Trying to get your new Fairphone Gen. 6 set up with an eSIM can feel a bit daunting, but trust me, it’s a must for how you stay connected. It’s all about embracing modern connectivity while sticking to Fairphone’s awesome values of sustainability and longevity. In this guide, we’re going to walk through everything you need to know about the Fairphone Gen. 6 and its eSIM capabilities, from what an eSIM actually is to how you can get yours up and running, and why this tech aligns so perfectly with a phone built to last.
Fairphone has always been about doing things differently, right? They’re not just making phones. they’re making a statement about ethical sourcing, repairability, and keeping our tech out of landfills for as long as possible. The Fairphone Gen. 6, officially launched on June 25, 2025, continues this tradition, and its support for eSIMs is a big part of that story. This isn’t just about convenience, though you’ll definitely get a lot of that. It’s also about a more sustainable future for mobile technology. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and make sure you’re ready to make the most of your Fairphone Gen. 6 with eSIM.
What is an eSIM and Why Should You Care?
You’ve probably heard of SIM cards – those tiny plastic chips you slot into your phone to connect to a mobile network. Well, an eSIM, or embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is basically the digital version of that. Instead of a physical card, it’s a small chip built directly into your phone’s hardware. This means no more fiddling with tiny trays or worrying about losing your SIM when you travel. It’s a pretty neat step forward, offering a bunch of benefits that just make life easier.
The Traditional SIM vs. the eSIM Revolution
Think about it: with a traditional SIM, if you wanted to switch carriers or get a local number while traveling, you’d have to get a new physical card, open up your phone, swap them out, and possibly even use that little ejection tool. It was always a bit of a faff, wasn’t it?
The eSIM changes all that. It’s programmable, so you can switch network providers or activate new plans digitally, right from your phone’s settings, usually by scanning a QR code or entering a few details. This “over-the-air” OTA provisioning is incredibly convenient. The eSIM market itself is booming, showing just how much people are embracing this shift. In 2024, the global eSIM market was valued at a whopping USD 12.39 billion, and experts predict it will jump to USD 13.78 billion by 2025, potentially reaching USD 23.57 billion by 2030, growing at an impressive compound annual growth rate CAGR of 11.30%. Another report estimated the market at USD 10.32 billion in 2024, projected to hit USD 17.67 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 5.1%. No matter which numbers you look at, it’s clear eSIMs are becoming mainstream.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability: A Fairphone Core Value
One of the coolest things about eSIMs, especially when we’re talking about a brand like Fairphone, is the environmental aspect. Every physical SIM card is a piece of plastic, and while small, those add up to a lot of electronic waste over time. By eliminating the need for these physical cards, eSIMs help reduce plastic waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and distributing them.
Fairphone is all about reducing electronic waste and promoting longevity. They actively source materials ethically, prioritize recycled materials, and design their phones for easy repair. The Fairphone Gen. 6 proudly carries an iFixit repairability score of 10 out of 10, meaning you can easily fix it yourself with readily available spare parts and a standard screwdriver. This commitment to making phones last longer directly combats the “throwaway” culture that’s so common in the tech industry. Embracing eSIMs fits right into this philosophy, pushing for a more sustainable future in mobile connectivity. IPad 9 eSIM
Does the Fairphone Gen 6 Support eSIM? Yes, and it’s awesome!
let’s get to the burning question: does the new Fairphone Gen. 6 actually support eSIM? You bet it does! This is fantastic news because it brings all those benefits we just talked about – convenience, sustainability, and flexibility – to your ethical smartphone experience.
Confirmation of eSIM Capability
The Fairphone Gen. 6, which officially arrived on June 25, 2025, comes equipped with eSIM technology right out of the box. This means you don’t need any extra adapters or workarounds. it’s just built in, ready for you to use. This is a natural progression for Fairphone, as both its predecessors, the Fairphone 4 and Fairphone 5, also support eSIMs.
Dual SIM Functionality: eSIM + Physical SIM
One of the best features of having an eSIM on your Fairphone Gen. 6 is its dual SIM capability. What does that mean for you? It means you can use one physical Nano-SIM card and one eSIM simultaneously.
