Transferring Sim to another phone

[almaca60]

I want to use move my existing SIM card into a newer iphone. When I put it into the phone it gives me two options:

1. Transfer my number over bluetooth from my older phone, but it must be running at least version 16, which it isn’t.
2. Use a QR code.

I’ve had the same SIM card since I got my first phone many years ago, and all I ever had to do was take it out one phone and put it into the next one, and it would work fine. As cards got smaller, I had to cut it down in size but it was working fine in my iPhone 7. I now have an iPhone 12. The slot is exactly the same but this time I am being asked the questions above, neither of which applies.

Can anyone help me please?

[madasaf1sh]

@almaca60 

Sounds like it is trying to do something with an esim, which means it cant read the sim card..

You will need to get a new sim card, best bet is to pop into an o2 store with Photo ID, and they can do a sim swap there and then.. 

Otherwise it will be slow post from Customer Services, which will see your Sim disconnected..

[almaca60]

Do newer phones use eSIM What exactly is an eSIM?

Unfortunately, going into an O2 store isn’t an option for me so what exactly should I be asking for, and can it be done on the website? I started the process of transferring my number but didn’t know if that was the right thing so didn’t go through with it.

[MI5]

@almaca60 

About eSIM on iPhone – Apple Support (UK)

[madasaf1sh]

@almaca60 

You will need to call o2 then on 202 from your o2 phone or 0344 809 0202 from any other phone, and they can get one posted out to you..

[almaca60]

Thanks! I’m even more confused now! 😁 I got a new message in settings this time, saying ‘The SIM in your old phone does not support eSIM transfer. Contact O2 for assistance.

[almaca60]

Thanks! Looks like this is my only option. Will I still be able to use my old phone until I receive the new SIM?

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

@almaca60 

The normal practice for O2 is to disconnect your current sim when they send out the new one.

Some kind of strange security policy.

[almaca60]

Oh well, let’s hope the new SIM comes quickly!

[almaca60]

Oh well, the O2 contact number 202 isn’t available. 🙁 I don’t fancy phoning the landline number due to what I was charged last time due to the length if time to get through. Do they not have webchat?