Moving your mobile number to a new iPhone used to involve requesting an eSIM, waiting for verification messages and installing a QR-code profile. That process hasn’t disappeared, but it is no longer the only way for Jio and Airtel customers in India.
Both Reliance Jio and Airtel now support Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer, allowing eligible users to move their number directly between two nearby iPhones. You can also use the MyJio or Airtel app when the built-in transfer option isn’t available.
Before transferring your eSIM, remember that Jio and Airtel may temporarily restrict SMS services for up to 24 hours after the change. Plan accordingly if you need to receive banking OTPs or other verification messages. That matters if you rely on banking OTPs, UPI registration or other services that verify your number through SMS.
Here’s how to transfer your Jio or Airtel eSIM safely, what to do if the option doesn’t appear and how to avoid losing access to your number.
Jio vs Airtel eSIM Transfer: What You Need to Know
| Feature | Reliance Jio | Airtel |
|---|---|---|
| eSIM support in India | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone-to-iPhone Quick Transfer | Supported | Supported |
| Carrier app alternative | MyJio | Airtel app |
| Physical SIM to eSIM | Supported | Supported |
| Same mobile number | Yes | Yes |
| SMS interruption | Up to 24 hours | 24-hour restriction after eSIM request completion |
| QR-code activation alternative | Available | Carrier-assisted methods available |
| Transfer from Android to iPhone | MyJio/carrier process | Airtel app process |
Apple also lists both networks as supporting eSIM Carrier Activation. This means eligible users have more than one way to move their number to a new device.
However, don’t assume that every phone, software version or account will show exactly the same transfer options.
Before You Transfer: Check These Five Things
A few minutes of preparation can prevent an avoidable interruption.
- Check iPhone compatibility. Apple’s general eSIM support begins with iPhone XS, XS Max and XR, including newer supported models. Regional variants can differ.
- Update iOS. Apple lists iOS 18.4 or later in its general Quick Transfer instructions. Airtel specifically requires iOS 26 or later on both iPhones for its current device-to-device process.
- Keep your existing phone working. Your old device should remain unlocked and available for verification.
- Connect the new iPhone to Wi-Fi. Make sure your new iPhone has a stable Wi-Fi connection. Avoid relying on a hotspot connected to the mobile number being transferred, as the connection could stop working during activation.
- Keep Bluetooth enabled. Place the two iPhones near each other and sign in with your Apple Account as required.
For Jio, make sure the number is active and an email address is registered. The fallback activation process may require verification through that address.
I would also finish any important banking transactions before beginning. Once the number moves, your old SIM will stop providing mobile service, and SMS access may be restricted temporarily.
How to Transfer Jio eSIM From an Old iPhone to a New iPhone
Jio’s current instructions support transferring an existing SIM or eSIM between eligible iPhones using Apple’s built-in process.
Method 1: Transfer Jio eSIM Directly Between iPhones
Step 1: Prepare both phones
Connect your new iPhone to Wi-Fi. Enable Bluetooth on both devices, keep them nearby and ensure that the old iPhone is unlocked.
Step 2: Open the eSIM settings
On your new iPhone, navigate to:
On your new iPhone, open Settings, select Mobile Service, tap Add eSIM, and choose Transfer From Nearby iPhone.
Depending on the iOS version, you may be offered an existing mobile number directly.
Step 3: Approve the transfer
A confirmation request should appear on your old iPhone. Approve the request for your Jio number.
Step 4: Enter the verification code
Your new iPhone may display a verification code. Enter it on the old iPhone when requested.
Step 5: Complete eSIM installation
Follow the instructions on the new iPhone until the eSIM profile has been installed and activated.
Once activation succeeds, the transferred number stops working on the previous device.
Jio specifically warns that SMS services will be unavailable for up to 24 hours after the transfer.
Method 2: Transfer Jio eSIM Using MyJio
If the nearby-iPhone transfer doesn’t work, Jio provides an app-based process.
- Open the MyJio app and sign in with your existing Jio number.
- Search for eSIM and select Switch to eSIM.
- Confirm your registered email address.
- Enter the EID of the new iPhone.
- Authenticate the request using the OTP sent to your Jio number.
- Allow the request to pass through Jio’s two-hour cooling period.
- Answer the subsequent verification call and confirm the request.
- Install the new eSIM profile using the notification or QR code delivered by Jio.
Jio says the QR-code email comes from notification@jio.com.
The cooling period is important. It belongs to this carrier-app process; it should not be confused with a guaranteed waiting time for Apple’s direct Quick Transfer.
If you’re moving to a new iPhone and the automatic transfer method works, that would generally be my first choice. It avoids manually entering device identifiers and completing the separate app-based activation request.
How to Transfer Airtel eSIM From an Old iPhone to a New iPhone
Airtel also supports Apple’s nearby-device transfer method, although its currently published requirements explicitly specify iOS 26 or later on both iPhones.
