eSIMs 101: Does VoLTE work on eSIMs?

Author

Yevhenii Kuznietsov

Published on

Nov 13 2024

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As mobile networks advance, the move from traditional physical SIM cards to eSIM technology has picked up speed. At the same time, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) has become the new standard for high quality voice calls, replacing older 2G and 3G systems. These changes are reshaping how we stay connected—offering better performance, flexibility, and reliability across the cellular network.

In this guide, you'll find what it takes to get VoLTE working on an eSIM, including the technical requirements, device compatibility, and carrier support needed to ensure a smooth experience.

What Is VoLTE and How Does It Work?

VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE, a technology that allows phone calls to be made over the LTE network, rather than switching back to 2G or 3G. This provides superior call quality, faster call setup, and seamless connectivity with other mobile data services such as video calling and browsing.

VoLTE essentially transforms the LTE (Long Term Evolution) infrastructure from a data-only service into a complete voice and data platform. This shift allows for high quality voice communication without disrupting your internet access or ongoing tasks on the carrier’s network.

eSIM Technology: A New Era of Mobile Connectivity

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that’s built into the device’s hardware, eliminating the need for a physical SIM. It allows users to switch carriers, manage multiple eSIM profiles, and activate services without inserting a new SIM card.

As eSIM adoption grows, more users are asking whether VoLTE services work the same way as they do with traditional SIMs. Thankfully, the integration between VoLTE functionality and eSIM technology is well-supported—provided your device, carrier, and location are aligned.

Benefits of eSIM Technology

Seamless Carrier Switching: Easily switch between mobile carriers without needing a new SIM card—perfect for flexibility and avoiding long-term contracts.

Supports Multiple Profiles: Store and manage multiple phone numbers or data plans (e.g., personal, work, travel) on a single device.

No Physical SIM Required: eSIMs are built into the device, eliminating the need for physical SIM trays and making setup faster and more convenient.

Remote Activation: Activate or change plans instantly over the air, without visiting a store or waiting for a SIM to be shipped.

Ideal for Travel: Quickly add a local plan at your destination to avoid roaming charges, without removing your main line.

Does VoLTE Work on eSIMs?

Yes, VoLTE works on eSIMs, and many connected devices now come with both VoLTE support and eSIM capabilities. However, just like with a physical SIM, your device compatibility, carrier support, and even your current network infrastructure will impact the availability of VoLTE calls.

In some cases, your phone may have VoLTE functionality, but it’s only enabled when using a certain carrier’s networkor after a device firmware update.

VoLTE-Capable and eSIM-Compatible Devices

Today, many flagship smartphones are both VoLTE compatible and support eSIM out of the box. These include:

Apple iPhone (XS and newer): VoLTE enabled and supports multiple eSIM profiles.

Google Pixel (3 and up): Excellent eSIM and VoLTE integration.

Samsung Galaxy S20 series and later: Dual SIM capability (eSIM + physical SIM), with VoLTE support.

Motorola, Oppo, OnePlus, and Sony devices: Select models support both features.

Before purchasing or activating, always check the latest version of your device’s software, and confirm with the carrierfor VoLTE support in your region.

How to Enable VoLTE on eSIM

Activating VoLTE on an eSIM follows a similar process as with a physical SIM:

  1. Activate your eSIM profile using your device’s settings.

  2. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options (iPhone) or Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network (Android).

  3. Look for the VoLTE option or “Enable VoLTE” toggle and switch it on.

  4. Restart your phone if prompted.

Note that some devices only display the VoLTE option once you’ve connected to a carrier’s LTE network.

Carrier Support and Regional Limitations

Even if your device fully supports VoLTE with eSIM, that doesn't guarantee that your carrier does. Carrier support for Voice over LTE on eSIMs can vary significantly depending on several important technical aspects:

Country: Some regions have more developed LTE infrastructure and broader VoLTE adoption than others.

Carrier-specific plans: Not all mobile plans include VoLTE support, especially budget or legacy plans.

Roaming agreements: VoLTE while roaming may not be supported, or may be limited to physical SIMs in certain locations.

In some areas, VoLTE roaming is either unavailable or only partially supported, meaning you could lose voice call functionality when using an eSIM abroad. To avoid issues, always check your carrier’s VoLTE policies and network coverage before traveling or switching SIM profiles.

eSIM vs Physical SIM: Which Delivers Better High Quality Voice Calls?

When it comes to VoLTE call quality, there's virtually no difference between using a physical SIM and an eSIM—as long as everything is set up correctly. Both SIM types use the same LTE network, rely on cellular data infrastructure, and deliver high quality voice communication when conditions are ideal.

What truly impacts the VoLTE experience isn’t the SIM format, but rather the following:

Strong LTE coverage: A stable, high-speed LTE signal is essential for uninterrupted voice calls.

Carrier-side configuration: Your carrier must properly provision your device and plan for VoLTE, especially with eSIM.

Proper device firmware: Ensure your phone's software is updated to the latest version to support full VoLTE functionality.

That said, some older smartphones or budget models might not be fully optimized for VoLTE on eSIM, even if VoLTE works fine with a physical SIM in the same device. Always double-check device compatibility and carrier support to ensure the best results.

FAQs: Common Questions About VoLTE and eSIM

Can I use VoLTE on a data-only eSIM? No, data-only eSIMs don’t support voice calls. You need a plan with voice service for VoLTE.

Will VoLTE work while roaming internationally? It depends on your carrier. Some support VoLTE roaming, others don’t—check before you travel.

What if I don’t see the VoLTE option in settings? Make sure your device is updated, your carrier supports VoLTE, and your eSIM is properly activated.

Are all eSIM devices VoLTE-enabled? Not all. VoLTE support depends on both the device and the carrier—check compatibility before use.

Can I use VoLTE on both eSIM and physical SIM in dual SIM phones? Yes, many devices support it, but you may need to set a default SIM for voice calls.

Does VoLTE improve call quality on eSIM? Yes, VoLTE offers clearer, faster voice calls compared to older 2G/3G networks.

Final Thoughts

As the mobile industry continues to evolve, understanding how VoLTE and eSIM work together is essential for anyone seeking seamless connectivity, high quality voice calls, and future-ready devices. To fully benefit from Voice over LTE with eSIM, make sure your device is VoLTE-enabled, you're on a carrier that supports VoLTE on eSIM, and you've completed the necessary steps in your phone’s settings.

With more users adopting eSIM technology, VoLTE functionality is becoming a cornerstone of modern voice communication—delivering superior call quality without sacrificing flexibility, coverage, or convenience.

Yevhenii Kuznietsov

[email protected]

Yevhenii Kuznietsov blends journalism with a passion for travel tech. He explores eSIM's impact on communication and travel, offering expert interviews and gadget reviews. Outside of writing, Yevhenii is a hiking enthusiast and drone hobbyist, capturing unique travel vistas.

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