An eSIM is a digital SIM that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. With eSIM, you can quickly and easily transfer an existing cellular plan or get a new cellular plan, all digitally. You can even store multiple eSIMs on the same device and use two phone numbers at the same time. And it’s more secure — someone can’t remove the physical SIM card if your iPhone is lost or stolen. In just a few simple steps, you are ready to make calls, send messages, and browse the web. Learn more about eSIM (Opens in a new window) . iPhone Air is activated with an eSIM and does not support a physical SIM. Use of an eSIM requires a carrier that supports eSIM and a wireless service plan. See your carrier for details. Learn more about eSIM and carriers (Opens in a new window) .
In most cases, yes. An iPhone purchased from apple.com (Opens in a new window) is unlocked. Once your new iPhone is activated, it remains unlocked, which means you can use it with any network that provides service for iPhone. However, if you buy an iPhone with an AT&T Installment Plan, your iPhone will be locked to AT&T and will only work on the AT&T network for the term of your Installment Plan agreement.
Carrier-connected iPhone 16, iPhone 17e, iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro models will arrive ready to activate with eSIM and can connect to your cellular voice and data service without a physical SIM card. If you completed the steps to authorize activation with AT&T, Boost Mobile, T-Mobile, or Verizon when you purchased your new iPhone online, it will arrive ready to use. Just turn it on and follow the onscreen instructions to set it up and activate with the carrier. To activate with eSIM, you will need Wi-Fi for setup. If you choose “Connect to a carrier later” when you buy your iPhone, you can activate your service when you receive your device. If you’re asked to transfer your SIM, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer service from your previous iPhone. Learn how to set up eSIM on iPhone. (Opens in a new window) .
All iPhone models are world phones, so you can use them almost anywhere. Whether you are a GSM or CDMA network customer, you can roam internationally on GSM networks in over 200 countries or regions around the world. If you financed your iPhone with your wireless carrier, contact them to verify that you can roam internationally. Availability of 5G and LTE data varies in some countries or regions and depends on carrier support for certain 5G and LTE radio frequencies. Contact your wireless carrier for more information regarding international roaming policies and rates. Information on iPhone support for 5G and LTE (Opens in a new window)
Yes. If you change your mind and no longer wish to keep your iPhone, you have the option to return it to us. The returned iPhone must be in good condition and in the original packaging, which contains all accessories, manuals, and instructions. Returns are subject to Apple’s Sales and Refunds Policy.
In most cases, an iPhone purchased from apple.com can be activated later. However, certain special deals or discounts may require preparation with the carrier at the time of purchase so that the phone arrives ready to use.
When you buy directly from Apple, you’ll get access to Personal Setup — free online, one‑on‑one sessions with a Specialist who can help you set up your new iPhone and start your data transfer. A Specialist can also help you customize your settings, discover navigation tips, and dive deeper into Apple apps and tools. Best of all, you can join whenever works for you, from wherever you are. Learn more about Personal Setup.
Yes. You can switch carriers when you purchase an iPhone directly from Apple and choose carrier financing as your payment option. You’ll also be able to keep your existing number and data. And your new iPhone will arrive ready to use, without you having to contact your former carrier.
The iPhone Upgrade Program is the easiest way to upgrade to a new iPhone 17, iPhone Air, or iPhone 17 Pro, and it also offers the security and protection of AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss. Learn more about joining the iPhone Upgrade Program (Opens in a new window) . If you are already part of the program, start by checking your upgrade status to see if you’re eligible for the latest iPhone. If you are, you can either proceed with your upgrade online or visit an Apple Store and chat with a Specialist. You can upgrade anytime after six months, as long as you’ve made the equivalent of at least 12 payments. If you have to pay an additional amount to meet your 12 payments, you can do it when you upgrade. We will arrange for you to trade in your old iPhone as part of the program, so please do not trade in your current iPhone using the standard Apple Trade In option (Opens in a new window) . Check your upgrade eligibility now (Opens in a new window) Learn more about upgrading (Opens in a new window)
Connectivity discounts are reflected in the advertised price of select iPhone models, and are available to customers who connect with select carriers at the time of purchase. The discount is not available for customers who choose to connect to a carrier later, or who have a prepaid carrier plan.
AppleCare One coverage extends to products that were purchased recently or are currently covered by AppleCare+. Other eligible devices are those currently associated with your Apple Account, Apple audio or headphones less than 1 year old, and other Apple devices that are less than 4 years old and in good condition. Learn more about AppleCare (Opens in a new window).