If you have finished setting up the new iPhone but your phone number is not visible, the first check should be which eSIM transfer method your carrier supports. Moving photos and apps doesn’t necessarily mean the cellular line is activated either. This guide explains the correct order of operations for users whose line is not visible or whose eSIM setup is not completed when switching from an old iPhone to a new iPhone.
Apple’s current operator list lists Turkcell, Türk Telekom and Vodafone in Türkiye under other eSIM activation methods such as QR code or operator app. eSIM Fast Transfer support is not listed in the Türkiye section. Therefore, instead of assuming that you can transfer by bringing two phones side by side, you need to learn the method offered by the operator for your current line.
Do not delete the old eSIM before starting the transfer
Do not reset the old phone and delete the existing eSIM profile until you see that your line is working on the new device. According to Apple, once the number is activated on the new iPhone, the previous SIM is disabled. If reverting to the old device is required, this may not be as easily undone as turning off a setting, as re-transfer or re-activation by the carrier may be required.
Connect the new iPhone to a reliable Wi-Fi network and install the updated iOS version available for the device. Make sure the regional model of the phone supports eSIM; The model name alone may not be sufficient. You can check the scope of the technology and compatibility differences in the What is eSIM guide.
How to install eSIM on new iPhone in Türkiye?
First, tell your carrier that you want to use your existing number on the new device. Applying for a new subscription and activating the existing eSIM on another phone are not the same process. Learn about the reusability of your old QR code, the profile renewal method if necessary, and the transaction fee specific to your line.
- On the new iPhone Settings > Cellular Open the section.
- Set Cellular or Add eSIM Tap .
- Use QR Code Turn on the option. Before Other Options You may need to tap the button.
- Scan the QR code provided by the operator for this transaction. If asked for a verification code, enter the code provided by the carrier.
- Complete the on-screen instructions and Settings > Cellular Check that the new line is open in the section.
This menu path is compatible with Apple’s iPhone User Guide. If your carrier provides an app or activation link instead of a QR code, follow the instructions for that method. Instead of randomly re-reading the QR code, have the operator check the validity of the code and profile when an error occurs.
When is the Cast from nearby iPhone option available?
According to Apple’s eSIM Fast Transfer documentation, both iPhones require the same Apple Account, turned on Bluetooth, and iOS 18.4 or later. Unlocking the old phone and keeping the devices close to each other are also among the conditions. Providing these does not mean that your operator supports this feature.
- On new iPhone for a supported line Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM open your way.
- Select the number or Transfer from Nearby iPhone Tap .
- Confirm transfer on old iPhone; If prompted, enter the verification code on the new device.
- Wait for activation. If a notification to finish the carrier installation appears, open the link and complete the instructions.
If this option does not appear, return to the installation method offered by the carrier instead of repeating the same step. iPhone Handoff in iOS 27 is also a separate service. Carriers supported in Apple’s Handoff document include T-Mobile in the US and Telekom in Germany; Turkish support is not stated.
What to do if eSIM is visible but the line is not working?
First, turn Airplane Mode on and off and check the carrier name in Control Center. If the result does not change Settings > Cellular In the section, close and reopen the relevant line. Then restart the iPhone; After each check, see if the connection is received.
Apple’s troubleshooting document also recommends checking carrier settings. Settings > General > About Tap the carrier version in the eSIM field in the section and complete the update prompt if it appears. If the line is still not working, prepare the error message, your phone number and the IMEI or EID information that you can access from the same screen for official operator support.
Do not judge the success of the trade by looking only at the signal bars. Make a call, receive a regular SMS from another phone and open a page with cellular data by turning off Wi-Fi. If you are using dual lines, check that the data line you are trying is the number you just set up; Once all three attempts are completed, prepare to return the old device.