What is EID Number and How to Find It on Iphone & Android?

“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” – Abraham Lincoln.

With the world turning mobile, an EID number is a part of the invention that is driving secure identification. 

It might sound too complicated at first, but once you understand the details, it becomes easy to understand. 

This blog explores what the EID number is and how you can find it on iPhone and Android so that the next time someone mentions an EID number, you are not scratching your head. 🤔

What is EID Number?

An embedded identity document (EID number) is a number unique to specific devices, typically within the telecom industry. By tracking and authenticating mobile devices, EID numbers assist manufacturers, carriers, and regulators in identifying particular equipment.

It is the Embedded Identity Document number that has been allocated to the eSIM(embedded SIM) of the device.

Where regular SIM cards can easily be removed from devices, eSIMs are integrated into devices and can be reprogrammed to connect to various carriers over the air. The EID is the eSIM’s digital identity, enabling the carrier to locate, authenticate, and manage the eSIM on their network.

The EID number is typically a 32-digit hexadecimal string that carries detailed information about the eSIM, like the manufacturer and the host country. This number is necessary to activate eSIM services, switch carriers, s and troubleshoot connectivity issues.

With the increasing adoption of eSIM technology in smartphones, tablets, and wearables, the EID number has grown more important for seamless connectivity and switching between different carriers with no need to replace physical SIMs.

Why Do You Need an EID Number? 

Your EID number is not just your unique identifier for your device’s eSIM; it is also an important part of getting your device connected. The EID number is also helpful in simplifying devices’ interactions with carriers and networks worldwide, from activating eSIM services to improving security to allowing for remote management.

Let’s look at how you need an EID number:

1. Seamless eSIM Activation

EID (embedded identification number) is required to activate the icon on your device. In order to switch to an eSIM-compatible network, your carrier has to use your EID to locate your device and provision it with the necessary credentials. Therefore, this indicator is indispensable because, without an EID, it’s impossible to activate.

2. Efficient Carrier Switching

The EID number is significant to those users who change or swap carriers at times. Where regular SIM cards need to be physically inserted, eSIMs can be set up remotely. This ephemeral identity is known as the EID, which helps carriers allocate network resources to devices and enables them to connect seamlessly without needing to go to a retail store or replace hardware.

3. Enhanced Device Security

The EID number adds an additional layer of security for the device. This unique identifier allows carriers to guarantee that a user’s eSIM is not activated or duplicated without their agreement. The EID also helps lock the eSIM when the device is lost or stolen, keeping the data and connectivity safe.

4. Simplified Troubleshooting 

EID numbers can be quite helpful in the event of needing network or connectivity assistance. The identifier helps support teams locate your eSIM profile in the server and help troubleshoot and resolve issues in no time.

5. Global Network Compatibility

This EID number allows devices with eSIMs that can be assigned to multiple networks to function internationally, just like physical SIM cards. This primarily benefits international travelers, as eID allows carriers to enable local plans without the need for a physical SIM card.

6. Centralized Management for IoT Devices

The majority of Internet of Things (IoT) eSIM devices are installed in remote or difficult-to-reach locations. Network operators can remotely configure or update the network settings using an EID number for centralized management. This ability is critical for organizations that rely on IoT technology.

7. Simplifying Multi-Line Connectivity

The EID number for users with multiple lines on one device will be their primary ID. This mitigates the need to have separate hardware.

8. Streamlined Manufacturing Processes

It is also EID numbers that help device manufacturers track and even register eSIM cards during production. Having this unique identifier helps ensure that devices meet regulatory and network compatibility requirements before they are made available to consumers.

9. Future-Proofing Connectivity

A next-generation eSIM is here to stay, and the EID number will make sure they’re compatible thanks to continued evolution in the network. This provides a unique identifier for your device so it can operate on new standards and services that carriers roll out.

10. Remote Provisioning for Enterprises 

Those EID numbers can be a godsend for businesses that ultimately roll out eSIM-enabled gear to their workers. IT departments can provision devices remotely, with required carrier profiles, so employees have connectivity on day one.

11. Cost-Effective Network Management

EID numbers enable carriers to optimize the supply chain and cut expenses related to SIM card manufacturing and delivery. These reduced costs are then passed on to consumers in the form of better pricing and services.

Read about NPI Numbers here. 

How Does an EID Number Work?

Your EID number functions as a digital fingerprint for your device’s eSIM, enabling it to communicate with networks and carriers seamlessly and securely.