Method 1: Airtel eSIM Quick Transfer
Step 1: Update both iPhones to a supported iOS version, restart the old iPhone and connect the new device to Wi-Fi.
Step 2: Sign in with your Apple Account as required and enable Bluetooth on both devices.
Step 3: On the new iPhone, open:
Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Transfer From Nearby iPhone
Step 4: Approve the Airtel number transfer on your old iPhone.
Step 5: Enter the verification code displayed on the new iPhone into the old one, when prompted.
Step 6: Finish installing the eSIM profile and wait for the Airtel connection to become active.
Airtel confirms that the previous SIM is deactivated after activation on the new device succeeds.
Method 2: Transfer Airtel eSIM Using the Airtel App
For transfers that cannot use the nearby-iPhone method, including supported Android-to-iPhone moves, Airtel provides an app-based route.
- Open the Airtel app and sign in with the mobile number you’re transferring.
- Go to Manage services → Upgrade to eSIM. The app may also offer an Upgrade to eSIM shortcut on its home screen.
- Choose the option to get an eSIM for another device.
- Enter the 32-digit EID of your new iPhone.
- Verify the request using the OTP sent to your Airtel number.
- Complete the verification call when Airtel contacts you.
- Follow the activation notification on your new iPhone to finish installing the mobile plan.
Airtel says it normally initiates its verification call around 10 minutes after the request. It also says activation can take up to two hours after the eSIM profile is downloaded.
One deadline is easy to miss: Airtel instructs customers to configure the eSIM within four hours of initiating the request, otherwise the request may be cancelled.
The operator additionally warns that incoming and outgoing SMS, including OTPs, remain restricted for 24 hours after eSIM request completion.
Where to Find Your iPhone’s EID and IMEI
If you use the carrier-app method, the operator may ask for your phone’s EID.
On the iPhone receiving the eSIM:
Settings → General → About → EID
You can find the IMEI on the same screen.
An EID is a 32-digit identifier associated with your device’s embedded SIM hardware. It isn’t your phone number, and you shouldn’t copy the identifier from your old phone when activating service on a different iPhone.
Only provide it through your operator’s official app or verified support process. Airtel specifically warns customers against sharing their EID with other people.
Can You Convert a Physical Jio or Airtel SIM to eSIM on iPhone?
Yes. You don’t need to purchase a new mobile number simply because you’re moving away from a physical SIM.
Both Jio and Airtel support physical-SIM-to-eSIM conversion. Apple confirms that Jio and Airtel support eSIM Quick Transfer in India. On compatible iPhones, this feature can also allow users to move an existing physical SIM connection to an eSIM on their new device.
If you’re keeping the same iPhone, check Settings → Mobile Service for a supported conversion option or use the operator’s app.
For Jio, the MyJio Switch to eSIM process is an alternative. Airtel customers can use the Upgrade to eSIM option in the Airtel app.
Keep the original physical SIM inserted until the conversion has completed successfully. Once its number is activated as an eSIM, the old physical card is no longer the active connection.
This distinction is particularly relevant for buyers moving to eSIM-only devices.
For example, Apple’s new foldable model uses an eSIM-only configuration, as covered in our iPhone Duo specifications and features guide. Preparing an eligible mobile connection before handing over an old device can make that transition less stressful.
Transferring From Android to iPhone: What Changes?
An Android-to-iPhone transfer isn’t necessarily the same as moving between two iPhones.
Apple notes that some Android devices and operators support newer cross-platform transfer features, but support depends on the participating phone manufacturers and networks.
For an Indian Jio or Airtel connection, I would use the operator’s documented activation process rather than assume the nearby-iPhone option also works from Android.
Jio customers can request the new eSIM through MyJio using the destination iPhone’s EID.
Airtel customers can use the Airtel app, select an eSIM for another device and complete its verification process.
In either case, keep the Android phone available until the transfer is finished. A carrier verification step may still depend on the existing active number.
Jio or Airtel eSIM Not Activating on iPhone? Try These Fixes
Transfer From Nearby iPhone Is Missing
First, update both iPhones and confirm that they satisfy the network’s requirements.
Then check Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Apple Account sign-in and the old phone’s passcode status.
Restart both phones if necessary. If the transfer option remains unavailable, switch to the relevant carrier-app method instead of repeating the same unsuccessful attempt.
eSIM Installed but Showing No Service
Open Settings → Mobile Service and check whether your Jio or Airtel line appears and is enabled.
Apple recommends trying Airplane Mode, switching the line off and back on, and restarting the iPhone.
You can also inspect network provider settings through:
Settings → General → About
Install a network provider settings update if your iPhone offers one.
If the eSIM still doesn’t activate after troubleshooting, contact Jio or Airtel customer support. Share the activation error and any device information the operator requests to help identify the issue.