This setup is incredibly practical. Imagine you have a personal phone number and a work number, or you travel a lot and want to keep your home number active while using a local data plan in another country. The Fairphone Gen. 6 makes this super easy. You can manage both connections from your phone’s settings, choosing which one you want to use for calls, texts, or data at any given moment. It’s worth noting that while you can have both a physical SIM and an eSIM active, only one SIM card slot can be active on 5G radio technology at a time. IPad 7 eSIM
This dual SIM flexibility helps you save on roaming charges when you’re abroad and simplifies managing different aspects of your life from a single device. It’s all about making your phone work harder and smarter for you.
Getting Started with eSIM on Your Fairphone Gen 6: A Step-by-Step Guide
you’ve got your Fairphone Gen. 6, and you’re ready to ditch the plastic SIM. Setting up an eSIM is surprisingly straightforward. Think of it like installing an app, but for your mobile network.
Before You Begin: What You Need
Before you jump into the settings, make sure you have a couple of things ready:
- Wi-Fi Connection: You’ll need a stable internet connection to download your eSIM profile.
- eSIM Activation Information: Your mobile network provider will give you this. It’s usually a QR code, but sometimes they provide manual details like an SM-DP+ address and activation code. Make sure you have this handy!
- Your Fairphone Gen. 6 EID Number: Some network operators might ask for your device’s Embedded Identity Document EID number when you request an eSIM. You can find this printed on your Fairphone’s box or in your phone settings under:
Settings → About phone → SIM status SIM slot 2 → EID.
Activating Your eSIM: The QR Code Method The Easiest Way
This is probably the most common and simplest way to get your eSIM up and running. IPhone SE (2nd generation) 2020 eSIM
- Head to Settings: Unlock your Fairphone Gen. 6 and open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Network & Internet: Scroll down a bit and tap on Network & Internet.
- Find Mobile Network: Tap on Mobile network.
- Add a Carrier: If you already have a physical SIM installed, you’ll see a “+” icon next to your SIMs. Tap on that. If not, look for an option like Add carrier or Download a SIM instead.
- Confirm Download: You might see a prompt like “Download a SIM instead?”. Tap Next or Yes.
- Scan the QR Code: Your phone’s camera will open, ready to scan the QR code your provider gave you. Just center the QR code in the frame.
- Follow Prompts & Activate: After scanning, your phone will start downloading the eSIM profile. Follow any on-screen instructions, which might include entering an operator confirmation code or your screen lock.
- Tap Done: Once everything is processed, tap Activate and then Done. Your eSIM should now be active!
Manual Activation If Needed
Sometimes, you might not have a QR code, or it might not work. No worries, you can manually enter the details.
- Follow Steps 1-5 above.
- Choose Manual Entry: Instead of scanning the QR code, look for an option like Enter Details Manually or Use activation code.
- Input Details: You’ll need to enter the SM-DP+ address and the activation code that your carrier provided. Be careful to type these in exactly as given.
- Tap Next and Done: Follow any further prompts to complete the activation.
Managing Your eSIM Profiles
The beauty of eSIMs is how flexible they are. Your Fairphone Gen. 6 can typically store multiple eSIM profiles some devices can store up to 8!, even if only one eSIM can be active at a time alongside your physical SIM.
To manage your SIM preferences:
- Go to
Settings → Network and Internet. - Tap on one of your networks e.g., SIM 1 or eSIM.
- Here, you can set your preferences for Data preference only one SIM can be default for data, Calls preference pick a default or ask every time, and SMS preference pick a default or ask every time.
Switching between stored eSIM profiles is just as simple, usually done within the same mobile network settings. This is perfect for travelers who want to swap between different local data plans without buying new physical SIMs.
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Choosing an eSIM Provider for Your Fairphone Gen 6
Once you’ve got the hang of how eSIMs work on your Fairphone Gen. 6, the next step is picking a provider. It’s a little different from just walking into a phone shop, but the choices are growing rapidly!