That’s an important piece of the puzzle in the way activation, authentication, and tracking have been handled for eSIM-capable devices. Here’s how it works:

I. Device Identification

The EID number uniquely identifies the eSIM on your device so a carrier or network operator can see exactly what it is. This number is used by the carrier to authenticate the device when you try to activate an eSIM or change carriers.

It is essentially a “passport” of your device, which helps the network to check the device’s information and confirm whether or not the device has permission to use its services.

II. eSIM Activation

When eSIM is activated in your device, the request to the carrier’s network to activate eSIM contains the EID number. The carrier then checks the number against its database to make sure it belongs to an eligible device, and provisions an appropriate carrier profile to the eSIM. It is offered remotely, doing away with hardware SIM registration.

III. Secure Network Authentication

The EID number protects your eSIM, and therefore, as the key to your eSIM safety, it is crucial to keep this number safe, too.

Each time your device attempts to connect to a network, the carrier checks that EID and its authenticity to ensure services are offered only to the authorized owner.

This added function plays a key role in preventing unauthorized or fraudulent usage, therefore making them a more secure option than standard SIM cards.

IV. Remote Management and Provisioning

Another advantage of eSIM technology is remote management. Carriers use the EID number to remotely provision or update network profiles linked to your eSIM.

This means you can also change your carrier, adjust your settings, or alter your network configurations without needing to swap out an actual SIM card. The same goes for IoT devices in terms of altering those parameters remotely.

V. Multi-Network Compatibility

A device can use the EID number to connect it to various networks, and also on a global scale. The EID lets you store multiple carrier networks on your eSIM to seamlessly switch between them — for example, when you’re traveling — without pulling out a SIM card. This improves cross-border communication and roaming, giving users a genuinely global connectivity experience.

VI. Troubleshooting and Support

The EID number is also used to troubleshoot connectivity or activation issues that you may encounter when using your device. Support teams can use the network’s database to locate your device’s eSIM profile by its EID and troubleshoot issues quickly. Useful for debugging network-related issues such as weak signalss and failed activations.

VIII. Enhanced Privacy and Security Measures

There will be enhanced privacy features as well as security features associated with the EID number. This means that the carrier can terminate service if, say, a device is lost because it can identify the eSIM via the EID and terminate service remotely. For this reason here, this provides an added layer of security that helps minimize the chances of data leaks or fraud where stolen equipment is involved.

What To Do If The EID Number Is Not Showing On Your Device?

EID numbers, or Embedded Identity Document numbers, are needed to activate and manage eSIM profiles on mobile devices. 

This lets users install a digital SIM over the air, and a physical SIM card is no longer needed. 

Don’t worry if your device doesn’t show the EID number. This guide will assist you in troubleshooting the problem and enabling your eSIM logistics to work without issues.

1. Check if Your Device Supports eSIM Technology

Before you start troubleshooting, you need to check if your device is eSIM compatible. Not all smartphones, tablets, or wearable devices, such as the Apple Watch, offer eSIM support. 

Other devices that are usually eSIM-compatible are the iPhone and Google Pixel or other Android devices. Visit the manufacturer’s website or check your phone settings to find out if eSIM is supported on your device.

2. Verify EID Availability in Device Settings

The EID number should normally be found in the device settings. Here are the steps to find it:

1. For iPhones:

• Settings → General → About
• Scroll down eSIM and look for EID embedded.

1. For Android Devices:

• Go to > “Settings” > “Connections” > “SIM card manager.”
• Look for the section containing Android EID or eSIM

1. For Wearables (Apple Watch, etc.):

• Launch the Watch app on the phone it is paired with.
• Search for settings for Apple Watch EID: Navigate on “Cellular” off “EID” or something similar.

Not finding the EID means your device is not eSIM-enabled or you are on an outdated software version.

3. Make Sure the Mobile Network and Software Are Updated

Older versions of the software may prevent the EID from displaying. Your device settings may include system updates to help you access new mobile networks that are better for the environment. Also, confirm your data plan allows for eSIM activation.

4. Contact Your Carrier for Assistance

If the EID still does not appear, it could be a carrier issue. When you purchase an eSIM or activate a travel eSIM, the carriers usually give a QR code that you will need to scan to connect the eSIM to your device. 

Check that your device can read the QR code and that it is a valid code. If necessary, request technical support or a new QR code.

