iPhone eSIM Erased After iOS Update: Causes and Solutions

With the release of iOS 18, many iPhone users have encountered a frustrating issue: their eSIMs have been erased after updating. This problem affects multiple models, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone 13 Mini. Users report that their cellular data stops working, and they are unable to reinstall or activate a new eSIM. In some cases, the “Add eSIM” option disappears from the Cellular settings.

Why Does the eSIM Get Erased After an iOS Update?

Several factors may contribute to this issue, including:

eSIM Incompatibility: The iOS 18 update may have altered how eSIMs are managed, making older eSIM profiles incompatible.
Bug in iOS 18: Some users speculate that this is a software glitch affecting eSIM activation and recognition.
Verification Errors: Some devices get stuck on “Verifying Update,” preventing proper eSIM reinstallation.
Network Carrier Issues: Certain carriers might require reactivation of the eSIM after a major iOS update.
Hardware Damage: Although unlikely, Apple Support has suggested that some users may have a hardware issue affecting SIM card detection.

Common Symptoms of This Issue

“Add eSIM” option missing in Settings > Cellular
Error messages like “Unable to read this file” when scanning a new eSIM QR code
No network connection despite correct settings
Error persists after resetting network settings or reinstalling the eSIM
Apple Diagnostics suggests a hardware issue, but the problem started only after the update

Possible Fixes for the eSIM Erasure Issue on iPhone 16,15,14

1. Check for New iOS Updates

Apple may have released a fix for this bug. To check for updates:

Go to: Settings > General > Software Update
If an update is available, install it and restart your phone.

2. Reset Network Settings

Sometimes, clearing your network settings can help reconnect your eSIM.

Go to: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings
Restart your device and check if the eSIM reappears.

3. Contact Your Carrier for eSIM Reinstallation

Many users found that their carriers were able to push a new eSIM to their device.

Call your carrier and request a new eSIM activation QR code.
Scan the QR code to install the eSIM again.

4. Try Repair Mode & Reinstall iOS

If the above steps don’t work, the iOS system may be corrupted. You can try Repair Mode:

Connect your iPhone to a MacBook or PC with iTunes.
Put your iPhone in Recovery Mode (Press and hold Power + Volume Down until you see the recovery screen).
Select Update iOS (DO NOT choose Restore, as it will erase your data).

5. Visit Apple Store for Repair

If none of the above methods work, it could be a deeper issue with iOS 18 or a hardware failure. Some users reported that Apple replaced their device’s motherboard to fix the problem.

Final Thoughts

The iOS 18 update has caused unexpected issues with eSIMs, leaving many users without cellular service. While some solutions like reinstalling the eSIM, resetting network settings, or updating iOS have worked, others have required Apple Store visits for hardware repairs. If you’re affected, start with basic troubleshooting steps, and if needed, seek help from your carrier or Apple Support.

Have you faced this issue? Let us know in the comments!