Key Considerations: Price, Coverage, Data Plans
When you’re looking for an eSIM provider, you’ll want to weigh a few things:
- Coverage: Does the provider offer reliable network coverage in the areas where you need it most? If you travel, check their international roaming options or specific country data plans. Providers like Ubigi offer eSIM plans in over 200 destinations, which is super handy for global connectivity.
- Data Plans: What kind of data plans do they offer? Are they flexible, with options for daily, weekly, or monthly usage? Do they have data-only plans, or do they include voice and SMS?
- Price: Compare the costs. Often, eSIM data plans can be significantly cheaper than traditional roaming, especially when traveling. For example, some providers offer a 5GB Europe-wide eSIM for as little as €15-€20, which is much more affordable than typical roaming charges that can be £2-£3 per day for basic bundles.
- Fairphone Compatibility: While the Fairphone Gen. 6 itself supports eSIM, always double-check with the specific provider if they officially support Fairphone devices, as some carriers might have their own compatibility lists.
Popular eSIM Providers
There are many providers out there, ranging from traditional carriers offering eSIMs to global eSIM-specific services. Some popular global eSIM providers you might come across include:
- Ubigi: Known for its global coverage, Ubigi specifically mentions support for Fairphone 4 and Fairphone 5, and it’s safe to assume this extends to the Fairphone Gen. 6. They allow you to get and install a free eSIM profile.
- Airalo/aloSIM/Holafly: These services specialize in providing data-only eSIMs for travelers, often offering competitive rates for specific countries or regions.
- Your Local Carrier: Many traditional mobile network operators are now offering eSIMs alongside physical SIMs. It’s always a good idea to check with your current provider first, especially if you want to keep your existing number.
Fairphone’s Stance on Network Compatibility
Fairphone encourages users to check with their network operator to confirm eSIM support and compatibility. They highlight that their phones Fairphone 4 and later, which includes Gen 6 have an eSIM slot and emphasize the importance of having the EID number ready for activation if requested. This open approach means you have a lot of freedom to choose the best provider for your needs, rather than being locked into specific networks.
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The Benefits of Using eSIM with Your Fairphone Gen 6
Using an eSIM with your Fairphone Gen. 6 isn’t just a technical upgrade. it unlocks a world of convenience and flexibility that aligns perfectly with a conscious lifestyle.
Seamless Travel and Global Connectivity
For anyone who loves to travel, eSIMs are a real game-changer. Imagine landing in a new country and being able to instantly connect to a local network without hunting for a physical SIM card. You can buy data plans online before you even leave home and activate them as soon as you arrive. This means no more expensive roaming charges and immediate access to maps, ride-sharing apps, and communication. It’s all about smooth transitions and staying connected effortlessly, making your trips much less stressful.
Enhanced Security
Believe it or not, eSIMs also offer a bump in security. A physical SIM card can be easily removed if your phone is lost or stolen, making it harder to track and potentially allowing unauthorized access. With an eSIM, the profile is embedded directly into your device. It can’t be physically removed, which adds an extra layer of security. This makes it tougher for someone to quickly disable your connectivity or access your network information.
Flexibility and Convenience
The sheer convenience of managing your mobile plans digitally is hard to beat. You can switch between different network providers or data plans with just a few taps in your phone’s settings. This is fantastic if you want to try out different providers, take advantage of special offers, or simply manage multiple numbers like a personal and a business line without carrying two phones. The Fairphone Gen. 6 supports storing multiple eSIM profiles, so you can have several plans ready to activate whenever you need them.
Contributing to a Sustainable Future
As we touched on earlier, choosing an eSIM is also a small but meaningful step towards a more sustainable tech world. By foregoing physical plastic SIM cards, you’re reducing electronic waste and the resources needed for production and distribution. This directly supports Fairphone’s core mission to create electronics that are fair, sustainable, and built to last. When you pick a Fairphone, you’re already voting with your wallet for better environmental practices, and using an eSIM just amplifies that positive impact. Best eSIM for Turkmenistan
Troubleshooting Common Fairphone Gen 6 eSIM Issues
Even with the best tech, sometimes things don’t go perfectly. If you run into issues with your Fairphone Gen. 6 eSIM, don’t worry, many common problems have simple solutions.
eSIM Not Activating
This is often the first hurdle people face.