5. Consider the Physical SIM Alternative

If troubleshooting fails, a workaround might be switching to a traditional physical SIM card. An eSIM gives flexibility (like managing multiple eSIM profiles or ringing a dual-SIM eSIM phone). Still, in certain regions or with older devices, a physical SIM is often preferred due to potential connected issues.

How to Find Your EID Number on iPhone

If you are looking to find your EID number on your iPhone, you then need to follow these steps.  Let’s look at a step-by-step guide on how to find your EID number on your iPhone: 

• Open Settings: Locate and tap on the Settings app.
• Go to General: Scroll down and select General.
• Tap About: Inside the General menu, tap About.
• Find EID: Scroll down to locate the EID field. It should display your device’s EID number.

How to Find Your EID Number on Android

There is a special EID number assigned to each of your Android devices like a Google Pixel or a Samsung. Let’s look at how you would go on about finding the EID number of an Android device: 

• Open Settings: Tap on the Settings app.
• Navigate to About Phone: Scroll down and select About Phone (it may be labeled differently depending on your device, like “About Device”).
• To find EID or IMEI Information, Look for a section called IMEI and EID or tap Status > IMEI Information.
• Locate EID: The EID number will be listed if your device supports it.

How to Find Your EID Number on Other Devices?

An EID number is not limited only to your iPhone or Android; you can also find it for other devices like Smartwatches, Tablets, Laptops, and so on. 

Let’s look at a guide on how you can find the EID number on all of those devices: 

Smartwatches

The Apple Watch EID is a unique identifier assigned to your Apple Watch device, and it plays a crucial role in securing your mobile data. If you want to find the EID number of your smartwatch, like the Apple watch, then you need to follow these steps: 

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to About or Device Info.
3. Find the EID under eSIM Information.

Tablets

Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices rely on EID numbers to secure mobile data and protect user information. Let’s look at the step-by-step guide on how you would find the EID number of your tablet: 

1. Open Settings and select About Tablet.
2. Check Status or SIM Info for the EID.

Laptops

1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
2. Select Cellular and then Manage eSIM Profiles.
3. Locate the EID in the eSIM settings.

eSIM-Enabled Routers

1. Log in to the router’s admin interface.
2. Check the eSIM or Network section for the EID.

Conclusion

To conclude, the EID number is pivotal to an eSIM-enabled device’s functioning. It provides a way to link the device to a user’s carrier and allows for an eSIM carrier switch and eSIM remote management.

 Acting as a unique identifier for your device eSIM, eSIM provides secure and functional connectivity across respective networks.

The EID number is a 32-character, alphanumeric number that identifies the eSIM on your device. As eSIM technology becomes more popular, it will be a cornerstone of a more flexible, globally networked experience. 

Whether you’re setting up eSIM for travel abroad or running multiple profiles on one device, the EID number facilitates effortless transitions without requiring physical SIM cards. Things to keep in mind while using the new EID number of your device

FAQs

What is the Difference Between an EID Number and an IMEI Number?

If an EID number provides an identifier for eSIM technology, an IMEI number is simply a broader identifier of your mobile device’s physical hardware. Both are distinct; however, the EID is a specification for eSIM capabilities, while the IMEI applies to the device at large.

Can You Change or Reset Your EID Number?

No, the EID number is fixed and cannot be altered. It is a permanent identifier that is hardcoded during the manufacturing process for security and functionality.

Are EID Numbers Secure?

Yes, EID numbers are very secure. These are the cryptographic keys used by carriers to authenticate and manage eSIMs remotely, significantly lowering the risk of lying, cloning, or unauthorized access. Nonetheless, do not disclose your EID, as it can potentially be abused.

Do All Devices Have an EID Number?

No, an EID number exists only on eSIM devices. But you do not have an EID if your device uses a regular SIM.

How Can I Use My EID Number for International Travel?

When traveling abroad, EID numbers help you easily activate local eSIM profiles. Call the carrier in your destination country, give them your EID number, and they can provision a data plan remotely — no need for a physical SIM.

What Should I Do If My Device’s EID Number Is Missing?

Make sure that your device supports eSIM technology and the latest software version is installed if you do not find the EID number in your device settings. If the problem continues, get in touch with your carrier for help.

Can EID Numbers Be Used for Multiple eSIM Profiles?

Yes, one EID number can support multiple eSIM profiles in supported devices. The feature allows you to easily change between individual, work, and travel lines without the need for multiple SIMs.