Google appears to have released an eSIM transfer tool for some users, albeit in a very quiet way. However, there are still limitations on what it can do.

Google initially announced that it would support eSIM transfer across devices during the 2023 Mobile World Conference, but the feature did not appear before the end of the year. However, a recent report from Android Police indicates that the feature will be available during the setup period of the Galaxy S24.

The eSIM, or electronic SIM card, makes shopping for new coverage simpler. Since they are built into the device, there is no need to remove the card when changing plans. The main advantage is that, in theory, changing providers is more streamlined. However, that is not always the case, and there are reportedly some nasty hoops to jump through.

The biggest problem is that when migrating plans, the entire setup process has to be redone. Add to this the complexity of migrating to a new device, and it is probably more trouble than it is worth. Google's Transfer tool would allow for a safe and secure transition and help eSIMs become much more efficient.

The first model in which this tool appeared was the Pixel 8, which allowed customers to transfer a T-Mobile eSIM from an older device. For this reason, many thought the tool was only available on Google-branded phones, but that appears not to be the case; it appears that Android Police readers were able to call up this feature from their LG V60 to their phones. This led to the option to transfer the eSIM using a simple QR code.

Originally, Samsung had implemented a SIM transfer tool in the One UI 5.1 release, which only allowed the transfer of profiles between Galaxy devices. However, a tipster on Reddit named FragmentedChicken noticed that the language changed after the One UI 6.1 update. Apparently, the tool now appears to be compatible with non-Galaxy devices, suggesting broader usability.

However, there is one major caveat that currently limits this service. It appears to be locked into T-Mobile's eSIM profile. This is not too surprising since Google mentioned at MWC 2023 that T-Mobile's parent company, Deutsche Telekom, will be one of the first carriers to support this feature.

In short, Google released the eSIM transfer tool in relative silence, and it appears to be working as intended. However, while support is limited at this time, this is a major step forward in streamlining the transfer process and could lead to significant changes in SIM technology.