely.
Does switching to eSIM cost anything on S23 Ultra?
Jio charges approximately ₹10–₹25 for eSIM issuance. Airtel charges a nominal SIM replacement fee. Your existing recharge and data balance are unaffected.
What happens to eSIM if I factory reset S23 Ultra?
Factory reset deletes all eSIM profiles permanently. Before resetting, contact the carrier to arrange re-issuance. After reset, dial *#06# for EID and provide to carrier for new QR code.
Can I use international travel eSIM on S23 Ultra while keeping Indian SIM?
Yes. Download international eSIM (Airalo, Nomad) to S23 Ultra. Keep Indian physical SIM active for OTPs and banking — use travel eSIM for local data abroad. Switch between stored profiles as needed.
Is Galaxy S23 Ultra getting more software updates in 2026?
Samsung committed to 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches for the S23 series. In 2026, the S23 Ultra is receiving One UI 6.1 and security patches — eSIM functionality remains fully supported.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra handles eSIM setup reliably — particularly after updating to One UI 6.1. Whether you activate through QR code, the MyJio or Airtel Thanks app, or visit a carrier store, the process takes under 10 minutes and works consistently on all three major Indian carriers.
The S23 Ultra’s combination of S Pen precision, exceptional camera, and solid eSIM implementation makes it an excellent device for Indian power users who want dual SIM flexibility without carrying two phones. Physical SIM for your primary number and eSIM for work or travel — the S23 Ultra handles both seamlessly.
Verify your EID first via *#06#, update One UI to the latest version, connect to Wi-Fi, and activate. Dual SIM on your S23 Ultra is ready in minutes.
