What is an EID number?
What it is, and you can find it.
If you've been reading up on eSIMS, you would likely have encountered the term 'EID', but what exactly is it? This blog will provide you with a brief introduction of what an EID is in the context of mobile phones, what you can do with it, and how to find it.
What is EID?
First things first, what is EID? EID stands for Embedded Identity Document. Similar to your personal identity documents, the EID is used for identification purposes — but instead of identifying you, it is used for identification of an eSIM that is installed in your device.
The EID number is a 32-digit number that is integrated into smartphones that are designed to support eSIM chips, and is a crucial piece of the puzzle for your device to support eSIMs. In essence, the EID number facilitates connection with the eSIMs, enabling you to use your phone without a physical SIM card. Operators will use the EID number to identify your eSIM, so that they can remotely provision and manage the profiles on your device.
And if you are wondering, no, it is not possible for you to activate an eSIM on a device that does not have an EID number.
Why do I need to know my EID number?
You typically wouldn't need to know your EID number for a day-to-day use of your phone. And while you don't always need to know the EID number of your device when installing an eSIM, being able to quickly find this number could come in handy during the installation process, or when you are facing issues and trying to troubleshoot an eSIM with your provider.
How to find your EID number?
Now, if you're wondering how to locate your EID number, there are two straightforward methods depending on your smartphone's brand and operating system. Finding it is a breeze!
On iPhones
On iOS devices, the most common method is checking the phone's box. But not to worry, even if you are getting a second hand device without the box, or if you already threw the box away, it is still possible to find your EID number within the phone settings.
- Go to iPhone settings.
- Scroll down to "General" and select it.
- In the first section, choose "About..."
- Scroll down to locate the "EID" section and access it to verify your EID.
On Apple Watch
As for Apple Watch users:
- Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
- Navigate to General, then Information, and scroll down.
- Find the EID Number and synchronize it with your eSIM.
On Android
You can typically find the EID Number on the phone's box. However, in case the brand that you are purchasing does not print the EID number on the box, there are also ways to find this number within your device's settings.
- Access the Settings app.
- Scroll down to find "About Phone" and select it.
- Select "status information."
- The EID Number should be one of the first pieces of information displayed.
