How dual-SIM works with the Apple iPhone XS & XS Max

One of the new features of the iPhone XS and XS Max is the support of two SIM cards, which will allow users to use two phone numbers on the same device. Here's how it works in countries where the eSIM is available.

Install

This is the first take, of course: only 10 countries support Apple's eSIM, namely Austria, Canada, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary , India, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States. AT & T, T-Mobile and Verizon will be the only US carriers supporting the XS and XS Max. Sprint plans to support the technology, but does not have a date yet.

Owners of the iPhone will also need an update to iOS 12 coming "later this year" and an official app or a special QR code.

Many people will already have a nano-SIM card from their main operator, in which case adding a second number implies adding a plan to the eSIM. If you use an operator application, the process is as simple as using this app to buy a plan: in the case of a QR code, you need to open the Settings appfaucet Cellularthen "Add a cellular plan" You will be presented with an option to analyze your code.

You will be able to use the eSIM instead of a nano-SIM, either for a single account or several, but you will not be able to have more than one active eSIM account at a time. For most people, the best option will be to have a primary nano-SIM.

Once more plans are running, you will be prompted to tag them. There are predefined options such as "Primary", "Secondary", "Business" and "Travel", or you can simply create your own. To change a label later, you will have to enter the Applying settings& # 39; s Cellular menu, tap the number you want to edit, then tap Cellular plane label.

You will also be asked to set a default number, which is essential as it will be the only one to support the full range of cellular services. Secondary numbers can only transmit voice and text messages.

The exception is an option to relegate a secondary line to data only, which can be useful for traveling – this will allow people to call you or send you a message to your main number but to avoid them. Exorbitant roaming charges with a local SIM card. Be warned that in addition to voice and SMS, iMessage and FaceTime will always go into your main computer, which could increase data costs.

Make calls

Once everything is ready, you can change the number before dialing a number in the Phone application by tapping directly on the keypad or pressing the "i" button first while browsing the Favorites. Choosing an SMS number is similar, but you tap the number after starting a new conversation and selecting a contact.

Changing the line for iMessage and FaceTime is more complicated because you have to enter Settings, posts, so what IMessage & FaceTime Line. The selected choice is permanent until you reverse it.

There is one last thing to note, that of the iOS 12 status bar. You will normally see signal strength only for one line at a time, but you can see how a secondary works in opening Control Center.

The first wave of pre-orders for the iPhone XS and XS Max is in progress. Quick-start buyers should see their orders delivered on September 21st.