QR Code Not Working
Use the QR code specifically issued for the current activation request.
Apple supports adding an eSIM from a carrier-provided QR code, including directly from a compatible email or browser on supported iOS versions.
If the code is rejected, expired or already used, request assistance from the operator rather than repeatedly scanning it.
Calls Work, but SMS and Banking OTPs Don’t
This can be an expected consequence of an eSIM transfer rather than a faulty iPhone.
Jio warns of an SMS interruption lasting up to 24 hours, while Airtel documents a 24-hour SMS restriction after its eSIM request is completed.
Avoid repeatedly requesting bank OTPs or reinstalling banking apps during the restriction period. Wait for the carrier’s SMS service to become available, then retry the verification process.
If SMS still fails after the stated restriction period, contact the carrier.
Your Old Phone Is Lost or No Longer Working
The standard nearby-device transfer cannot be completed when the old phone is unavailable to approve it.
Contact Jio or Airtel through an official support channel or store for account verification and eSIM reissuance.
Do not delete an existing working eSIM to troubleshoot a different device.
Should You Delete the Old eSIM After Transfer?
No manual deletion is needed to make a normal Quick Transfer work.
Apple states that the previous SIM becomes inactive when the mobile plan is activated successfully on the new iPhone.
I would confirm that the transferred number appears under Mobile Service and that calling and mobile data work on the new phone before erasing or handing over the old device.
Before selling, exchanging, or giving away your previous iPhone, back up your important data and follow Apple’s recommended device-erasure steps. Transferring your eSIM does not automatically remove personal information from the old phone. Moving the eSIM does not automatically transfer your personal files, photos or app data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my Jio eSIM to another iPhone without visiting a store?
Yes. Jio supports transferring between eligible nearby iPhones. The MyJio app provides another method when direct transfer is unavailable.
Can I transfer Airtel eSIM from one iPhone to another?
Yes. Airtel supports iPhone-to-iPhone eSIM Quick Transfer and publishes separate app-based activation instructions. Its current direct-transfer instructions specify iOS 26 or later.
Will my mobile number change after eSIM transfer?
No. An ordinary eSIM transfer moves your existing number to another compatible device. Jio explicitly confirms that existing plan benefits are retained.
How long does eSIM transfer take in India?
There is no single guaranteed time for every method. Direct Quick Transfer depends on successful activation, while the separate Jio app process includes a two-hour cooling period and further verification. Airtel publishes its own activation and configuration timelines.
Is Jio eSIM transfer free?
Jio officially states that upgrading to eSIM has no charge. Airtel users should confirm any applicable charges for exceptional replacement or assistance requests with the operator.
Will WhatsApp and banking apps work after transferring eSIM?
Transferring the eSIM preserves the mobile number, but it does not automatically migrate app data. Apps that need a fresh SMS verification may be affected by the operator’s temporary SMS restriction.
Can I transfer a Jio number to Airtel using eSIM Quick Transfer?
No. Moving a number from Jio to Airtel is mobile number portability, which is separate from transferring an existing Jio eSIM between devices. You must follow the receiving operator’s porting process.
Final Advice: Transfer Before You Erase Your Old iPhone
For most eligible iPhone-to-iPhone moves, the simplest starting point is Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Transfer From Nearby iPhone.
Both Jio and Airtel now officially support this approach in India. The operator apps remain useful when direct transfer isn’t available or you’re moving from another kind of device.
The precaution that matters most is timing. Keep your previous phone accessible, use a reliable Wi-Fi connection, and avoid scheduling the transfer immediately before you need banking OTPs or other SMS-based verification.
A successful eSIM transfer should leave you using your familiar mobile number on the new iPhone. Taking care of the verification steps before resetting the old device is the easiest way to keep the switch manageable.
Trusted Sources Used
- Apple Support — Set Up eSIM on iPhone
https://support.apple.com/en-in/118669 - Apple Support — eSIM-Compatible Carriers and Transfer Methods
https://support.apple.com/en-in/101569 - Reliance Jio — Official eSIM Transfer Guide
https://www.jio.com/esim/transfer/ - Reliance Jio — eSIM Transfer Using MyJio
https://www.jio.com/help/faq/mobile/services/esim-smartphone/i-am-using-jio-esim-what-happens-if-i-change-my-phone-or-wants-to-transfer-esim-from-one-device-to-another-device/ - Airtel — Official eSIM Activation and Transfer Guide
https://www.airtel.in/esim/ - Apple Support — Troubleshooting iPhone eSIM Activation
https://support.apple.com/en-in/102478
Report an issue with this article
Spotted outdated information or a broken link? The article URL is included automatically. Reports are private. Please do not include sensitive personal information.
Contact us at itechvora@gmail.com with the article link.
