Published on November 4, 2025•3 min read

iOS’s New Auto-Switch eSIM Makes Travel Effortless — Here’s How to Use It with Figabytes

iOS’s New Auto-Switch eSIM Makes Travel Effortless — Here’s How to Use It with Figabytes

Apple just made travel data even easier. A new auto-switch eSIM feature in iOS detects when you leave your home country and can automatically move your iPhone’s data line to a preloaded travel eSIM—then switch back when you return. Figabytes plans are compatible, so you can land, go online, and forget about juggling settings.

What changed (and why it matters)

  • Automatic travel activation: iOS can sense you’re abroad and flip your data line to a stored travel eSIM with its own bundle—no SIM shuffling or manual toggles. When you’re home again, it reverts to your usual line.

  • iPhone support: Works on iPhone XR and newer, provided you’re running the latest iOS that includes auto-switch travel eSIM.

  • Travel simplicity: This removes the last bit of friction—setup once, then let your iPhone (and Figabytes) handle the switch.

How it works on iPhone (plain English)

  1. You preload a Figabytes travel eSIM profile (QR/app/manual code).

  2. iOS detects you’ve crossed borders.

  3. Your data line switches to the stored travel eSIM.

  4. Back home? iOS flips you to your regular line automatically.

Note: Auto-switch is an iOS feature; Android users can still install and select Figabytes eSIMs manually in a few taps.

Set it up with Figabytes (one-time prep)

  1. Buy a Figabytes plan (country/region) and install over Wi-Fi via QR or in-app.

  2. In Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data, label it “Figabytes Travel.”

  3. Keep it stored (don’t delete).

  4. Ensure you’re on the latest iOS version that supports auto-switch travel eSIM.

  5. When you fly, your iPhone can switch data to Figabytes Travel automatically on arrival; it’ll switch back when you’re home.

Who benefits most

  • Frequent flyers & remote workers: Land, ride-hail, book, and message with zero setup.

  • Multi-country trips: Preload one regional Figabytes eSIM and let iOS swap when borders change.

  • Roaming-fee avoiders: Use local-rate data without touching your home line.

FAQs

Do I still need Wi-Fi to install?
Yes—install the Figabytes eSIM over Wi-Fi before you travel. After that, data works over cellular like normal.

Can I keep my home number active?
Yes. Keep calls/SMS on your home line and run data on Figabytes. iMessage/FaceTime line selection is in Settings.

What if auto-switch doesn’t trigger?
You can always switch manually: Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Cellular Data → Figabytes. If data doesn’t start, add the Figabytes APN from your order and toggle Airplane Mode.

Android support?
Android phones don’t have this iOS auto-switch feature yet, but you can still install and select your Figabytes eSIM in a few taps.

Bottom line

With iOS’s auto-switch eSIM and Figabytes travel plans, your iPhone can handle connectivity the moment you cross a border—and switch back when you return. Set it once, travel smarter, and skip the roaming stress.

Install your eSIM with confidence

Follow this guided checklist from device prep to activation. Figabytes eSIMs stay ready in your account, so you can install today and switch them on the moment you land.

Most unlocked phones from 2018 onward support eSIM. Run these pre-checks now so activation is stress-free when you land.

  • Make sure your device is unlocked and supports eSIM (iPhone XR/XS or newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer, Google Pixel 4 or newer, and most recent flagships).
  • Stay connected to Wi-Fi during installation so the eSIM profile downloads instantly.

iPhone & iPad

Settings → General → About. Under "Digital SIM," confirm an EID is listed.

Android

Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs (or Connections). Look for "Add eSIM" or "Download a SIM instead."

Unsure about compatibility? Ask our team before you buy.