- Check Wi-Fi: Make sure you have a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection during the activation process. eSIM profiles need to be downloaded over the internet.
- Re-scan QR Code / Re-enter Details: Sometimes a quick re-scan or careful re-entry of the manual details can resolve a typo or a scanning error. Double-check every character if you’re entering manually.
- Contact Your Provider: The most common reason for activation failure is an issue on the carrier’s end. Your provider might need to re-send the QR code, reactivate the profile, or ensure their system has registered your EID correctly.
- Check Device Compatibility Regional Models: While the Fairphone Gen. 6 supports eSIM generally, some regional models of other phones like those sold in specific countries might have limitations. Always check your model number or contact Fairphone support if you suspect this.
Connectivity Problems
Once activated, if you’re having trouble getting a signal or using data:
- Enable Data Roaming for international eSIMs: If you’re using an international eSIM for travel, make sure data roaming is turned ON for that specific eSIM profile in your phone’s settings. Conversely, ensure data roaming is OFF for your primary SIM to avoid unexpected charges.
- Check APN Settings: Sometimes, the Access Point Name APN settings for your eSIM might not automatically configure correctly. Your eSIM provider can give you the correct APN to enter manually in your phone’s network settings. For example, some providers might require the APN to be “alosim”.
- Toggle Airplane Mode: A classic troubleshooting step, turning airplane mode on and off can often refresh your network connection.
- Restart Your Phone: The age-old solution often works wonders for various tech glitches, including network issues.
Switching Between eSIMs or Physical SIM
Managing multiple SIMs on your Fairphone Gen. 6 is a key feature, but sometimes you might struggle to get the right one active. Your Ultimate Guide to the Best eSIM for Thailand in 2025
- Go to Network Settings: Head to
Settings → Network and Internet → Mobile network. - Select Preferred SIM: Here, you should see your active physical SIM and any installed eSIM profiles. You can tap on each one to manage its preferences for calls, SMS, and mobile data.
- Ensure Only One Data SIM is Active: Remember, only one SIM physical or eSIM can be set as the default for mobile data at any given time.
- Fairphone 5/6 only one 5G active: The Fairphone Gen. 6 supports dual SIM one physical Nano-SIM + one eSIM, but only one of these can be active on 5G radio technology at any given moment.
If these steps don’t resolve your issue, Fairphone’s support resources and community forums are excellent places to look for more specific help.
Fairphone’s Commitment to Longevity and Repairability
Fairphone isn’t just another smartphone brand. it’s a movement towards more ethical and sustainable electronics. Their commitment to longevity and repairability is truly at the heart of what they do, and the Fairphone Gen. 6 embodies this philosophy more than ever.
How eSIM Plays a Role in Future-Proofing
While eSIMs might seem like a small detail, they contribute significantly to the “future-proofing” aspect of your Fairphone Gen. 6. As the world moves increasingly towards digital solutions, having an embedded SIM means your phone is ready for the next wave of connectivity standards. It makes it easier for you to adapt to new network technologies or switch providers as better options become available, without being held back by outdated physical hardware. This flexibility means your phone stays relevant and functional for longer.
Fairphone’s dedication to making devices that last is truly impressive. The Fairphone 5 the immediate predecessor, and very similar to what we expect in Gen 6 based on Fairphone’s naming conventions earned a perfect 10/10 repairability score from iFixit. The Fairphone Gen. 6 continues this tradition, also achieving a perfect 10 out of 10 score from iFixit, making it one of the most easily repairable phones ever. This means that if something breaks, you can probably fix it yourself with basic tools and readily available spare parts from Fairphone. This significantly extends the phone’s lifespan, directly addressing the massive problem of electronic waste. Fairphone’s goal is to extend phone usage to at least 5 years, far beyond the industry average of 2-3 years. Best eSIM for Tajikistan: Stay Connected on Your Adventure
Beyond hardware, Fairphone also commits to extensive software support. For example, the Fairphone 5 promises at least five Android version upgrades and over eight years of security updates, aiming for a total lifespan of 8 to 10 years. This level of long-term software support is almost unheard of in the smartphone industry and ensures your phone remains secure and functional for a very long time. By choosing a Fairphone, you’re investing in a device that’s designed to stay out of the landfill and in your pocket for as long as possible.
