Modern iPhones ( since the XR / XS serial ) and iPads ( a more complicated mixture of models ) can brook one or two eSIMs . But these eSIMs are n’t just a text file cabinet that ’s load with scope . Rather , they ’re actual programmable circuit within your iPhone or iPad .
When you want to reset or fully erase your twist to hand it over to someone else , deal it , or reprocess it if it ’s too wobbly to use , what selection you make can affect whether the eSIM continue in utilisation for the next person who handles it . In most cases , you ’ll want to edit all eSIMs . But there are exception : you may want to hold it if you ’re transferring a data point plan or even a telephone number to another family member , or if performing a mill reset to seek to work out a trouble . ( Note that deleting an eSIM does n’t touch your subscription with a carrier — contact them to terminate or change overhaul . )
Here ’s the nerve pathway to make certain you pluck the correct option in iOS 17 / iPadOS 17 , get going withSettings > General > TransferorReset iPhone / iPad :
You can use the pathway to erase settings (left) to delete an eSIM as part of the process or using General > Cellular (right) to delete an eSIM before erasing or resetting your device.
If you pick the last item , score out the machine , tapContinue , and then during the mental process in which your iPhone or iPad is wipe , you ’ll receive a prompting asking if you require to retain or delete the eSIM or eSIMs . Make the choice at that point found on your penury .
you’re able to take a preemptive step if you want more assurance by going toSettings > Cellular(iPhone)/Cellular Data(iPad ) and tappingDelete eSIMbeneath one or more eSIMs name in your configurations . By deleting at this stage , the eSIM wo n’t even be mess with when you factory reset or otherwise erase the phone .
you could use the pathway to efface scope ( left ) to cancel an eSIM as part of the process or using General > Cellular ( right ) to erase an eSIM before erasing or resetting your twist .
You can use the pathway to erase settings (left) to delete an eSIM as part of the process or using General > Cellular (right) to delete an eSIM before erasing or resetting your device.
Foundry
In the case you make a selection during expunction or reset you did n’t intend :
This Mac 911 article is in response to a query submitted by Macworld lector Tom .
Ask Mac 911
We ’ve compiled a list of the questions we get asked most frequently , along with answers and links to columns : translate our super FAQ to see if your doubt is covered . If not , we ’re always looking for new problems to figure out ! Email yours tomac911@macworld.com , including screen captures as appropriate and whether you want your full name used . Not every question will be answer , we do n’t answer to email , and we can not provide direct troubleshooting advice .