The Complete Guide to Phone Number Portability with eSIMs: Everything You Need to Know

In the evolving landscape of mobile connectivity, one of the most common questions we encounter is whether you can keep your existing phone number when switching to an eSIM. The short answer is yes – but there’s much more to understand about how this process works.

Understanding Number Portability: The Basics

Number portability (often called “porting”) is your legal right in the United States, protected by FCC regulations. This means you can keep your phone number when switching between carriers, whether you’re using a traditional SIM card or an eSIM. However, the process and requirements can vary depending on your current carrier and the type of number you’re trying to port.

How eSIMs Impact Number Portability

eSIMs actually make the number porting process more flexible in many ways:

  1. Multiple Profiles: eSIMs can store multiple carrier profiles, allowing you to test a new service before fully committing to the port
  2. Quick Activation: Once approved, porting to an eSIM can be completed digitally without waiting for physical hardware
  3. Backup Options: You can maintain your old service until the port is complete, ensuring no service interruption

Major U.S. Carrier Policies on eSIM Number Porting

Let’s break down the specific policies for major U.S. carriers:

Verizon

  • Fully supports eSIM number porting
  • Required Information:
    • Account number
    • PIN/password
    • Billing zip code
  • Average porting time: 2-24 hours
  • Can be initiated online or in-store
  • Supports temporary number assignment while porting

AT&T

  • Supports eSIM number porting
  • Required Information:
    • AT&T account number
    • PIN (usually last 4 of SSN)
    • Billing address
  • Average porting time: 2-24 hours
  • Online porting available through AT&T’s portal
  • Offers simultaneous dual-SIM usage during transition

T-Mobile

  • Full eSIM porting support
  • Required Information:
    • Account number
    • PIN/passcode
    • Account holder’s name
  • Average porting time: 2-24 hours
  • Can be completed entirely online
  • Offers temporary number option during porting

Sprint (now part of T-Mobile)

  • Follows T-Mobile’s porting policies
  • Legacy Sprint customers may need to migrate to T-Mobile systems first
  • Additional verification may be required

Device Compatibility Differences

Apple Devices

  • All iPhone models from XS/XR and newer support eSIM
  • Dual SIM functionality available on all eSIM-capable iPhones
  • iOS 16 and newer support multiple eSIM profiles
  • Can store up to 8-10 eSIM profiles depending on model
  • Quick transfer feature between iPhones
  • Seamless integration with iCloud for backup

Android Devices

  • Support varies by manufacturer and model
  • Pixel 2 and newer support eSIM
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer support eSIM
  • Most newer flagship models include eSIM support
  • Android 10 and newer required for eSIM functionality
  • Storage capacity for profiles varies by device
  • Some models limited to one active eSIM at a time

Common Challenges and Solutions

  1. Temporary Service Gaps

    • Solution: Use dual SIM capability to maintain service
    • Keep old SIM active until port completes

  2. Verification Issues

    • Solution: Ensure account information is current
    • Contact current carrier to verify required information

  3. Device Compatibility

    • Solution: Check device compatibility before initiating port
    • Consider upgrading device if necessary

Best Practices for Smooth Porting

  1. Don’t cancel your old service before porting
  2. Verify all account information is accurate
  3. Ensure device compatibility beforehand
  4. Back up important data and messages
  5. Keep both services active during transition

The Andalu Advantage

At Andalu, we’ve streamlined the eSIM activation process to make it as seamless as possible. While we don’t provide phone number porting services directly (as we focus on data-only eSIMs), our eSIMs work perfectly alongside your existing phone service. This means you can:

  • Keep your current phone number with your primary carrier
  • Use Andalu’s eSIM as a backup data connection
  • Enjoy reliable connectivity across 140+ countries
  • Activate service instantly without waiting for physical SIM delivery

Making the Right Choice

When deciding whether to port your number to an eSIM service, consider:

  1. Your device compatibility
  2. Your travel needs
  3. Required features (calls, texts, data)
  4. Carrier coverage in your area
  5. International usage requirements

Looking Ahead

The future of eSIM technology is bright, with more carriers and devices supporting this technology every year. As the technology matures, we can expect:

  • Faster porting processes
  • More seamless activation
  • Enhanced multi-profile support
  • Improved international compatibility

Remember, while Andalu specializes in data-only eSIMs perfect for travel and backup connectivity, we’re always here to help you understand your options and make the best choice for your mobile needs.

Start your eSIM journey with Andalu today – visit andalu.com to explore our flexible data plans for over 140 countries worldwide.

Note: This information is current as of 2024. Carrier policies and device capabilities may change. Always verify specific requirements with your carrier.