Fairphone Gen 6 eSIM vs. Older Models
It’s helpful to understand how eSIM support has evolved across Fairphone’s lineup, especially if you’re upgrading or curious about older models.
What’s New with Gen 6
The Fairphone Gen. 6, launched in June 2025, fully supports eSIM alongside a physical Nano-SIM. This dual SIM functionality is a core feature, allowing you to have two numbers on one device, ideal for balancing personal and professional life or managing international travel. It builds upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessors.
A Quick Look at Fairphone 4 and 5 eSIM Support
- Fairphone 5: Released in August 2023, the Fairphone 5 also supports eSIM in addition to a physical Nano-SIM. It allows for dual SIM functionality eSIM + physical SIM and can store multiple eSIM profiles, though only one eSIM can be active at a time alongside the physical SIM.
- Fairphone 4: This model, released earlier, was a significant step as it was Fairphone’s first device to natively include eSIM support one physical Nano-SIM and one eSIM.
What About Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 2?
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- Fairphone 3: Unfortunately, the Fairphone 3 and Fairphone 3+ does not have built-in eSIM capability. However, there’s a neat workaround: you can add eSIM functionality to it using an
eSIM.mecard. This is a physical SIM card that acts as an eSIM, allowing you to download and manage digital profiles. - Fairphone 2: The Fairphone 2 is even older and also lacks native eSIM support. While discussions existed about using an
eSIM.mecard with it, initial tests with theeSIM.meapp on various Android versions including Android 10 and 11 indicated “Your smartphone is not yet compatible.” So, for the Fairphone 2, native or added eSIM support seems unlikely at this point.
So, if you’re looking for seamless, built-in eSIM functionality, the Fairphone Gen. 6, Fairphone 5, and Fairphone 4 are your go-to options. The evolution shows Fairphone’s commitment to integrating modern tech while staying true to their ethical vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple eSIMs on my Fairphone Gen 6?
Yes, your Fairphone Gen. 6 can store multiple eSIM profiles, often up to 8 different ones. However, you can only have one eSIM profile active at any given time alongside your physical Nano-SIM. This means you can easily switch between your stored eSIM plans when needed, but only one digital plan will be actively providing service at once.
Is eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?
Generally, yes, eSIMs offer enhanced security. Because an eSIM is embedded within your device’s hardware, it cannot be physically removed like a traditional SIM card. This makes it much harder for someone to tamper with your network connection or quickly use your number if your phone is lost or stolen. It also reduces the risk of SIM card cloning.
What if my eSIM QR code doesn’t work?
If your eSIM QR code isn’t working, first make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection and that the QR code is clear and undamaged. If it still fails, try restarting your Fairphone Gen. 6. If the problem persists, the best step is to contact your mobile network provider. They might need to re-issue the QR code or provide you with the manual activation details SM-DP+ address and activation code. Best eSIM for Seychelles: Stay Connected in Paradise
Can I transfer my eSIM to another Fairphone or device?
Transferring an eSIM profile to another device can sometimes be a bit tricky and depends on your network provider’s policies. Some providers offer a straightforward transfer process through their app or website, while others might require you to delete the eSIM from your old phone and then activate a new one on your new device. It’s always best to check with your specific carrier about their eSIM transfer procedures before attempting a switch.
Does using an eSIM affect my Fairphone’s battery life?
Using an eSIM typically has a negligible impact on your Fairphone’s battery life compared to a physical SIM. Both technologies essentially perform the same function of connecting your phone to a network. The battery consumption will be more influenced by your network signal strength, data usage, screen brightness, and overall app activity rather than whether you’re using a physical SIM or an eSIM.
Are all network providers compatible with Fairphone Gen 6 eSIM?
While the Fairphone Gen. 6 is equipped with eSIM technology, not all network providers globally support eSIMs, and among those that do, some might not officially list Fairphone as a compatible device. It’s crucial to check directly with your desired network provider to confirm their eSIM support and ensure compatibility with your Fairphone Gen. 6 before purchasing a plan.
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